21st Meeting - 62nd Session of Human Rights Council

Mr.
Excellency, very good morning everybody.
I call to order the 21st meeting of the 62nd session of the Human Rights Council.
Distinguished colleagues will now continue the interactive dialogue in the High Commission's report on the situation of human rights in the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela.
We'll proceed with the list of speakers for the National Human Rights Institutions and non governmental organizations.
We'll hear a series of videos, the first of which from Aola Aberta President, we profoundly regret the victims following the earthquakes that took place as part of the complex humanitarian emergency where Venezuelans have spent years without enjoying basic services such as electricity or potable water, with a health system in crisis, a monthly minimal salary of 20 centavos on the dollar.
According to H Venezuela, state policy has impacted education.
The state in 2025, allocated 12.8% of the budget to education well below the 20% recommended by Unesco, 35% of children, went to school only four days or less per week.
Universities receive only 3% of their budget and the wage crisis has forced university professors and teachers to find other jobs and reduce the time dedicated to academic work.
At the same time, the state's promoted reforms to the justice system and for private investment in strategic resources while Judge Afuni continues subjected arbitrarily to the equivalent of legal limbo and restrictive unconstitutional laws in civic space continue to take place.
Reforms cannot be built in the margins until rights are restored.
We ask for state timely information as well as the immediate opening of channels of cooperation with civil society and international actors to address the crisis.
Today, more than ever, we urge the council to renew the mandate of the fact finding mission for Venezuela.
Thank you.
Now here another video Amnesty International.
Mr.
President, Amnesty International welcomes the high Commissioners report on Venezuela.
We express alarm over Wednesday's earthquakes and their impact on the country and express solidarity with all affected.
Robust relief efforts are urntly needed and should respect humanitarian principles and international human rights law.
Authorities must offer timely and credible information on the impact and response to this disaster.
It is essential that undue restrictions are immediately lifted on freedom of expression and the press.
Open access to social media platforms and critical online communication channels should be restored.
All arbitrary detainees must be immediately released and unlawful restrictions on those unduly criminalized immediately waived.
Life and personal safety of all, including those injured, must be protected.
This tragedy has come in the context of a decade long complex humanitarian emergency.
This includes a collapsed health system and a policy of repression that has targeted the civilian population.
International humanitarian assistance should address these vulnerabilities by mobilizing urgently in collaboration with local civil society organizations and in line with international law and standards.
Mr.
President, at this critical time, human rights should be front and center when addressing the multiple crises in Venezuela.
We call on this council, its members and all UN member states to not waver in the commitment to ensuring this is so, but also to sustain international scrutiny and accountability mechanisms for Venezuela, including the mandates of the Hi Commissioner and the SFM.
Thank you.
Thank you.
We'll hear from engineers of the world now.
Commissioner, five days ago, two earthquakes hit Venezuela.
Thousands of families are looking for their loved ones under the debris.
It was devastating.
There's no clarity to the death toll.
Estimate, speaker of tens of thousands.
What we're seeing in real time is a double collapse simultaneously, the collapse of physical infrastructure due to the earthquake and the collapse of a state unable to address the magnitude of the tragedy.
This state collapse is exactly what is painted in the report we're looking at today.
The report says the extents repressive machinery still intact since three January, 87 new political prisoners have taken place, three persons dead in custody, 500 political prisoners still behind bars.
The Earthquake hasn't hit our country in normal conditions.
It's a country with a complex ongoing humanitarian crisis.
We call for two things in this from the Council, complete opening of international humanitarian support and two opening all channels to ensure that civil society, which was the first to provide a response, can have all the tools it needs to build solidarity.
Venezuela, needs to be rebuilt by all of us, not just infrastructure, but it's institutions, the trust, rule of law.
That's why we need the support of this council and all countries present in the months to come.
Thank you.
I give the floor a video from International Federation for Human Rights Leagues.
The quality of the sound on the video, I'm afraid is not good enough for interpretation.
Ces tact.
Venezuela I give the floor another video from United Nations Watch.
I'm Perkins Roche.
I'm a Vean'm an advocate.
I was a representative in the National Electoral Committee in the last presidential elections.
I protected the value of electorals which provided results that gave a triumph of Edmundo Gonzalez Urata not Nicholas Maduro.
That's I was violently arrested on 28, August 2024, put in prison by the political police for 535 days without contact with my family, without any legal assistance.
After more than 1.5 year as a prisoner in the dark, I was moved out of Helicoit and I was put in house arrest with an electric tag and a police post 24 hours outside my house.
The other seven people who were arrested like me were accused by the same act.
They were released.
Only I was denied the amnesty and the interim measures that would allow me to attend to my medical problems.
Everyone else was freed except for me.
My judge stated publicly the fear that he had of releasing me since he had been threatened that if he did so, He would also be made to prison.
In Venezuela, this is called the Affuni effect.
Today, I'm the only detainee in my case.
The case is suspended and the Supreme Court has not addressed my appeal.
I'm judicially being punished for having defended electoral truth, which denies the triumph of Nicolas Maduro.
Give the floor to lawyers for lawyers.
Ts for lawyers, International Bar Association Human Rights Institute, Lawyers Rights watch Canada notes the report of the High Commissioner, civic space continues to reduce and the quality of the videos are not good enough for interpretation.
Plans the Venezuela give the fed video from Center for Justice and International Law.
Quality of the video, again, it is not good enough for interpretation.
Apologies.
Traumanra instruments tarma institutional, the regulars me as well, mando Venezuela.
I give the floor video from Geneve Paul International.
First, we want to thank all states who provided logistical support to the Venezuelan people in these difficult times.
People around the world have seen in recent hours what we've seen has highlighted that those in the regime have such capacity only to oppress and no willingness to protect the population or to undergo a true transition.
The recent earthquake has heightened concerns for the security of those who stay arbitrarily detained, although but there's still lack of information prolonging the uncertainty of families of victims.
The report of the High Commissioner concludes that the imprisonments have represented only initial SEM.
The releases are only initial SEM and the arbitrary detentions and violations of due process continue.
The report for the ones that immediate measures remain necessary to guarantee truth, justice, reparation and guarantees of non repetition.
According to updated figures from Fo Pinal 373 persons remain deprived of liberty for political reasons.
25 women, one adolescent, 38 foreign nationals, one person remains disappeared.
We call upon the Council to maintain a reinforced monitoring of the situation and urge the Venezuelan state to guarantee the fundamental rights, due process, and immediately release all arbitrarily detained persons.
Thank you.
Thank you.
Give the floor to video to the World Organization Against Torture.
Hi, Commissioner.
My name is Ronni Baker, advocate member of Kf.
We appreciate the report on the human rights situation in Venezuela and we hope that the office maintains the integrity of its mandate and maintains its interest in supporting the efforts of civil society towards a genuine democratic transition.
We're troubled that the state continues without having a robust human rights roadmap to guide the transition or guarantee effective justice.
Truth and reparation processes for victims.
We note with concern, lack of full safeguards for the work carried out by NGOs in Venezuela and the existence of normative frameworks that criminalize and restrict our work, such as the taxation law, which is tantamount to the legal limbo for NGOs.
The quality of steps towards democratic transition is measured by the safeguards be given to NGOs on human rights.
We stress that according to the World Ogization Against Torture, there's a high risk of torture.
Therefore, it's crucial that investigations be carried out into hundreds of cases of alleged torture and that repressive mechanisms are dismantled.
Also, all human rights defenders should be able to carry out our work with full freedom and NGOs should be recognized as fundamental actors in any democratic process.
Thank you.
The last statement we'll hear from in this segment is from International Bar Association also video.
Thank.
National Bar Association Human Rights institutionalized lawyers, judges for judges continue to be troubled that institutional structures that have participated in grave violations of human rights in Venezuela for years remain relevant and no authentic justice process has been taken to guarantee accountability for past crimes committed by state officials, the majority of whom remain in their jobs.
We note with satisfaction the amnesty law and the release of political prisoners, we note lack of transparency and application.
At least 379 people remain in prison on fabricated charges and conditions that are totally incompatible with international standards in some cases equivalent to torture.
Other people like Judge Afuni continues to be Her case is still open.
Restrictions are on her rights despite having served a sentence.
No credible transitional justice process can move forward while those emblematic cases remain unresolved.
Cosmetic concessions should give way to structural reform, which includes dismantling state forces responsible for grave abuses as well as in depth reform of the country's judiciary to guarantee independence of the judiciary and the and when it comes to respect for human rights, we take note of the recent reforms within the Supreme Court on the magistrates and we call on the 24 vacant places to be filled in line with international standards and judicial independence.
We urge authorities to immediately release all persons arbitrarily detained and to carry out impartial investigations into all grave violations and grant full permanent access in the country to HHR.
At this point, I think it's timely to note that statements made at this speed make the work for interpreters almost impossible.
Please do bear that in mind, therefore, when preparing your statements on the video.
I get the floor now to Maths Venker from OHCHR.
She's the acting Regional Director of the Office of HHR to make concluding remarks.
Thank you.
Allow me first to express once more our profound regret, condolences, solidarity with the people of Venezuela in these difficult times.
Of course, we also note all the expressions that have been made in the chamber on that subject.
To respond quickly, organizing in a few points to some of the questions that were asked, and I want to thank everybody for the questions posed.
With regard to the next steps to take and how to assess how progress is being achieved in terms of human rights, I would say that one of the key aspects of our work is that obviously we look at key results in terms of not statements, but actual change on the ground.
And that is a constant assessment that we make in terms of the progress on the human rights situation in Venezuela.
What are the key points that we look at? It is, of course, the progress of the release of arbitrarily detained persons.
It is something that we've been monitoring closely and reporting on, and it is an indicator of the willingness of the government to advance.
The current justice reform is a key step.
It's vital that this justice reform achieves real results, and it guarantees the independence of the judiciary in order to move forward.
Um, the openness and freedoms respected in the civic space are vital for the country to advance and we've already seen good progress in that regard.
Without that, there will be no progress.
Reform of state institutions is a vital point, in particular, with regard to the security institutions, their independence, also their conformity with human rights standards is vital in terms of work that's being done.
Finally, I would also highlight the cooperation with the International Human Rights mechanism as being a fundamental indicator of progress.
There was a question in terms of access to detention facilities as stated by the high Commissioner, we currently do not have access to detention facilities.
It is something that we used to have and we do think it's a very important thing in order to assess where the problems are and also to be able to provide an advice to the authorities, and we will continue to advocate with the government in that regard.
Questions about accountability.
In addition to what I said, of course, in terms of reform of the state institutions, the security sector, including disbanding armed military groups, I think it's important that the country embarks also on reflecting what a transitional justice process would be, which would clarify the truth and reunite the country.
With regard finally to the question of our office, we welcome the fact that we are back in the country.
We welcome also that we have initial cooperation with the authorities.
It is vital that that continue.
We do also hope that we will have a more solid agreement in terms of the legal framework for the presence in the country.
And we stand ready to cooperate, obviously with the Venezuelan authorities in this regard.
Let me make finally two points and stress again, what the High Commissioner said in terms of the economic, social, cultural rights in the country.
Obviously, the challenges currently following the earthquakes are huge.
The benefits that would come from mining, development of mining and oil infrastructure should obviously benefit every Venezuelan and it's important also that we see concrete steps in that regard.
And finally, let's not forget that in the context of the exploration of natural resources, the rights of indigenous people need to be protected and very much observed in this process.
Thank you very much.
Thank you very much.
This brings us to the end of the interactive dialogue.
I wish to thank the High Commissioner and his office and Mr.
Bker for their participation.
We'll take a quick technical break before we continue with the next item on the agenda.
Let's resume our meeting.
Thank you for your patience.
We're going to start the enhanced interactive dialogue on the oral update by the Commission of Inquiry on the human rights situation in North and South Kivu provinces in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
This is pursuant to resolution 60 slash 22 I'm honored to welcome miss Ao Dabo, Deputy High Commissioner for Human Rights.
I'm also pleased to welcome the distinguished members of the Independent Commission of Inquiry, Mr.
Arnold Akjunu Mr.
Claim Vol.
I'm also pleased to welcome the Minister for Human Rights of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Mr.
Samuel Mbmba Cabya.
I would also like to welcome miss Sandrine Lcamba National Coordinator of Female Solidarity for Integrated Peace and Development.
The speaker's list will close in 15 minutes.
I'd now like to give the floor to Mr.
Kojunu to make his statement.
Mr.
President.
President.
Minister of Human Rights of the Democratic Republic of Congo, Distinguished member of Council.
Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen.
I have the honor to address the council today on behalf of the Independent Commission of Inquiry, composed of Commissioner Maxi Marcos, Commissioner Clement altso C Vle, and myself.
Following the Commission first mission to Democratic Republic of Congo earlier this month.
