Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 25 January 2022
346. Deputy Paul Murphy asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the reason his Department did not issue a statement in relation to the brutal repression of an uprising in Kazakhstan which resulted in the reported killing of more than 160 protesters and the arrest of more than 8,000 persons; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3456/22]
View answerI refer the Deputy to reply to Parliamentary Question No. 659 which addressed the situation in Kazakhstan.
As indicated in that statement, I continue to be 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. Ireland supported the 8 January statement of High Representative Josep Borrell Fontelles on the situation in Kazakhstan.
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.
