The 51st Regular Session of the Human Rights Council (HRC) was held at the Palais des Nations in Geneva, Switzerland from the 12th of September to the 7th of October 2022. Within this period, the Human Right Council held 5 panel discussions, 29 interactive dialogues, 31 dialogues with special procedures, and adopted 39 resolutions.

Geneva International Centre for Justice (GICJ) covered the session as an independent, non-profit, and non-governmental organisation. Collaborating with other NGOs such as the International Organization for the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination (EAFORD), Ma’onah Center for Human Rights, International-Lawyers.Org and Meezaan Center for Human Rights and Immigration, GICJ wrote articles and extensive reports of various articles debated through HRC51, such as the human rights abuses suffered by the Uyghurs in East Turkestan, the Palestinians in the occupied territories and the Rohingyas under the yoke of Myanmar’s military junta. In addition, GICJ participated actively in the interactive dialogues delivering an amount of 25 oral statements.

This Full Session Report includes GICJ’s entire participation at the HRC51. The first section includes the oral statements delivered; the second consists of the executive summaries of all written discussion reports; the last section contains articles on the passed and failed resolutions.

On12th September2022Mr.FedericoVillegas,PresidentoftheCouncilgavetheopeningremarks at the 1st Meeting of the 51st Session of the Human Rights Council.

During the opening session, both Mr. Federico Villegas and Mr. Simon Manley, Ambassador of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, held a moment of silence for her late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.

Following the opening remarks, the floor was given to Nada Al Nashif, Deputy High Commissioner for Human Rights, who addressed the council and delivered her Annual Report

Nada Al Nashif, Deputy High Commissioner for Human Rights, delivered the Annual Report of the High Commissioner for Human Rights. First, she extended her welcome to the new Under- Secretary-General for Policy Mr Volker Türk, whose appointment as the next High Commissioner for Human Rights was approved by the UN General Assembly on Thursday 8th September 2022.

The Deputy High Commissioner noted that since the Council’s last meeting in June 2022, several situations around the world have continued to raise serious human rights concerns requiring urgent action. She expressed she would not touch on situations that are the subject of separate discussion during the session, namely, Afghanistan, Belarus, Cambodia, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Georgia, Myanmar, Nicaragua, Philippines, South Sudan, Sri Lanka and Ukraine.

Thus, Nada Al Nashif highlighted thematic areas to be addressed in countries that are not to be discussed during the session such as Chad, Guinea, Libya, Haiti, and Ecuador amongst others.

The Report highlighted specific areas of focus, namely, an increase in hate speech and incitement to violence against ethnic minorities; the shrinking civic spaces in certainStates; targeted attacks against Muslims and other minorities; violence against women and excessive force by security forces during protests against human rights defenders, lawyers and journalists.

Regarding the crisis in Ukraine, it was highlighted how the Russian Federation, and the intimidation, restrictive measures and sanctions against people voicing opposition to the war in Ukraine, undermine the exercise of constitutionally guaranteed fundamental freedoms. Further, she emphasised the suffering endured by the civilian population in Ukraine and discussed how the war has produced global political-economic issues, including severe food shortages and threats to security in some of the poorest countries.

In her concluding remarks, Nada Al Nashif acknowledged that the coming months are a critical test of political will. She stressed that political commitments that are grounded in international human rights standards can propel us forward towards more just and equal societies. It must be recognised that States can and should use the full gamut of human rights as problem-solving measures. Fuller use should be made of International Human Rights Mechanisms; the Treaty Bodies, Universal Periodic Review and Special Procedures to provide critical oversight and guidance to assist states in moving forward with the protection and promotion of human rights.

For the 51st Regular Session of the Human Rights Council, Geneva International Centre for Justice (GICJ) assembled a team composed of 24 interns and volunteers. The team covered 30 discussions and wrote 22 discussion reports, among which two combined reports, and submitted 3 written statements. Several colleagues delivered an amount of 25 oral statements during the session, while 9 resolution articles were written.

During the 51st Session of the UN Human Rights Council, Geneva International Centre for Justice (GICJ) delivered 25 oral statements in collaboration with the International Organization for the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination (EAFORD), Association Ma’onah for Human Rights and Immigration, and Meezaan Center for Human Rights.

 

GICJ strongly condemns the ongoing crimes in Myanmar

Item 2: Interactive Dialogue on the Report of the Independent Investigative Mechanism for Myanmar

Joint statement with Meezaan Center for Human Rights

Delivered by Martin Browne / GICJ

Thank you, Mr President,

We welcome the update report from the Investigative Mechanism and commend all of those who have engaged in providing evidence of serious crimes and human rights breaches in Myanmar.

Bodies like this Mechanism are crucial in achieving justice in practice and should not be limited by a lack of funding in carrying out their necessary activities.

Recording, analysing, and progressing cases against individuals who have committed elements of crimes - particularly Genocide - is a complex process. But the wheels of international justice must continue to turn to achieve justice for victims of these grave crimes.

Ascertaining criminal responsibility to the highest international standards sends a strong signal to future offenders, and is the most effective way to bring an end to the ongoing crimes highlighted in this report including genocide against Rohingya Muslim people, prolonged detentions, unlawful killings, and displacement across Myanmar.

Full financial and institutional support to access witnesses and documents are straightforward commitments that can be easily implemented by every State that comes to this room promising to protect basic rights.

Meezaan Center for Human Rights and Geneva International Centre for Justice strongly urge all states to give real, practical, and effective support to the Mechanisms’ investigations. This is necessary to increase accountability for serious crimes and achieve justice for the people of Myanmar.

Thank you.

---

 

GICJ calls for universal jurisdiction for the Rohingyas

Item 2: Interactive dialogue on the report of Independent Investigative Mechanism for Myanmar

Joint statement with

International Organization for the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination (EAFORD)

Delivered by Ardya Syafhana / GICJ

Thank you, President,

This month will mark three years since the establishment of the Independent Investigative Mechanism for Myanmar (IIMM) and the five-year commemoration of the clearance operations against the Rohingya people.

Nevertheless, retributive justice in Myanmar is still far from attainment. When the IIMM persisted in facilitating criminal proceedings against Myanmar authorities, only Bangladesh, Gambia and Argentina agreed to hold such judicial processes. On the other hand, Myanmar domestic court focused more on prosecuting only the political opponents and denied IIMM access in its territory. Given the situation, investigations into Myanmar rely upon the assistance of other states and related individuals outside Myanmar.

EAFORD and Geneva International Centre for Justice calls for all UN member states to assist the accountability process of the international courts, IIMM as well as taking initiatives toward the universal jurisdiction. In addition to technical and humanitarian assistance, we also urge the adoption of the UN Security Council Resolution on jurisdiction of international criminal court under Article 13(b) of the 1998 Rome Statute, to cover all Myanmar territory for probable war crimes and crimes against humanity.