That mission confirmed the exceptional gravity of the situation in eastern DRC and the operational requirements of a credible, independent and victim centered investigation.
The commission engaged with survivors Senior government officials, civil society actors, United Nations entities, diplomats, and the National Human Rights institution.
Although we were not able to travel to Goma during this first mission, we met in Kinshasa with person and organization from Goma and other areas within our mandate.
We intend to engage directly in North and South Kivu as soon as the conditions allow.
The information received point to a multidimensional crisis affecting civilian compounded by displacement, disease, weakened institution, and a complex regional environment.
We receive deeply troubling accounts concerning children, conflict related sexual violence, including sexual slavery, force recruitment, unlawful killing, arbitrary arrest, attacks against school and health facilities, ill treatment, and detention practices outside appropriate rule of law safeguards.
We also have account of checkpoints, so called taxation, obstruction of humanitarian access, and threats against human rights defenders, journalists, and other who monitor or report violation.
This challenge aggravated by the threat of Ebola.
Mr.
President, with your permission, I will now address a few words in French to the delegation of Democratic Republic of Congo and to the Congolese people affected by the situation.
Monsieur Minister, Madam Republi Democratic du Congo.
Ladies and gentlemen, The Commission of Inquiry is taking stock of the very serious situation in your country and the suffering of civilians in various provinces, including North and South Kivu.
Our mandate is not directed against any state nor against any community or institution.
Our mandate is to establish facts thoroughly, impartially and independently to preserve evidence, and to contribute to combating impunity and to make useful recommendations for preventing further violations.
At this stage, we are not going to jump to conclusions about the facts or the perpetrators, but we have received extremely serious information.
They require an independent and methodical inquiry which must be undertaken in a way as to protect victims, witnesses, human rights defenders, journalists, and anyone who may cooperate with the commission.
In English, Mr.
President, the commission recalls the obligation of all parties and all actors exercising control or influence to facilitate safe, rapid and unheed humanitarian access, including to women.
Children, persons with disability, older persons and others in situation of heightened vulnerability.
Humanitarian workers, medical, personal and protection actors must safely assess victim and affected community, including Ebola response.
No victim witness, human rights defenders, journalists or community representatives should face intimidation, reprisals, or retaliation for engaging with United Nations mechanism, including the Commission.
The Council has asked the commission to establish the facts.
Preserve evidence, identify those responsible with a view to accountability, and examine the root causes of these cycles of violence.
That work has begun.
It must protect the safety, dignity, and trust of victim and witnesses.
Finally, wider United Nations financial constraints have had a direct impact on our operational capacity, including the investigation capacity, interpretation, analytical support.
Mission funding and sustained field presence.
Despite these constraints, the commission remains fully committed to discharging his mandate with independence, seriousness, and urgency.
The suffering brought to our attention call for sustained attention, rigorous investigation, and determine international engagement.
I thank you, Mr.
President.
Hi.
Thank you very much.
We have actually slightly changed the speaking order from what is our custom.
I'd like to give the floor to the representative of the Office of the High Commissioner.
Thank you, Vice President, Delegates, experts.
The human rights situation in the Democratic Republic of the Congo is characterized by overlapping political, economic, and security challenges.
There have been ethnically based attacks which fuel instability in certain parts of the country.
An Ebola outbreak was declared in May and that has further compounded a very difficult situation east of the country where civilians, I beg your pardon, bearing the brunt of the consequences of this dreadful conflict.
Between the start of this year and 15th of January, our office recorded over 1,900 human rights violations and attacks in North and South Kivu, notably murders, sexual violence, acts of torture, arrests, and arbitrary detention.
But the true figures are probably a lot higher.
These attacks on human rights can largely be attributed to the Alliance Fu Congo movement, 23 March movement, which is supported by Rwanda and other armed groups.
Violations have also been attributed to the Congolese armed forces and the Wazalendo groups, which are their allies.
Our office is increasingly concerned by the growing use by the parties to conflict of drones and heavy shelling in densely populated areas causing considerable damage.
For example, drone strikes injured at least 39 civilians in Kalinga and Mushaki in North Kivu during the month of May.
Since our last report to the Council, the situation in Turi province has further deteriorated.
Ethnically based attacks perpetrated by the Codeo armed groups and the Convention for a Popular Revolution continue to cause a lot of civilian victims.
The democratic allied forces have extended their attacks to Chopo province, causing over 350 civilian deaths during the first half of the year.
But once again, the true figure is probably a lot higher than those 350.
During an incident in April at Bathwaa in the Mmbasi region of Ituri, ADF fighters killed at least 54 civilians, mainly men and destroyed housing and other civilian infrastructure.
Ituri province is also at the heart of the Ebola epidemic.
There have been over 1,000 confirmed cases there, and over 260 people have lost their lives.
Our bureau is working closely with humanitarians in order to integrate human rights principles into the planning and implementation of the humanitarian response.
We urge all parties involved in responding to this crisis to ensure that people have access to reliable information and they must speak to all the communities, particularly vulnerable persons, those with limited access to health care, women, internally displaced persons, persons with disabilities, and indigenous peoples.
Sexual violence continues to be used as a weapon of war in the Eastern DRC.
Most parties to conflict are committing sexual violence on a large scale in almost total impunity.
During the first half of the year, our office recorded at least 260 women and girls who have been victims of conflict related sexual violence.
Fear of stigma and reprisal and difficulties linked to the security situation as well as financial constraints continue to prevent victims from having access to holistic assistance.
Vice President, the situation in the east of the country cannot be disassociated from what's happening in the rest of the country.
Shrinking civil space is a long standing problem.
We're particularly worried by persisting arbitrary arrest and illegal detention of political opponents, which has been conducted by the National Council for Cyber Defense and Intelligence Services.
We've recorded over 400 such cases over the past four months and despite our repeated calls, our office hasn't been given access to detention centers which are managed by the intelligence services.
We reiterate our deep concern about the repression of the peaceful demonstration in Kinshasa on the 12th of June.
The forces killed at least one person and injured 38 others, including four opposition leaders.
We urge the authorities to ensure that there is a thorough and independent investigation of these incidents and the perpetrators be held to account.
Constitutional reform must be based on national consensus and respect the country's human rights commitments.
Everyone must be heard and considered, otherwise, social cohesion could be undermined.
Our office has suffered staff and resource cutbacks, which is limiting our operating capacity.
Nevertheless, we continue to provide the authorities with supporting key areas.
Since our last update to the council, We've supported the authorities in organizing three judicial inquiries on human rights violations as well as five itinerant hearings.
These procedures have led to at least 109 convictions.
We've also provided support to 150 human rights defenders and journalists and members of their families through psychological support or financial support, as well as resettling them.
These efforts are vital, but we must do a lot more to break the cycle of violence and impunity.
We must really tackle the structural factors which keep the conflict going and fuel these violations and attacks on human rights.
Economic factors lie at the heart of the conflict in the east of the country.
The mining of natural resources and predatory practices as well as shortcomings in governance continue to stoke violence, support armed groups, and take the livelihoods of the population and there's no accountability or trust.
The parties to conflict must cease hostilities as we speak.
The combats are ongoing on the front lines whilst hospitals, schools, and other civilian infrastructure are being bombed.
We reiterate the High Commissioner's appeal to Rwanda to immediately stop their support of the M 23, withdraw their troops from the DRC and respect the DRC sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Progress achieved in the ongoing peace process under the auspices of the African Union, United States and Qatar must be applauded.
Nevertheless, the commitments made by the parties to conflict have not really been felt by civilians.
Political and diplomatic dialogue is the only way out of this terrible conflict.
The High Commissioner has drafted confidence building measures based on human rights and is undertaking consultations with stakeholders to the peace process with a view to getting it implemented.
We urge the international community to strive to ensure that conflict, respect their commitments, protect civilians and respect human rights in IHL.
We call on all the parties to conflict to ensure unfettered access to the Commission of Inquiry and cooperate in dialogue with it in a constructive fashion.
Thank you.
Thank you.
Could I please remind all speakers, including the representatives of the Secretariat to stick to their allotted speaking times.
The list of speakers is now closed and I would now like to give the floor to Mr.
Samuel Member Kavya, the Minister for Human Rights of the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Excellency, you have the floor.
Vice President.
Hi, Commissioner for Human Rights, represented by Mr.
Abdul Aziz, the Regional Director, Excellencies and Distinguished delegates.
Please allow me to convey the greetings of His Excellency, the President of the Republic of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Felix Antoan Cicisi and also the congratulations from Judith Samenua Prime Minister, and also the greetings from the Congolese people.
I would like to extend my thanks to the International Commission of Inquiry for its oral update to the Council.
This reflects the efforts already undertaken I discharging its mandate.
The Commission is playing a vital role at a time when the millions of victims in our country are focusing on the quest for truth, justice, memory, and reparation.
It's in this spirit that my country has fully cooperated with the fact finding mission and more recently with the Independent Commission of Inquiry, which was established pursuant to resolution 37.
We welcome The visit to Kinshasa between the seventh and 13th of June, this is a key milestone in operationalizing the mandate.
Vice President, serious violations of human rights law and international humanitarian law perpetrated in the provinces of North Kivu and South Kiva by Rwanda and its M 23 proxies continue to be a source of grave concern.
I won't repeat what Director Abdul Aziz has just said about the situation in the east of the country, but I would like to add that Amnesty International, for its part, included in its 2026 annual report, the fact that M 23 fighters have attacked schools and hospitals and that report has now been published.
For its part, Human Rights Watch has referred to cases of detention and torture perpetrated by the AFC stroke M 23 against civilians in the areas under their control.
There's no need to say that there has been a huge increase on conflict related gender based violence in recent months.
Some 42,600 cases of sexual violence have been officially documented by The ocher office in our country.
On the 20th of May, ten civilians were found executed in Kabul and in Sangi we have received a report according to which mass graves were discovered with some 50 human remains You may even find it amusing that one of the M 23 fighters shot an elephant on the 4th of May, claiming that the elephant was in collusion with the Wazalendo.
In view of this situation, the Democratic Republic of the Congo calls upon the Commission of Inquiry to fully discharge its mandate in order to establish the facts to identify perpetrators.
And to take measures to combat impunity, as well as to describe what legal charges should be brought against perpetrators.
Despite Rwanda's intervention, my government remains committed to the rule of law and strengthening governance.
Thus, we are pursuing our efforts to build the capacity of our national and regional institutions in the area of human rights, notably by resuscitating the provincial human rights divisions, we are Striving to provide training to public officials as well as to the security and defense forces.
This training is focusing in particular on human rights and international humanitarian law.
In the same regard, we are updating our transitional justice policy Act 22 slash 55 of the 22nd of December 2022 is the foundational document for providing reparations to victims.
This is something which is being pursued by our fund and human rights institutions.
We're also pushing through a number of other new laws, notably when it comes to truth justice and guarantees of non repetition and reparations.
This new law reflects the DRC's desire to provide a coherent and lasting response to serious human rights violations.
Please allow me to conclude, Vice President, by referring to the fact that the Democratic Republic of the Congo Is he awaiting the final report of the Commission of Inquiry, which will be presented to the Human Rights Council.
We hope that all violations will be documented, that the structural causes will be identified, the kind of criminal offenses they represent, and the measures which should be envisaged in order to ensure that victims enjoy their fundamental rights.
We call upon the High Commissioner, member states and our partners to provide the necessary resources to the Commission of Inquiry so it can discharge its mandate.
Supporting the commission is supporting truth, justice, and dignity.
For the Democratic Republic of the Congo, peace will only last if we have truth and we will only have complete truth if we have justice, and we will only have effective justice if reparations are provided.
Thank you very much.
Thank you very much, Minister.
I would now like to give the floor to miss Sandrine Lamba.
Monsieur Le President.
Vice President, Minister for Human Rights of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, excellences distinguished members of the Council, Excellence, I'd like to begin by thanking you for giving me this opportunity to speak.
It is an honor, but it is also a huge responsibility.
This is because I'm taking the floor on behalf of the many men, women, and children in the east of the Democratic Republic of the Congo who do not have the chance to have their voices heard.
In October 2025, the Human Rights Council adopted resolution 60 slash 22 on the human rights situation in the Eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Eight months later, please allow me to share with you what we have witnessed on the ground concerning the implementation of that resolution.
Firstly, with regard to paragraph 17 on the peace processes, we welcome the efforts made in Nairobi, Luanda Doha, Washington.
They represent an important opportunity, nevertheless, for civilians, the benefits of this process continue to be scant.
There are ongoing skirmishes in many areas.
People continue to be displaced and communities are still awaiting the benefits of peace.
Daily lives are characterized by a high level of insecurity in the zones under AFCM 23 control, as well as those which are affected by the clashes between the Wazalendo groups.
Civilians continue to face serious human rights violations and the fragmentation of these groups and the impunity that some of their members benefit from also stoking violence against civilians.
