UN Human Rights Council 46th Session
Interactive Dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the situation
of human rights in Eritrea, 24 February 2021
Intervention by Denmark on behalf of NB8
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I have the honour of speaking on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries.
We would like to thank the Special Rapporteur for his update.
We are deeply concerned about Eritrean forces in Tigray and the reported serious human rights violations in the region, committed against civilians and Eritrean refugees, including arbitrary killings, SGBV, as well as forced returns of refugees. It is imperative that alleged human rights violations are independently investigated. We call for the immediate and unconditional withdrawal of all Eritrean forces from Tigray.
We remain concerned about persistent human rights violations and abuses in Eritrea, where the indefinite National Service, arbitrary detention, inhumane prison conditions, and restrictions on freedoms of expression and religion or belief are of great concern. We call upon the Government to ensure the respect for all human rights of all its citizens.
Finally, we urge the Government to strengthen its engagement with the Council’s mechanisms, including by granting the Special Rapporteur full and unhindered access to the country.
Dr. Babiker,
How can the causes of the conflict in Tigray and the dire humanitarian crisis best be addressed, taking into account the numerous reports of serious human rights violations and abuses?
Secondly, how can the international community support necessary efforts to improve the human rights situation in Eritrea?
Thank you.