---

 

Between 500,000 and 1,000,000 Iraqis forcibly disappeared

Item 3: Interactive Dialogue with Working Group on enforced disappearances

Joint statement with

International Organization for Elimination of all Forms of Racial Discrimination (EAFORD)

Delivered by Emily Bare / GICJ

Thank you, President,

I would like to thank the Working Group for its report and commend its activities as being crucial in achieving justice for victims.

As the report highlights, Iraq currently has the highest number of outstanding documented cases of enforced disappearance, standing at 16,427 victims. However, our investigations show that the true number of victims is drastically higher than this.

Although precise figures are difficult to determine, we believe according to our research and contacts in Iraq that the total number of enforced disappearances is between 500,000 and 1,000,000 persons.

Over the past five years, evidence shows that groups have been burying bodies in mass graves, including the Iraqi Hezbollah militia – the same group that is accused of keeping thousands of Iraqis in secret prisons.

Despite the seriousness of these violations, the report failed to identify Iraq as a particular area of concern.

While the report finds that Iraq has no official documentation of violations since 2003, the pervasive practice of enforced disappearance did not just cease at the turn of that new year. Instead, reliable evidence shows that enforced disappearances in Iraq have drastically escalated and perpetrators are consistently given impunity.

EAFORD and Geneva International Centre for Justice strongly urge the Human Rights Council to support the mission of the Working Group in investigating these rampant enforced disappearances in Iraq.

Thank you.

---

 

More regulation on new technology regarding enforced disappearances is essential

Item 3: Interactive Dialogue with the Working Group on Enforced Disappearances.

Joint statement with the Meezaan Center for Human Rights

Delivered by Martin Browne / GICJ

Thank you, Mr. President,

We welcome the report of the Working Group and commend those who contribute to its activities.

We lament reports of countries failing to fully engage with the Working Group when core human rights are threatened by disappearance; states should take every possible measure to prevent threats to life, liberty, and of torture. We urge states who are proud of their human rights record to respond to requests for information and permit country visits in the coming year.

On technological interference - the Group’s findings chime with our work. We urge all states to refrain from exploiting technology to monitor those campaigning for the enjoyment of basic rights especially those who simply want to contact their family members.

Positively, states should support technology that documents and shares essential information about persons, detention facilities, and burial sites to facilitate effective investigation. This is particularly vital in Iraq where detention sites are kept secret from family members and official requests to access burial sites are blocked without reason.

Meezaan Center for Human Rights and Geneva International Centre for Justice remind states that no situation of conflict, or political instability may be invoked to justify disappearances nor to ignore requests for more information.

States do not have to be a signatory to the Convention in order to be bound by norms of basic humanity. Nevertheless, we call on more states to ratify the Convention and work to implement its provisions domestically.

---

 

The atrocities committed against Uyghurs must be a priority at the HRC

Item 3: Promotion and protection of all human rights, civil, political, economic, social and cultural rights, including the right to development

Joint statement with Meezaan Center for Human Rights

Delivered by Farah C. / GICJ

Thank you, vice-President,

On behalf of Meezaan Center for Human Rights and Geneva International Centre for Justice I take the floor today regarding human rights in China, especially the violations perpetrated by the Chinese government against the Uyghur Muslim community and other minorities.

Although the high commissioner’s office report confirms what the global community already apprehended, the document itself is ground-breaking as it is an official recognition of the atrocities committed by China. It paves the way for immediate action by intergovernmental bodies and UN mechanisms.

To fasten the implementation of the reports’ recommendations, we urge the HRC to prioritise the persecution of Uyghurs and other minorities on the agenda. We join the request of many others for a special Council session to be held on this matter. Supporting the call of more than 50 UN Special Rapporteurs and experts in 2020 and 2022, we urge this council to establish a special procedure to examine the dramatic situation of Human Rights in China, especially against minorities. Finally, given the extensive amount of credible evidence brought to light throughout the years, we highly believe the implementation of an independent investigative mechanism is crucial to collecting, unifying and preserving the evidence.

Meezaan and Geneva International Centre for Justice (GICJ) urge this council to finally take action. Dear delegates, this situation is urgent and must shift towards seeking accountability for justice to be served.

Thank you.

---

 

GICJ urges the Houthi militia to be held accountable for Yemen's humanitarian crisis

Item 3: Promotion and protection of all human rights, civil, political, economic, social and cultural rights, including the right to development

Joint statement with the Association Ma’onah for Human Rights and Immigration

Delivered by Namrata Hazarika / GICJ

Thank you, vice-President,

We are alarmed by the human rights situation in Yemen. Embroiled in sexual and gender-based violence, arbitrary arrests and extra-judicial killings, Yemen is facing one of the worst humanitarian situations of the 21st century. Although humanitarian aid is being provided, it continuously fails to reach the people it is intended for. This is because the armed Houthi militias in Sana'a intervene and seize the aid, birthing a self-perpetuating cycle of human rights violations.

Terrorist attacks carried out by the Houthi militia add to the already existing issues of starvation, lack of sanitation, and lack of health care. The Houthi militias deliberately fail to provide civilians their rights to health care and safe drinking water. Such practices are mostly prevalent in the areas of Sana’a, Hodeidah, Ibb, Aden, Taiz and Marib. Thus, the basic fundamental rights of a majority of Yemen’s population are being compromised, curbing any scope for development.

Maonah and Geneva International Centre for Justice reiterate that the militia's deprivation of healthcare rights amounts to war crimes for which they must be held accountable. The inability of the Yemeni justice system to criminalise the Houthi militias perpetuates their impunity. To ensure protection of all rights under Item 3, we urge member-states to exert political pressure on the de-facto authorities to ensure accountability of human right abuses.

Thank you.

---

Humanitarian assistance and justice for the victims of the military junta's abuses

Item 4 - ID with SR on Myanmar

Joint statement with

International Organization for the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination (EAFORD)

Delivered by Conall Corrigan / GICJ

Thank you,

Since February last year, abuses committed by the military junta in Myanmar have spanned the entire spectrum of human rights resulting in the deaths and displacement of thousands of civilians. Five years on from the brutal crackdown on the Rohingya Muslim population, members of this religious group are still awaiting justice and accountability for violations of their basic human rights.

The humanitarian crisis has been worsened by the rising prices of essential commodities, particularly food and fuel, as a result of the conflict in Ukraine which has severely impacted global supplies.

The Report of the Independent Investigative Mechanism for Myanmar has found, that since 2021, the civilian population have been forced to endure a barrage of violent mistreatment at the hands of armed forces.

The actions of the military junta in Myanmar constitute clear violations of numerous international human rights standards contained in treaties signed and ratified by Myanmar.

