Thank you, Chair,
I have the honor of delivering this statement on behalf of the Nordic countries, Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Sweden and my own country Norway.
For almost three years, thousands of Ukrainians have found themselves in Russian captivity.
For more than 1000 days, families have been waiting for news about their loved ones, not knowing whether they are dead or alive. This inflicts terrible harm on the civilian population, on top of bombings, and other targeted attacks on civilian infrastructure. .
For more than 1000 days, three OSCE employees have been held in Russian captivity, illustrating Russia’s lack of respect for the mandate of International Organizations.
We are witnessing numerous blatant violations of international law by Russia, including international humanitarian law and human rights law. Russia demonstrates a profound lack of respect for the Geneva Conventions – which Russia has ratified.
Russia shows little respect for ICRC’s mandate. Access to both civilian detainees and prisoners of war has been very limited. The whereabouts and the conditions of many Ukrainians remain unknown.
Those lucky enough to return have confirmed that most Ukrainians in Russian captivity are exposed to ill-treatment and torture. This includes severe beatings, electric shocks, strangulation, and prolonged solitary confinement. Most frequently reported is the use of sexual violence, including rape and forced nudity. The UN Commission of Inquiry findings confirm that Russian authorities use torture in a widespread and systematic way. The findings lead the Commission to conclude that the Russian authorities’ use of torture amounts to crimes against humanity.
Since Russia’s full-scale invasion, there have been horrifying reports of summary executions of Ukrainian prisoners of war. According to Office of the High Commissioner for Human rights, this is a trend that is increasing. So far, they have verified executions of 68 Ukrainian prisoners of war and service personnel hors de combat.
Such acts are violations of international humanitarian law, not least the Geneva Conventions. Respecting and ensuring respect for international humanitarian law is an obligation of all States and in all our interest.
Today, the support provided to Ukraine comes in many shapes and forms: Some states are offering their good offices to broker humanitarian exchanges. It has made a huge difference in many lives. It proves engagement matters.
For every day that passes by, Ukrainians are at risk of being captured, at risk of being tortured and at risk of being executed or dying in detention. IHL must be respected. This Council carries a big responsibility in upholding international law.
Thank you.