In response to media queries, the MFA Spokesperson said:
“Singapore abstained from the vote as we await the findings of the Independent International Commission of Inquiry investigating alleged violations of human rights and international humanitarian law in Ukraine.
The Commission was mandated by Human Rights Council (HRC) Resolution 49/1 on the “Situation of human rights in Ukraine stemming from the Russian aggression”, which was adopted on 4 March 2022. Singapore was a co-sponsor of this HRC resolution. Singapore is gravely concerned and distressed by the reports and images from Bucha and other Ukrainian towns of high civilian casualties and the destruction of civilian infrastructure. We strongly condemn any violations of human rights and international humanitarian law, and there must be accountability. We hence urge all parties to cooperate with the Commission, and allow it full and unhindered access so that it can gather evidence and conduct its work.
We reiterate our full support for the sovereignty, political independence, and territorial integrity of Ukraine. Singapore’s position on this has been clear and consistent from the beginning of this conflict. Our abstention on this particular resolution is consistent with our longstanding and steadfast support for the rules-based multilateral system and the due application of its mechanisms.
Singapore’s statement at the 11th Emergency Special Session of the United Nations General Assembly on 7 April 2022 is appended.”
Source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Government of Singapore