Although a recent Fact-Finding Mission carried out by the OHCHR found that some progress has been made in isolating the military regime from the global economy, much more must be done to ensure those who perpetrate crimes against civilians are held accountable for their actions.

The International Organization for the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination and Geneva International Centre for Justice remain concerned about the current situation in Myanmar. The international community must commit itself to pursuing a coordinated effort to support the people of Myanmar by providing vital humanitarian assistance, ensuring justiciable remedies for victims of rights abuses, and prioritising the de-escalation of the conflict.

Thank you.

---

 

GICJ urges states to end economic cooperation with junta's owned companies

Item 4: ID on OHCHR Report on Myanmar

Joint statement with

International Organization for the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination (EAFORD)

Delivered by Loïc Dorthe / GICJ

Thank you, President,

We welcome the report of the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, but remain concerned with its results. We recall that by taking over the country, the junta has exacerbated an already fragile human rights situation. The reduction of civic space and perpetration of crimes against humanity such as elements of genocide against the Rohingya, cannot go unanswered by the international community.

However, we regret that the recommended sanctions, designed to starve financial resources of Myanmar’s military, are ineffective, or simply insufficient. As the report details, the junta and its leaders are using resources of state-owned enterprises to fund their control over the country. The sectors, companies, and senior officials at the helm are known. Lack of action by partner states is therefore inexcusable. Currently, too many countries trading with the junta remain unaccountable, and the inaction of neighbouring states is particularly intolerable. Denouncing a military coup and acknowledging the subsequent alleged human rights violations is meaningless if no concrete action is taken to improve the human rights’ situation in Myanmar.

Therefore, EAFORD and Geneva International Centre for Justice call on all states, especially ASEAN and those with significant economic ties to junta-controlled enterprises, to implement economic sanctions to the best of their ability, and to promote trade with civilian companies. Economically weakening the military, and strengthening the civilian parties is the responsibility of all states willing to commit to the return of democratic political institutions, and respect for human rights in Myanmar.

Thank you.

---

 

GICJ calls on the UN to urgently identify the Houthi militia as a terrorist organisation

Item 4: Human rights situations that require the Council's attention

Joint statement with the Association Ma’onah for Human Rights and Immigration

Delivered by Danya Al-Thani / GICJ

Thank you, Mr. President,

Ma’onah and Geneva International Centre for Justice would like to first draw attention to the grave human rights violation in Yemen. Since the takeover of power by the Houthi militias, Yemeni people have been subjected to extrajudicial killings, gender-based violence, torture, and arbitrary arrest.

The thousands of Yemenis subjected to arrest, kidnap, or other forms of forced disappearance by Iranian-backed, Houthi militias, are denied access to the basic rights of a fair trial.

The methods used by the Houthi militias to control the population, include torture and murder of civilians as well as internet and media restrictions. On the 18th of September 2021, Houthis publicly executed 9 civilians in the Hodeidah governorate without access to fair judicial process. Civilians have also been forcedly displaced by the confiscation of lands in the Beit al-Faqih district with dozens arrested. To stop violations against the Yemeni people, the UN must urgently identify the Houthi militia as a terrorist organisation.

On another urgent matter, we express our deep concern about the ongoing human rights abuses in Iran and strongly condemn the disproportionate use of force against protesters. Iran must respect the right to freedom of expression, assembly, and association. We call on the international community, including this council, to take concrete steps to protect the protesters in Iran. Iran must be held accountable for all its violations.

Thank you.

---

 

States must support the Investigative Mechanisms and examine abuses in Iraq

Item 4: Human rights situations that require the Council's attention

Joint statement with the Meezaan Center for Human Rights

Delivered by Martin Browne / GICJ

President,

Addressing some general concerns covering the mechanisms under Item 4.

Their operation needs reform only to the extent that they must be fully resourced in order to be effective in carrying out their agreed mandates as endorsed by states and civil society.

Resources are required due to the detail required for producing accurate substantive reports, establishing liability, helping accountability and achieving successful prosecutions of identified crimes.

Despite the expansion of these bodies' work - there are still countries outside of the specific mandates where there are serious, grave, and ongoing human rights concerns that require greater attention within this Council.

We should focus on precise steps to protect the rights of people in Iraq which have unfortunately been ignored in recent years. Yet people in Iraq are suffering from the effects of rampant enforced disappearances and the destabilising effects of sectarian violence. This has included unlawful killings, denial of basic services and the violent repression of peaceful protestors in 2019 and continuing to the events in Baghdad just 3 weeks ago.

States calling this body’s processes “political” do not help the process of accountability to become less political by sitting on the sidelines and criticising without proposing alternative methods of achieving justice for victims around the world.

Meezaan Center for Human Rights and Geneva International Centre for Justice strongly urge all states to give real, practical, and effective support to the mechanisms as necessary to increase accountability for serious crimes and achieve justice for victims around the world.

Thank you.

---

 

GICJ calls for an Independent International Commission of Inquiry in Iraq

Item 4: Human rights situations that require the Council's attention

Joint statement with International-Lawyers.org

Delivered by Naji Haraj / GICJ

Thank you,

We would like to remind the Council about the systematic and widespread human rights violations in Iraq. We have raised this issue many times before UN relevant bodies and are still of the firm belief that the situation requires special attention by this Council.

It is appalling that international crimes committed by the state and its affiliated Militias agents have gone without accountability. We have documented that since the 2003 illegal invasion and occupation of Iraq not a single perpetrator from those high-ranking officials has been brought to justice. The victims of those heinous crimes of aggression, war crimes, and crimes against humanity are entitled to the protections of international law and cannot be removed from our collective memory.

It is also appalling that the Iraqi government continues to evade calls for accountability for thousands of arbitrarily detained and disappeared persons by branding them as terrorists solely on the basis that they derive from certain ethnic regions in Iraq.

Human rights defenders in Iraq are subjected to abductions and assassinations merely for exercising their fundamental rights.

Therefore, International-Lawyers and Geneva International Centre for Justice repeat their calls to establish an international, independent Commission of inquiry to investigate all human rights violations in Iraq since 2003 in order to hold all perpetrators accountable.

Thank you.

---

 

The inclusion of indigenous people is essential in multilateral decision making

Item 3 & 5: Interactive dialogue with the Expert Mechanism on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples on its annual report

Joint statement with Meezaan Center for Human Rights

Delivered by Isabelle Despicht / GICJ

Thank you, President,

We thank the Expert Mechanism on the Rights of Indigenous People for its update and commend all progress made by states to elevate the rights of indigenous communities across the globe.

Indigenous people comprise 6% of the global population and are among the most marginalised societies. Often overlooked, their role in preserving and disseminating indigenous knowledge and culture is paramount to modern societies.

Indigenous communities continue to be discriminated against and are often unable to fend for themselves. Most notably, they are too frequently unable to access appropriate legal remedies when their rights have been violated.

