Madame President,
Estonia aligns with the statement delivered by the European Union.
Estonia would like to thank the Independent Expert for the report on the situation of human rights in Mali.
Continuous violence against civilians perpetrated by violent extremists and self-defence groups, as well as the human rights abuses by security forces are highly alarming.
It is of key importance that the Malian authorities show political will to combat impunity and make all efforts to bring the Mali’s legal framework into line with international law and more precisely follow through on repealing Article 34 of the Code of Military Justice. Only by bringing all perpetrators of violence to justice can peaceful coexistence of communities begin.
Some progress has been achieved in forming peace agreements between communities. We urge all parties to support initiatives of local peacebuilding and reconciliation.
The continued commitment of the parties towards the Algiers process is commendable. We call the parties to effectively address the factors causing delays in the implementation of the Agreement.
Estonia calls on the Malian authorities to respect and follow the laws to ensure the participation of women in decision-making. The rights of women and girls have to be better protected in high-risk environments and survivors of gender-based violence need access to justice services.
The transition period in Mali should be used to put in motion reforms that promote and protect human rights and benefit the civilian population.
Thank you!