Rédaction Africa Links 24 with TesfaNews
Published on 2024-03-15 18:21:44
Eritrea’s Response to the UN Assistant Secretary-General for Human Rights
Eritrea has firmly rejected the statement made by Ms. Ilze Brands Kehris, the UN Assistant Secretary-General for Human Rights, during the Enhanced Interactive Dialogue held at the 55th Session of the UN Human Rights Council. This response comes at a time when the global community is advocating for fairness and justice within international institutions, particularly the UN Human Rights Council, which is addressing issues of selectivity and double standards.
On February 28, 2024, Ms. Ilze Brands Kehris delivered a statement to the Human Rights Council that echoed unsubstantiated allegations against Eritrea, drawing from reports that Eritrea has consistently refuted. The Assistant Secretary-General portrayed Eritrea as a lawless country with a lack of rule of law and independent judiciary, overlooking the country’s efforts to maintain accountability mechanisms.
Furthermore, Ms. Ilze Brands Kehris made baseless accusations against Eritrea’s National Service without consideration of the government’s policies and rationale. She also referenced religious persecution in Eritrea, ignoring the country’s track record of religious tolerance in a region often marred by religious conflict. Additionally, she regurgitated misinformation about Eritrean troops in the Tigray Region, further perpetuating falsehoods.
It is evident that the intention behind Ms. Kehris’ statement was to tarnish Eritrea’s image and propagate a negative narrative against the country, its leadership, and its people. The statement lacked factual accuracy and failed to acknowledge the realities on the ground, which could have been verified by UN officials in Eritrea or through responses from the Eritrean government.
The Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) was criticized for joining what appears to be a campaign against Eritrea based on unsubstantiated claims, undermining the office’s objectives outlined in Resolution 48/141. This selective targeting of nations only serves to reinforce concerns about the UN Human Rights Council’s credibility and impartiality.
Eritrea has consistently rejected politically motivated mandates, such as the establishment of the Special Rapporteur on the human rights situation in Eritrea, which were not based on impartial fact-finding processes. The country has called for an end to such mandates and for the Council to prioritize genuine cooperation with states in promoting and protecting human rights.
Eritrea stands ready to engage with all UN entities in a constructive and meaningful manner to address human rights issues. It is crucial for the UN Human Rights Council to uphold credibility and effectiveness in advancing human rights globally, free from geopolitical influences. Genuine cooperation and dialogue based on mutual priorities are essential for promoting human rights and fostering understanding among nations.
In conclusion, Eritrea remains steadfast in its commitment to upholding human rights principles and fostering cooperation with international entities. The country calls for a more balanced and objective approach to addressing human rights issues globally.
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