Despite considerable advances, we regret that, as noted in their report, the Expert Mechanism only received input from two states on the study on Treaties, agreements and other constructive arrangements.

Meezaan Center and Geneva International Centre for Justice urgently call this Council for a renewed and concerted effort to include these groups in multilateral decision-making processes. States should make use of the mechanisms made available to them.

We further join the call of the Expert Mechanism for States to ensure prompt and effective investigations and, most importantly, to ensure accountability for crimes committed against these communities, guaranteeing the principle of non-repetition.

Thank you.

---

 

GICJ urges international community to end Israeli's impunity concerning collective punishments

Item 7: General Debate of Human Rights Situation in Palestine and other Occupied Arab Territories

Joint statement with

International Organization for the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination (EAFORD)

Delivered by Loïc Dorthe / GICJ

Thank you, president,

We wish to raise the grave situation of collective punishment by Israel against Palestinians, which is an exceptionally serious violation of the principles and rules of international law.

Since 1967, the Israeli army has been continuously demolishing Palestinian homes to deter individuals declared as so-called "terrorists" from repeating their actions. The army destroys to the ground hundreds of properties, houses, and buildings in which these people live with their families, including children.

By having their homes demolished, these Palestinians are being deprived of everything they own and thrown out onto the street. They are subjected to an obvious form of collective punishment, in clear violation of Article 33 of the Fourth Geneva Convention.

In addition, since May of this year, the restriction of access to certain areas, including occupied Jerusalem, has been extended to second-degree relatives of suspected terrorists. Let us be clear. It was already a violation of humanitarian law to punish parents and siblings who did not commit any crime, but in the face of the international community's lack of reaction, nothing prevented Israel from taking this additional step.

Finally, to prevent Israel from taking, again, an additional step, and violating further humanitarian law and human rights, EAFORD and Geneva International Centre for Justice call on the international community to put an end to the Israeli occupation, end impunity and bring justice to the Palestinian people.

I thank you.

---

 

Israeli's "peaceful democracy" and its failure to apply to Palestinians

General Debate Item 7: Human rights situation in Palestine and other Occupied Arab Territories

Joint statement with Meezaan Center for Human Rights

Delivered by Farah C. / GICJ

Thank you,

Here we are 74 years later, gathered yet again, to denounce the suffering of the Palestinian people.

Israeli prime minister recalled before the General Assembly that Israel is a peaceful democracy. I would like to remind this Council that Israel is the State that has the most unsolved and ignored resolutions in the UN history. The UN recognised democracy “as a form of government [that] is a universal benchmark for human rights protection”. How can Israeli authorities pretend to be a democracy, yet completely disregard resolutions that call it to abide by basic international standards of human rights?

An Israeli democracy that doesn't hesitate to violently repress civil society, as we clearly saw with the violent repression of the Palestinian NGOs, or to simply expel UN experts from its territory. In this regard, we are here today to express our support for every human rights defender.

Again, we condemn the lack of consistency of many States denouncing human rights. As we welcome the steps taken by the USA to denounce the ongoing atrocities committed in China against the Uyghurs, we can’t help wondering: Does the conception of human rights violations change from one country to another? Isn’t the forced eviction of people and the erasure of their culture a universal violation of International Law?

To comply with the democratic principle, Meezaan Center for Human Rights and Geneva International Centre for Justice urge the Human Rights Council and every State to finally act on the numerous UN resolutions in order to end the Israeli brutal policies and occupation.

Thank you.

---

 

GICJ calls for ending extrajudicial executions of Palestinians 

Item 7: General Debate of Human Rights Situation in Palestine and other Occupied Arab Territories

Joint statement with Association Ma’onah for Human Rights and Immigration

Delivered by Saja Misherqi / GICJ

Thank you,

Israeli occupation policies are getting more violent every day. Among them is the increase in extrajudicial executions by Israeli soldiers and illegal settlers.

A policy of impunity prevails for the perpetrators of these violations, with the International Community’s neglection of The Palestinian People’s legitimate rights.

Despite the prohibition by international law, the practice by the Israeli policies remains prevalent. In the past two years, more than 18 cases of extrajudicial execution were committed but none of the perpetrators have been brought to justice.

Lest we forget, the Palestinian Journalist Shireen Abu Aqleh who was killed this year in cold blood by an Israeli soldier while on duty.

Settler violence against Palestinians takes many forms, starting from but not limited to physical attacks, stabbings, shootings, as well as attacks on property.

One such violent attack was on 27 year old Palestinian engineer from Nablus, Ali Harb. Ali was stabbed to death by a settler who had stormed private land belonging to the Harb family with a group of settlers. The Israeli Military Prosecution acquitted the killer on the pretext of self-defense and the lack of sufficient evidence to convict him.

Therefore, Ma’ouna and Geneva International Center for Justice call on the international community to intervene immediately to prevent all forms of violence by Israeli soldiers and settlers against Palestinians.

I thank you.

---

 

Pervasive racial discrimination and inequality faced by children of African descent

Item 9: Interactive dialogue with the Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent

Joint statement with

International Organization for the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination (EAFORD)

Statement delivery by Emily Bare / GICJ

Thank you, vice-President:

We welcome the report by the Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent, especially as it relates to children. This issue is of great importance as it relates to future generations and humanity.

We agree with the report in that it is necessary to identify existing racialized challenges that come in various forms - including legal hurdles and other types of violations. In this regard, we note that the history of justifying and enabling colonial domination, together with neo-colonial dynamics, especially in law - must be addressed in various fields such as education, health, and development.

It is of utmost importance to also address invisible challenges and barriers such as mental slavery and child sexual slavery among others, as these are also negative results of the legacies of slavery and colonialism.

To this end, EAFORD and Geneva International Centre for Justice strongly believe that effective inclusion of victims and affected communities is paramount in discussions regarding accountability and redress. We encourage the inclusion of experts in civil, political, social, and cultural fields as noted in the DDPA - as well as the need for special measures to be incorporated to combat racial discrimination and inequality faced by children.

In conclusion, we would like to ask the Working Group, what measures and steps can civil society, together with member states and other stakeholders do to strengthen political will, moral courage, and State responsibility?

Thank you.

---

 

GICJ calls States to address past forms of racism and exclusion and their lasting consequences

General Debate Item 9: Racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related forms of intolerance, follow-up to and implementation of the Durban Declaration and Programme of Action

Joint statement with

International Organization for Elimination of all Forms of Racial Discrimination (EAFORD)

Delivered by Emily Bare / GICJ

Thank you, Mr. President:

We are deeply concerned about the lack of commitment by States toward the elimination of all forms of racial discrimination and other intolerances.

Racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia, and related intolerance continue to plague humanity. Regrettably, the lack of political will to advance the global anti-racism and anti-discrimination agenda continues to hamper the effective combating of racism and its effects. This lack of political will fuels racist and xenophobic tendencies in many parts of the world.

