At 14 weeks, the 52nd session of the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva was the longest session since the creation of the Council. 43 resolutions on country situations, including Myanmar, South Sudan, Nicaragua, Mali, Libya, the People's Republic of Korea or Belarus, as well as on various topics, including freedom of belief or the new right to a clean, healthy and sustainable environment, were considered. The Independent International Commission of Inquiry on Ukraine also presented its report. The body found evidence that shows that Russian authorities have committed a wide range of violations of international human rights law and international humanitarian law, many of which amount to war crimes. In addition, attacks by Russian armed forces on Ukraine’s energy-related infrastructure and the use of torture by Russian authorities may amount to crimes against humanity. The extension of the commission for another year was adopted with 28 votes in favour, 2 against and 19 abstentions, after China and Eritrea called for a vote and voted against.
