HRC47 - NB8 statement - ID on annual report of the High Commissioner

Item 2 – Interactive dialogue on the annual report of the High Commissioner

21 June 2020

Statement by Iceland

Thank you Madam President.

We thank the High Commissioner for her report and for her tireless efforts and of her office.

Madam President,

At the outset we would like to underline our regret over Turkey’s withdrawal from the Istanbul Convention, a Council of Europe treaty on combatting all forms of violence against women. The decision to withdraw represents a significant step backwards in Turkey’s efforts to advance women’s rights and highlights wider concerns regarding shrinking civic and democratic space in Turkey.

Madam President,

We remain deeply concerned over the reported human rights atrocities committed in Ethiopia’s Tigray region, including the killing of civilians and widespread sexual and gender based violence. We reiterate our call for an end to the violence and for unfettered humanitarian access to all parts of Tigray to prevent large-scale famine and loss of life. We urge the Government of Ethiopia to hold accountable those responsible for abuses and underline the need for an objective, independent assessment.

Finally, Madam President, we thank the High Commissioner for her update on the UN Joint Programme on human rights in the Philippines and look forward to her updating the Council further in September.

I thank you.