STATEMENT
Human Rights Council 48th Session
Item 10: Enhanced interactive dialogue on HC report on Sudan
Statement delivered by Ambassador Tine Mørch Smith, Permanent Representative of Norway on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries
(Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, Sweden)
Check against delivery
6 October 2021
President,
I have the honor to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries.
We thank the High Commissioner for the report and welcome the Transitional Government’s strong efforts and commitment to peace, democracy, and human rights under difficult conditions. We remain concerned about the continued violence, particularly in the marginalized areas of Sudan.
There are challenges to a successful transition towards a fully civilian rule, as manifested by the foiled coup attempt in September. We stand firmly behind the civilian-led government in rejecting any attempts to derail or disrupt the Sudanese people’s efforts to establish a democratic and peaceful future.
We urge the government to create an enabling environment for human right defenders and protect the rights of all, including women and minorities.
As the HC report outlines, the decisions Sudan has taken to promote and protect human rights must be implemented. This includes the National Plan for Protection of Civilians and Action Plan on Women, Peace and Security. It is urgent to establish the Transitional Legislative Council and start revision of the constitution, to ensure accountability and end impunity. All cases of human rights violations and abuses must be investigated.
We affirm our support for the United Nations Joint Human Rights Office in Sudan and its continued technical support and capacity-building.