Human Rights Council – 60th Session
Explanation of vote on draft resolution L.23
Situation of human rights in the Russian Federation
Statement by Iceland
7 October 2025

Mr. President,

We thank the core group for presenting this important resolution and for conducting an inclusive negotiation process on the draft text. Iceland welcomes the updates made to the text this year, especially the focus on the persecution of lawyers.

The human rights situation in the Russian Federation remains gravely concerning. The lack of judicial independence has eliminated any real prospect of domestic accountability. Lawyers defending individuals in politically motivated cases face harassment, disbarment, and even prosecution simply for doing their jobs. This erosion of judicial independence not only silences dissent but also undermines the essential work of civil society organizations and human rights defenders.

For victims, avenues of justice are nearly closed. With no effective remedies at the national level, and following Russia’s withdrawal from the European Court of Human Rights, the Special Rapporteur’s mandate is one of the very few remaining mechanisms through which victims can have their voices heard. The mandate is therefore not only vital for independent monitoring but also a lifeline for engagement, protection, and documentation.

Iceland has long supported this resolution and firmly believes the Council must remain engaged. We strongly support the renewal of the mandate of the Special Rapporteur and will vote YES on the resolution and urge all members to do the same.

Thank you.