Geneva, 13 September 2022
Thank you, Mr President.
Latvia aligns with the statement delivered on behalf of the European Union and would like to make a few additional remarks.
My delegation joins previous speakers in thanking you, Madam Acting High Commissioner, for your oral update.
Latvia shares your concerns regarding the challenges civil society is facing today, including increasingly shrinking civic space. It is unacceptable that some countries, including Russia and Belarus, continue to restrict activities of civil society actors, shut down civil society organisations and to limit their right to freedom of expression, of peaceful assembly and of association.
We are alarmed about the increasing numbers of reprisals against and killings of human rights defenders, including women and indigenous human rights defenders, across the world. Human rights defenders play a key role in holding States accountable for human rights violations, and supporting victims and survivors. It is our duty to ensure that they are able to perform their vital work free from attacks, harassment, intimidation and reprisals.
Madam Acting High Commissioner,
Latvia remains greatly concerned of the deteriorating human rights situation in countries and territories where the Office and other international human rights mechanisms are facing continuous denial of access. We reiterate our call on states to grant full and unimpeded access to your Office, as well as other international human rights mechanisms.
In conclusion, I would like to reiterate my country’s strong and unwavering support to the mandate and independence of your Office.
I thank you!