Written answers

Wednesday, 19 January 2022

Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade

Foreign Conflicts

Photo of Mick BarryMick Barry (Cork North Central, Solidarity)
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659. To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he will report on contacts he or his officials have had with the Government of Kazakhstan or civil society organisations in that country in recent weeks; if he will join in condemnation of the shooting dead of peaceful protesters in the country and support the demands for democratic and economic rights in the country; if he has raised the issue at an European Union or United Nations level; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1733/22]

Photo of Simon CoveneySimon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)
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I am deeply concerned by recent developments in Kazakhstan. 164 people were reported to have been killed in violent clashes, and over 12,000 people arrested. It appears that initially peaceful protests at the beginning of the year rapidly escalated into violent clashes between apparently well-organised groups and the authorities. I welcome that calm has now been largely restored.

However, I am particularly concerned at reports that orders to open fire with lethal force were issued. The UN Special Rapporteur on counter-terrorism and human rights has called for an independent, impartial, effective and public investigation to determine the legality of the use of force and to ensure accountability when lethal force was used by security services, law enforcement or the military. Ireland supports this call. Any domestic investigation must consider Kazakhstan's international human rights obligations.

Ireland will use our platforms at the EU and the UN to emphasise the importance of protecting the human rights and fundamental freedoms of Kazakhstan’s people. If people wish to assemble peacefully and express their wish for democratic or economic reforms, that is their right and it must be protected.

I have not been in direct contact with the Government of Kazakhstan or civil society organisations in that country in recent weeks, but my officials and I will use any bilateral opportunities that arise to raise Ireland’s concerns.

The Embassy of Ireland in Moscow remains in contact with a number of Irish citizens resident in Kazakhstan. The Embassy is available to provide consular assistance to any Irish citizens who may require it.

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