NCIAVHR Meets with High-Level Netherlands Delegation in Aden

Aden | June 4, 2024

The National Commission to Investigate Alleged Violations of Human Rights (NCIAVHR) met with a high-level delegation from the Netherlands Ministry of Foreign Affairs at its office in the interim capital, Aden.

The meeting, attended by Mark Geertsen, the Head of Middle East and North Africa Affairs at the Netherlands Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Netherlands Ambassador to Yemen, Janet Alberda, and political attaché Tessa Schouls, aimed to discuss the human rights situation in Yemen and the Commission’s efforts to reach victims and overcome challenges in monitoring and investigation.

At the outset of the meeting, the Chairman of the Commission, Judge Ahmed Al-Maflahi, welcomed the Netherlands delegation. Mr. Al-Maflahi noted that the visit signifies the interest of the Netherlands and other concerned countries in the Commission’s work, which is focused on justice, protection of rights, and building a sustainable peace grounded in human rights.

Judge Al-Maflahi provided an overview of the Commission’s current activities in investigating violations and maintaining close contact with victims, especially given the increased violations due to breaches of the humanitarian truce and the tightening of civil and socio-economic freedoms.

Commission members Judge Sabah Al-Alwani and Judge Ishraq Al-Maqtari presented the Commission’s fieldwork methodologies for gathering information, evidence, testimonies, and all relevant data. They emphasized that the Commission relies on international and national investigation standards to ensure accountability, justice, reparations, and their use in the transitional phase and peacebuilding.

Mr. Mark Geertsen commended the continuous and significant work of the Commission despite the challenging circumstances faced in investigating violations. Mr. Geertsen expressed high regard for the efforts of field monitors in reaching victims across Yemen and assured that the Netherlands Ministry of Foreign Affairs is keen on following this important work and contributing to overcoming its challenges.

The meeting was also attended by Mr. Jawad Azzaoui from the Netherlands Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Mr. Mashdal Omar, Secretary-General of the Commission.