Tag: Foreign Office

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 6 October 2025.

UK Core Group Statement to introduce Item 2 Resolution on Sudan. Delivered by the UK’s Permanent Representative to the WTO and UN, Kumar Iyer.

Thank you Mr President,

On behalf of a core group of Germany, Ireland, the Netherlands, Norway, and the UK, I present draft resolution L.18, which responds to the Humanitarian and Human Rights Crisis in Sudan.

Mr President, the UN Fact-Finding Mission’s findings are clear: the warring parties have committed war crimes, with the Rapid Support Forces’ actions constituting crimes against humanity.  Civilians are targeted and killed on the basis of ethnicity and sexual and gender-based violence is perpetrated on an overwhelming scale.

Over 30 million people are in need of humanitarian assistance. Yet even as famine and cholera spreads across Sudan, access is deliberately blocked. The Rapid Support Forces’ continued siege on El Fasher and the Sudanese Armed Forces’ brutal reprisal killings, including 26 in just one village, demonstrate, yet again, a total disregard for international law.

Mr President, we would prefer not to have to present this resolution. The international community has repeatedly called for all parties to immediately agree a ceasefire, protect civilians and facilitate humanitarian access. And yet indiscriminate shelling and destruction of schools, hospitals and places of worship continues to intensify.

This Council cannot sit idly by as the world braces itself for yet further mass atrocities in North Darfur. We must stand united.

The UN Fact-Finding Mission is the only independent investigative body documenting and reporting on these violations across Sudan. Extending its mandate is crucial to ending the cycle of impunity that devastates Sudan.

There is sadly no credible international or national alternative. As the FFM itself has made clear, Sudan’s ‘national committee’ remains unwilling and unable to conduct thorough, prompt and impartial investigations. Without the FFM’s documentation efforts, the victims of these international crimes will not see justice. 

Our Core Group held consultations and discussed this draft extensively with all delegations, starting with Sudan. We took on board many of the proposals made, including a number from Sudan. Yet unfortunately, despite our best efforts, these changes were not enough for the Sudanese authorities.

Mr President,

It is brave Sudanese local responders who continue to stand by the people of Sudan. I want to pay tribute to the commitment of these mutual aid groups who risk their lives to provide humanitarian assistance, and hope across the country.

The Sudanese authorities may not be in favour of this resolution, but the people of Sudan are. They want accountability. They want peace.

Let us show the people of Sudan that they are not forgotten, by voting in favour of this resolution.

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 6 October 2025.

UK Core Group Statement to introduce Item 2 Resolution on Sri Lanka. Delivered by the UK’s Permanent Representative to the WTO and UN, Kumar Iyer.

Thank you, Mr. President.

I have the honour to introduce draft resolution L1 Rev1 on behalf of the core group comprising Canada, Malawi, Montenegro, North Macedonia, and the United Kingdom.

Let me begin by paying  tribute to Dr. Kasipillai Manoharan, who sadly passed away during this session. Dr. Manoharan was a tireless advocate for justice following the killing of his son, Ragihar, one of five students murdered in Trincomalee in 2006 in an emblematic human rights case.  Dr Manoharan’s unwavering pursuit of truth and accountability, including his campaign at the United Nations and his presence at this Council, inspired many. His passing is a solemn reminder that too many family members have passed away without seeing justice for their loved ones, or without knowing the fate of those who were disappeared.

For those who remain – survivors, families, communities – their call for truth and justice grows ever more urgent.

Mr. President,

This draft resolution acknowledges the steps taken and the commendable commitments made by the current Sri Lankan Government to address long-standing human rights concerns, and the deep wounds left by decades of ethnic conflict. We urge the Government to translate these commitments into tangible action.

The exhumation of mass graves holds the potential to deliver long-awaited answers to families. It is imperative that these investigations are conducted in a manner that, ensures they support future identification efforts and uphold the dignity of victims.

