Mr President,
Sweden fully aligns itself with the statement made by Slovenia on behalf of the European Union.
Since this Council began its last session in March, two evolving situations, in Tibet and Zimbabwe, have raised human rights issues which need the close attention of this Council.
In Tibet in March, general violence following demonstrations led to deplorable loss of life. In the course of these events, there were reports of acts of violence by security forces and other agents of the government of China. Additional restrictions were imposed on religious institutions. Individuals were subjected to arbitrary arrest and detention. Interference with Internet service providers further restricted the freedom of expression including the right to information. Large numbers of persons remain in detention, while the denial of equal protection before the law has been reported.
In Zimbabwe following the first round of elections on 29 March, large-scale human rights violations have been reported against persons alleged to have voted for parties in opposition to the government, as well as other persons. These violations have included arbitrary arrest and detention, torture and ill-treatment, interference with the freedom of assembly, interference with the freedom of expression and information, interference with the right to vote, including through physical harassment and other intimidation, and arbitrary deprivation and destruction of property. These violations have continued unabated as we approach the second round of presidential elections on 27 June.
Sooner or later, we in this hall will have to respond to the victims of human rights violations in Tibet and Zimbabwe, to say whether the Human Rights Council has done enough to address their situation? It is our opinion that it should be given more attention by the Council and its mechanisms, including by its relevant special procedures.
Thank you