With regard to paragraph nine of the resolution concerning children affected by the conflict, we have to say the situation is particularly worrying.
I remember a young girl I met in Goma at the start of last year after having been forcibly displaced many times, she told me that she just dreamed of being able to go back to school.
For the past five years, she hasn't managed to complete a single school year.
Unfortunately, after the events which occurred in Gomo we've lost all contact with her, but her history illustrates what thousands of children are going through today.
The childhood is being replaced by fear displacement, force recruitment, and violence.
Women and girls continue to play a disproportionate price for many of them, just leaving the house to go and get some water, firewood, or something to feed their families on means running the constant risk of sexual violence whilst there's no reasonable care services for them.
The resurgence of the Ebola epidemic has compounded this multidimensional crisis further.
In a conflict situation, the security constraints are preventing medical teams from visiting communities and providing vaccinations or treatment, but needs are growing.
Vice President, Paragraph seven of the resolution calls for the protection of human rights defenders, journalists, humanitarians and civil society.
On this point as well, the situation is particularly worrying.
In many conflict affected zones, people fear to speak out.
Human rights defenders, journalists, and community leaders are regularly harassed, threatened, arbitrarily arrested, or muzzled.
This shrinking civic space prevents violations from being documented and deprives victims of being able to express themselves.
There was a recent attack which led to the deaths of two humanitarians in South Kivu and that tragically reminds us that even clearly identified humanitarians are no longer spared.
We'd also like to reiterate our support to the work of the Commission of Inquiry created by this resolution.
Its mandate is vital for combating impunity.
Holding perpetrators to account and providing victims with justice.
Vice President, please allow me to conclude with four recommendations which are directly inspired by resolution 60 slash 22.
Firstly, we call on all parties to conflict to respect an effective, lasting and verifiable cease fire so that civilians can finally live in security.
And secondly, in line with paragraph 17, we call on the facilitators of peace processes to make access for independent human rights observers and monitoring mechanisms a prerequisite for pursuing negotiations.
If civilians are not protected or if there's not independent oversight, then the peace agreements may lose all credibility.
Thirdly, in line with paragraphs 19 and 20, we call for safe, swift and unfettered humanitarian access to all civilians, including those living in the areas under the control of the AFC slash M 23.
Political considerations should never prevent access to lifesaving assistance.
Lastly, we call upon member states to strengthen their support of local Congolese organizations, particularly those led by women.
Despite limited resources and considerable danger, they continue to be in the front line for protecting communities, documenting violations, and keeping hope alive where institutions can no longer make their presence felt.
Congolese civil society is not asking the international community to do its work for it.
What we're asking for is to be able to do our work to protect communities, defend human rights, and make a lasting contribution to peace.
Behind each statistic, you've got another family suffering.
Every time action is delayed, then you find more lives being taken.
Thank you very much.
This is to ensure that all speakers have the chance to speak before the end of the session.
I'd now like to begin by giving the floor to the concerned country.
Rwanda, you have a maximum 5 minutes.
President President, take note of the oral update of the Commission.
Band reits its commitment to UN charter, regionally international peace and stability.
We support credible impartial investigation work based on evidence as the best way of clarifying the decisions of the council and to bolster accountability.
Mr.
Vice President, the serious allegation made by the DRC representatives are once again presented without independent verifiable evidence or objective corroboration.
Randa requests that such allegation meets a credible evidentiary standard, forensic analysis where relevant and independently corroborated sources.
Anonymous testimonies, unverified accounts, and selectively cited open source information cannot provide accounts and sufficient basis for definitive conclusions.
Rhonda also wishes to address the COIs method of work.
The commission's mandate is to establish facts, circumstances, and root causes in North Kivu and South Kivu.
Including through field engagement.
The commission has shared that they were not able to travel to the Kivu regions and worked in Kinshasa.
It is to note that Kinshasa is approximately over 1,500 kilometers away from Goma and Bukavu, roughly the distance between Geneva and Bucharest or further than Singapore and Bangkok.
No one would claim to understand what is happening in Bangkok while assessing the situation from Singapore.
Conversely, leading investigation on Bucharest while remaining in Geneva is not possible.
In the same way, an oral update on the both kivus must be grounded in the realities of the region.
Without field visits, direct engagement with affected communities, and careful verifications on the ground, Rhona is concerned that the commission will not be able to fully discharge the mandate.
My delegation therefore invites the chair to clarify how the Commission will address this concern, including how they will engage victims and witnesses across the Great Lake Region, where the UNHCR reports approximately 949,000 Congolese refugees and asylum seekers in various countries in the region, including in Rwanda.
Mr.
Vice President, the crisis in the Eastern DRC is complex and deeply rooted.
For Rwanda, any assessment must be including the FDLR, a UN sanctioned genocidal armed group founded by the perpetrators of the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi.
Since they have found safe haven in the eastern DRC, the FDLR has remained a direct threat to Rwanda's security and a driver of instability in the Great Lakes region.
The threat carries an ideological dimension.
The genocidal ideology spread by the FDLR continues to fuel anti Tutsi hate speech, ethnic incitement, and discriminatory rhetoric against Congolese Tutsi communities, including the Bana Molngs.
These are early warning signs that cannot be ignored.
These realities are documented in UN reporting.
Mr.
Vice President, the AU led mediation under Togo's leadership, the Washington Peace Accords between Rwanda and the DRC and the Doha process have created very important political tracks.
The agreed concept of operations under the Washington Peace Accords identifies the neutralization of the FDLR as a responsibility of the DRC.
However, implementation continues to be undermined by the DRCs documented coordination with the FDLR, including through equipment, financing, as well as coordination with the Congolese Army.
The DRC cannot credibly call for peace while pursuing a military solution on the ground further supported by over 10,000 Burundian soldiers and foreign mercenaries.
This approach must be clearly called out.
Randa urges this council and reporting mechanisms to apply credible evidentiary standards, reflect the full security context, including the FDLR threat and support the implementation of existing peace commitments.
Peace will be measured by implementation on the ground through inclusive political dialogue, regional cooperation, confidence building measures, and comprehensive approaches that addresses the root cause of the conflict.
I thank you, Mr.
Vice President.
Bit.
Thank you.
I I invite interested delegations to ask questions to presenters and make comments with their statements.
Speaking time as usual is 1 minute, 30 seconds for all.
I'd like to recall that the duration of interactive dialogue is 1 hour, 30 minutes.
However, if time permits, which I doubt, additional delegations will be able to speak first.
I give the floor to distinguish representative of the European Union.
President, we thank the experts of the oral update, which was provided under challenging circumstances.
The full version of our statement is available on the Extranet.
The EU strongly condemns the grave human rights violations and abuses and violations of international humanitarian law committed in the eastern DRC by government forces and armed groups and calls for all those responsible to be held into account.
We are horrified by reports of extrajudicial summary and arbitrary executions.
We reiterate our call on Rwanda to disengage its forces and immediately cease all support to the M 23.
We urge the government of the DRC to stop their support to armed groups and to continue its efforts towards the neutralization of the FDLR.
The grave violations against children as well as the widespread use of sexual and gender based violence are unacceptable and must end.
More needs to be done to protect civilians and aid workers and ensure humanitarian access, particularly in the context of the current Ebola outbreak.
We also call upon parties to cooperate fully with the outgoing investigations of the ICC.
The continuing deterioration in the human rights situation highlights the need to provide the independent commission of Inquiry with adequate resources.
Distinguished experts, which actions have to be prioritized to end the cycle of violence and impunity in eastern DRC.
Thank you.
Thank you.
The floor to distinguish Ambassad of Sweden speaking on behalf of a group of countries.
Mr.
Vice President I make this statement on behalf of the Nordic Baltic countries.
We welcome the first field visit of the Commission of Inquiry to Kinshasa.
However, we note with strong concern the gross human rights violations and abuses that continue to be committed by all parties to the conflict in eastern DRC, particularly the rise in sexual violence against women and children.
We support the ongoing international mediation efforts.
All parties to the conflict must stand by their commitments, implement the ceasefire and comply with IHL and human rights law.
This includes the protection of civilians and the obligation to respect and protect humanitarian personnel.
We are concerned about the impact on civilians by the increased use of drones.
Vice President, the recent judgment in the appeal trial of the murders of UN experts Zaya Catalan and Michael Sharp and their Congolese companion Beto Chinta is an important step towards truth and justice.
However, we strongly oppose the death penalty in all circumstances and without exception.
We reiterate our support to the work of the Commission of Inquiry.
Mr.
Vice President and the Commissioner, how can we collectively ensure that information provided by the CUI is translated into justice for those affected by human rights abuses.
Thank you.
Thank you.
I give the floor to distinguished ambassador of Bruni.
Thank you, Vice President, my delegation remains extremely troubled by the insecurity, the disastrous humanitarian situation, and the recurring human rights violations caused by military offenses carried out by the AFCM 23 Rebel coalition with the more than proven support of Rwanda in the east of the DRC today exacerbated by the deadly Ebola outbreak.
Sanitary challenge in the Great Lakes region.
We reiterate the call for international solidarity for an effective response, mobilization of resources both technical and financial to stop the contagion and above all to reopen Goma Airport to humanitarian flights, which is an absolute requirement in that context.
My delegation recalls that the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the DRC should not suffer any exception.
In that respect, the international community must call for the immediate withdrawal of Rwandan troops from the territory of the DRC.
Finally, Bruundi wants to reaffirm its solidarity with the brother people of the DRC as materialized by our bilateral and security cooperation in the context of joint efforts to pacify a sub region and to secure shared border regions.
There can be no place for any attempt to manipulate reality by the delegation of Rwanda.
Burundi is a guest, not an invader.
Thank you.
The floor to France.
Thank you, Vice President.
France, thanks the members of the Commission for their valuable work in documenting human rights violations in the E DRC.
Also thanks to the Bureau.
This collection of information, which we know is done in difficult conditions is crucial to fight impunity.
The situation in the Kivus remains alarming.
Continued hostilities by the M 23 has drastic humanitarian consequences and is a source of instability for the whole region.
France calls on M 23 to cease hostilities and on Rwanda to withdraw from DRC to put an end to the humanitarian disaster.
We must do our utmost to protect humanitarian personnel and civilians, in particular women and children who've been Victims systematically of violence by armed groups and particularly by the M 23, sexual violence and the mass enrollment of recruitment of children perpetrated by these groups could constitute war crimes, crimes against humanity, which must stop immediately.
Finally, France deplores the suspension of the moratorium on the death penalty by the Congolese authorities.
The death penalty is never a solution to violence committed on its territory.
It will continue to support the work of the commission experts so that no crime remains unpunished.
Thank you.
Thank you.
I give the floor to distinguish Representative of Austria.
Thank you, Mr.
Vice President.
Austria aligns itself with the statement delivered by the European Union.
We thank the Commission for its oral update.
The repository of evidence built by the fact finding mission and carried forward by the Commission documents that conduct by all parties may amount to war crimes and crimes against humanity, including grave violations against children and conflict related sexual violence.
The situation is further aggravated by mass displacement and an Ebola outbreak reaching both provinces, making humanitarian access even more urgent.
We firmly believe that the effective implementation of peace commitments requires addressing impunity.
Accountability is a prerequisite for sustainable peace.
Therefore, the commission's findings must inform both national and international justice mechanisms.
Guided by our Africa strategy, Austria prioritizes a human rights based approach to security and the protection of civilians.
This engagement also reflects our commitment to advancing the WPS agenda, our determination to ensure accountability, victim and survivor centered responses, and the equal full and meaningful participation of women in peace processes.
Austria intends to carry these priorities forward into our upcoming Security Council term.
In conclusion, how are the active Ebola outbreak and ongoing insecurity impacting the commission's investigations and what specific support is required? I thank you.
Tina.
Thank you.
Give the floor to distinguished representative of Kenya.
Mr.
Vice President, Kenya thanks the Commission of Inquiry for its oral updates.
Kenya remains deeply concerned by the continued deterioration of the security, humanitarian and human rights situation in North Kivu and South Kivu provinces.
We are particularly concerned by the continued suffering of civilians, especially women and children, the large scale displacement of communities, and the growing humanitarian needs arising from the conflict.
Kenya reiterates its call for an immediate cessation of hostilities and urges all parties to respect international humanitarian rights.
Law and ensure the protection of civilians and facilitate safe, rapid and unhindered humanitarian access, including the delivery of essential health services.
Kenya has remained actively engaged in regional efforts to promote peace and stability in eastern DRC.
We welcome the harmonization of the Nairobi and Loanda processes under the African Union led framework and encourage all parties to engage constructively with the regional initiatives and honor the commitments undertaken in pursuit of a durable political solution.
