Another success for Switzerland in efforts to abolish the death penalty

Universal abolition of the death penalty is one of the priorities of Swiss diplomacy. The Federal Constitution prohibits capital punishment, which is incompatible with respect for human rights. One of the main lines of action is to strengthen the international legal framework. In this context in particular, the resolution adopted by the Human Rights Council (HRC) represents a significant achievement. Switzerland strove to ensure that the text recognised the specific discrimination affecting women sentenced to death and the fact that persons from socioeconomically disadvantaged backgrounds or belonging to minorities are disproportionately likely to face the death penalty. Achieving the abolition of the death penalty is a long-term undertaking that has yielded results: the number of countries that have abolished capital punishment has risen from 80 in 2003 to 117 currently.

Transitional justice

In addition to adopting a resolution on the death penalty, the 60th session of the HRC also saw progress in other areas. A decision was taken to establish a mechanism in Afghanistan for collecting, preserving, analysing and processing evidence of international crimes and serious violations of international law, including against women and girls. The investigative mechanism, which will work with international courts and tribunals, will increase victims' chances of accessing justice and potentially obtaining redress. Dealing with the past and ending impunity, which are essential to resolving conflicts over the long term and promoting democracy, are further priorities for Switzerland.

Freedom of expression online

The HRC has always sought to strike a balance between freedom of expression, the prohibition of hate speech and the right of freedom of religion or belief. Switzerland contributed to the debate by organising an event on combating online hate speech while avoiding excessive censorship, and on roles and responsibilities in respect of human rights violations in the digital space. The interest shown in the event demonstrates once again the relevance and topical importance of this issue.

Finally, the 60th session of the HRC was the final session chaired by Ambassador Jürg Lauber. Mr Lauber has been effective in managing resources in the context of increasing financial pressures on the UN and has contributed to streamlining the HRC's work.

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