Human Rights Council 55th Session.
Item 10: enhanced interactive dialogue on the oral update by the High Commissioner and the team of international experts on the situation of human rights in the Democratic Republic of the Congo
Statement by the Nordic-Baltic countries in the Enhanced ID on report of HC on the Democratic Republic of Congo.
2 April 2024
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Mr President,
I make this statement on behalf of the Nordic and Baltic countries. Thank you, High Commissioner, and the Team of International Experts [for your report].
The escalation of armed violence in eastern DRC, and related violations of human rights and of international humanitarian law, including attacks against civilians and conflict related sexual violence, is of serious concern. The situation, caused primarily by the armed group M23, as well as other armed groups, severely impacts the human rights of individuals in the DRC. These groups must cease all hostilities, withdraw from the areas they occupy and disarm. All states should stop any support to these armed groups.
We are closely following the appeal trial of the murders of UN experts Zaida Catalán and Michael Sharp in Kasaï Central in 2017, as well as the investigation into the disappearance of their four Congolese companions. The legal process remains vital and has our full support. We encourage the continued cooperation between the Congolese authorities and the UN-mandated follow-up mechanism.
The lifting of the moratorium regarding death penalty as announced by the Congolese government on 3 March 2024, is very worrying. We strongly oppose the use of the death penalty in all circumstances, without exception.
Thank you.