32nd session of the UN Human Rights Council
Agenda item 4
Interactive dialogue with the Commission on Inquiry on Eritrea
Intervention by the Delegation of Ukraine
June 21, 2016
Mr President,
Let me join my colleagues in thanking Chair Mr. Smith for his comprehensive briefing.
Like many others, Ukraine remains highly concerned by the appalling human rights situation in Eritrea.
In this respect, we fully endorse the report of the Commission of Inquiry and its recommendations to the Government of Eritrea regarding the ongoing systematic widespread and gross violations of human rights in this African country.
Given the absence of any positive improvement since 1991 with respect to the crimes against humanity in Eritrea, Ukraine flags its backing of the Commission’s recommendation to the Human Rights Council to transmit the present report to the General Assembly, the Secretary-General and the Security Council for further follow-up on its suggestions.
As a member of the Security Council we are ready to use all tools at its disposal, including targeted sanctions, in order to oblige the Government of Eritrea to respect human rights and to ensure the implementation of the mentioned recommendations.
We also call on the African Union and regional powers to intensify their important role in prevention of human rights violations and crimes against humanity in Eritrea using all their influence over the government of this country.
I thank you.