Tag: Foreign Office

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 7 July 2026.

UK General Comment on the draft resolution on disinformation. Delivered by UK Human Rights Ambassador, Eleanor Sanders.

Thank you, Mr President,

The UK is pleased to be member of the core group and thanks Ukraine, as penholder, for its leadership and constructive engagement throughout the negotiations. This resolution addresses and recognises disinformation as a growing challenge to the enjoyment of human rights and democratic participation.

We have seen first-hand the harmful impact of disinformation, including foreign information manipulation and interference, both in the UK and internationally. Such activity seeks to undermine trust in democratic institutions, distort public debate and, in some cases, exacerbate conflict and human rights violations.
 

We therefore particularly welcome updates to the text that reflect the evolving information environment, including references to foreign information manipulation and interference (FIMI), synthetic media, information integrity, and the human rights implications of artificial intelligence. These additions strengthen the resolution’s relevance and underscore the need for rights-respecting responses to emerging threats.  

We encourage all delegations to support the draft.

Thank you.

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 7 July 2026.

UK Explanation of Position on the draft resolution on Rohingya Muslims and other minorities in Myanmar. Delivered by UK Chargé d’Affaires ad Interim to Myanmar, Andrew Jackson.

Thank you Mr President, 

The UK would like to thank the OIC for presenting Resolution L.20 on the human rights situation of Rohingya Muslims and other minorities in Myanmar. 

As we have heard repeatedly throughout this Council, including from the High Commissioner and Special Rapporteur, the Rohingya and other minorities in Myanmar continue to suffer from appalling human rights violations and abuses at the hands of the Military and other armed groups.  

The High Commissioner’s latest report highlights the continued deterioration of the situation in Myanmar, including at least 702 civilian deaths during the reporting period, of which 476 resulted from airstrikes. Behind these stark figures are lives lost, families torn apart and communities living in fear every day. The UK condemns the Military’s continued use of violence, which is inflicting immense suffering on civilians and deepening an already devastating humanitarian crisis. 

The Rohingya continue to face persecution, discrimination, statelessness, and restrictions on freedom of movement. Ongoing violence in Rakhine State has further exacerbated their vulnerability, alongside other minority communities, exposing many to sexual and gender-based violence and forcing thousands more to flee their homes in search of safety.

The UK recognises the important role played by Bangladesh in hosting over 1.2 million Rohingya refugees and acknowledges the immense challenges it faces, including pressures on infrastructure and security in the camps. Greater self-reliance for refugees and improved safety and security are vital to supporting the wellbeing of the Rohingya, and in creating the conditions for eventual safe, voluntary, sustainable and dignified returns. 

This resolution rightly maintains the Council’s attention on the plight of Rohingya Muslims and other minorities in Myanmar. We welcome its strong focus on accountability including through ongoing international processes and mechanisms. Ending impunity is essential to breaking cycles of violence and ensuring justice for victims and survivors. 

Mr President, 

While we will join consensus on this resolution, we wish to place on record the UK’s position that though we continue to address human rights violations and abuses, wherever they occur in Myanmar, we must be clear that the military bears primary responsibility for systematic violations against the Rohingya and other civilian populations. 

The situation in Myanmar deserves sustained collective attention and resolve of this Council. The United Kingdom remains committed to working with the OIC and international partners to address the root causes of the crisis, support accountability, and advance the rights and dignity of the Rohingya and all people of Myanmar. 

Thank you.

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 7 July 2026.

UK Explanation of Vote on the draft resolution on the human rights situation in Eritrea. Delivered by UK Human Rights Ambassador, Eleanor Sanders.

Mr President,

The UK remains concerned by the human rights situation in Eritrea. The system of indefinite national service has a suffocating impact on the lives of Eritreans, especially young people, and has contributed to mass emigration including to the UK. It requires urgent reform.  

