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Thank you Mr President.
New Zealand expresses its appreciation to the Independent Expert, Mr Alnajjar, for producing an excellent report under very difficult circumstances.
The Independent Expert identifies that virtually all parties to the conflict violated human rights; that the human rights situation has become worse; and that innocent civilians have paid the price.
New Zealand is distressed to see the continuing impacts that a lack of governance and a militarised environment has on the civilian population of Somalia. In particular, the targeting of humanitarian workers by armed groups, the recruitment of child soldiers, lack of education and health services, and gender-based violence and the exploitation of minority women.
New Zealand welcomed the establishment of the AMISOM mission in Somalia as a positive development and step for the future. We would like to join the independent expert in thanking the Governments of Uganda and Burundi for the support they have so far provided to that mission. We also welcome the efforts being made by the Secretary General to prepare for the possible deployment of a UN mission to take over from AMISOM. These are concrete steps of action to address the situation in Somalia, which we hope will foster a more stable environment, respect for international human rights standards, and security for the civilian population.
The report provides an extensive list of constructive recommendations which we hope can provide a basis for tangible progress and future nation-building efforts.
Mr Alnajjar, you recommend that the Somali authorities establish independent human rights institutions. We would be interested to hear your further comment on this recommendation, including your views on the types of assistance required and any progress that may have been made in the establishment of such institutions.
Thank you Mr President.
