HRC63 – Iceland GC – A/HRC/63/L.35: Human Rights and Transitional Justice

Human Rights Council – 63rd session
General Comment during adoption of draft resolution A/HRC/63/L.35
Human Rights and Transitional Justice
Statement by Iceland
7 October 2026

President,
Iceland thanks the core group for presenting draft resolution L.35 and for their work on this important text.

Transitional justice rests on a simple truth, which is that societies cannot build lasting peace on unaddressed grievances over atrocities. Iceland therefore welcomes the resolution’s continued emphasis on comprehensive, victim-centred and nationally owned processes, as well the full, equal and meaningful participation of women, young people, victims’ associations and civil society.

We particularly welcome the new elements on documentation and on denial. Carefully preserved records of violations are foundational elements of accountability. Attempts to deny or justify grave crimes risk undermining both reconciliation and prevention.

The resolution’s attention to new technologies is another important element, as technology offers real promise when it comes to the search for missing persons, provided that the safety, privacy and dignity of victims and witnesses are protected.

Iceland supports draft resolution L.35 and encourages the Council to adopt it by consensus.

I thank you.