Resumed 43rd session of the Human Rights Council. Statement delivered by Ambassador Veronika Bard.
Madam President,
Sweden thanks the Deputy High Commissioner for the update and aligns itself with the European Union's statement.
The human rights situation in the non-government controlled areas of Ukraine remain of utmost concern.
We regret this spring's surge in civilian casualties, and how the armed conflict continues to negatively impact the enjoyment of human rights.
The pandemic has further aggravated this situation.
Furthermore, the compilation of testimonies from the prisoners exchanged last December provides horrifying proof of the torture and cruel, inhumane or degrading treatment or punishment detainees in the so called DNR and LNR are subject to.
We regret the lack of implementation of the Minsk agreements and of the measures agreed at the Normandy Summit last year. We especially underline Russia's responsibility in this regard.
We reiterate our non-recognition and condemnation of Russia's illegal annexation of Crimea, and our condemnation of Russia's aggression in eastern Ukraine. We call on Russia, as well as other parties, to uphold its obligations under international law including international human rights law and international humanitarian law.
We express support for the UN Human Rights Monitoring Mission and call on all parties to follow the recommendations in the OHCHR report.
Thank you.