The ICJ today called on the UN Human Rights Council to establish a strong Commission of Inquiry to counter impunity for crimes under international law and violations of human rights and international humanitarian law following the agression of the Russian Federation against Ukraine.
The oral statement reads as follows:
“Mr President,
The International Commission of Jurists condemns the aggression of the Russian Federation against Ukraine, in violation of the UN Charter, and the terrible consequences which this has already had for human rights.
Russia must immediately end its hostilities and occupation, and withdraw its forces from the territory of Ukraine.
There is already evidence that Russian forces have targeted civilians and civilian objects, and have bombed indiscriminately, including through the use of cluster munitions. Many civilians have been displaced or injured; many others have been deprived of their right to life, in violation of Russia’s international human rights and international humanitarian law obligations. It is likely that some of these actions amount to war crimes.
These actions merit the strongest possible response available to this Council. In particular, the Council must use all its powers to ensure accountability for any crimes under international law, including war crimes and crimes against humanity, committed during the conflict and occupation.
The ICJ therefore urges this Council to counter impunity by creating a Commission of Inquiry as proposed in the draft Resolution. The Commission must be accorded all necessary powers and resources to document and analyse crimes under international law and violations of human rights and international humanitarian law related to the conflict.
I thank you.”
Contact:
Massimo Frigo, ICJ UN Representative, e: massimo.frigo(a)icj.org, t: +41797499949