Although the United States ratified the ICERD in 1994, it consistently fails to uphold its obligations. Recent data shows an increase in the death rates of people of African descent caused by police officers, in hate crimes against people of Asian descent since the outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic, and in the rise of ideas of racial superiority.

Pervasive structural racism and systemic injustice in the United States continues to deny people their fundamental human rights, affecting generations of women, men, and children - stripping them of their humanity.

EAFORD and Geneva International Centre for Justice believe that the effective implementation of the Durban Declaration and Programme of Action into national legislation of each State is crucial. We urge States to address the complex legacy and lasting consequences of past forms of racism and exclusion, including colonial exploitation and enslavement.

Lastly, we commit ourselves to the ideal that diversity is a strength and not a threat to society.

Thank you.

---

 

States must reevaluate their laws regarding systematic racism and discrimination 

General Debate Item 9: Racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related forms of intolerance, follow-up to and implementation of the Durban Declaration and Programme of Action

Joint statement with the Association Ma’onah for Human Rights and Immigration

Delivered by Rute Belachew / GICJ

Thank you,

The Durban Declaration represented the international community's unequivocal commitment to combat racism and associated intolerance at the national and international levels. To do so, we must first acknowledge the value of all human beings by identifying the harm inflicted by colonialism and white supremacy.

Discriminatory laws frequently target and uproot indigenous populations across the globe, such as the Maasai in Eastern Africa and First Nations people in North and South America. In the Occupied Palestinian Territories, persecution and house demolition have devastated families for decades. This contempt for Indigenous peoples is pervasive as the technological sector continues to receive governmental support despite their harmful extraction practices. Extractions of resources, like lithium and cobalt, destroy their ecosystems and harm their capacity to cultivate crops for sustenance until they are eventually displaced.

Furthermore, the alarming number of Indigenous women who continue to disappear in the United States and Canada demonstrate the harm caused by silence.

Ma'onah and Geneva International Centre for Justice call on nations to reevaluate laws that enable for the ongoing oppression of indigenous peoples. Lastly, we implore states to implement comprehensive legislative frameworks in accordance with the Declaration and Programme of Action to ensure that all institutions responsible for perpetuating cycles of systematic racism and discrimination end before it’s too late.

Thank you.

---

 

GICJ urges states to not let the weight of their past eclipse the future 

General Debate Item 9: Racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related forms of intolerance, follow-up to and implementation of the Durban Declaration and Programme of Action

Joint statement with Meezaan Center for Human Rights

Delivered by Namrata Hazarika / GICJ

Thank you, President

The role of the right to self-development in guaranteeing individual fundamental rights has been well covered throughout the council. This is why we wish to bring up how the Israeli occupation of Palestine for over 55 years has normalised Israel’s systematic discrimination based on nationality and ethnicity, denying Palestinians a chance at self-determination.

A recent example of such a practice stems from Israel’s housing policies in east Jerusalem that discriminates against Palestinian people. The existence of “discriminatory zooning” and “planning regimes” in the region prevent Palestinians from attaining access to housing, water, and sanitation. Such zoning also inadvertently restricts educational and healthcare opportunities available to Palestinians. All amount to a decreased standard of living. This is a clear case of racial segregation feeding an apartheid regime.

Meezaan Center for Human Rights and Geneva International Centre for Justice (GICJ) reiterate that the DDPA identifies the plights of Palestinians as racial discrimination against those under foreign occupation. Yet the gap between the promise and implementation of non-discriminatory policies by States is alarming. The lack of accountability borne by States is one of the core reasons for the escalation of the plight of Palestinians. Without implementation of the DDPA into national legislations, systemic racism will continue to breed.

We are at a stage in history where a universal narrative condemning all manifestations of racism is critical. Hence, delegates, don’t let the weight of your past eclipse the future.

Thank you.

---

 

International community must encourage systems of transitional justice

Item 10: Enhanced ID on the report of HC and experts on the Democratic Republic of Congo

Joint statement with

International Organization for the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination (EAFORD)

Delivered by Rasika Gopalakrishnan / GICJ

Thank you,

Since 2012, the army of M23 rebels in the Democratic Republic of Congo has continued to endanger and displace thousands of civilians across the country. Despite several attempts at peaceful negotiations, the army has persisted in its attacks on the Armed Forces of the DRC, thereby leading to social, political, and economic instability in the region.

The team of international experts observed that several towns and provinces have passed into the hands of the Congolese Revolutionary Army, creating a hostile and dangerous environment for women, children, and other vulnerable communities. Such actions place the UN Peacekeepers as well as the civilians of the DRC in great danger. It was noted that the peacekeeping mission, MONUSCO, had to be evacuated due to concerns for their safety.

Although the country has taken both diplomatic and humanitarian steps to resolve this dispute, the team of independent experts strongly believes that an increase in cooperation between various stakeholders is required to put an end to this unrest. In their report, the team noted a correlation between the absence of the judicial system, on the one hand, and the proliferation of armed groups, on the other. Therefore, increased investment in the country’s judicial system could go a long way in combating impunity. The Report further stresses the need to establish transitional justice systems in order to protect against the occurrence of future human rights abuses.

EAFORD and Geneva International Centre for Justice strongly urge the international community to support the mission of the Democratic Republic of Congo in establishing systems of transitional justice.

Thank you.

---

 

GICJ expresses concerns about violations of the Rights of the Child in South Sudan

Item 10: Technical Assistance and Capacity Building for South Sudan

Joint statement with

International Organization for the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination (EAFORD)

Delivered by Loïc Dorthe / GICJ

Thank you, president

We thank the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights for the oral update, and we recognise the meaningful progress made towards the reconstitution of the Transitional National Legislative Assembly with the appointment of the first female speaker in the country’s history.

We are deeply concerned however about the violence and incursions in South Sudan that have displaced over 44,000 civilians and killed 173 people in the last four months. The human rights situation in South Sudan is very alarming with grave violations and abuses reported against 124 children including acts of, abduction, sexual violence, murder, and forced recruitment into the army. EAFORD and Geneva International Centre for Justice call on the Government of South Sudan to uphold their obligations under the Convention on the Rights of the Child.

In addition, we are troubled by the Government’s failure to establish a Hybrid Court for South Sudan. Holding credible trials and establishing mechanisms to ensure truth telling, reparations, and justice for the victims are essential in repairing the country’s social fabric as well as bringing healing to the people.

We also note with concern how the continuous violence has led to increasingly high malnutrition rates among the South Sudanese. Humanitarian aid and assistance have been denied or restricted leaving the people in a hopeless situation. We call on this Council and the International community as a whole to take action to protect the people of South Sudan.

I thank you.

