STATEMENT
Human Rights Council 50th Session.
Item 4 - Interactive dialogue with the Commission of Inquiry on Burundi
Statement delivered by Ms Jannicke Graatrud, Minister, Deputy Permanent Representative
Check against delivery
29 June 2022
Mr President,
I am delivering this statement on behalf of the Nordic and Baltic countries.
We thank the Special Rapporteur for this update and for the dedicated efforts to follow up on his mandate.
Although there are some positive developments on the freedom of expression after the new administration came into power in 2020,
we raise considerable concern about the structural Human Rights abuses and violations in Burundi.
The Nordic-Baltic countries are deeply concerned about the continued human rights violations committed by security forces and Imbonerakure against members of the opposition, human rights defenders, civil society, and journalists.
Independent information on the development of the human rights situation in the country is of utmost importance. Human rights violations and abuses, including sexual and gender-based violence must be effectively investigated, and perpetrators held to account.
We urge the Government of Burundi to cooperate with the UN Special Rapporteur on Human Rights and the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights and give the Special Rapporteur full and unhindered access to the country and provide all necessary information to fulfill the Special Rapporteur's mandate.
Allow me to ask: How can we ensure accountability for survivors?
Thank you.