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Tsahkna in Geneva: we must continue to work tirelessly on the return of deported Ukrainian children

Republic of Estonia - Ministry of Foreign Affairs

28.02.2024

Today 27 February, Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna was in Geneva to launch Estonia's bid for a seat on the UN Human Rights Council and hold bilateral meetings to discuss closer cooperation on improving the state of human rights and on continued support to Ukraine.

In his statement at the 55th high-level session of the UN Human Rights Council, Tsahkna said that advancing human rights, democracy and the rule of law was a priority for Estonia and we could achieve more in this area as a member of the Council. "As a member of the UN Human Rights Council, Estonia would concentrate on the rights of children, human rights online and media freedom," Tsahkna said. "We would do our utmost to stand up for freedom, human dignity and human rights."

The minister said were witnessing a worrying number of conflicts across the globe that all have a negative impact on the state of human rights.

"As a result of Russia's aggression, we are seeing constant brutal attacks on civilian infrastructure in Ukraine and civilian deaths," Tsahkna said, adding that the deportation of children was one of the most horrific in the long list of crimes committed by Russia. "Children should never be used as war trophies. Estonia is tirelessly working on ensuring their safe return to their legal guardians."

Speaking about the situation in the Middle East, Tsahkna said that Israel was entitled to defending itself after the horrendous terror attacks by Hamas but the ongoing war is devastating for civilians in Gaza. "International humanitarian law must be respected in all conflicts," the minister said.

Tsahkna noted that the world must demonstrate its commitment to international law, most importantly by stopping perpetrators and holding them accountable.

At his bilateral meetings with the Foreign Minister of Kazakhstan Murat Nurtleu, with the Depurty Foreign Minister of Argnetina Leopoldo Francisco Sahores and Deputy Foreign Minister of Costa Rica Alejandro Solano, he discussed the need to uphold the UN Charter and support for Ukraine. The meetings also covered opportunities for boosting bilateral relations and advancing cooperation on e-governance and cybersecurity.

His meeting with United Nations Deputy High Commissioner for Human Rights Nada Al-Nashif discussed the possibilities for the improved protection of human rights, and talks with the Director General of the World Intellectual Property Organization Daren Tang covered the role of intellectual property in boosting innovation and economic growth.

In Geneva, the minister also held a reception to mark the 106th anniversary of Estonia's independence, and a side event organised with Costa Rica and Ukraine titled 'Right to education - opportunities and challenges digitalization offers.'