STATEMENT
Human Rights Council 60th Session
Item 2 - Interactive Dialogue with Working Group on Enforced Disappearances.
Statement delivered by Ambassador Mr. Tormod C. ENDRESEN,
Permanent Representative of Norway on behalf of the Nordic Baltic countries:
Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway and Sweden
Check against delivery
16.09.2025
President,
I have the honour to speak on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries.
We thank the Working Group for its tireless and important work to shed light on enforced disappearances. Thousands of people disappear due to their civil or political engagement.
We are deeply troubled that some States use enforced disappearances as a tool to intimidate and silence civil society. It is the exact opposite of the rule of law and may even constitute crimes against humanity or war crimes.
As the report highlights, enforced disappearances are also used as a tool to target human rights defenders, communities, Indigenous Peoples and other actors who advocate for the preservation of their land and natural resources. Both States and non-State actors, including enterprises are responsible for such human rights violations and abuses.
States are responsible for properly investigating enforced disappearances, holding perpetrators accountable and ensuring justice for victims. Failure to do so may lead to cycles of impunity and the erosion of social cohesion.
Addressing enforced disappearances is therefore a vital contribution to peace and stability.
We encourage all States to accept and facilitate visits by the Working Group.
What are the most effective mechanisms that the international community can use to hold States accountable for enforced disappearances?
Thank you.