The establishment of an independent prosecutor’s office would mark a vital step toward dismantling the entrenched impunity surrounding conflict-era violations and abuses.

The repeal and reform of key legislation in line with international standards, notably the Prevention of Terrorism Act and the Online Safety Act, would demonstrate a meaningful shift in approach;

And an end to the surveillance and intimidation of human rights defenders and families of the disappeared is essential to rebuild trust and foster reconciliation.

As these efforts progress, the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights continues to play a crucial role – through technical assistance, reporting, and its work to advance accountability.

We extend sincere thanks to the Sri Lankan delegation and to all delegations who have engaged constructively on this resolution. We have worked hard to strike the right balance between recognising progress and urging action on the challenges that remain.

We hope that all members of this Council will adopt this draft resolution without a vote.

Thank you.

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 3 October 2025.

UK Statement for the Item 10 General Debate. Delivered by the UK’s Human Rights Ambassador, Eleanor Sanders.

Thank you, Madame Vice President.

The UK remains deeply concerned by the seriousness and scale of human rights violations in Yemen. This includes growing restrictions on women and their freedom of movement, child and forced marriage, sexual violence, and attacks on freedom of religion and belief. We strongly condemn the arbitrary detentions by the Houthis, including of UN personnel, humanitarian workers, and NGO staff, as well as indiscriminate attacks on civilians and civilian infrastructure. We call upon all parties to the conflict to respect their human rights obligations.

In Nepal, we regret the loss of life during recent protests. It is vital now that Nepal’s interim government is able to deliver its agenda to strengthen democratic institutions and create a peaceful and inclusive transition ahead of elections in March.

We welcome Bangladesh’s continued cooperation with OHCHR and the establishment of a three-year mission, and urge full implementation of the UN act-finding recommendations. We support the consensus-led reform process in Bangladesh and encourage credible democratic elections that uphold human rights, strengthen institutions, and reflect the will of the Bangladeshi people. We urge the protection of the rights and dignity of Rohingya refugees.

Thank you.

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 3 October 2025.

UK Statement for the Interactive Dialogue on the High Commissioner’s Oral Update on Ukraine. Delivered by the UK’s Human Rights Ambassador, Eleanor Sanders.

Thank you, Mr Vice President.

Thank you, High Commissioner, for your update.

We condemn the Russia’s treatment of Ukrainian civilian detainees. Civilians are subjected to arbitrary detention, to torture and frequently held in dire conditions.

International humanitarian law is unambiguous: civilians can only be detained on lawful grounds and must be released from detention as soon as the lawful grounds for their detention cease to exist. Russia must cease unlawful detention and abuse of Ukrainian civilians, ensure humane conditions, and release those who have been arbitrarily detained.

They must also ensure the return of all Ukrainian children who have been illegally deported to Russia and the temporarily occupied territories. Children must not be a pawn of war.

We recognise that, as a result of Russia’s illegal and unprovoked invasion of Ukraine, the number of conflict-related detainees has strained the Ukrainian criminal justice system. We welcome the progress the Ukrainian authorities have made to improve detention conditions.

We urge the Ukrainian authorities to ensure that conflict-related civilian detainees are treated in full compliance with international humanitarian and human rights law. How best can the international community support Ukraine in these efforts?

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 3 October 2025.

Statement by Ambassador James Kariuki, UK Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN, at the UN Security Council meeting on Colombia.

The UK fully supports the 2016 Peace Agreement, which remains one of the most successful peace processes of the past 50 years. 

It has delivered tangible improvements in security and prosperity for Colombia and remains a roadmap for further progress.

Approaching the ninth anniversary of the Agreement, we remain concerned at the speed of implementation and call on the Government to accelerate its efforts. 

The UN Mission continues to have a vital role to play.

While nothing could put right the wrongs of fifty years of crimes, the 2016 Agreement put restorative justice at its heart to promote reconciliation within Colombian society.  

