UN Human Rights Council 60: UK Statement for the Interactive Dialogue with the Working Group on Enforced Disappearances
UK Statement for the Interactive Dialogue with the Working Group on Enforced Disappearances. Not delivered due to time constraints.
Mr President,
The UK would like to thank the Working Group for its latest report.
We condemn all instances of enforced disappearances. They are a clear violation of human rights law, weaken the effectiveness of justice systems and undermine the rule of law.
In line with the report, we deeply appreciate lawyers and human rights defenders for their vital work in advocating for and supporting victims and affected families. Enforced disappearances can have significant and lasting impacts on communities around the world.
We also share the concerns highlighted in the report that enforced disappearances are being used as a tool to target human rights defenders, communities and indigenous people who advocate for preservation of their land or natural resources. Global Witness found that in 2023 alone, at least 196 land and environment defenders were murdered, with indigenous communities disproportionately affected. We urge states to thoroughly investigate all allegations of enforced disappearances and ensure that those responsible are held accountable.
Members of the Working Group,
What steps do you propose we take to strengthen the protection of human rights defenders working on land and environmental issues against threats of enforced disappearances?