HRC59 - NB8 statement - ID on HC's oral update on human rights in Ukraine
Human Rights Council – 59th Session
Item 10: Interactive dialogue on the High Commissioner's oral update on the situation of human rights in Ukraine and the interim report of the Secretary-General on the situation in human rights in Crimea
Statement delivered by Finland on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic States
3 of July, 2025
President,
I have the honour to speak on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries. We thank the High Commissioner for this update and Secretary General for his report.
We stand firmly with the Ukrainians, whose human rights are severely impacted by Russia’s illegal, unprovoked and unjustified war of aggression.
Russia continues its ruthless attacks against civilians and civilian infrastructure, demonstrating its unwillingness to seek peace. We strongly condemn the devastating airstrikes across Ukraine and all deliberate targeting of civilians and civilian infrastructures, which constitute a violation of international humanitarian law and, according to the Independent International Commission of Inquiry on Ukraine, may amount to crimes against humanity.
We remain deeply alarmed about the unlawful deportation and transfer of Ukrainian children who have been forcibly deported and are subjected to so called re-education programmes. We urge Russia to ensure their safe and immediate return.
We commend the progress in the exchange of prisoners of war. Yet, we are gravely concerned about the reports of systematic torture and executions of Ukrainian soldiers and civilians, which may to amount crimes against humanity.
Finally, we support all efforts towards a sustainable and lasting peace based on international law, including the UN Charter, in Ukraine. Any solution must fully uphold Ukraine’s independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders.
We stand with Ukraine for as long as it takes.
Thank you.