Kenya underscores that lasting peace can only be achieved through dialogue, inclusive political engagement, continued regional cooperation, accountability, and full respect for the sovereignty, territorial integrity, and unity for DC in advancing lasting peace and stability.
I thank you.
Thank you.
Give the floor distinguished delegation of Slovenia.
Thank you very much, Mr.
Vice President.
Slovenia aligns with the statement of the EU and thanks the Commission for its update.
We remain deeply concerned by the continued escalation and horrific violence in Eastern DC.
We are witnessing widespread civilian suffering, mass displacement, and severe protection risks accompanied by the presence of ebola virus and humanitarian access under severe pressure.
We are alarmed by the reports of serious human rights violations and abuses such as unlawful killings, conflict related sexual violence, arbitrary detention, abductions, and forced recruitment.
M 23 fighters continue to abduct civilians, many of whom are taken to their military training centers in North Kivu and held in inhumane conditions.
We strongly condemn all abuses and violations committed by armed groups and other actors and reiterate the urgency to investigate grave crimes, ensure accountability and justice for the victims.
The swift and full operationalization of the independent COI is a crucial instrument in this regard.
Urge all parties to the conflict to prioritize protection of civilians, to fully respect their obligations under international human rights law and international humanitarian law, as well as to guarantee safe and unhindered humanitarian access to affected populations.
Respected members of the COI.
The independent investigative mechanism plays a crucial role on the pathway to accountability and justice for all.
In your opinion, what are the next crucial steps needed to fully operationalize its mandate? I thank you.
Thank you.
I give the floor to distinguished delegation of Angola.
Mr.
Vice President, Angola remains deeply concerned by this continued deterioration of the security, humanitarian and human rights situation in the Eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, particularly in the North and South Kivu.
We strongly condemn all attacks against civilians, including women and children as well as humanitarian personnel and infrastructure.
The suffering of millions of displaced persons calls for renewed international solidarity and sustained humanitarian assistance.
We thank the Commission for its update and commend the continued engagement of the Office of the High Commissioner in supporting the protection of civilians, strengthening national capacities and promoting accountability.
Angola remains its unwavering support for the sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity of the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
We remain convinced that the lasting peace and the effective promotion of human rights can only be achieved through dialogue, respect for international law, and African led solutions supported by genuine regional and international cooperation.
This regard, we encourage reional parties to fully implement their commitments.
Angola stands ready to continue working with the regional international partners in support of peace, stability, and sustainable development in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
I thank you sir.
Thank you.
Give the floor Distinguished representative of South Sudan.
Mr.
Vice President, South Sudan thanks the Commission of Inquiry and the Office of the High Commissioner for their oral update on the human rights situation in North Kiva and South Kuiva provinces of the DRC.
As Neva, South Sudan remains deeply concerned by the continued insecurity and violence against civilians, attacks on villages, and the severe impact of the conflict on women, children, and other vulnerable groups, including widespread displacement, deteriorating of humanitarian conditions, and limited access to healthcare and education.
We welcome the support We welcome and support the effort to promote dialogue, de escalation, confidence building, and peaceful coexistence among the peoples of the region, including those led by the African Union and other regional organizations, as well as those led by the international community, including the UN Washington Agreement and the Doha process.
South Sudan calls upon the region and international community to continue supporting implementation of existing peace commitments, scale up humanitarian assistance and recovery efforts for affected populations and provide technical assistance and capacity building to strengthen DRC's national human rights institutions and legal frameworks.
Thank you, Mr.
Vice President.
Thank you give the floor to representative of the Russian Federation.
Thank you, Vice President.
We continue to track closely the situation in the DC.
The situation with human rights in eastern parts of the country is a source of major concern.
I think the guilty for the ongoing conflict and the actions of illegal armed groups is to blame for this.
We see potential threat that the conflict could have an ethnic dimension, which is very dangerous in a region that's already gone through a major genocide.
We note the expanded practice of use by parties to the conflict of drones, the victims of which have been civilians.
We see ongoing degradation of the humanitarian situation.
The number of IDPs in DC is over 7 million, refugees from neighboring states 1 million.
30 million Congolese need urgent medical and food assistance.
The situation is all the more difficult with the outbreak of Ebola in a number of territories in the east of the country.
It's our belief that improving the human rights situation can be brought about only by stabilizing the situation in regions affected by hostilities.
In that context, we look forward to regional peacekeeping forces through the mediation of the African Union stepping up their activities in line with the principle of African solutions for African problems.
At the same time, we urge the council to build its cooperation with the DC on the basis of respecting its state and sovereign interests.
I thank you.
Thank you.
I give the floor distinguished representative of Belgium.
Thank you, Vice President, Belgium, Alliance with the EU State.
While welcoming the sending of the experts to Kinshasa, we are gravely troubled by the late implementation of the commission's mandate and this despite the support expressed by the Congolese authorities, we hope that the commission can travel to the Kivus very soon and enjoy full cooperation from all parties.
The grave violations committed, particularly against women and children, forced recruitment, as well as the scale of sexual violence are unacceptable and must end.
There can be no impunity for the perpetrators.
All parties must respect their commitments under the Washington and Doha Accords, including full respect for the ceasefire, immediate withdrawal of Rwandan forces from Congolese territory, and the effective neutralization of the FDLR.
Moreover, restrictions in civic space carried out by the National Cyber Defense Council are also a source of concern.
Vice President, in the face of pressure and intimidation against human rights defenders in areas under control of the FC and the M 23, how can you work with human rights defenders and protect their essential work? Thank you, I'll give the floor to Germany.
Mercy Monsieur Vice President.
Thank you, Vice President, thank you to the members of the Commission, Minister, Madame December for your presence here today.
Germany remains profoundly troubled by the human rights crisis in the east of the DC.
Since 2025, the situation has further deteriorated as noted by OHHR.
However, the decision of this council to create a investigation commission remains justified.
It's crucial for this commission to be fully operational as soon as possible and it receives adequate financing to allow it to investigate on the ground in North and South Kivu.
We urge all parties, including M 23 supported by the Rwandan armed forces to protect civilians, to guarantee humanitarian access and put an end to all acts of sexual violence.
We support efforts to bring the perpetrators to justice.
We also urge all parties to guarantee to the Commission unhindered access to territory specified in its mandate, dear members of the Commission, how can the international community help you deliver on your mandate? Thank you.
Thank you.
I give the floor to Stingish Representative of Turkey.
Thank you, Mr.
Vice President.
We reaffirm our strong commitment to sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and stand in solidarity with the people of DRC.
Turk welcomes the ongoing regional and international peace efforts aimed at achieving a lasting resolution to the conflict in eastern DRC, despite repeated commitments to ensure a ceasefire deteriorating security environments further exacerbates the humanitarian crisis in the region, endangering large civilian populations and leading to tragic losses and human rights violations.
Effective protection of civilians and the cessation of human rights violations in the eastern provinces of the DC is imperative to prevent the spillover of the conflict into the Great Lakes region.
We underlined the importance of ensuring safe, rapid, and unhindered humanitarian access to effective populations, including internally displaced persons.
We encourage all parties to engage constructively in regional mediation efforts and to fully implement the commitments undertaken within the relevant peace processes.
We acknowledge the important role of the United Nations and relevant regional organizations in supporting stabilization efforts and the protection of civilians.
Turkey stands ready to continue contributing to all efforts aimed at achieving sustainable peace and stability in the Great Lakes region.
Thank you.
Gina, thank you for the floor to distinguish delegate of the UK.
Welcome.
Thank you, Mr.
Vice President.
The UCO welmes the Commission inquiries initial deployments and thanks the commissioners for their update.
We underline the importance of the commission's work continuing without further delay and welcome the Democratic Republic of Congo's engagement so far.
We remain gravely concerned by the ongoing human rights situation in the eastern DRC.
Widespread violations and abuses continue committed by all parties to the conflict.
The scale of conflict related sexual violence is appalling.
We remind all parties of their obligations under international humanitarian law and underline that perpetrators of any violations must be held to account.
Mr.
Vice President, the Ebola spread threatens to intensify an already severe human rights crisis in Eastern DC, driving displacement and fueling instability.
Rapid and unimpeded humanitarian access is more urgent than ever to contain the spread.
Continued conflict will disrupt the response.
The UK calls on all parties to immediately cease hostilities and implement all cease fire commitments.
Humanitarian personnel and material must be able to move unhindered across eastern DRC and regionally.
All humanitarian responses must remain civilian led, and we urge all parties across the region to cooperate on an effective response.
Thank you.
I give the floor to distinguished representative of Caroon Thank you, Vice President.
Cameroon thanks the Independent Commission of Inquiry for its oral update.
My country remains gravely concerned by persisting grave human rights violations of IHL in North and South Kivu.
The civilian populations there continue to be heavy toll.
Summary executions, sexual violence linked to conflict, recruitment of children, forced displacement and attacks on civilian infrastructure remain unacceptable.
Cameroon reaffirms its commitment to sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity of the DRC, as well as to the protection of civilians.
We encourage all parties to fully observe IHL and international human rights law to guarantee safe, swift, unhindered humanitarian access and to cooperate with the Commission in implementing its mandate.
Cameron welcomes current diplomatic efforts at a regional and international level with a view to a peaceful resolution to the crisis.
We encourage parties to pursue good faith dialogue, to reach a lasting peace, which is a prerequisite for restoring security justice and the full exercise of human rights in the east of the DRC.
Thank you.
Thank you.
I give the floor to the distinguished Delegate of Spain.
Thank you, Vice President and Spain alliance with a statement by the EU and we thank the Commission of Inquiry and OHCHR for the updates as well as the reports from Madame Du Samba and Ministry of Human Rights.
We're alarmed by the magnitude of the humanitarian crisis sparked by the conflict in the east of the country as well as grave violations which constitute war crimes and crimes against humanity committed by all parties to the conflict in a climate of almost complete impunity.
We firmly condemn the use of gender based violence as a weapon of war, deliberate attacks on civilians and IDPs, summary executions, recruitment of children by rebel groups, and the exploitation in artisanal mining.
We're also troubled by arbitrary attacks and detentions on human rights defenders, journalists and civil society in areas controlled by rebel groups.
We think it's crucial for this commission to fully deliver on its mandate.
With the necessary resources and with the cooperation of all parties, we urge for respect of IHL and human rights by all parties, as well as respect for the territorial integrity of the country and compliance with the Washington Peace Accords.
Finally, we urge the government to initiate as soon as possible, an inclusive national dialogue to facilitate the end to the cycle of violence in which millions of people continue to be trapped and for some decades.
Thank you.
Thank you.
I'll give the floor to distinguished delegate of South Africa.
The Vice President, South Africa thanks the Commission for its update on the dire human rights and humanitarian situation in the North and South Kiva provinces of the TRC.
My delegation shares the commission's concerns about the gravity and widespread nature of flagrant violations and abuses of international law taking place, including acts that may constitute war crimes and crimes against humanity, as well as the importance of accountability in this regard.
As part of this process, women and girls continue to face particularly devastating burden as sexual and gender based violence is used as a weapon of war.
Given the unfolding human tragedy, there can be no military solution to the conflict, and as such, there's an immediate need to cease hostilities.
Accordingly, the EU process under the leadership of the president of Togo is commended and will no doubt further strengthen coherence, complementarity, and coordination among various mediation mechanisms as evidenced by the recent semi annual evaluation meeting in Lama.
Indeed, the sustainable solution to the conflict must be African led, inclusive of all actors.
Africa wishes to express its solidarity with the DRC and reaffirm our support for its territorial integrity and sovereignty, remains unwavering.
The people of North and South Kiva are yearning for peace, and we dare not fail them.
I thank you.
Thank you.
I call on Switzerland.
Vice President Switzerland would like to thank the members of the Commission Inquiry for their oral update.
We reiterate our full support for your mandate and your work, and in particular, we commend you on your first visit to the Democratic Republic of the Congo at the start of June, which is vital for your work.
Switzerland continues to be deeply concerned by the situation in the eastern part of the country characterized by ongoing serious IHL violations and human rights abuse, particularly attacks against civilians, conflict related sexual violence, as well as threats against human rights defenders.
All parties to the conflict must respect their obligations under international law at all times, lay down their weapons and make their commitments taken in the Washington Agreement and the Doha process a reality.
Also worried about the spread of Ebola in the eastern part of the DRC against a backdrop of armed violence and forced displacement.
This underscores the urgency of getting all the parties to conflict to authorize and facilitate safe, rapid and unfettered humanitarian access to all people who need it.
Members of the commission, in light of your first visit to the country, what measures should be a priority for ensuring that your work can continue to combat impunity and prevent further violations in North and South Kivu? Thank you.
Thank you.
I now call on Egypt.
S, Vice President, Egypt closely follows the developments in the east of DRC and expresses concern as to the continued violence and we condemn all acts of violence that undermine peace and stability and reiterate our commitment to the unity, sovereignty, and territo integrity of the DRC.
