Statement of Lithuania: Item 4 General Debate
22 March 2023 52nd Session of the Human Rights Council Item 4: General Debate Statement delivered by the Permanent Representative Ambassador Darius Staniulis
Thank you, Mr President.
Lithuania aligns itself with the EU statement.
As the High Commissioner recently noted, “human rights unifies us and can overcome polarization, in its striving for equity, shared prosperity and justice”. Thus, we must ensure that the principles enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights apply to everyone without exception and remain essential for overcoming multiple crises.
We condemn in the strongest possible terms Russia’s unprovoked and illegal war of aggression against Ukraine. It is absolutely crucial to ensure full accountability for war crimes, crimes against humanity and other violations of international law. Thus, we strongly believe that the establishment of the Special International Tribunal would complement the role of the ICC.
Propaganda, disinformation, repressive legislation, mass arbitrary arrests created a climate of fear and intimidation in Russia. Therefore, the appointment of a Special Rapporteur to monitor the human rights situation is an important step towards prevention of impunity and further violations.
Belarus is another example of how strangling democracy allowed an autocratic, illegitimate leader to brutally repress any political dissent and turn a country into an accomplice of aggressor. We strongly condemn arbitrary detentions, sham trials, and the use of the death penalty, and urge the Belarussian authorities to release and rehabilitate all political prisoners, and cease systemic repressions.
Human rights situation in China remains disturbing, especially in Xinjiang, Hong Kong and Tibet. We invite China to abide by its international obligations, and to implement the recommendations of the OHCHR assessment report on Xinjiang.
Human rights situation in Afghanistan, especially for women and girls is alarming. Taliban almost fully erased them from public life. We urge the authorities to immediately lift these decisions and uphold human rights obligations.
We are alarmed that political opponents in Nicaragua are stripped of their citizenship and assets. We urge the authorities to cease these practices and cooperate with the OHCHR and regional human rights mechanisms.
Mr. President,
Lithuania firmly believes that no country should be above the scrutiny of its human rights situation. That was our primary consideration, when in 2001 we extended a standing invitation to all UN Special Procedures mandate holders to visit the country and we encourage other States to do the same.
I thank you.
