Item 10: Interactive Dialogue on High Commissioner’s Oral Report on Ukraine, Statement by Finland Delivered by Ambassador Kirsti Kauppi, Permanent Representative of Finland.

49th session of the UN Human Rights Council, 29th March 2022

Finland aligns itself with the EU statement.

We thank the High Commissioner for the latest update.

Finland reiterates its strong condemnation of Russia’s unprovoked invasion of Ukraine. It is a flagrant violation of international law and the UN Charter. We also condemn the involvement of Belarus in this aggression.

Finland's support for Ukraine's independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity remains firm. We stand in full solidarity with Ukraine and its people.

Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has devastating consequences on the civilian population. Russia bears responsibility of its attacks on civilian targets, including hospitals, residential areas and schools. Finland urges Russia to cease its military aggression immediately and unconditionally and to adhere to its international commitments and obligations. Those responsible for human rights violations and abuses as well as violations of international humanitarian law must be brought to justice.

There is no justification for Russia’s aggression or for the human rights violations committed during the previous 8 years in eastern Ukraine and in Crimea, including violations by Russia against Crimean Tatars and Ukrainians.

What are your recommendations to ensure accountability for violations of human rights and humanitarian law in the context of the aggression?

Thank you.