Egypt reiterates the importance of implementing what was agreed in the settlement process in order to anchor the peace, the ceasefire and provides for the implementation of the remaining commitments towards a comprehensive settlement that would improve the humanitarian situation in the east of the country and anchor the stability in the Great Lakes region.
Egypt urges all parties to continue efforts to anchor peace and stability, protect civilians, and ensure humanitarian access, promote the transitional justice mechanisms, prevent impunity and we reiterate the need to stand in solidarity with the DRC and its national institutions to address challenges, promote national reconciliation, provide an atmosphere conducive to stability, and proceeding ahead proceeding with the reconstruction so as to promote the capacity of the state to implement human rights obligations.
Thank you.
Thank you.
I call on the Dominican Republic.
Thank you, Vice President.
The Dominican Republic would like to thank the Commission for its oral update.
We're worried about the fact that despite diplomatic efforts, civilians continue to face the consequences of a conflict which is characterized by killings, forced displacement, sexual violence, forced recruitment and attacks against civilian infrastructure.
We're particularly worried about the information concerning mass graves in South Kivu, summary executions, and attacks on humanitarians.
There's also ongoing clashes between the forces in the M 23, which is compounding the humanitarian situation for millions.
We commend the African Union and regional mechanisms for stepping up its efforts to achieve a cease fire.
The African Union has also been promoting dialogue and creating favorable conditions for lasting peace.
We call upon all parties to conflict to respect international humanitarian law, protect civilians, and to facilitate safe and unfettered humanitarian access.
The Dominican Republic reiterates its support for the sovereignty, independence, and territorial unity and integrity of the DRC.
At the same time, We call on initiatives to promote reconciliation, accountability, and respect for human rights.
Thank you.
Thank you very much.
I now call on the United Republic of Tanzania.
Mr.
Vice President, Tanzania takes note of the oral update by Commission of Inquiry concerning continuing insecurity and humanitarian challenges in the Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, including reports of ongoing violence and its impact on civilian population.
Tanzania affirms its unwavering support for sovereignty, independence, unity, and territorial integrity of the DRC.
We remain deeply concerned by persistent violence which continues to inflict immense suffering on civilians and undermine prospects for lasting peace and stability in the region.
In this regard, Tanzania calls for an immediate cessation of hostilities and urge all parties to exercise maximum restraints, uphold their obligations under international law, and engage in meaningful and constructive dialogue.
We further encourage continued support for African led peace efforts, particularly those led undertaken within the framework of East Africa community, Southern Africa development community aimed at fostering a peaceful and durable solution to the conflict.
Tanzania remains committed to the working closely with regional and international partners in support of sustainable peace, security, reconciliation, and development for people of DRC and the wider Great Lakes region, I think.
Thank you.
I now call on Togo.
Thank you, Vice President.
Togo would like to thank the Independent Commission of Inquiry for its oral update.
Togo remains deeply concerned at the ongoing violence which continues to affect civilians, particularly women and children in the provinces of North and South Kiva.
We're convinced that lasting peace will only be achieved in the eastern part of the RDC if human rights are effectively protected.
In order to do this, Togo believes that an effective ceasefire and lifting obstacles to humanitarian work are prerequisites, which must be resolved immediately.
Togo is the African Union mandated mediator for this crisis, and so we're pursuing our efforts for a peaceful and lasting settlement.
The recent evaluation meeting held on the seventh and 8th of June in Lama allowed us to examine the real situation in the field and to adjust our mediation strategy.
In addition, we'd like to underscore the importance of preserving the dynamics created by the Washington and Doha processes which must be supported by the international community as they will add to the African Union's efforts and also support civilians.
We encourage the Commissioner to Pitt's work impartially and with professionalism striving to ensure its recommendations create the appropriate conditions for reconciliation, justice, and lasting peace.
Algeria, Vice President, I would like to thank the Commission of Inquiry for its oral update, which once again sheds light on the human rights situation and the humanitarian crisis in eastern DRC.
In view of this situation, Algeria would like to convey three vital messages.
First of all, it's absolutely vital that there is safe, swift, and unfettered humanitarian access to people in need.
Respect for international humanitarian law is a duty for all parties to conflict.
Algeria believes it's only a political situation based on dialogue and respect for sovereignty and the territorial integrity of the ERC and taking into consideration the legitimate security concerns of all states in the region, as well as tackling the deep seated causes of the conflict will be the way and the only way to ensure lasting peace and stability in the Great Lakes region.
We must also have African solutions to African problems.
We'd like to express our full support for the African Union led Initiative and particularly praise President Gsingby of Togo for his efforts.
We remain fully committed to supporting his peace plans.
Thank you.
I now call on Ethiopia.
Thank you, Mr.
Vice President.
Ethiopia stands in solidarity with the people of the Democratic Republic of the Congo who continue to endure the impacts of armed conflict and instability and reiterates its support for all efforts aimed at addressing the humanitarian crisis and restore peace and stability in the country.
As a country with a longstanding commitment to regional peace and multilateral cooperation, Ethiopia views the situation in the DC as a shared regional responsibility.
To this end, Ethiopia strongly supports the role of the African Union and calls for continued coordination among regional actors in advancing inclusive political dialogue and protecting the rights and dignity of civilians.
Ethiopia reaffirms its long standing conviction that the crisis in the DC cannot be resolved through military means.
Achieving sustainable peace requires inclusive national dialogue and effective regional cooperation.
We further urge all stakeholders to uphold the principles of sovereignty, non interference, and peaceful coexistence.
We call for scaled up international support to help the DC address root causes of the conflict and respond effectively to humanitarian needs, particularly for displaced population.
In closing, Ethiopia remains committed to play a constructive role in all initiatives that promote peace regional stability and sustainable development across the Great Lake Region.
I thank you, Mr.
Vice President.
Thank you.
I call on China.
Mr.
Vice President, China closely follows the AB situation in the DRC and extends its sincere synthesis to the government and people of the country.
The situation in the eastern DRC continues to deteriorate and is a source of grave concern.
China reiterates its support for the government in safeguarding sovereignty, independence, territorial integrity, and in protecting the lives and property of the civilians.
China urges all parties to comply with the international humanitarian law and human rights law to immediately cease hostilities and protect fundamental human rights.
China welcomes the recent positive engagement between the DRC and Rwanda, support the UN EU regional mechanisms in playing a greater role with a view to early comprehensive lasting peace.
Discussions and actions of the Humans Council should reflect international solidarity and help create favorable conditions for the political solution.
China stands ready to work with the international community to provide within its means support in combating epidemic and continue playing a constructive role in achieving this escalation and lasting peace.
Thank you, Mr.
Vice President.
Thank you.
This was the last speaker.
In this segment of the dialogue.
We're now going to turn to the list of speakers from national Human Rights institutions and non governmental organizations.
I'd like to start by giving the floor to the Center for Civil and Political Rights.
Thank you, Mr.
Vice President.
Excellencies, the CCPR Center thanks the Commission of Inquiry for their oral update.
We also congratulate them for their first visit to the Democratic Republic of the Congo and their attention given to the victims and survivors of violations as well as to human rights defenders.
The CCPR Center is deeply concerned by the human rights situation in the provinces in the East.
Through our daily exchanges with local human rights defenders, we continue to receive alarming reports of killings and forced disappearances, torture, conflict related sexual violence, arbitrary arrest and detention, forced displacement, attacks against civilians, the recruitment of children by armed groups, and widespread destruction and looting of property.
Mover, we are increasingly concerned about the conditions under which local NGOs and human rights defenders operate.
Many work under constant security threats with limited resources, insufficient protection mechanisms, and significant challenges in documenting violations in a safe and systemic manner.
To support their efforts, the CCPR Center has developed and made available a documentation database which enables human rights defenders to securely record, organize, and preserve information on human rights violations.
Finally, we urge the Office of the High Commissioner to provide the Commission of Inquiry the necessary financial and operational resources to conduct their work, including further visits to the DRC.
I thank you.
Glad you.
Thank you.
I now call on International Federation of Accat.
Monsieur Vice President, Vice President, Act DRC.
ViaCat OMCT and IRCT Omega and their partners from Congolese civil society welcome the establishment of this Comision of Inquiry, as well as its first visit to Kinshasa.
We'd like to thank the Commission for its investigative work into violations in particularly trying conditions.
Information connected by organizations continue to show that there are ongoing serious violations in areas under the M 20 threes control.
Arbitrary arrest of civilians, illegal detention, acts of torture, So against this backdrop of difficult access, civil society organizations play a vital role in documenting violations, preserving evidence, and providing psychological support to the victims when the M 23 is trying to contaminate evidence.
Thus, we'd like to ask the Commission, what are the main challenges preventing effective implementation of its mandate and how local orations, eastern DRC, civil society actors in Kanshasa and international NGOs can best support the Commission in its efforts to document violations and combat impunity.
Thank you.
I now call on the Pan Africa Association.
Vice President.
The Pan Africa Association would like to thank the Commission of Inquiry for its oral update and we commend you on your efforts to document the serious human rights violations committed in North and South Kivu in the east of the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
We fully support the commission's mandate.
Our organization is deeply concerned about the worsening humanitarian security situation in the eastern DRC.
Since March, Monusco has documented 632 civilian deaths in North Kivoituri and over the same period, the United Nations recorded over 1,200 human rights violations, including conflict related sexual violence committed by armed groups and members of the security forces.
This has led to nearly 3,000 victims, including 392 women and 378 children.
The Ebola epidemic continues to punish the region and fighting is undermining health infrastructure.
In view of this situation, Pan Africa calls for safe humanitarian action, protection of humanitarians and the reopening of roads, banks, and airports, and the effective withdrawal of armed groups and its re establishment of state authority.
In view of the complex crisis, we'd like to know what are the priorities for the Commission inquiry in order to mitigate the suffering of civilians.
Now the Human Rights Research League.
Human rights research we're worried about the situation eastern DRC, particularly the situation in the occupied towns of Bocavl and Goma.
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Thank you, Vice President.
We'd like to thank the Commission of Inquiry.
We hope that the financial and logistical constraints will not prevent you from pursuing your work.
Vice President, the situation in the eastern DRC is particularly worrying.
The M 23 and the Rwandan military forces supporting them continue to commit war crimes with documented Many human rights violations.
We see that other armed groups and terrorists are taking advantage of this situation, such as the ADF.
They're attacking civilians and recruiting children.
We're worried about the continued support given to AFC M 23, which protracts civilian suffering.
We call for the immediate and unconditional withdrawal of AFC M 23 from all the areas they occupy and there should be stronger pressure on Rwandan government to stop supporting these group.
We call upon Rwanda to be put on a list of countries sponsoring violations of children's rights, and we call upon The AF CM 23 Rwandans and MDF be brought to justice.
Rehabilitation Council for torture victims now.
President Vice President, the International Council for the Rehabilitation of Victims of Torture thanks the Commission for its work in particularly trying circumstances as well as its victim centered approach.
Over 600 survivors of torture have been cared for by our organization in North and South Kivu Nuru and we've documented hundreds of violations.
We see that there are crimes being perpetrated against a backdrop of almost total impunity for all stakeholders.
All too often, the right reparation is put on the back burner.
Please pay attention to the survivors not only need truth justice, but also appropriate compensation as well as medical, psychological, social and economic rehabilitation.
These answers should be designed with the survivors because their participation is a form of reparation and guarantees their dignity.
We also said that evidence should be made available to survivors of victims of torture.
Thank you.
Thank you.
We're now going to hear a video from Hong Kong traffic in Palm Rado.
Vice President, I regret not being able to join you in Geneva.
This is a result of the reoccurrence of the Ebola virus in DC and travel difficulties as a result.
But my commitment to the victims of the ongoing armed conflict is not diminished.
Rather, I would like to remind you of the multifaceted crisis faced by the Congolese people for over 30 years.
The lack of funding for the International Commission of Inquiry is having a serious impact on the victims and survivors of sexual violence as well as those of serious human rights violations.
We call on all parties to lay down their weapons as per the Washington Peace Agreement, the Doha process, and the effective implementation of Resolution 2773.
Rado calls for greater coordination amongst the various initiatives in order to maintain pressure on those parties who are not meeting their commitments.
We also call on technical and financial support to be given to the commission.
We would like to know what the commission plans to do to reduce the number of human rights violations.
Thank you.
The quality of the video, the sound was poor, and I'd like to thank the interpreters for the extra effort they made.
We now here another video from the minority rights group.
Minority rights group and the Forest Peoples Program would like to draw the council's attention to the situation of the Batwa Indigenous peoples in Calahe and Kaba in South Kivu.
The AFC and M 20 threes advance has expelled them from their traditional lands.
So they're increasingly vulnerable and there's been an alarming increase in violations.
We've documented the murder of at least 40 Batwa civilians.
