UN Human Rights Council 60: UK Statement for the Interactive Dialogue with the Working Group on Mercenaries
UK Statement for the Interactive Dialogue with the Working Group on Mercenaries. Delivered at the 60th HRC in Geneva.
Thank you, Mr Vice-President,
We thank the Working Group for its report examining the role of mercenary-related actors in the exploitation of natural resources.
The activities of mercenaries and related actors pose a grave threat to international peace and security. They often show blatant disregard for human rights, destabilise fragile communities, and exacerbate conflicts globally.
The UK is deeply alarmed by the actions of Africa Corps whose personnel are directly contracted by the Russian state. Since Africa Corps takeover of Wagner Group they have been implicated in the pillaging of natural resources, systematic massacres of civilians and the perpetration of sexual and gender-based violence. The Russian Federation bears full responsibility for these atrocities and should be held accountable. They can no longer hide in a grey zone of false deniability.
The UK will continue to work with partners to uphold international law, prevent violations and abuses by mercenaries and other malign actors, to ensure that those responsible are held to account.
Members of the Working Group,
What concrete steps can the international community take to ensure more effective coordination, monitoring and oversight of these actors?
Thank you.