The Union Association for Human Rights delivered an oral statement under Item 9 at the 57th session of the Human Rights Council. The statement addressed violations linked to racism and racial discrimination committed in the context of non-international armed conflicts, particularly those led by irregular armed groups. It emphasized the urgent need to strengthen civilian protection in these conflicts and activate relevant international mechanisms, while commending the UAE’s efforts in promoting peace and tolerance, as well as its initiatives aimed at ending conflicts and fostering humanitarian values.

Content of the Statement:

• The statement emphasized the importance of international efforts and national practices aimed at combating racism and discrimination, especially in the context of armed conflicts.
• It highlighted the nature of violations committed during irregular conflicts, including:
  • war crimes.
  • racial and sectarian discrimination.
  • persecution based on ethnic or religious identity.
  • grave violations against civilians.
• The statement pointed out that many African regions experience such conflicts, which exacerbate humanitarian crises driven by ethnic or sectarian-based discrimination.
• The statement called on the Council to:
  • Urge all parties involved in non-international armed conflicts, including armed groups and de facto authorities, to respect international law.
  • Work toward ending conflicts and ensuring the protection of civilians from racially motivated practices.
  • Activate relevant international mechanisms to ensure accountability and enforcement.
• The statement commended the UAE’s role in:
  • Promoting peace and tolerance.
  • Launching humanitarian initiatives aimed at ending wars and fostering peaceful coexistence.
  • Reinforcing universal values of tolerance, justice, and equality.

Importance of the statement:

• Shedding light on a gray area in international law: The statement addressed violations occurring in non-international conflicts, which often lack the same level of monitoring and documentation as inter-state wars.
• Linking racial discrimination to internal wars: The statement highlighted how racial discrimination in these contexts is not merely a consequence but also a deliberate tool of conflict, requiring direct international intervention.
• Showcasing the UAE as a responsible global actor: The statement praised the UAE’s diplomatic and humanitarian efforts to end conflicts and promote universal human values, strengthening its reputation as a champion of peace and tolerance in global forums.
• Calling for broader UN mechanisms: The statement urges the activation of all relevant international bodies and mechanisms to address these violations, expanding their scope to include non-state actors.