Sexual violence has been suffered by indigenous women, there have been cases of torture and physical violence as well.
These figures are well below the real numbers though because of fears of reprisal.
Nevertheless, Batwa do not have access to humanitarian aid.
They face serious food insecurity.
They're also not getting access to their forest.
Batwa leaders are often subject to arbitrary arrest and degrading treatment.
We call upon the Commission of Inquiry to document the situation of the Batwa, the violations they face, and provide effective protection for defenders reparation, ensuring that there is equal access to all the procedures for the Batwa community.
We're now going to hear a video from the International Federation of Human Rights Leaks.
Vice President, the FIDH and its partners in the DRC would like to draw your attention to various worrying phenomena in the field of human rights.
We're deeply worried by the situation in the east of the country.
Women and children continue to be the target of the Congolese security forces, on the one hand, and the AFCM 23 supported by Rwanda in North and South Kivu.
Furthermore, we're also worried about the repression of peaceful demonstrations, notably on the 12th of June in 2026 in Kinshasa.
Our organization's call for a date to be set for Mr.
Gubini be brought to trial because all obstacles now to that have been limited.
There should be appropriate financial support for the commission's mandate and there must be better cooperation so that access can be gained to the most difficult areas and human rights violations there can be documented.
Thank you.
Last speaker that we'll be hearing from is Eastern Horn of Africa, Human Rights Defenders Project.
Thank you.
Panelists Panelists, we welcome your update and increased attention on the East DRC.
We hope that the Secretariat of the Commission will soon have personnel comparable to those of other investigation mechanisms.
This session should remobilize international community, especially OHCHR to ensure that the commission can produce an exhaustive report as called on by resolution 271 and 60 22, we stress the importance of implementation of council resolutions and the value that they have for the multilateral system in establishing mechanisms established by the council.
The litany of violations committed by M 23 and other armed groups must be condemned.
All those who participate and those who are aided and abetted must be held accountable.
At the same time, activities of HHR in the country should be held with a goal of giving to actors in civil space the means to claim civic space and to ensure that the state respects its obligations.
In that context, we have launched a national Coalition for Human Rights Defenders in DRC.
That platform will bring together Congolese human rights defenders to coordinate protection, capacity building, and advocacy for protection of human rights defenders.
At the same time, we continue to help hundreds of human rights defenders and refugees have had to flee the East DRC How can civil society help you implement your mandate in the months to come? Thank you.
That concludes the list.
I'll give the floor now once more to our distinguished panelists to make final comments.
Now the first statements exceeded the time given.
You have 2 minutes only.
I give the floor first to Madam Lcamba.
Thank you.
Let me first of all, thank members of the Commission of Inquiry for their updates.
Thank you.
The findings more or less reflect our conclusions and the message that we send to affected communities day in day out.
We rest assured of our willingness as a women's grassroots organization to help them in their work.
On behalf of Congolese women and girls, on behalf of the whole community, we call on each of them in their role to uphold their responsibilities and truly contribute to that work so that responsibility should be restored, but also that peace should come back in a lasting manner in the DRC.
Thank you.
Thank you, Madam LSandb.
I give the floor.
To Mr.
Kay, the minister, you have the floor.
Thank you.
President, I would recall that we are speaking here of the aggression by the DC for more than 30 years and with the escalation of violence since last year.
When we speak of this, we must be well aware that it is Rwanda that has its troops in the territory of the Democratic Republic of Congo.
On that basis, I would like to note that the majority of statements here noted that the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the DRC should not suffer any exception and speakers have highlighted the support that needs to be given to the commission so that it can properly discharge its mission.
Now, in terms of protests in the DRC, let me remind you that there are three opposition members National deputies without provincial deputies behind them, without the people behind them and they've resorted to provocations in front of the law enforcement, but freedom of assembly, freedom of protest, nevertheless, is guaranteed in DRC.
All is done to ensure that they are able to express if they wish their opinion.
Now, what are they expressing against? They're against the fact that the parliament voted through a referendum law, calling on the people to a democratic debate on changing the constitution.
I will conclude by calling on states who pride themselves on handing out moral lessons to the DRC, saying that the DRC must cease its support to armed groups.
Whereas on the other hand, they don't call for Rwanda to withdraw their troops as noted.
I think a minimum of respect should be shown to the victims of the Rwandan aggression in the East DRC.
Thank you.
Thank you, Minister.
On behalf of the Commissioner of Inquiry, I give the floor to Mr.
Vol.
Thank you, Vice President.
The Commissioner would like to thank all states here for the interest they've shown.
In the situation in East DRC and also the work of the commission in general.
This has been reflected by the number of questions number of statements made, and the commission is fully at the disposal of all delegations to continue this dialogue outside this chamber, given the time given to us.
Now, coming back to some specific questions, the commission would like to reassure Rwanda with respect to its concerns at the fact that the commission was not able to travel to the East.
The Commission wants to reassure you that It's visit to the East is still on the agenda.
We will go to the East.
We'll go to Goma and we will conduct investigations impartially to establish facts.
We take this opportunity to urge all stakeholders to facilitate access to that region for the commission and also to refrain from any action that might compromise Any actions that are necessary as part of the commission's work.
To the EU, they ask about what the priorities were.
As we've said, it's important for all actors to give us, guarantee access to these regions, but it's also important, we've said this before.
That the resources be given to the commission so that it can do its work, strengthen its team in situ.
With respect to Ebola, asked by Ostrich, yes, Ebola has stopped us from going to the east this time around, but we still do intend to go there, very much so.
Now the question from civil society defenders.
We think that civil society is necessary and important in the commission's work.
We've just published our appeal to the Mission and we urge civil society to disseminate it, to help victims, and to maintain preserve evidence.
Thank you, Mr.
Vol, for that statement and your willingness to continue this dialogue outside the framework of this council debate where obviously we have limited time.
Thank you.
I want to thank all speakers, all delegates for their comments.
They highlight the attention sustained attention that you've given to the situation in the DRC and the support to OHHR and to the commission.
With respect to the EU question, just to say that we must act collectively with determination to address the root causes of instability and conflict that involves giving attention to exploitation of natural resources, strategic resources, and to combat impunity and we're working closely with the authorities to bolster investigation and prosecution capacities.
This will contribute to efforts of complementarity with our work with the ICC.
We're working with the ICC while strictly observing the rules that govern cooperation with international judiciary mechanisms.
Just to say a couple of words, it's important It's essential that commitments assumed by the parties in the process should lead to tangible improvements on the ground.
Civilians must be able to live free of violence, fear, or forced displacement.
It's crucial for the authorities give full effect to our appeals to guarantee a safe environment where fundamental freedoms can be enjoyed.
The urgent bolstering of resources to our action in the DRC is also necessary.
You've all said that.
Finally, we want to pay tribute to the remarkable courage of human rights defenders who in areas affected by conflict, have faced threats, intimidation, risks on a daily basis.
We will continue unswervnly work for victims and contribute to peace, promoting peace, security, justice, and good governance.
OHCHR remains at the side of the Congolese authorities and reiterates this firm commitment to helping them discharge their mission and also to the Commission of Inquiry.
Thank you very much.
That brings us to the end of this enforced interactive dialogue.
I want to thank all the panelists, the minister, members of the Commission, representatives of civil society for your participation.
We'll take a short technical break now before holding the interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Burundi.
Thank you very much for your patience.
We'll now begin our interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on human rights situation in Burundi.
Let me please take your seats so we can get the dialogue started.
Let me welcome the mandate holder, Mr.
Fortun Gitansono.
It's okay.
List of speakers will close in 15 minutes.
I I give the floor to Mr.
Gitansongo to present the oral update.
President, distinguished representatives, ladies and gentlemen, it's a real honor to be back here before this assembly for the 62nd session of the Council.
I come before you after four years of discharging my mandate that this council granted to me in October 2021 and which it extended last year, reaffirming in so doing its own determination to ensure the supremacy of human rights in Burundi.
I'd like to begin by stressing the nature of this mandate.
It's not a finger pointing mandate, it's a mandate for follow up, dialogue and support designed to support Burundi and discharging its international obligations.
Since I took office, I've established working relations with civil society in Burundi, regional organizations, and with UN agencies.
I remain fully available to engage in constructive dialogue with the government of Burundi in any form it sees fit.
My intervention prefigures the findings of my annual report.
Which is currently being finalized and will be submitted to the council in the weeks to come.
Burundi has traversed a profound human rights crisis since April 2015.
The country is in an electoral cycle which began in June 2025 and will culminate with the presidential elections in 2027.
The elections in 2025 won by the ruling party with 96.5% of the vote took place in a context of intimidation and arbitrary arrest.
The heightened militarization of the Ionrara.
Yes.
Whose paramilitary formations have been documented in a number of provinces has increased the risk of violence coming into 2027.
The economic situation has aggravated tensions, having culminated at 45.5% in April 2025.
Inflation remains in May 2026 at 20.8%, more than double the regional threshold of the East African community.
Chronic shortages of fuel have disrupted essential services.
More than 70% of the population lives under the poverty line.
President.
In terms of civil and political rights, freedom of expression has been gravely impeded by vague criminal provisions such as violation of the integrity of national territory, the dissemination of misinformation, which targets journalists, bloggers, and human rights defenders.
Freedom of association has also been restricted.
Civil society organizations have been prosecuted for the sole reason of having due to the international partnerships, judicial independence remains profoundly compromised, denying victims hope of any effective justice.
Women's rights have been severely flouted more than 105 feministides registered in 2025 in a context of persistent impunity in terms of economic, social, and cultural rights.
The human development indicator for Burundi remains among the lowest in the world.
President, despite official statements, no independent source consulted as part of my mandate has found that there has been a structural improvement.
Credible information notes that over 400 people have been killed, more than 200 victims of enforced disappearance since 2020, of whom 100 of these were in between 2024, 2025 alone.
These figures have been corroborated by the joint communique of a September 2025, cosigned by seven special procedures who've documented 605 extradicial executions, 892 arbitrary detention, 62 acts of torture, and 200 cases of sexual violence.
This is a consistent pattern based on information coming from independent actors who despite different methodologies, describe a fundamentally identical reality.
No inquiry has been conducted into these violations.
No responsibility has been established, no justice has been rendered.
Now I welcome at this point, the provisional recent releases of journalists and politicians following several months or years of detention, including Sandra Mosa, Kenny Claude, and Alan Guillaume Bug.
Yet these gestures are not alone a structural change.
The ongoing refusal by the government to authorize access to the special rapporteur to the country and the ongoing closure of the Office of OHCHR illustrate systematic non cooperation.
Since my appointment in April 2022, no request for access has been granted.
The Human Rights Commission is not trusted.
The Truth and Reconciliation Commission has been weakened through political pressure.
My mandate therefore constitutes the only independent mechanism to oversee the human rights situation in Burundi, which justifies its maintenance, particularly in the view of the approach of a high risk election.
Period.
By refusing to cooperate, the Bruundi government has called into question the authority of the Council and the legitimacy of the UN system for protection of human rights.
President, the question of Burundi refugees is a major concern has been throughout my mandate.
Since 2017, several thousand Burundi refugees have returned to their country coming from Tanzania and other countries in the region, according to HHR.
These movements have accelerated since the end of 2025 with the goal of 3,000 weekly returns, which has led to the scheduled closing of U Duta camp in April 2026.
The joint repatriation plan signed on second March 2026, and estimated at $82 million remain largely unfinanced and this compromises the lasting reintegration of repatriated people.
I want to recognize Tanzania's generosity and that for a number of years.
However, the comprehensive Triparthe Tanzania, Burundi HCR assessment made public before the relaunch of operations has highlighted that very few refugees consider returning.
Credible information reflects numerous pressures forcing refugees to enroll when they return.
There's been closing of schools, healthcare structures, demolition of homes, and threats.
The principle of non reformer remains absolute.
No state can return a person towards a country where they risk torture, enforced disappearance, or extrajudicial execution.
By its nature, people in difficulties after their return are the hardest to document.
They're often isolated, often silenced, and almost disappeared.
The absence of documentation cannot be interpreted as an absence of risk in Burundi, the the line between an ordinary citizen and the citizen under persecution is determined not by acts, but by the perception that the authorities have of their political loyalty.
This structural unpredictability makes any risk assessment hazardous if we're working on the basis of just the profile alone of the asylum seeker.
The risks of persecution following return are neither just theoretical or hypothetical.
They are genuine these risks.
Sir, before concluding, I call on all states hosting refugees to strictly respect the international obligations, respect the principles of non refoulement and confidentiality of asylum procedures, conduct rigorous and case by case assessments of each situation.
I reiterate my appeal to the Burundi government to cooperate fully with international mechanisms.