Last month, landmark sentences were issued by the Special Jurisdiction for Peace (SJP) against those responsible for hostage taking and extra-judicial killings. 

This represents real progress in delivering justice and accountability for the victims. 

We urge the Colombian government and the SJP to work together to ensure full implementation of these and future sentences, in line with the expectations of victims. 

We also welcome progress on rural reform and reintegration efforts of former combatants. 

But sustainable progress to deliver the transformational change envisaged through the 2016 Agreement will only be possible with sustained parallel action to tackle criminality. 

This includes drug trafficking, extortion and illegal mining which plague communities across Colombia. 

The UK is concerned about ongoing violence towards peace signatories, community leaders and security forces. 

480 peace signatories have been killed since the Agreement was signed. 

We call upon the Government to do more to protect signatories and all vulnerable communities.  

As we look ahead to elections next year, we are clear political violence, has no place in Colombia. 

The assassination of Senator Miguel Uribe was a tragedy and a warning of the risks that Colombia faces. 

We urge strengthened protection measures and improved institutional coordination to counter further violence.

The UK is and will remain a committed friend and partner to the people of Colombia as they journey towards lasting peace and security.  

We look forward to working with partners in the council on the mandate renewal of the UN mission. This should reflect the situation on the ground and include efficiencies and streamlining of the mission, where appropriate.

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 3 October 2025.

UK Statement for the Interactive Dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on Cambodia. Delivered by the UK’s Human Rights Ambassador, Eleanor Sanders.

Thank you, Mr Vice President, and thank you, Special Rapporteur.

We welcome Cambodia’s progress in healthcare, education, social protection and climate action. We reaffirm our support for its ambition for a smooth transition from Least Developed Country status in 2029.

However, we remain concerned about ongoing restrictions on civic space. Judicial harassment of opposition voices, human rights defenders and journalists undermines democratic principles. We are particularly concerned by the wide application of Article 495 of the Penal Code on incitement and its chilling effect on freedom of expression.

The UK is concerned by tensions along the Cambodia-Thailand border, and we support efforts to uphold the ceasefire, rebuild trust and address the humanitarian needs of affected communities.

We are deeply concerned by reports of trafficking and forced labour linked to the online scamming industry. We encourage stronger, more consistent law enforcement and victim support.

We also urge Cambodia to continue working towards the Special Rapporteur’s recommendations, including on strengthening judicial independence and enabling civil society to operate freely. Looking ahead to the next elections, inclusive dialogue and the participation of all stakeholders, will help build confidence and stability.

A vibrant press, active civil society and respect for freedom of expression will not only reinforce democratic principles, but also support Cambodia’s long-term prosperity and international reputation.

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 3 October 2025.

UK Statement for the Interactive Dialogue on Technical Cooperation in Libya. Delivered by the UK’s Human Rights Ambassador, Eleanor Sanders.

Thank you, Mr Vice President.

We welcome OHCHR and United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) technical assistance and capacity building in Libya, and their growing cooperation with the Libyan authorities. We support Libya’s renewal of this Item 10 resolution so that it stays on this Council’s agenda. 

The OHCHR’s report raises a number of concerns, including arbitrary detention, enforced disappearances, and torture, with limited accountability. 

We urge Libya to address threats to civic space, including reprisals against civil society and restrictions on youth organisations. Women and girls reportedly face violence and discrimination while migrants suffer abuse and are subjects of disinformation. We call for international non-governmental organisations to be permitted to operate in accordance with international humanitarian law and domestic regulations, and deliver vital services to vulnerable groups.

We urge the Libyan authorities to adopt legislation on reconciliation, women’s protection, and to close all unofficial detention centres.

We welcome the extension of the ICC’s jurisdiction in Libya, and we support calls for a comprehensive, rights-based transitional justice process. The UK stands ready to support inclusive Libyan-led efforts to restore the rule of law and deliver justice for victims.

