Geneva, The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, highlighted the dire human rights situation in Ukraine during an interactive dialogue at the Human Rights Council. Türk expressed deep concern over the ongoing conflict and its long-term impact on human rights.
According to Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, Türk reported that since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine 662 days ago, there have been gross violations of international human rights law, serious violations of international humanitarian law, and war crimes, primarily by Russian forces. These include 142 cases of summary execution of civilians, widespread torture and ill-treatment, including sexual violence, enforced disappearances, and failure to protect civilians against attacks.
As of December 4, over 10,000 civilian deaths, including more than 560 children, and 18,500 injuries have been confirmed, with actual numbers likely much higher. The report A/HRC/55/CRP.2, covering events from August 1 to November 30, 2023, documented 2,440 civilian casualties, mostly from explosive weapons with wide area effects.
Türk emphasized the disproportionate impact on older people in frontline areas of Donetsk, Kharkiv, Kherson, and Zaporizhzhia. Russian missile attacks in densely populated residential areas and the extensive presence of mines and explosive material across Ukraine were highlighted as significant threats to civilian lives and rights.
The targeting of grain-storage and transport facilities by Russian missiles, critical for Ukraine’s economy and global food supply, was also noted. Over 1,300 education and health facilities have been damaged or destroyed, affecting children’s education.
Türk expressed concern over arbitrary detention, enforced disappearance, and torture in territories occupied by Russia, including Crimea. He lamented the lack of access to detention facilities in these areas, where at least 100 civilians have died, many showing signs of torture.
The High Commissioner called for accountability for violations and respect for international humanitarian law by both sides. He urged Ukraine to align its laws with international standards, particularly regarding collaboration activities and freedom of religion. Türk also highlighted concerns over nuclear safety at the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant.
In conclusion, Türk reiterated the need for a just peace, urging the Russian Federation to cease its use of force against Ukraine in line with General Assembly Resolution ES-11/1 and the International Court of Justice’s order.