Official visit to Berne by the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Ms Navanethem Pillay

As part of the annual consultations between Switzerland and the High Commission for Human Rights, Ms Pillay met Federal Councillor Didier Burkhalter, Secretary of State Yves Rossier and several members of the foreign policy commissions of the Swiss Parliament. 

The situation in Syria was among the topics discussed. Ms Pillay and Mr Burkhalter reiterated their concern about the violence that is claiming civilian victims. As for the possibility that crimes against humanity have been committed, they said that it is fundamental for enquiries to be conducted with a view to prosecuting all the presumed perpetrators of these violations. They repeated that it is important for all points in the plan presented by special envoy Kofi Annan to be implemented immediately by all parties, so that the investigation mission can fulfil its mandate as set out in the 19th special session of the Human Rights Council and that the Security Council should refer the situation to the International Criminal Court.  

During the High Commissioner's visit, Switzerland confirmed its ongoing support for preserving the autonomy of the High Commission. Switzerland also advocated that efficient and independent bodies supervise the UN Human Rights Convention. 

The mandate of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, Ms Pillay, was renewed for two years by the UN General Assembly on 24 May 2012. The assembly of 193 countries approved this extension unanimously by acclamation, ten days after UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon expressed his hope that she would remain in this post.  

Switzerland welcomed this decision and reaffirmed its support for Ms Pillay in carrying out her mandate, which she does in an independent, committed and determined manner.  

The UN High Commission for Human Rights is an important partner for Switzerland and its human rights policy. Switzerland is one of the principal donors to the High Commission (CHF 2.4 million in 2011). This financial aid helps the High Commission to achieve its needs and targets, in particular on the ground. The technical cooperation activities of the High Commission in the various countries in which it operates aim in particular to identify and respond to the challenges that relate to human rights, to support national human rights institutions and academic, research and civil society organizations.

Further information:

Human rights in the context of the United Nations

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