Russia’s violations of international law: A global concern, UK statement to the OSCE

Delivered on October 9, 2024, in Vienna, this speech marked the 30th anniversary of the OSCE’s Code of Conduct on Politico-Military Aspects of Security. Narayan underscored the UK’s commitment to upholding the OSCE's principles and stressed that Russia's disregard for international norms poses a significant threat not only to Ukraine but to global security.

Russia’s Ongoing Breaches of International Law

Narayan’s statement reflected deep concerns about Russia’s continuous violations of international law, as documented by several independent and internationally recognised bodies, including the UN. He emphasised that Russia’s actions in Ukraine, Georgia, and Moldova—such as stationing armed forces without consent and disregarding international sovereignty—breach several OSCE norms.

The UK’s focus on paragraphs 30, 31, and 34 of the Code of Conduct was central to Narayan's argument. These provisions compel states to ensure that their military and security forces adhere to international law, particularly international humanitarian law, and hold them accountable when they do not. Narayan provided compelling evidence of Russia's violations in three key areas: attacks on critical civilian infrastructure, conflict-related sexual violence, and the inhumane treatment of prisoners of war.

Attacks on Civilian Infrastructure

One of the most pressing issues raised was the systematic targeting of Ukraine’s civilian infrastructure, particularly its electricity network, by Russian armed forces. These attacks, which began in March 2024, have had devastating impacts on the civilian population, especially as winter approaches. According to the UN Human Rights Monitoring Mission, these large-scale, coordinated strikes are of a "widespread and systematic nature" and have inflicted extensive hardship on the Ukrainian people.

Narayan highlighted the legal implications of these strikes, reminding Russia that under international humanitarian law, indiscriminate attacks that disproportionately affect civilians or destroy objects essential for civilian survival are prohibited. "As the Russian Federation knows, international humanitarian law prohibits indiscriminate attacks, which disproportionately kill civilians, and which destroy objects indispensable to the survival of civilians," he stated.

Conflict-Related Sexual Violence

Narayan also condemned the war crimes related to sexual violence committed by Russian forces in Ukraine. Citing the UN Independent International Commission of Inquiry on Ukraine, he revealed that the war crime of rape, along with other forms of sexual violence, had been confirmed. These acts not only violate international law but also amount to torture.

“These heinous crimes must end,” Narayan said. He called for independent investigations and highlighted the need for justice for the victims, stating that “the victims deserve justice, and we will keep working tirelessly with our international partners to this end."