PROTRACTED CONFLICTS IN THE GUAM AREA AND THEIR IMPLICATIONS FOR INTERNATIONAL PEACE, SECURITY AND DEVELOPMENT
[Item 32]
4 June 2024
As delivered by H.E. Mr James Larsen, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Australia to the United Nations, on behalf of CANZ
Mr President,
I am pleased to deliver this statement on behalf of Canada, Australia, and New Zealand about Georgia’s resolution on the Status of internally displaced persons and refugees from Abkhazia , Georgia and the Tskhinvali region/South Ossetia, Georgia.
CANZ is pleased to cosponsor this resolution. We state unequivocally that we support Georgia’s independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity within its internationally recognised borders.
Globally, CANZ recognises the right of displaced people to a safe, voluntary, dignified, and unhindered return to their homes, in accordance with international law.
This resolution is important as it addresses a global humanitarian and human rights challenge. We encourage widespread support for this resolution.
In Georgia itself, CANZ considers that forced demographic changes are unacceptable. We support the rights of those people displaced from Abkhazia and the Tskhinvali region/South Ossetia to return to their homes.
CANZ is concerned that international human rights organisations are denied access to Abkhazia and South Ossetia. We call on all parties to ensure entry for these organisations and their access to people in need.
CANZ is also concerned by reports of deterioration of the observation of human rights in these two regions, including the right to freedom of expression, mistreatment of prisoners, and impunity for past abuses.
Finally, CANZ calls out Russia for its role in creating instability in Georgia. This is part of a trend of Russia’s repeated aggression against its neighbours, including its illegal and immoral invasion of Ukraine, which CANZ categorically condemns.
CANZ are committed to a world in which no country dominates, and no country is dominated.
Thank you.