The UN office in Uzbekistan was informed that 156 citizens of Uzbekistan, mostly women and children, were returned from Syria to Uzbekistan. The UN Office in Uzbekistan said they are ready to work with the Government of Uzbekistan to ensure the fulfillment of state obligations under International Human Rights Law, International Humanitarian Law, International Refugee Law and several provisions of the Security Council resolutions.
Thousands of women and children associated with groups in the Middle East that the UN considers to be terrorist are very vulnerable communities, and children, in particular, are among the most vulnerable children in the world. The UN determines that it is essential to ensure the implementation of decisions for the appropriate and organized return of these people in accordance with the principle of non-refoulement and international human rights obligations in the countries of origin of these people.
“The standards that Member States must adhere to include ensuring that all policies and actions for children are based on the interests of the child. This includes ensuring their privacy and confidentiality. I urge the media in Uzbekistan not to publish photos and videos of these very vulnerable children.
Also in this matter, priority should be given to taking care of the family, detention should be absolutely the last option and carried out only for the shortest possible time. Providing psychological assistance and a clear plan for rehabilitation and reintegration are also a top priority. Many of these children witnessed horrific scenes of violence, were subjected to violations of human rights and all kinds of harassment.
For women associated with groups that the UN identifies as terrorist, we also need to provide adequate social support services for mental health, reintegration, and due process where the government suspects that a criminal investigation may be required. This includes interrogations that take into account the gender aspect, ensuring the presumption of innocence, as well as the importance of a fair trial for all those who may be suspected of involvement in criminal acts.
The third principle I would like to emphasize is the right to citizenship and legal identity. Many of those who are currently in Iraq and Syria, especially children, may not have identity or citizenship documents. Member States must ensure that this is considered as a priority.
We want to assure that the UN team in Uzbekistan is ready to enter into dialogue with all the ministries and departments involved in this process in order to ensure compliance with international standards, which I mentioned. We consider it important to ensure maximum respect for the rights of citizens who are in a vulnerable position, so that these women and, in particular, children can safely reintegrate into their families, into their communities, into their country,” Helena Fraser UN Resident Coordinator for the Republic of Uzbekistan said.
