Item 3: Interactive Dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the promotion and protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms while countering terrorism

52nd session of the Human Rights Council: Nordic – Baltic Statement, Delivered by Finland, 13 March 2023.

Mr. President,                                 

I have the honour to speak on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries. We thank the Special Rapporteur for the report.

Ensuring the full respect for human rights and the rule of law is crucial in efforts to counter  terrorism. Any measure taken to counter terrorism must comply with international law, including international human rights law, international refugee law and international humanitarian law, and should not unduly restrict civic space. We firmly believe that a human-rights based approach is a prerequisite for combatting terrorism effectively.

We acknowledge the capacity of new technologies to enhance the full realization of human rights.

However, we share the Special Rapporteur’s concern that the misuse of these technologies may have serious negative impacts on the enjoyment of human rights. It is vital to address and mitigate the human rights risks associated with these technologies.

Madam Special Rapporteur, what measures should we take to better assess the human rights implications of new technologies in the context of counter-terrorism?