Sweden in the UN: International law and human rights

Respect for the UN Charter is fundamental to a rules-based international order. Sweden’s support for the UN, the UN Charter and a rules-based international order is manifested in our immense support to Ukraine, which is the Government’s foremost foreign and development assistance priority for the coming years. A world where human rights, democracy and the rule of law are respected and safeguarded is not only beneficial for the world at large, but also for Sweden’s security, prosperity and democratic form of governance. Sweden’s security builds upon rules-based relations with the rest of the world and resolution of disputes by peaceful means. Since the UN Charter’s adoption 80 years ago, no internationally recognised State has been lost to war. Today, the principle that borders should not be redrawn by military force is a fundamental pillar of what we call the rules-based international order – and an existential issue for us.

Sweden is steadfast in its adherence to the principle of consistently standing up for international law and safeguarding the integrity and independence of international courts, such as the International Court of Justice and the International Criminal Court, when many other actors do not. Holding those who violate international law accountable is crucial to maintaining the rules-based international order.

The UN Human Rights Council (UNHRC) is one of the UN bodies that is responsible for the organisation’s work to protect human rights. Sweden participates in the Council’s work, which plays an important role in promoting human rights and ensuring accountability. This includes Sweden’s support for the establishment of an International Commission of Inquiry on Ukraine. We emphasise the importance of civil society’s participation in the Council’s work.

In Sweden’s view, the States elected as members of the Council should respect human rights and cooperate with the Council.