HUMAN RIGHTS COUNCIL ADOPTS RESOLUTION ON SITUATION OF HUMAN RIGHTS IN UKRAINE STEMMING FROM THE RUSSIAN AGGRESSION 

 

The 49th Session of the Human Rights Council (HRC) saw the adoption of the resolution titled “Situation of human rights in Ukraine stemming from the Russian aggression” at the end of the Urgent Debate held on 3 and 4 March 2022.

As a member of the HRC, Malaysia had earlier voted in favour of the convening of the Urgent Debate, alongside 28 other Council members.

The resolution was adopted with 32 affirmative votes; 2 against and 13 abstentions. Malaysia’s decision to vote in favour of the resolution is guided by its strong commitment to the principles enshrined under the United Nations (UN) Charter, namely sovereignty and territorial integrity. Malaysia is also seriously concerned over the escalation of the conflict which threatens to turn into a humanitarian situation.

Following the adoption, Malaysia strongly urges all parties to urgently de-escalate hostilities to prevent further loss of innocent lives and devastation. Malaysia calls on all parties to exercise restraint, pursue dialogue and immediately explore all possible means to resolve the dispute peacefully. This must be done in accordance with the UN Charter and international law including respecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of states.

Malaysia further calls for immediate, safe, and unhindered humanitarian access, including across conflict lines, to ensure that humanitarian assistance reaches all those in need, particularly those in vulnerable situations.

Malaysia had played a constructive role in negotiating the resolution. Likewise, Malaysia will continue to play an objective and impartial role in the endeavour to foster dialogue and reconciliation. To this end, Malaysia stands ready to work with all parties towards a peaceful and amicable solution to the conflict.

 

 

PUTRAJAYA

5 March 2022