In a resolution passed on Tuesday, the UN Human rights council (UNHCR) voted to extend its international inquiry into human rights abuses in Ukraine. The inquiry which has been ongoing since early 2022 reviews potential breaches in human rights in Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

The purpose that was set out by the original inquiry vote was to “Investigate all alleged violations and abuses of human rights due to the war.” After investigation, the members would document, identify and make recommendations to the UNHCR on human rights breaches. There has already been one expansion of the inquiry to create a specific arm to investigate the Karhkiv area and potential war crimes committed there. Since the beginning of the war, both sides have accused the other of committing atrocities and breaches of human rights. Reports from the Inquiry found that there have been breaches in international human rights from both sides of the conflict.  While most appear to be Russian in origin there are several cases where Ukrainian soldiers have allegedly neglected human rights, including two occasions that could constitute war crimes, according to the Inquiry.

The resolution included a condemnation of Russia for invading and called for the withdrawal of Russian troops from Ukraine. The Resolution will see the Inquiry into human rights continue for another year. It also came with several other conditions, such as requiring an oral update to the Council upon its next meeting on its findings as well as a report to the General Assembly in September. 

The vote passed with a final tally of 28 in favour, two against, and 17 member states abstaining. A concern for many was that China, which has ramped up public support for Russia recently, voted no. This represents a change in position for the traditional Russian ally who abstained from the original vote.