HRC49 - EU Intervention: Interactive Dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the situation of Human Rights Defenders

Mr. President,

The EU thanks the Special Rapporteur, Ms. Lawlor, for her report on the situation of human rights defenders, and reaffirms its support to her mandate.

Special Rapporteur, your mandate is vital in highlighting the myriad of human rights violations and abuses perpetrated against human rights defenders globally, many of which take place in an environment of impunity. We are appalled by reports of killings of human rights defenders, and the abhorrent gender-based attacks used against women human rights defenders, including sextorsion.

The EU values the brave work of whistle-blowers, human rights defenders, journalists and others working to expose and combat corruption. We are deeply concerned by the findings in your report, including the use of intimidation and reprisal tactics against human rights defenders working against corruption. The use of judicial harassment, physical and cyber surveillance, cyber-attacks and smear campaigns is unacceptable and must be wholly rejected by the international community.

Recognising the contribution of whistle-blowers and human rights defenders to protecting an open and transparent society, in 2019, the EU adopted rules to guarantee a high level of protection for whistle-blowers. These rules promote the establishment of safe reporting channels and protection from retaliation for whistle-blowers. Globally, the EU takes a human rights-based approach to its external anti-corruption support, which seeks to improve transparency and prevent impunity, as well as to ensure a safe and enabling environment for civil society.

Special Rapporteur, we echo your recommendations that States must ensure human rights defenders working against corruption are adequately protected and that the value of their work is publicly recognised. The European Union is committed to working with your mandate to sharpen preventive and reactive measures to protect all human rights defenders, including those working against corruption.

Special Rapporteur, how can the international community best support and protect defenders working against corruption and prevent retaliation against them?

Thank you.