44th session of the Human Rights Council. Statement delivered by Oscar Ekéus, Counsellor.
Madam Vice-President,
Sweden fully aligns itself with the statement made by the European Union. We would like to welcome Special Rapporteur Andrews to his position and warmly thank him for his update to this council.
Sweden is concerned about the escalation of violence and continued human rights violations and abuses in Rakhine state. We see continued atrocities and collective punishment targeting local populations and local leaders. The increasing number of new IDPs is alarming.
Sweden recalls the need for all parties to show restraint and underlines the responsibility of government authorities to respect, protect and fulfill international human rights law and to allow for humanitarian access to all those in need. This concerns not least Rakhine, Kachin and Shan States.
We call for genuine efforts to address the root causes of discrimination and persecution of the Rohingya population, including by ensuring freedom of movement and citizenship. Active steps are needed to create conditions for repatriation, based on principles of voluntary, safe and dignified return.
Sweden welcomes recent international efforts to ensure justice and accountability in Myanmar, including at the ICJ and the ICC. Impunity must not prevail. We expect the provisional measures indicated by the ICJ to be fully implemented by Myanmar.
Madam Vice-President,
We see how journalist and other media workers are being silenced. Mr Special Rapporteur, in this context, what would be your key recommendations relating to freedom of expression ahead of the upcoming elections in Myanmar this year?
I thank you.