Nordic statement at UNGA Sixth Committee on Crimes against humanity

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Madame/Mr Chair,

I have the honor to speak on behalf of the five Nordic countries: Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, and my own country, Sweden.

The decision taken by this Committee to move forward with negotiations on a convention on the prevention and punishment of crimes against humanity was a long-awaited and important step. It marks a milestone in the collective efforts of the international community to close a gap in international treaty law. 

A future dedicated convention will not only reinforce accountability at the international level, but also benefit national legislation and criminal jurisdiction, promote inter-state cooperation, and reinforce our shared ability to prevent and punish crimes against humanity. 

These crimes remain among the most serious of international concern. Despite their clear prohibition under international law, civilian populations continue to suffer, while perpetrators often enjoy impunity. We must not allow this to continue. We must honor the memory of those who lost their lives and heed the call of survivors by ensuring accountability for the unthinkable violations of their human rights that crimes against humanity entail.

Madame/Mr Chair,

The Nordic countries remain convinced that the draft articles adopted by the International Law Commission provide a solid and credible basis for the elaboration of the convention.

We welcome the further steps that have been taken towards the convention, in particular through the first session of the Preparatory Committee in January and the submission of written comments and proposals for amendments. We would like to express our appreciation to the Bureau and the Secretariat for facilitating fruitful deliberations in the Working group, enabling us to move forward. 

The Nordic countries have submitted written comments to the Secretariat. The submission includes general comments and proposals of amendments. We have also proposed amendments on some key substantive issues to align the draft articles with developments in international law and to better reflect current realities. Amendments include the recognition of reproductive violence, forced marriage and forced pregnancy as constitutive acts of crimes against humanity. These proposals also reflect the importance of strengthening gender equality and ensuring that the Convention adequately addresses the gendered dimensions of crimes against humanity. To more effectively advance the key goal of prevention, and ensure strengthened implementation, the Nordic countries also propose introducing a provision establishing a treaty mechanism. The proposal is based on existing treaties, including the Convention Against Torture. 

Madame/Mr Chair,

We stand ready to work with others to ensure that the treaty provides a strong basis for the prevention and punishment of crimes against humanity, reflects developments in international law and responds to the stark realities of today.

Looking ahead, the Nordic countries look forward to the second preparatory committee session in 2027, and the Conference of Plenipotentiaries on Prevention and Punishment of Crimes against Humanity in 2028 and 2029. We must make the most of our mandate through inclusive, transparent and constructive engagement. In this spirit, we strongly support the broadest possible meaningful participation of civil society in these meetings. The Nordic countries are mindful that the work leading towards the future Convention originated in academia and civil society. States have much to gain from ensuring that experts, as well as victims and survivors of crimes against humanity, can contribute meaningfully to our discussions.

Madame/Mr Chair,

Our task is clear – to prevent further crimes and ensure that never again will crimes against humanity go unanswered. The Nordic countries are ready to work with all delegations to achieve a strong and universal convention that future generations can rely on. 

I thank you.