We welcome areas of progress that have been made in Eritrea; including relating to essential health services and education. In particular, and as recognised in this draft resolution, we are pleased to see the release of some arbitrarily detained persons held for political or religious reasons. We encourage the Eritrean government to extend these releases to the many more that remain arbitrarily detained. 

It is clear that the Special Rapporteur’s efforts to report on the human rights situation in Eritrea continues to be needed. As such, the UK supports the draft resolution on the human rights situation in Eritrea and its outcome to extend the mandate of the Special Rapporteur.

We thank the core group behind this resolution for  constructive and transparent engagement with the Council and support the adoption of this resolution by consensus.

If a vote is called, we will vote YES and encourage others to do the same.

Thank you.

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 6 July 2026.

UK Statement for the Interactive Dialogue on South Sudan. Delivered by the UK’s Human Rights Ambassador, Eleanor Sanders.

Mr Vice President,

We thank the High Commissioner for this report and commend OHCHR’s continued technical assistance in South Sudan.

The report makes clear that the human rights situation continues to deteriorate. Escalating political tensions and intensified hostilities have driven a sharp increase in violence, with civilians continuing to bear the brunt, including through indiscriminate attacks and widespread sexual violence.

All parties must meet their obligations under the Revitalized Agreement and international law and take steps to de-escalate, protect civilians, and prevent further deterioration.

While we note some progress, including legislation on transitional justice, implementation remains far too slow. Continued delays to the Hybrid Court risk entrenching impunity and undermining confidence in the peace process.

We are deeply concerned by restrictions on civic space, including harassment and intimidation of civil society and journalists.

Technical assistance plays an important role, but cannot replace political will. We urge the transitional government to advance accountability, operationalise transitional justice mechanisms, and protect civic space.

South Sudan’s leaders now face a clear choice: translate commitments into action, or risk further instability and suffering for civilians. We urge renewed political engagement, including with regional partners, to put the country back on a credible path towards peace, justice and democratic governance.

Thank you.

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 3 July 2026.

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

Thank you, Mr President.

The United Kingdom thanks the High Commissioner and the Secretary-General for their report. Our thoughts are with all those affected by Russia’s devastating attack on Kyiv this week.

We remain deeply concerned by Russia’s continued aggression against Ukraine and ongoing human rights atrocities in temporarily occupied territories, including Crimea. We condemn Russia’s actions highlighted in the reports, including: restrictions on fundamental freedoms, arbitrary detention, enforced disappearances, torture and ill-treatment, and the persecution of Crimean Tatars and other communities. We are also concerned by the transfer and deportation of Ukrainian civilians and children.

The UK reaffirms its unwavering support for Ukraine’s sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity within its internationally recognised borders, including Crimea. We remain committed to supporting accountability for violations of international law and continue to support international efforts to maintain attention on Crimea, including through the International Crimea Platform.

We welcome continued UN monitoring and reporting, which remain vital for promoting accountability and protecting human rights.

Thank you.

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 3 July 2026.

Coalition Statement for the Urgent Debate on El Obeid. Delivered by Ireland, a member of the Coalition for Atrocity Prevention and Justice for Sudan.

Mr President,

This statement is on behalf of the Coalition for Atrocity Prevention and Justice for Sudan.

The conflict in Sudan continues to devastate the country, resulting in widespread civilian harm, mass displacement, and constraints on humanitarian access and press freedom.

In El Obeid, intensifying drone strikes have killed civilians and damaged critical infrastructure, driving acute shortages. With the start of the rainy season, needs are increasing, while humanitarian personnel face unacceptable attacks. The risk of large-scale atrocities is rising, with 500,000 civilians in grave danger.

Mr President,

We must act with urgency to address the escalating risk of serious human rights violations and abuses in and around El Obeid. Today’s debate and accompanying resolution sends the strongest possible signal that the world is watching. We reiterate our support to the vital work of the UN Independent International Fact-Finding Mission for Sudan.

