UN Human Rights Council 63: UK Statement for the Interactive Dialogue on the Secretary General's report on cooperation with the United Nations
UK Statement for the Interactive Dialogue on the Secretary General's report on cooperation with the United Nations. Delivered by the UK's Human Rights Ambassador, Eleanor Sanders.
Thank you, Mr Vice-President.
And thank you to all those in the United Nations for their work to counter instances of reprisals against those who cooperate with the UN to defend human rights.
As highlighted in the Secretary-General’s report, China’s reckless attempts at transnational repression have continued, including the targeting of individuals such as Hong Kong democracy activist Carmen Lau.
In Burundi, the UN Committee against Torture found that four lawyers, Dieudonné Bashirahishize, Armel Niyongere, Vital Nshimirimana and Lambert Nigarura were targeted for cooperating with the Committee.
The Belarusian Association of Human Rights Lawyers, and six lawyers linked to it, have been designated as “extremist” as a possible act of reprisal.
And in Russia, human rights lawyer Violetta Fitsner was designated a “foreign agent” for also cooperating with the UN.
The UK unequivocally condemns these acts of intimidation and retaliation. We are proud to support the Lighthouse Fund, providing protection for human rights defenders under threat.
Mr President, what more can be done to protect these brave individuals from intimidation and transnational repression?
Thank you.