HRC43 - NB8 statement - Human rights and fundamental freedoms while countering terrorism

Interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on

human rights and fundamental freedoms while countering terrorism

4 March 2020

Statement by Denmark on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries

Mdm. President,

I have the honor to deliver this statement on behalf of Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, Sweden and my own country, Denmark.

The threat from terrorism and violent extremism affects us all and must be vigorously countered. However, we are deeply concerned about the widespread misuse of counter-terrorism measures in many countries to limit freedom of expression online and offline, to silence human rights defenders, journalists, political opponents and even religious or ethnic minorities.

We highly appreciate the clear message in your report, Madam Special Rapporteur that “all aspects of States national security practice, including those aimed at preventing or countering violent extremism, must comply with international human rights law”.^[1] Only rights-based policies fully founded in our respect for the rule of law and human rights will have long-term success in preventing radicalization and terrorism.

Madam Special Rapporteur, what can states and the UN-system do to further ensure that effective counter-terrorism measures and the protection of human rights are not conflicting goals, but complementary and mutually reinforcing? 

Thank you.