We urge the Rapid Support Forces to end the siege-like conditions in El Obeid. All parties to the conflict should immediately de-escalate, facilitate safe passage for civilians and guarantee rapid, safe and unhindered humanitarian access.

We call on all States to refrain from harmful external interference, use their influence to call for the protection of civilians, humanitarian personnel, and the prevention of further atrocities, and to support a Sudanese-led path to peace.

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 3 July 2026.

UK Statement for the Urgent Debate on El Obeid. Delivered by the UK’s Human Rights Ambassador, Eleanor Sanders.

Mr President,

We are appalled by the deteriorating situation in El Obeid.

As we have heard repeatedly this morning, escalating drone strikes have killed civilians and destroyed civilian infrastructure. Key supply routes have been hit, along with fuel stations and the electricity grid.

Access to basic services has been cut off for over 500,000 people – and 100,000 already displaced.  

Last year, the world watched in horror as the Rapid Support Forces raped, pillaged, and murdered their way through El Fasher. This cannot be repeated.

As our Foreign Secretary has warned, El Obeid is on the precipice of an atrocity that will deepen the wounds already inflicted on Sudan. This Council must act with urgency to help prevent further harm to civilians.

The UK has led efforts to urge de-escalation and adherence to international law so civilians can leave safely and reach desperately needed aid.

This year, the UK is providing £146 million in aid, including £15 million for local responders, ensuring lifesaving aid is delivered to the frontlines of the conflict.

However, aid alone is insufficient. Ending impunity is essential.

The Fact Finding Mission remains vital in establishing accountability for crimes, including any committed in El Obeid. It must be granted full access across Sudan to carry out its mandate.

The violence must end in Sudan. Civilians must be protected.

Thank you.

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 3 July 2026.

UK Deputy National Security Adviser in Lebanon to reaffirm UK commitment to security and sovereignty.

The UK Deputy National Security Adviser Dame Barbara Woodward concluded a two-day visit to Lebanon (1-2 July), focused on strengthening further cooperation between the UK and Lebanon, supporting regional stability, and reaffirming the UK’s long-standing commitment to Lebanon’s security and sovereignty.

Accompanied by Ambassador Hamish Cowell, Dame Barbara met Speaker Nabih Berri, Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, Deputy Prime Minister Tarek Mitri, and Lebanese Army Commander General Rodolphe Haykal. Discussions centred on the UK’s support for Lebanon’s efforts to extend state authority across all Lebanese territory, strengthen state institutions and a political settlement consistent with UNSCR 1701.  

Dame Barbara reiterated the UK’s strong support for the Government of Lebanon and welcomed recent historic decisions, including the announcement of the trilateral framework agreement between Lebanon Israel and the United States. This agreement will be central to advancing progress towards withdrawal of Israeli forces from Lebanese territory, disarmament of Hizballah and the full deployment of the Lebanese Armed Forces across Lebanese territory. 

The visit highlighted the UK’s readiness to play its part in supporting this diplomatic process including through humanitarian and development aid and as a leading supporter of the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF).  

The UK continues to support the Lebanese Armed Forces – Lebanon’s sole legitimate defender – through border security infrastructure, training, and equipment. Dame Barbara commended LAF’s work securing the Syrian border, managing severe challenges in the South, and maintaining stability during an exceptionally difficult period. 

Dame Barbara Woodward said:  

This visit comes at a pivotal moment as Lebanon and its partners work toward a sovereign and peaceful future. The UK will continue to support diplomatic efforts that deliver lasting peace and security for both Lebanon and Israel. 

Diplomacy is the only viable path to a lasting political settlement leading to Israel’s withdrawal from Lebanon, Hizballah’s disarmament and full LAF deployment across Lebanon.

Ambassador Hamish Cowell said:  

An important visit for Dame Barbara to Lebanon. The UK warmly welcomes the announcement of the trilateral framework agreement between Lebanon, Israel and the United States.    

The UK remains committed to Lebanon’s stability and sovereignty, working closely with Lebanese and international partners to advance peace and protect civilians.