I also call on the international community to mobilize immediately the $82 million necessary for implementation of the joint repatriation reintegration plan, without which the returns underway will take place without sufficient support and will only exacerbate the vulnerability of repatrated persons.
What I have at my heart, the Burundian citizen who thirsts for justice, I think of the farmer on his hill looking at his field, the young woman at the Health Center waiting for care that will never come, the youngster of school age who asks himself questions in front of his classroom.
I think about the families of the victims of disappearance who await a response that the Burundi authorities won't give them.
It is the Burundians, men and women that this council cannot abandon.
Thank you for your attention.
Thank you, Special Report.
As per our practice, we shall start by hearing the delegation of the country concerned.
And I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Burundi her 5 minutes.
Thank you.
My delegation wants to recall here that the initiator of this hostile mechanism for Burundi is the European Union, who keeps my country on the agenda of the Human Rights Council for 11 years.
A number of delegations continue to show that the Human Rights Council has sadly become a space where certain big economic powers import their geopolitical tensions, politicize the work of this council, apply the principle of double standards, and enshrine their immunity while exclusively targeting developing countries.
How can the EU objectively defend the relevance of keeping my country on item four of the agenda of this council without addressing its own national crises of extreme gravity, if there's but an attempt at political interference with geopolitical motivations that threatens the sovereignty of Burundi since the insurrections and the aborted coup that were guided from abroad and particularly by the ally Rwanda concerning the democratic elections in 2015? We still haven't read rightly what's really taking place in the Great Lakes when the long protected ally Rwanda continues to pillage strategic minerals for the benefit of multinationals and other foreign interests, and they violate the sovereignty and territorial integrity of another state, in this case, the DRC, and they threaten the security of the whole region.
How can we decently seek to point the spotlight on Burundi, trying to undermine its image, to isolate it at international level, to suffocate its economy, to weaken its Republican institutions, and for the benefit of protecting the human rights of our citizens.
How can this mechanism be justified when OHCHR, the person in charge of protecting human rights at the UN during presentation of his annual report at the opening of this session, makes no mention in any way of Burundi as a global concern.
It's more than clear that this mechanism has become the theater for a for a face where certain quarters, certain pseudo politicians seek to gain, where claiming human rights defenders, they're completely disconnected from the realities of Bruni.
This has been conveyed irresponsibly by the hold of this mechanism and has only caused distress to our migrant close citizens.
They amplify and politicize their situation of uncertainty in the context where migration constitutes a major global challenge and which each state defines in full discretion its national policy in that sphere.
In that respect, the European Parliament, hasn't it just toughened its own migratory policy? Didn't it not just vote by a large majority for a major reform, including the possibility of reaching agreements to establish detention centers outside their own borders.
So Burundi has reached agreements with other countries for safe, secure migration, guaranteeing the dignity of its citizens and with a goal of properly combating the trafficking of human trafficking.
This desperate attempt carried out by the holder of this mechanism to superficially extend the duration of the mandate, which has stripped of any objectivity, which has been compromised by positions which fundamentally lack any notion of integrity or impartiality, which is in the service of a handful of persons who hark for all the old times in Burundi whose only way is to stand on the wrong side of history.
So, the sons and daughters of Burundi, we don't intend to move backwards despite all the obstacles that we continually face on our path.
Nevertheless, we overcome them one by one, convinced that we cannot just accept anyone trying to manipulate us once again and trying to make us go through yet another civil war.
After the presentation of its final report before the parliament meeting in Congress, concluding a genocide committed against the Blahotu in Burundi in 1972, which left at least 300,000 people dead by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, according to the involvement of the attested involvement for planned crimes organized and executed systematically by sovereign structures, We come before we bow in the memory of all those who were killed for their ethnic belonging alone.
I trust that this day will come.
Thank you.
Thank you.
The list of speakers is now closed.
I give the floor to the National Human Rights Institution of Burundi, the National Human Rights Institution of Bruundi.
You have 3 minutes.
Vice President.
The Independent National Human Rights Commission takes note of the report from the Special Rapporteur on the human rights situation in Burundi.
When it comes to promoting and protecting human rights, our commission would like to pay homage to the program which brings together United Nations agencies, our commission and state authorities.
On the political and security front, there's a positive situation throughout the country at the moment.
We would like to encourage the government to pursue its efforts to further macroeconomic stability.
As a result of the situation described, the human rights situation is gradually improving in the country.
On the political front, we've taken note of the joint declaration issued by 32 political parties issued on the 15th of May 2026, by which they made a commitment to promote a transparent, democratic and peaceful electoral process during the upcoming presidential election in May 2027.
Our commission encourages all stakeholders to pursue this constructive dialogue.
We would like to recommend the state adopt preventive measures to strengthen the right to freedom of assembly expression opinion, as well as to regulate civic space.
We're also pleased to note measures taken to support asylum seekers, refugees, and returnees.
We have identified the humanitarian needs of these groups.
In fact, we have called upon the government to take further measures to promote social and economic inclusion of these vulnerable groups.
When it comes to access to justice and a fair trial, the commission is pleased to note that a decree was issued on the 12th of March, which will bring judicial services closer to the general public.
We've also noticed that there's the gradual implementation of the national policy to reduce prison overcrowding with a view to improving conditions of detention.
Nevertheless, we deplore the fact that There continue to be difficult conditions, we call upon the government to use all possibilities under the criminal laws so that certain convicts can enjoy an amnesty a pardon or some other reduction of sentence.
We would like to note measures taken to promote female emancipation, combat youth unemployment.
These are important measures for strengthening human rights protection.
Thank you.
Your time has elapsed.
I would now like to give the floor to interested delegations in making comments or asking questions on this report.
Each delegation will have 1 minute 30 seconds.
First of all, I'd like to give the floor to the distinguished ambassador of Luxembourg on behalf of the group of countries.
Mr.
Vice President, I have the honor to deliver this statement on behalf of our longstanding Benedict Union, Belgium, the Kingdom of Netherlands, and my own country, Luxembourg.
We line with a statement of the European Union.
We thank the Special Rapporteur for his oral update.
We welcome the efforts taken to reduce the population in prisons, including through the release of prisoners, and call upon the authorities to address further structural problems affecting the independence of the judiciary and access to justice.
One year before the 2027 presidential elections, civic space and media freedom remains under severe pressure with ongoing intimidation and harassment targeting civil society actors raising serious concerns.
We regret that nine years after the International Criminal Court opened an investigation into crimes against humanity that were allegedly committed between April 2015 and October 2017, Burundi continues its policy of non cooperation.
Finally, we call on the Burundian authorities to cooperate with the special rapporteur, as well as other thematic special procedures and allow them to conduct a country visit.
Mr.
Special Rapporteur, what actions should be prioritized to create an enabling environment for civil society, human rights defenders, and the media in Burundi, in particular in the run up to the 2027 presidential elections? Thank you.
I'd like to give the floor to the ambassador of Latvia on behalf of a group of countries.
Mr.
Vice President, I have the honor to speak on behalf of the Nordic Baltic States.
We thank the Special Rapporteur for the latest update and continued efforts to monitor the human rights situation in Burundi.
We reiterate our call on the government of Burundi to engage in constructive cooperation with the UN human rights mechanisms, in particular, by granting the Special Rapporteur unhindered access and by reopening of the OHCHR country office.
Remain deeply concerned by ongoing political and civil suppression, severe restrictions on freedom of opinion, expression, and peaceful assembly, as well as cases of arbitrary detention, extrajudicial executions, torture and sexual and gender based violence.
We are particularly alarmed by reports of the involvement of state agents and pro government groups in these violations and abuses which further undermine the rule of law and human rights protection in the country.
We call on the Bundian authorities to uphold international human rights obligations, safeguard civic space, and ensure accountability for alleged violations through impartial and independent investigations in full respect of judicial independence.
Mr.
Special Reportur, what concrete and immediate steps could the international community consider to support the protection of human rights in Burundi? I thank you.
Thank you.
I now call on distinguished ambassador of the European Union.
Vice President, Special Rapporteur, the European Union would like to thank you for the oral update and we'd like to offer our support for your mandate despite some progress and the release of certain political prisoners.
A number of fundamental rights violations continue, particularly arbitrary arrest and detention, enforced disappearances, torture, and sexual and gender based violence.
We'd like to express our concern about intimidation and reprisals against civil society, human rights defenders and journalists.
We call upon the Brundian authorities to put a stop to impunity and to tackle the persistent challenges faced by the judicial system.
Bundi's participation in a hearing with the CRD is positive and we call upon Burundi to do likewise and renew its links with all the other treaty bodies.
We call upon the authorities to allow the Special Rapporteur to access the country and to implement all the recommendations made.
Burundi must ensure that the National Human Rights Commission works independently because it's absolutely vital for promoting and protecting human rights.
We Notice that the UN has reopened its country office, which is vital for cooperation technical support.
What are the main obstacles to implementing the recommendations of the Commission of Inquiry? I now call upon the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela.
Thank you, Vice President, Venezuela recognizes the efforts made by the Burundian government and its political will to promote and protect human rights.
We reject the politicization selectivity which persists in this council through the imposition of mandates which lack the consent and cooperation of the concerned country.
These practices run counter to the goals of the UN charter, notably respect for sovereignty and non interference in domestic affairs.
We regret that mechanisms continue to be imposed when they're not bringing about any improvement in the human rights situation in the field.
This is instead of mutual understanding and dialogue should be more effective mechanisms in supporting states to build national capacity.
There's a lot of resources being invested in these mechanisms, but those resources should be devoted to capacity building in line with the interests of the country concerned.
That's why we reiterate our call to the council to stop selectivity, politicization and subjectivity.
We must put a stop to instrumentalizing human rights for political aims because this is something which undermines the credibility of this council.
Thank you very much, Vice President.
Thank you.
I'd now like to call on South Sudan.
Mr.
Vice President, South Sudan takes note of the special reporter's oral update on the human rights situation in Burundi as a fellow member of the East African community and Great Lakes region, South Sudan attaches great importance to regional peace, stability, and institutional strengthening and commends the government of Burundi for its ongoing engagement with regional mechanism and for its effort towards peace building, socioeconomic development, and national reconciliation.
We further welcome government of Bruundi's commitment to strengthening its national institution and human rights framework through a process centered on national ownership, and we firmly maintain that the promotion and protection of human rights are most effectively advanced through constructive engagement, mutual respect, and genuine technical cooperation and capacity building in full alignment with national priorities of state sovereignty.
South Sudan remain concerned by the continued reliance on country specific mandate under item four that lack the consent of the state concern.
As such approaches risk politicizing the council work rather than fostering practical progress on the ground and therefore calls the Human Rights Council for reassessment of Bruni under item four.
Thank you, Mr.
Vice President.
That's your stand up.
Thank you.
I call on the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Vice President of the Democratic Republic of the Congo would like to thank the Special Rapporteur for his oral update.
We reiterate our commitment to the fundamental principles of universality, impartiality, and non selective cooperation.
We hail the constant efforts and progress achieved by the Burundian government in strengthening its democratic institutions and in strengthening the rule of law.
These reforms attest to the Burundian authority's obvious will to put human dignity at the heart of its action.
In light of this progress, the DRC believes that the time has come to move on with the forms of cooperation with Burundi.
We encourage the council to give precedence to universal mechanisms such as a universal periodic review, which is the ideal setting for a peer to peer dialogue.
We believe that human rights should be based on the sovereign equality of states.
Keeping a selective mechanism on a state when tangible progress has been recorded is not a way to encourage cooperation.
We think the council should follow approaches which ensure universality and avoid double standards because that's only going to be counterproductive and could undermine the council's credibility.
We call upon the international community to support Burundi through technical assistance and capacity building on the basis of the priorities which are defined by Burundi itself so that we can build on achievements thus far.
I now call on distinguished ambassador of Rwanda.
Thank you, Vice President.
Rwanda takes note of the oral update on the human rights situation in Burundi.
Human rights progress in Burundi must be backed up by credible reform and constructive engagement with the UPR and treaty bodies, as well as cooperation with relevant regional mechanisms and renewed dialogue with the Office of the High Commissioner.
Rwanda encourages Burundi to take specific measures which will build trust, enlarge the political and civic space and ensure that national institutions promote human rights and ensure the dignity of all Burundians.
Unsubstantiated allegations on Randa by ambassador Hira D should be dismissed.
Burundi must focus its efforts on improving its human rights situation rather than scapegoating a neighboring country.
It is particularly troubling that a state currently holding the rotational chairmanship of the African Union is engaging in armed conflicts in the DRC instead of exercising leadership and responsibility that the role requires.
Mercy, Monsieur President.
Thank you, Vice President.
Thank you.
I'd now like to call on the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, DPRK.
Thank you, Mr.
Vice President.
We acknowledge the efforts made by the government and people of Burundi to promote national stability, development, and the well being of its people.