---

 

Effective transitional justice mechanisms as a means for peace in South Sudan

Item 10: Interactive dialogue on the oral update of OHCHR on technical assistance and capacity-building for South Sudan

Joint statement with Meezaan Center for Human Rights

Delivered by Isabelle Despicht / GICJ

Thank you President,

We welcome the work of the Office of the High Commissioner, and the activities led by the Commission on Human Rights in South Sudan as a follow up of their report on sexual and gender based violence of March 2022.

We remain, however, deeply concerned about the appalling reports from victims.

Sexual and gender based violence, most often affects the most vulnerable groups. These outbreaks of violence, reveal a profound and ongoing systemic pattern of impunity, exposing the institutional weaknesses.

We welcome the UNDP’s efforts to help educate vulnerable groups about their rights, as well as the awareness campaigns conducted for law enforcements and institutional staff.

Still, concrete measures are needed to enhance access to justice for the most vulnerable. In that view we highly encourage the implementation of UNDPs mobile courts in the most isolated areas.

We strongly support the stance that traumas and injustice, if left unattended, can only fuel further cycles of violence.

Sustainable peace cannot be reached without accountability, and no trauma can be healed without justice.

Meezaan Center and Geneva International Centre for Justice (GICJ) reiterate our strong support to the Commission.

We urge this Council to ensure an effective interim reparation mechanism for victims as well as the implementation of an inclusive and representative transitional justice system.

I thank you.

---

 

GICJ urges states to not use the pandemic as a means to limit democracy

Item 10: Interactive Dialogue with Special Rapporteur on Cambodia

Joint statement with the Association Ma´onah for Human Rights and Immigration

Delivered by Namrata Hazarika / GICJ

Thank you, President

We start by thanking the Special Rapporteur for his report and asserting that the right to development is tethered to freedom of expression and association. Yet, in the recent assessment of democratic pluralism in Cambodia, we find that both said components are compromised. Hence, we express concern about the human rights situation in the State.

The 2020 State of Emergency Law has restrained the power to declare an emergency and curbed civic liberties, in the hands of a few. Hence, legally silencing critics of government policy. This diminishes the scope for peaceful assembly and freedom of speech, corroborated by the rising threats and harassment towards journalists and human rights defenders and their subsequent arbitrary arrest and detention. All these factors contribute toward preventing the development of multiparty democracy in Cambodia.

The Covid-19 pandemic has further normalised said restrictions under the pretext of the 2021 Law on Preventive Measures against the Spread of COVID-19 and Other Severe and Dangerous Contagious Diseases. This law not only overrides the mobility rights of citizens but also impedes their right to privacy by allowing public disclosure of personal data of patients who contracted Covid.

Therefore, Ma’onah and Geneva International Centre for Justice support the Special Rapporteur’s recommendation to suspend and reform the above-mentioned laws. Additionally, we wish to emphasise that the pandemic is not a means to limit democracy but rather it should bring about a time to advance it.

Thank you.

---

 

GICJ calls for additional measures to prevent the proliferation of foreign armed groups in CAR

Item 10: ID on IE on Central African Republic

Joint statement with

International Organization for the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination (EAFORD)

Delivered by Loïc Dorthe / GICJ

Thank you,

We welcome the report of the independent expert on human rights in the Central African Republic and the progress reached, including the abolition of the death penalty and the national action plan to combat child trafficking.

For many years, the population of the Central African Republic has lacked opportunities and the younger generations have been deprived of their future. Restoring stability and security seems to be the government’s main objective. Despite its obvious importance, we are alarmed by the enormous costs that accompany it.

To achieve stability, the government collaborates with foreign armed groups, which are effective in the short term. However, this partnership undermines the CAR's long-term ability to act as a sovereign state. It is also affecting MINUSCA’ work. Alleged crimes against humanity, violations of international humanitarian law, and the plundering of the country's resources by these armed groups cannot go unanswered.

To move towards reconciliation, an inclusive dialogue between communities must be promoted. The local elections, which have been postponed to January 2023, are therefore of utmost importance. They must be fair and genuine to allow the population to feel represented.

EAFORD and the Geneva International Centre for Justice, reiterate the call for independent experts to provide the required technical and financial support. We also call for further international measures to prevent the proliferation and limit the power of foreign armed groups, to achieve long-term peace, stability, and prosperity in the Central African Republic.

I thank you.

---

 

Yemen is in dire need of technical assistance to counter the Houthi's violence

General Debate Item 10: Technical Assistance and Capacity Building for Yemen

Joint statement with Association Ma’onah for Human Rights and Immigration

Delivered by Rawan Hijazi / GICJ

Thank you, President,

We thank the Commission for Human Rights for the technical assistance it provides to many countries, and we believe that Yemen remains in dire need of this assistance. Perhaps everyone knows that the human rights situation in Yemen is at its worst, as the violations of the Houthi militia against the Yemeni people continue. These violations include extrajudicial killings, crimes of sexual and gender-based violence, mass arbitrary arrests, as well as torture, death sentences and restrictions on the freedom of journalists.

On the other hand, human rights organizations monitored more than 20 decisions and circulars issued by the militia between December 2017 and April 2022, to restrict and suppress the freedom and movement of women and their community activities. It even interfered in determining the type of clothing and personal necessities, as well as decisions that control birth control, and these decisions inflicted severe psychological and moral damage on women in Houthi-controlled areas.

Hence, the Maonah Association and the Geneva International Center for Justice stress the importance of technical assistance to organizations that defend women in Yemen. The Houthi group has persisted in suppressing women and inflicting the most severe penalties on every woman who demands rights, criticizes corruption, or refuses to submit to its extremist policies and ideas.

Thank you.

 

The promotion of the rule of law and accountability for perpetrators is vital for the prevention of human rights atrocities

By Emily Bare / GICJ

Accountability for human rights violations is crucial for upholding the rule of law and preventing impunity. 

On the 6th of October 2022, Emily Bare of GICJ observed the discussion regarding the adoption of a draft resolution with a thematic focus on the role of prevention in the promotion and protection of human rights. This resolution focuses on the rule of law and accountability for human rights violations. 

The ambassador of Ukraine, on behalf of 6 other submitted countries, stated that efforts by states and the international community are needed to enhance the rule of law and accountability for human rights violations worldwide. She stated that, if adopted, this initiative will inspire further joint efforts from the Council to prevent human rights violations and combat impunity. 

The ambassadors of Cuba, India, Venezuela, Paraguay, Lithuania, and China all voiced their opinions regarding the draft resolution, and the President of the Human Rights Council adopted the resolutions without a vote. 

Geneva International Centre for Justice (GICJ) welcomes the efforts to increase accountability for human rights violations and promote the rule of law. We are pleased with the adoption of this resolution and will continue to advocate for greater accountability and rule of law through our work.