Mr Vice President, how can the international community support Libya to ensure transitional justice efforts are inclusive, victim-centred, and lead to meaningful accountability?

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 2 October 2025.

UK Statement for the Interactive Dialogue on the report of the Independent Expert on the human rights situation in Somalia. Delivered by the UK’s Human Rights Ambassador, Eleanor Sanders.

Thank you, Madame Vice President,

Let me thank the Independent Expert. We are grateful for her work on Somalia since 2020. As we transition to a nationally led partnership with OHCHR, we recognise the invaluable work of the Independent Expert mandate since 1993 in documenting and reporting on the situation of human rights in Somalia and supporting the government.

We welcome the presence of the Minister of Family and Human Rights Development and her team from Mogadishu.

We welcome the passing of the Juvenile Justice Bill in March 2025, and the adoption by the Council of Ministers of the Amendments to the Criminal Procedure Code Bill in January 2025.

We remain concerned at the continuing loss of civilian life due to ongoing conflict and insecurity, continuing cases of sexual and gender-based violence, and restrictions on the freedom of expression, including detention of journalists.

We encourage the Somali government to strengthen the rule of law and enhance fundamental freedoms by finalising the establishment of the National Human Rights Commission. We also emphasise the importance of promoting the rights to freedom of expression and opinion, protecting vulnerable and marginalised groups, and fostering a broad consensus, as Somalia prepares for timely, free and fair elections in the coming year. The UK stands ready to work with Somalia on all these issues.

To the independent expert: what action can the UN and other international partners take to support the work of the National Human Rights Commission over the next year?

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 2 October 2025.

UK Statement for the Interactive Dialogue with Independent Expert on Central African Republic. Delivered at the 60th session of the HRC in Geneva.

Thank you, Madame Vice President,

We welcome the Central African Republic’s continued engagement with this Council and the Independent Expert’s scrutiny of the human rights situation. Ongoing implementation of national human rights policies remains vital to translate commitments into results.

The UK welcomes the Central African Republic’s commitment to hold local, legislative and presidential elections in December. However, holding combined elections presents significant challenges. We urge the government to strengthen the National Electoral Authority to ensure the constitutional timelines for elections are met and encourage stakeholders to support the Authority in delivering free and fair elections.

We are pleased the measures taken under the Political Agreement for Peace and Reconciliation has led to an improvement in the human rights situation, but we remain deeply concerned by abuses committed by Russian proxies and armed groups. These groups do not improve security or stability. We urge the authorities to strengthen the implementation of the Agreement, and to support the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA) as it seeks to fulfil its mandate.

Intercommunity tensions represent a serious threat to peace and human rights. We ask the independent expert, what can the international community do to support the Central African Republic in combatting these tensions?

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 2 October 2025.

UK Statement for the Interactive Dialogue on the High Commissioner’s Report on Haiti. Delivered by the UK’s Human Rights Ambassador, Eleanor Sanders.

Thank you, Madam Vice President.

We are grateful to the High Commissioner for his report.

Criminal gangs continue to commit abuses, including killings, kidnappings and sexual violence. Over a million Haitians have been displaced, and access to essential services is severely restricted.

Restoring security is essential to Haiti’s long-term stability. The UK supported the Multinational Security Support Mission by providing £5 million to the Office of the High Commissioner to ensure the Mission complies with international standards on human rights, conduct and discipline. We welcome the Office’s role in ensuring the Mission operates in line with the highest standards of human rights protection.

We also welcome efforts at the UN Security Council to develop a coordinated and sustainable way forward for Haiti’s security and stability. Any future arrangements should seek to protect the rights and civil liberties of Haitians.

Moreover, we will continue to act against perpetrators of human rights abuses in Haiti, including through our human rights sanctions regime.

How can the international community ensure that future security arrangements in Haiti support a Haitian-led political process that protects rights and freedoms?

Thank you.