Mr. President,

The Kingdom of the Netherlands aligns itself with the EU statement.

One year after Russia started its war of aggression against Ukraine, images of atrocities continue to reach us. The report of the COI shows clear evidence that children have been deported to Russia and forcibly transferred to territories temporarily occupied by Russian forces.

These practices constitute crimes under international law, and expose Ukrainian children to numerous human rights violations and abuses. The Kingdom of the Netherlands is deeply worried for those children and committed to returning Ukrainian children to their homeland, their family and loved-ones. 

We unconditionally support the essential work of the Commission of Inquiry on Ukraine as well as the renewal of its mandate. As, the collection, preservation and analysis of evidence remains paramount to achieve accountability. We cannot allow impunity to prevail.

The Netherlands also supports the ICC in its important task to fight impunity for war crimes and crimes against humanity.

Commissioners,

In light of the forcible transfers and deportations of Ukrainian children by Russia, could you elaborate further on the opportunities for the CoI to independently investigate and document violations of IHL and violations and abuses of the rights of the child, relating to these acts?

Thank you.