---

 

Resolution to strengthen the journalists' protection accepted by consensus 

 

By Loïc Dorthe / GICJ

Despite their crucial work in providing public access to information, journalists are increasingly targeted in an effort to silence their voices. The Human Rights Council adopted a resolution on 6 October 2022 to strengthen their protection and allow them to work in a safe and enabling environment. All 47 members accepted the resolution by consensus which required no vote. 

Journalists are routinely killed, arbitrarily detained, and subject to online abuse and surveillance, for carrying out their work. To counter abuses increasingly perpetrated by governments, the Council adopted resolution H_HRC_51_L.14. It specifically highlights the work of journalists as paramount and urges states to implement concrete measures to this effect. This includes making efforts to address the misuse of national defamation laws against journalists, establishing prevention and protection mechanisms, and ensuring accountability. 

All delegations participating in the final discussion welcomed the resolution. They recognised the importance of independent and diverse sources of media to ensure the fulfilment of the right to freedom of expression, to provide access to information, to ensure the proper functioning of democratic institutions, and to ensure respect for human rights norms. Ukraine particularly welcomed the resolution, explaining that since the outbreak of war, 46 journalists have been attacked by Russian forces. The representative reiterated the importance of their work in bringing out the truth about violations of humanitarian law. 

Geneva International Centre for Justice (GICJ) welcomes the resolution to protect journalists and hopes that it will improve their working conditions. However, we recall that journalists and media outlets are still being targeted, and many areas of conflict remain inaccessible to journalists.

---

 

Taliban abuses against women and girls to be subject to greater scrutiny

By Martin Browne / GICJ

Taliban abuses that undermine women and girls enjoyment of fundamental rights was condemned by a resolution at the Human Rights Council's 51st Session. The Council agreed to extend the mandate of the Special Rapporteur on Afghanistan by a year, with a request to focus on the current situation facing women and girls in Afghanistan.  29 voted in favour, with only 3 countries, led by China voting against.

One notable comment underlined the need for further reports on Afghanistan as this is the only country in the world in which girls are formally prohibited from attending secondary school. 

Moreover, countries called for humanitarian assistance to continue to be provided to Afghan people. Critically, the recognised representative of the Afghanistan government-in-exile supported the resolution but called for even stronger action to be taken by states and the creation of a dedicated accountability mechanism capable of documenting every crime and human rights violation.

Geneva International Centre for Justice (GICJ) supports the call for an Afghan-owned process for the establishment of a representative government. Until peace returns and the rights of women and girls are fully respected, all UN mechanisms should pay close attention to the situation in Afghanistan. Extending the mandate of the Special Rapporteur is the least that the international community can do to help those suffering from a deteriorating human rights situation. 

---

 

Council adopts new resolution to "improve" the human rights' situation in Syria

By Loïc Dorthe / GICJ

Eleven years have passed since the war in the Syrian Arab Republic began. Eleven years of conflict, violence, and violations of human rights and humanitarian law. The conflict is not new to the Human Rights Council, which adopted resolution A/HRC/51/L.18 on the 7th of October 2022 which was a new attempt to improve respect for human rights in Syria. However, this only reiterates past Council positions calling on Syria to respect its international obligations, without suggesting anything significant on top of that.

Delegations could be identifiable split between three groups. The 25 states who voted in favour were mainly European States. They stressed the importance of continuing to put pressure on the Syrian government to comply with its international obligations. The six states against the resolution, led by Syria itself, Russia, and China, emphasised their wish to respect the country's sovereignty and the principle of non-interference. Finally, a third category such as Brazil, abstained. 

After eleven years of unresolved problems and continuous human rights violations, Geneva International Centre for Justice (GICJ) is not satisfied with this resolution. After years of unresolved problems, it is clear that the Council lacks the resources and means to improve the situation in Syria, and this new resolution, which merely reiterates what has already been decided and agreed upon previously, will not change one iota of horrors that the Syrian people are suffering. 

The only consolation in this respect is, quoting the British representative: "Syria is not forgotten" by the international community. Meanwhile, the Syrian people will continue to suffer and will certainly feel better knowing that the Human Rights Council has not forgotten them.

---

 

Joint resolution on terrorism and human rights by Mexico and Egypt

By Rute Belachew / GICJ 

Filed by Mexico and Egypt, delegates encouraged the Special Rapporteur to focus on the protection of human rights while combating terrorism. On October 6, 2022, the Human Rights Council met to discuss Item 3: Promotion and protection of all human rights, civil, political, economic, social and cultural rights, including the right to development. During this discussion the delegate of Mexico, Ms. Francisca E. Méndez Escobar, began with a statement about the need to combat terrorism and uphold human rights standards. Moreover, they appealed for increased consideration to be given to the negative impact of terrorism on the enjoyment of fundamental freedoms and to make recommendations to address this issue. 

The Council emphasised that, in accordance with their obligations under international law, states must protect individuals within their jurisdiction from terrorist acts.  The Special Rapporteur on the promotion and protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms while combatting terrorism wasinvited by the Council to consider the detrimental impact of terrorism on the enjoyment of human rights and fundamental freedoms and to offer suggestions in this respect. After that, without a vote, the resolution (A/HRC/51/L.42) was altered orally.

Geneva International Centre for Justice (GICJ) strongly condemns all acts of terrorism as unjustified and is deeply concerned about how they underminerespect for all human rights. We implore nations to do more to conform with international human rights, refugee, and humanitarian law.

---

 

"From rhetoric to reality" resolution to combat racial discrimination approved by the Human Rights Council

By Loïc Dorthe / GICJ

The African Group presented a new resolution to the HRC51 to urge States to implement concrete measures to combat racial discrimination in accordance with the Durban Declaration and Plan of Action (DDPA). On 7 October 2022, the Council voted in favour of resolution A/HRC/51/L.28/Rev.1 by 32 votes to 9.

No European state voted in favour of the resolution, which provoked criticism by other nations. They complained that Western states were responsible for the slave trade and other crimes against humanity, as well as showing the least enthusiasm for fighting racial discrimination. European states justified their vote by lamenting that this resolution is not based on the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination. Instead, it uses the DDPA, which, according to the EU states and the USA, lacks concrete evaluation mechanisms for its results. All nevertheless reiterated their willingness and determination to combat racial discrimination.  

Côte d'Ivoire, Namibia, and other countries welcomed the new resolution to combat racial discrimination, xenophobia and other intolerances. They see it as one of the main priorities of the UN's goal and explain that this resolution will push states to move from words to concrete actions. The resolution is expected to have a budgetary impact of USD 77,000.

As a human rights advocate, Geneva International Centre for Justice (GICJ) welcomes the adoption of this resolution to strengthen international mechanisms to combat racial discrimination. We note the challenges it entails but remain determined that more must be done to combat racial discrimination, xenophobia, and other intolerances, and therefore consider this resolution as a step forward towards more equity and justice. 

