STATEMENT
Human Rights Council 51st Session.
Item 4 – OHCHR oral update on human rights situation in Myanmar (HRC res. 49/23) followed by General debate
Statement delivered by Ambassador Tine Mørch Smith,
Permanent Representative of Norway.
Check against delivery
26 September 2022
Mr. President,
The High Commissioner has a mandate to identify, verify and report on human rights violations.
The assessment on Xinjiang found that serious human rights violations have been committed. The assessment must be adressed by the Council.
The brutality of the Russian government does not only lead to devastating consequences for Ukranians. The Council should establish a mandate to monitor the serious human rights situation in Russia.
Mr. President,
Every person is entitled to decide over their own life, their own body, their own future. The harsh setback on women’s rights is a threat to individual freedom and dignity worldwide. Countries that respect women’s rights are also more peaceful and more economically successful.
We strongly urge Afghanistan to ensure secondary education, the right to work and freedom of movement for women and girls.
Iran, Saudi Arabia and Pakistan must increase their efforts towards protecting and respecting women’s rights and freedoms.
South Sudan, The Central African Republic, DR Congo and Sierra Leone should increase their efforts to protect women and girls from violence and respect their autonomy.
We urge all countries to fully colloborate with the UN human rights system to ensure compliance with their human rights obligations.
Thank you.