Commissioner for Human Rights

In defense of the rights of Ukrainian citizens

The attack on the sovereign state of Ukraine constitutes a violation of Article 1(1) of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. The covenant clearly states that all peoples have the right of self-determination. By virtue of that right they freely determine their political status and freely pursue their economic, social and cultural development. 

The use of armed force inevitably leads to the violation of fundamental human rights, including the right to life and human dignity. As Polish Commissioner for Human Rights I hereby express, together with my colleagues, our profound solidarity with the Ukrainian citizens whose fundamental rights and freedoms have been violated or threatened as a result of Russia's military action. 

I have already written a letter to the Ukrainian Parliament Commissioner for Human Rights Lyudmila Denisova pledging full cooperation between our offices in the face of growing threats, and the provision of all assistance. I am calling on all European and international human rights institutions to show engagement and decisive response in this regard. My call is also addressed to those individuals, organisations and institutions in Russia that care about the protection of human rights. 

As a public authority we pay utmost attention to the protection of the rights of migrants. All those who find themselves on the territory of our country can count on our support within the framework of the binding laws and international conventions. This applies to both current and potential migrants. We will make use of all legal means and competences available to us to protect their dignity and ensure their adequate treatment under all circumstances. I look forward to close cooperation in this regard with other institutions and services in our country and in the EU. 

I think it will be an expression of the attitude of many people to emphasise that, apart from the principal actions of the Commissioner’s office, we also declare our personal commitment and opposition to the aggression against our neighbouring society. The right to life and dignity is of the greatest value to us and cannot be divided by borders. In this sense, we are all Ukrainians today. 

Marcin Wiącek
Commissioner for Human Rights