STATEMENT
Human Rights Council 53rd Session.
Item 10 - Interactive dialogue on the oral update of
the Independent Expert on the situation of human rights in the Central African Republic (HRC res. 48/19)
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 and Sweden
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12 July 2023
I have the honour to speak on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries.
We thank the Independent Expert for his dedicated efforts.
The security, humanitarian, and human rights situation in the Central African Republic remains deeply worrying. The widespread and serious human rights
violations and abuses continue to alarm us.
Armed groups are responsible for attacks and grave abuses against civilians. It is even more alarming that the majority of human rights violations are reportedly committed by State agents – agents with a responsibility to protect.
We are particularly worried about the grave violations and abuses committed against children. We call on the CAR government to investigate all incidents and hold perpetrators accountable.
Half of the population in CAR requires lifesaving assistance, and the escalation in neighbouring Sudan worsens the situation. Rapid, safe, and unhindered humanitarian access must be guaranteed, and in line with humanitarian principles.
Children are entitled to special protection under international law and are to be given priority in humanitarian action. In your view, what are the most urgent measures to be undertaken to ensure adequate protection of children in the Central African Republic?
Thank you.