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Interactive Dialogue on Libya- Statement by Ireland

Human Rights Council 33rd Session (13-30 September 2016)

Interactive Dialogue on High Commissioner Oral Update on Libya

28 September 2016

Thank you Mr. President

First, Ireland wishes to align itself with the statement of the European Union.

We too, commend the work of SRSG Kobler and his team. We too, would like to reiterate our firm support for the Libyan Political Agreement, and the Government of National Accord as the sole legitimate government of Libya. And we too, want to highlight the urgent need for the restoration of essential services, the provision of humanitarian assistance, and the resumption of oil production. The people of Libya need to see an improvement in their daily lives.

Mr. President,

Ireland expresses its deep concern at the grave and deteriorating human rights situation in Libya. In the vacuum of state authority, armed groups, and in some cases, extremist and terror-linked groups, have been responsible for systematically violating international humanitarian and human rights law. We urge the Government of National Accord to work to its full capacity in filling this vacuum, and bringing together the many factions in its society in an effort to stem and reverse this trend. Ireland is willing to work closely with its EU partners in supporting any efforts of the Government of National Accord to achieve this objective.

Mr. President,

We would like to ask the panellists their views on the effectiveness of civil society groups in impacting significantly upon the human rights situation, and how we can best support them in their efforts.

Thank you.