The Permanent Representative of Italy to the United Nations in Geneva, Ambassador Vincenzo Grassi, delivered a statement today during the Interactive Dialogue with the Fact-Finding Mission (FFM) on Libya in the framework of the 52nd session of the Human Rights Council. First of all, he welcomed the final report presented by the FFM and expressed appreciation for the work done by its members.
Ambassador Grassi restated Italy’s deep concern for the human rights violations and abuses in Libya, as documented by the FFM, including attacks against civilians, arbitrary detention, enforced disappearances, sexual and gender-based violence. He therefore underlined that ensuring accountability and restoring justice represent a key step towards true dialogue and national reconciliation. Furthermore, Italy reaffirmed its support for initiatives aimed at combating trafficking in human beings and assisting migrants and refugees.
“Libya is a key country along the Central Mediterranean route and Italy is committed to its cooperation and dialogue with the Libyan authorities on strengthening migration management and respect for human rights”, the Permanent Representative of Italy stated, commending Libya for promoting a Resolution in order to keep the human rights situation on the agenda of this Council and to enhance national capacities in the field of human rights, to also follow up on the work of the FFM.
Finally, Ambassador Grassi called on Libyan authorities to cooperate with the United Nations human rights system and confirmed Italy’s continued support to Libya to address human rights violations and to strengthen the role of civil society in achieving transitional justice and national unity.
Read the full statement here.
