STATEMENT
Human Rights Council 62th Session
Item 3 - Interactive Dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the human rights of internally displaced persons.
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
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25 June 2026
President,
I have the honour to speak on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries. We thank the Special Rapporteur for the report and for continued engagement on the protection of internally displaced persons.
Internally displaced persons are disproportionately affected by violations of international humanitarian law and human rights law. Respect for the principles of distinction, proportionality and precaution is essential to prevent displacement and protect civilians. We remain concerned about impediments to humanitarian access, risks to critical infrastructure, and protracted displacement.
Addressing internal displacement requires coherent humanitarian, human rights and development efforts, with national ownership and inclusive, locally grounded responses. Meaningful participation of IDPs in decision making and operational responses is essential.
Accountability for violations leading to displacement remains critical, alongside efforts to support safe, voluntary and dignified solutions.
We support the Special Rapporteur’s recommendation to strengthen disaggregated data on internal displacement. We also remain concerned about sexual and gender-based violence as both a driver and consequence of internal displacement. In the Special Rapporteur’s view, what practical measures should States prioritise to prevent, investigate and prosecute such violence?
I thank you.