---

 

Resolution requires the OHCHR to submit a report on the development of transitional justice processes worldwide

By Farah C. / GICJ 

A resolution introduced by Switzerland, Argentina and Morocco on human rights and transitional justice was adopted by consensus by the Human Rights Council, on the 7th of October. The main request of the States is for the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) to prepare a report on “lessons learned and good practices of transitional justice in the context of sustaining peace and of sustainable development.” This report will have to be presented at the 58th session of the Human Rights Council, in 2025. The last report on the matter by the OHCHR was released in 2022. 

The core group behind this present resolution emphasised the need to give a greater place to mental health and psychological support services for victims during transitional justice processes. These services have to be implemented as early as possible where atrocities are committed. The resolution insisted also on the essential role of women and youth in peacebuilding efforts as well as in the prevention of future conflicts and atrocities. It reiterated the importance of a gender-sensitive human rights training for the actors involved in the transitional justice processes. 

Geneva International Centre for Justice (GICJ) welcomes the adoption of this resolution and supports the important role of transitional justice in promoting truth, justice and reparation for the victims of atrocities. We encourage a comprehensive approach that can be successful only  if the different actors overseeing the issues of development, security and human rights work collectively. 

---

 

With the rejection of its 2 amendments, Resolution L12 on Arbitrary Detention stands strong

By Namrata Hazarika / GICJ 

To respect and promote the right to legal assistance, the council adopted resolution L.12 on arbitrary detention without a vote. This resolution, proposed by France and co-sponsored by 55 states, stands for and promotes the rights of individuals who have been arrested and/or detained without impartiality. In accordance with Article 14 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), this resolution advocates for the right of any individual accused of any kind of criminal activity to have professional legal support and representation. 

Objections came in the form of 2 amendments, L.43 and L.44, put forward by the Russian Delegation regarding the “Right to Legal Assistance” not being enshrined in international law. Both amendments were rejected. Regarding L.43, 3 states (China, Eritrea and Qatar) voted for it, 27 states voted against it, and 14 abstained. For L.44, only one state (China) voted for it, 26 voted against, and 20 abstained. 

With the rejection of the two amendments, the resolution was passed without a vote.

Geneva International Centre for Justice (GICJ) is pleased with the adoption of this resolution and will continue to advocate against arbitrary detentions that hinder the enjoyment of fundamental human rights.

---

 

GICJ's Conclusion and Reflections

 

The 51st Session of the Human Rights Council covered many key topics relating to human rights. Together with partner organisations, GICJ successfully participated in the session by delivering a total of 25 oral statements and producing 22 discussion reports.

Altogether, GICJ shed light on several human rights issues by addressing numerous forms of violence and degrading or inhuman treatment, emphasising the importance of an independent judicial system, reiterating the key principles of fairness and non-discrimination, advocating for the respect of the rule of law, promoting intercultural awareness, and fighting impunity.

We are especially disappointed by the Council's failure to open a debate on the human rights situation in the Chinese Xinjiang Autonomous Region (XUAR, East Turkestan). The growing evidence of human rights breaches suffered by the Muslim minority, including the Uyghurs, is irrefutable and the international community must not remain silent on this issue. We recall that alleged crimes were not only revealed by NGOs, but by the United Nations itself through the last report from former Human Rights High Commissioner Michel Bachelet in August 2022. This failure is a clear sign of some states' unwillingness to confront the People’s Republic of China on its international obligations in fear of economic sanctions. Such a situation is an obvious area where the UN must find a solution to improve its capability of defending human rights worldwide.

The continuous debate surrounding the Myanmar case was also an important matter of the HRC51. While GICJ recognises the efforts made by some states, we are still disappointed by the inaction of others, including certain neighbouring states, who have failed to take measures against the military junta. The human rights record of the Tatmadaw has been appalling since its seizure of power in 2021. The alleged crimes committed by the military junta are numerous and include the mass arbitrary detention of political opponents, use of torture and gender violence including sexual rape, and extreme discrimination against certain minorities including elements of Genocide against the Rohingyas. GICJ hopes that the ASEAN, which showed their determination to improve the Myanmar situation with regional coordination, will succeed in assembling all neighbouring states in an effort to bring back peace, stability, and respect for human rights within Myanmar. In the meantime, it is the responsibility of all states to cease economic affairs with the military and to impose a strict arms embargo on the country to avoid further human rights violations.

The brutal repression of peaceful demonstrators in Iran who are seeking more freedom was a sensitive topic during HRC51. The international community was quick to denounce the misdeeds of the government, which is accused of alleged human rights crimes against its own people. This includes arbitrary mass detention, the use of torture and gender-based violence, as well as the widespread repression of the freedom of assembly and expression. The Human Rights Council could find agreement with a resolution opening a special session of the instabilities in Iran. While this act is a first step, GICJ is concerned that the government’s grip on the country is not reducing, while alleged crimes continue to be committed.

Six months after the Russian invasion of Ukraine, the human rights situation in the region is of particular concern. Total territorial invasions have a huge impact on civilians who too often must bear the burden of the war. The alleged crimes committed by soldiers, including deliberate attacks on civilians, use of civilians as human shields, attack on civilian infrastructures such as schools, hospitals and civilian homes, and gender-based violence including rape must be investigated. We especially condemn the lack of safe passages that must be insured by all armies during wartime. Finally, with the upcoming winter, GICJ is further concerned that the effect on civilians is going to increase in the coming months. We urge the international community to contribute to resolving this war rapidly and call for a withdrawal of all Russian troops within Ukrainian territory. However, with the Russian Federation being one of the five permanent members of the UN Security Council, we fear that a concrete solution will be hard to achieve in the upcoming months, increasing the damages of war on civilians.

Finally, the human rights situation in Afghanistan was seen as particularly concerning. While the international community continues to condemn the practice of the Taliban, who reconquered the country in the summer of 2021, their decisions and practices have contributed to a worsening of the country’s human rights situation. GICJ is particularly concerned that the Human Rights Council has failed to tackle numerous instances of human rights breaches in Afghanistan, particularly the Taliban’s clear will to erase women and girls from society. With schools, universities, and most of the working sectors being prohibited to women, the urgency of the situation cannot be more dramatic. We urge the international community to increase their involvement in this issue and implement all measures at their disposal to ensure human rights for all Afghan people.

These are only some of the numerous issues tackled by the Human Rights Council. We reiterate the importance of highlighting, debating, and improving the situation of those whose human rights are violated. It is the right of every human being to benefit from such basic rights, and such international mechanisms are fundamental to achieving this goal. It is nevertheless important to reiterate that it necessitates the need for political cooperation, negotiations, goodwill, and sometimes more drastic measures to achieve them. We call on the entire international community to contribute to the full and effective functioning of these highly important mechanisms.