Ministry Statements & Speeches:
Mr Vice-President,
New Zealand welcomes the Commission’s comprehensive report into violations and abuses of human rights and related crimes in Ukraine and the bravery of the 348 women and 247 men whose evidence assisted in the culmination of this report.
The detailed evidence of violations and atrocities in the context of Russia’s indisputable aggression in Ukraine graphically demonstrates that the Commission of Inquiry’s work comes at a critical time for Ukraine.
We join with others in condemning the human rights situation across Ukraine and in the Russian Federation including the appalling incidents of torture, sexual and gender based violence, and the reports of young children being transferred indefinitely from their families in violation of the rights of the child. The indiscriminate attacks using explosive weapons in populated areas has only exacerbated Ukraine’s deep civilian loss, displacement and suffering.
This must not continue. New Zealand agrees with the Commission that accountability in Ukraine is essential to ensure victims’ access to justice. This is why we are supporting international accountability efforts for Ukraine through the International Criminal Court and International Court of Justice. To this end, the work of the Commission of Inquiry is a vital form of documentation.
What is the Commission’s view on how the international community can best practically support international accountability efforts and justice for human rights abuses in Ukraine?
Thank you.