Mr President,
Sweden aligns herself with the statement made by the Czech Republic on behalf of the European Union.
Sweden thanks the Representative of the Secretary-General, Prof. Walter Kälin, and commends him for his report, which outlines several important areas of the human rights of internally displaced persons.
The acute humanitarian crisis in Sri Lanka and the serious situation for the about 200 000 persons displaced in Vanni is of grave concern to us. We note that the report corroborates these concerns, and are pleased that Prof. Kälin has a constructive dialogue with the Government of Sri Lanka.
In the report, four universal elements are cited as essential in order to enable the internally displaced to return to normal life and for the reconstruction of a post-conflict country. The second of these is to ensure the safety of returnees or relocated persons. How do you perceive this to be dealt with in the case of Sri Lanka, and is this something you intend to bring up in your dialogue with the Government of Sri Lanka?
In your report, you call on Member States to allow the displaced a voice in peace processes. In light of a future possible peace process in Sri Lanka, how could this be ensured?
We also note with satisfaction the other important areas of work outlined in the report where the Representative has succeeded in shedding light on the conditions of the 1 per cent of the world’s population which are internally displaced. Among these we especially noted the work on the Guiding Principles on Internal Displacement, as well as the issue of persons displaced as an effect of natural disasters.
Thank you, Mr President