UN Human Rights Council Session: A Crucial Decision on Eritrea

Nairobi, Kenya (Horn Observer) – As the 59th session of the UN Human Rights Council (HRC) approaches, a significant decision looms between July 4 and 7. The session plans to deliberate on several draft resolutions, including whether to extend the critical mandate of the Special Rapporteur on Eritrea. The prospect evokes deep contemplation. Should one mandate end while another persists?

Amnesty International’s Regional Director for East and Southern Africa, Tigere Chagutah, urges, “The Special Rapporteur’s work in Eritrea is far from finished. Member states must extend this mandate and confront ongoing human rights violations and the alarming lack of accountability for past abuses.”

His words linger, echoing a call for justice. Meanwhile, the European Union, leading this resolution, should consider an invigorated approach. Strengthening the mandate could be pivotal. Almost a decade has elapsed since the Commission of Inquiry on Human Rights in Eritrea warned of possible crimes against humanity. Can silence still be an option?

Eritrea, however, proposes a counter-resolution aiming to terminate the Special Rapporteur’s mandate. Is this a genuine effort or a subtle attempt to dismantle international human rights mechanisms? Chagutah remarks, “Eritrea’s resolution is a cynical attempt to undermine the UN human rights system. HRC member states should reject this open defiance.”

Insights from the Past

The mandate in question was born out of a vision for justice. Established by the UN Human Rights Council in 2012, it was bolstered by a two-year Commission of Inquiry from 2014 to 2016. Since its inception, Djibouti and Somalia have been staunch supporters, leading resolutions and nurturing a hope for Eritrea’s compliance.

On June 16, the Special Rapporteur addressed the HRC, emphasizing a painful truth: “Nearly a decade has passed since we concluded that crimes against humanity may have been committed under widespread and systematic violations. Yet, there’s been no meaningful progress.” His words weigh heavily, a stark reminder of time slipping by while accountability remains elusive.

Following this poignant plea, Eritrea revealed its intent to challenge the annual EU-led resolution. The country intends to propose its own, advocating for the termination of the Special Rapporteur’s mandate. This move invites reflection on accountability and governance. Should Eritrea face scrutiny or redefine its global image?

A Call for Hope and Action

In the shadows of these proceedings, ordinary Eritreans continue their daily struggles. Reflecting on past UN sessions, an observer recalled a conversation with a fellow delegate, “He had this glimmer of hope. The Rapporteur’s reports meant the world outside hadn’t forgotten them.” Isn’t it these glimmers that fuel the fight for human rights?

As states prepare to vote, one must wonder: What values shall guide their decisions? Shall they courageously extend the Rapporteur’s mandate, reinforcing their commitment to global justice? Or will they choose silence?

The upcoming session provides an opportunity, a platform to amplify justice and reinforce global human rights. Let these decisions echo wisdom from the past, and envision a future where accountability thrives over impunity.