28/04/2022 15:12

Commissioner: It is necessary to introduce a single and effective mechanism for preventing ecocide in Ukraine

As a result of the military actions of the russian aggressor, more than 100 cases of ecocide have already been recorded in Ukraine

According to Article 441 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine, an ecocide is the mass destruction of flora and fauna, poisoning of the atmosphere or water resources, as well as other acts that may cause an ecological catastrophe.

The most dangerous for the environment are Russia's attacks on Ukrainian nuclear power plants, infrastructure and industrial facilities, reserves and ecosystems, water resources.

So far, more than 100 cases of ecocide and more than 1,200 cases of negative impact on the environment have been recorded (shell rupture, forest burning, chemical pollution, etc.).

The deliberate destruction of nature and environmental pollution as a result of the military actions of the russian aggressor will have long-term consequences not only for Ukraine but also for many countries around the world.

Ecocide entails the disappearance of flora, extinction of fauna, poisoning of the atmosphere or water resources.  Since its effect may extend to a large number of states, it is necessary to introduce a single and effective mechanism to combat this crime.

Russia's actions in Ukraine violate not only national but also international law and international customs.  This is primarily a violation of the UN Charter, as well as Part 3 of Article 38 of the Protocol to the Geneva Convention, which prohibits the use of methods or means of warfare that are intended to cause or are expected to cause widespread, long-term and serious damage to the environment.

I call on the UN Commission for Investigation Human Rights Violations during the Russian Invasion of Ukraine to take into account these facts of human rights violations in Ukraine.