34^th session of the UN Human Rights Council

Agenda item 2

Interactive dialogue with the High Commissioner

Intervention by Permanent Representative of Ukraine                                 

Ambassador Yurii Klymenko

March 9, 2017

Mr. President,

Let me thank the High Commissioner for the update on the activities of his Office and recent human rights developments.

Indeed, the events and trends outlined in the High Commissioner’s statement clearly indicate that we, as the world community, find ourselves in a truly troubling time. We fully share the concern that the entire rights-based system is under attack and under the threat of breaking apart international and regional institutions.

On its part, Ukraine firmly believes in the indispensability of international law and justice. That is why we decided to come before the International Court of Justice to request protection of the basic human rights of the Ukrainian people that have been blatantly violated by one of the permanent members of the UN Security Council – the Russian Federation. We seek justice and accountability under international law, while the Russian Federation continues to demonstrate disregard for its obligations under international treaties. 

This country continues to supply deadly assistance to illegal armed groups in Ukraine that have committed numerous terrorist attacks. In the occupied Crimea, the Russian Federation wholly disregards human rights, while implementing policies of cultural erasure and pervasive discrimination. These actions are unacceptable.

The case Ukraine brought before the ICJ should send a message about whether the international legal order can stand up to powerful countries that disregard the law and disrespect human rights.

Our hopes and expectations are on the side of international justice.

Domestically, Ukraine will keep implementing comprehensive reforms based on human rights approach. We count on continued support of the Office of the High Commissioner on this path.

I thank you.