On Thursday, the United Nations General Assembly adopted a resolution to suspend the rights of membership of the Russian Federation in the Human Rights Council. The resolution, which was adopted by a very clear margin, expresses grave concerns at the ongoing human rights and humanitarian crisis in Ukraine, particularly at the reports of gross and systematic violations of human rights and of international humanitarian law by the Russian Federation.

This suspension is necessary to uphold the integrity of the Human Rights Council. The decision reinforces the authority of the UN General Assembly and demonstrates the readiness of the international community to act. This is only the second time since the establishment of the UN Human Rights Council in 2006 that a member´s rights have been suspended.

The scale and gravity of Russia’s violations of international human rights law and international humanitarian law call for a strong and united international response. The latest vote in the UN General Assembly shows the clear determination of the international community to hold Russia accountable. Moreover, it is a powerful demonstration of solidarity with the people of Ukraine and all other people affected by Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine.

It is time for the Russian Government to listen to the voice of the UN General Assembly and appeals from the UN Secretary General and people all over the world to stop this war and bring an end to the senseless human suffering immediately.