UN Human Rights Council 39: UK Statement on Libya
The UK welcomed Libya's commitment to the OHCHR, but raised its concerns regarding the treatment of migrants, the continuation of gender-based violence and restrictions to civil freedoms.
Thank you, Mr President,
The United Kingdom thanks the High Commissioner for her update. We welcome Libya’s continued commitment to work with OHCHR and to cooperate with this Council and its mechanisms.
OHCHR’s work is crucial towards ensuring scrutiny and accountability, as is that of the Special Representative Ghassan Salamé, whom the UK fully supports in his efforts to facilitate a political solution in Libya. We are pleased that the Security Council unanimously adopted resolution 2434 (2018) renewing the mandate of the UN Support Mission In Libya (UNSMIL), which includes human rights monitoring and reporting.
We remain deeply concerned by continuing human rights violations and abuses being committed with impunity across Libya. We are particularly concerned by recent clashes in Tripoli that have cost the lives of over 60 people, many of whom were civilians, and the treatment and summary execution of detained combatants. We welcome the UN mediated ceasefire and continue to call on all parties to exercise restraint, protect civilians and engage in meaningful talks. We remain committed to supporting efforts to hold to account those who violate or abuse international human rights law.
We also express deep concern about the treatment of migrants in detention centres and fatality rates for those attempting the treacherous journey to Europe; the continued prevalence of gender based violence; and restrictions to civil and political freedoms, including those of journalists.
Madame High Commissioner,
We would appreciate an update on your Office’s efforts to prevent impunity and ensure full individual accountability for perpetrators of violations and abuses in Libya, as foreseen in the March Human Rights Council resolution.
Thank you.