We firmly believe that the promotion and protection of human rights should be pursued on the basis of respect for the sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity of states.
In this regards, we remain concerned about the approaches that lead to pressure and confrontation rather than constructive dialogue and cooperation.
We reiterate our principled position that the human rights issues should not be politicized or used as a tool to exert pressure on sovereign states.
Therefore, we reject the mandate and its extension of the special rapporteur on Bruundi.
The international community should provide support to Bruundi in addressing its challenges on the basis of objectivity, non selectivity, impartiality, and mutual respect.
My delegation expresses its confidence that the government and people of Burundi will continue their efforts to promote human rights and development in a manner consistent with their national conditions and priority.
Thank you.
Thank you.
I now call on Sri Lanka.
Mr.
Vice President, Sri Lanka welcomes the government of Burgundi's continuous engagement with the Human Rights Council through its regular mechanisms.
We recognize the efforts undertaken by the government of Burundi to address poverty and social inequalities, combat corruption, and protect the human rights of its people, particularly in the aftermath of a difficult economic crisis.
Mr.
Vice President, Sri Lanka reiterates that constructive dialogue with the concerned state with due regard to its perspectives, concerns and domestic complexities remain the most effective means of providing meaningful assistance.
Any technical assistance and capacity building should also be provided at the request of the state concerned and in accordance with nationally identified needs and priorities.
In conclusion, we encourage this council to extend all possible assistance for Burundi's national processes aimed at sustainable recovery and development in accordance with the national priorities of the government of Burruundi.
Thank you.
Thank you.
I call on the Russian Federation.
President, Russia continues to follow closely developments in Burundi.
We note with satisfaction that the leadership of that state has conducted consistent work in the field of human rights.
The country has a National Council for National Unity and Reconciliation, a monitoring center to prevent and eradicate genocide, military crimes, and crimes against humanity, a National Independent Human Rights Commission.
In an ombudsman.
We commend efforts towards preventing discrimination in Burundi against national and ethnic minorities in the country as a whole.
They're maintaining legislative enshrined ethnic quotas in the military and in the civil service in the parliament and government.
We note steps to facilitate return of Burundi refugees.
Due attention is being given also to improving the situation.
In penitentiary institutions.
However, we are concerned by the complex humanitarian situation in Burundi and the flow of refugees from the DRC in that context.
We positively note efforts of the authorities in coordination with foreign partners and also with UN agencies to provide assistance to those Congolese arriving in the country.
We call on the Council to shape its cooperation with Burundi on the basis of respecting state interests, emphasizing provision human rights cooperation in the sphere of human rights.
Thank you.
I give the floor to Belarus.
Thank you, Vice President.
Belarus rejects country mandates which are imposed on states without their consent.
Unilateral action undermines dialogue and restricts possibilities for mutually complementary joint efforts between the human rights system and the government in the field of human rights.
We are convinced that it is only by rejecting pressure and objective assessments, constructive dialogue and support to national efforts in the sphere of human rights can facilitates genuine progress on the ground.
We note the functioning in Burundi of a number of national institutions designed to promote human rights and we stress the need to give them due support.
We also welcome the government's efforts to protect and promote socio economic rights in spite of the difficult context and also the determination of the authorities to work with the universal human rights mechanisms and with foreign partners.
I thank you.
Thank you.
I call on Sudan.
Thank you, Vice President.
We have taken note of the oral update provided by the special rapporteur, as well as the comments and recommendations contained therein.
We pay tribute to Bruni's initiatives to promote and protect human rights, strengthening governance, judicial reform, and economic governance and progress has also been made on reconciliation dialogue, transitional justice, and respect for electoral dates so that citizens can elect their representatives Burundi is also cooperating with human rights mechanisms in Africa and on the international stage as well, including with this council through the Universal Periodic Review.
We call upon the Office of the High Commissioner to provide technical assistance to Burundi, bearing in mind national interests and priorities.
Thank you very much, Vice President.
Thank you.
I now call on the United Kingdom.
Thank you, Mr.
Vice President.
The United Kingdom thanks the Special Rapporteur for his update.
We recognize the importance of his mandate and encourage the government of Burundi to grant the Special Rapporteur access.
The UK is concerned by ongoing reports of shrinking civic space and the suppression of opposition voices in Burundi.
As we approach the 2027 election, we ask the government of Burundi to ensure that all Burundian people can exercise their democratic rights and express their views peacefully without fear of intimidation.
We note with concern the broader humanitarian and regional context, including pressure arising from displacement.
We welcome Burni's efforts to host refugees from the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the UK has provided 2.3 million pounds through the World Food Program to support these efforts.
Mr.
Vice President, the recent Ebola outbreak in the region is a deep concern.
The UK has announced 800,000 pounds of financial support to strengthen preparedness as any spread to Burundi would pose a serious threat to its people.
Special Rapporteur, ahead of next year's elections and in the context of regional conflict and health insecurity, how can the international community support Bruundi to uphold civil liberties and democracy? I thank you.
Thank you.
I now call on Eritrea.
Thank.
Mr.
Vice President.
We take this opportunity to commend the government of Burundi for its continued commitment to national reconciliation, social cohesion, and the socioeconomic development of its people.
Eritrea maintains its principal position against country specific mandates and resolutions.
We firmly believe that the universal periodic review is the only objective non politicized and cooperative mechanism for assessing the human rights situations of member states.
Relying on selective politically driven mandates undermines state led efforts and runs counter to the fundamental principles of sovereignty, territorial integrity, and non interference in the internal affairs of states.
Imposing external mechanisms without the consent of the country concerned yields counterproductive results.
Progress is achieved only through constructive dialogue and an understanding of country contexts, which honors national ownership and supports country led initiatives.
Instead of extending parallel non consensual mechanisms, the council should support Burundi through technical cooperation and capacity building strictly aligned with the priorities defined by the Burundian government itself.
Thank you, Mr.
Vice President.
Thank you.
Michael Loan Cameroon.
Thank you, Vice President.
Cameroon would like to thank the special rapporteur for his oral update.
We commend the Brundian government on its efforts to consolidate peace, strengthen institutions, and promote human rights against a backdrop of persistent economic challenges.
Cameroon has taken note of the legislative and municipal elections which were held on the 5th of June.
Last year, they were a watershed in strengthening national institutions.
We encourage the Burundian authorities to pursue their efforts to strengthen citizens' participation, social cohesion, and trust in Republican institutions.
Cameroon remains convinced that lasting progress in human rights in Burundi requires dialogue, technical cooperation, and constructively supporting the country by taking its national priorities into consideration.
In this regard, we encourage cooperation between Burundi, the a high commissioner and the council's mechanisms in a spirit of mutual respect, trust, and shared responsibility.
Cameroon remains committed to a balanced approach which is non selective and constructive in order to promote the positive trends.
Thank you.
I now call on Cuba.
Vice President, Cuba reiterates its rejection of interfering resolutions which don't do anything to promote human rights, which is the case of Burundy.
Imposing mechanisms without the consent of the country concerned are never effective because they stop dialogue and cooperation, which are in fact the only ways of ensuring human rights are promoted and protected.
The Human Rights Council must Rely on reliable sources of information, not biased ones.
Examining the human rights situation, any country, including Burundi, must respect impartiality, objectivity, and mutual respect as well as strict respect for state sovereignty.
Attempts to violate Burundi's sovereignty and impose an external mechanism on it, which knows little about the situation in the country is incompatible with the UN charter and international law.
Cuba reiterates its call to stop punitive and interfering approaches.
Instead, we must promote genuine dialogue and cooperation based on the principles of universality and non selectivity in dealing with human rights.
Thank you.
Thank you.
I now call on Switzerland.
Vice President, Switzerland would like to thank the special rapporteur for his oral update.
We regret the fact that he hasn't yet been given access to the country despite the fact that Burundi has had a standing invitation in place since 2013.
Switzerland remains concerned at the human rights situation in Burundi, notably restrictions on civic space, acts of intimidation, arbitrary arrest.
We also deplore persistent gender based violence and the legal provisions which criminalize certain segments of the population against a backdrop of economic hardship.
Switzens also taken note of some progress, notably the efforts to reduce prison overcrowding, as well as increasing women's representation in Parliament.
We encourage the Brendian authorities to fully cooperate with UN mechanisms and to implement the special Rapporteur's recommendations.
We also encourage the authorities to take full advantage of technical cooperation offered by the United Nations Human Rights system.
Special Rapporteur, as we move towards the 2027 presidential elections, what are the main risk factors for human rights violations and what preventive measures should be taken in order to ensure that there is the appropriate environment for a peaceful, inclusive electoral process which fully respects fundamental freedoms.
Thank you.
Thank you.
I now call on Ethiopia.
Thank you, Mr.
Vice President.
Ethiopia reaffirms its principled position that the promotion and the protection of human rights must be guided by the core principles of these councils, universality, objectivity, no selectivity, and constructive engagement.
Et efforts are emphasizes the importance of strengthening national ownership and institutional capacity through constructive support and technical cooperation, recognizing that states bear the primary responsibility for the promotion and protection of human rights of their people.
We commend the continued positive steps undertaken by Bruundi including ongoing institutional and legal reforms aimed at strengthening governance, the rule of law and access to justice.
We also acknowledge its sustained engagement with the United Nations Human Rights mechanisms, as well as its cooperation with relevant regional frameworks reflecting a constructive and cooperative approach to international dialogue.
We further recognize the encouraging progress made in advancing the principle of accepted UPA recommendations and encourage Bruni to build on this positive momentum.
In conclusion, it reiterates that effective advancement of human rights is best achieved through dialogue cooperation, complementing national efforts and tailored technical assistance that response to the specific national context and priorities of the state concerned.
I thank you.
Thank you.
I now call on the Islamic Republic of Iran.
Thank you, Mr.
President.
The Islamic Republic of Iran reaffirmed its principled position that the promotion and protection of human rights should be pursued through genuine dialogue, constructive engagement and cooperation with the state concern while fully respecting the purposes and principles of the UN charter, including sovereignty, territorial integrity, and non interference in the internal affairs of states.
In this regard, we believe the country specific mandates should not be established or renewed without the consent and cooperation of the state concerned.
We encouraged continued engagement with the government of Bruni through dialogue based on its priorities and national circumstances.
A cooperative and non confrontational approach is more conducive to achieving sustainable progress in the promotion and protection of human rights than selective and politicized measures, much as Gracias senior vice president.
Erath.
Thank you.
I now call on China.
Vice President, China has taken note of the AI's oral update on the human rights situation in Bruni.
China appreciates the Brandon government's positive efforts toward national stability and reconciliation, as well as its progress in promoting and protecting human rights.
Its current peace and stability have not come easily.
China reiterates that the international competition should continue to uphold Bruni's sovereignty and independence, respect its efforts to independently manage its domestic affairs, and assist it in achieving national stability and sustainable development.
Regrettably, some countries have ignored the repeated and explicit requests by the Bruni government and other African countries for the Council to abolish the special procedure.
This not only hinders Bruns's stability and development, but also drains the council's valuable resources, exacerbating the UN financial difficulties.
China urges these countries to stop interfering in Bruni's internal affairs under the pretext of human rights and return to the right path of dialogue and cooperation.
Thank you, Vice President.
Thank you.
Asking the flexibility from the interpreters, we'll hear from the last speaker this morning, that's Rest of Kenya.
Takes note of the SR oral update and further takes positive note of the progress made by the brotherly nation of Burundi in advancing national reconciliation, strengthening institutional frameworks, and engaging with regional and international partners.
These efforts are important steps towards consolidating peace, stability, and sustainable development.
We underscore the importance of continued constructive engagement and dialogue and cooperation between Burundi and relevant human rights mechanisms, and we emphasize that support from the international community should be aligned with Burundi's national priorities and development strategies and delivered in a manner that respects national ownership and sovereignty.
We further highlight the critical role of capacity building, technical assistance, and inclusive dialogue in addressing remaining challenges and fostering long term resilience.
In this regard, we encourage sustained collaboration with regional actors to support Burundi's continued progress.
We remain committed to supporting initiatives that promote cooperation, mutual trust, and tangible improvements in the enjoyment of human rights on the ground.
Thank you.
Thank you very much.
With that, we've concluded our work for this morning, this afternoon.
We've got a very busy program first, His Excellency, Deputy Prime Minister of Republic of Lebanon will address the Council at the beginning of the meeting at three.
Then we'll continue with the dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the situation of Human Rights in Burundi, then dialogue with the Special Rapportur on Situation of Human Rights in Belarus, followed by a presentation of the High Commissioner's report on Situation of Human Rights in Myanmar.
And the presentation of the oral update on the situation of human rights in Nicaragua.
If there is time, the council will hear the presentation of report of the working group on the issue of human rights and transnational corporations.
Now I adjourn the 21st speak in the 62nd session of the Human Rights Council.