31st Meeting - 62nd Session of Human Rights Council

Good morning, colleagues.
Before we start the formal session, let me just congratulate those members and observers whose national team have made it through in the World Cup and our best wishes for those that have stayed behind for this year.
It's interesting to see some countries have advanced more than previous world cups.
So congratulations to all.
Excellencies, distinguished participants.
I hereby declare open the 31st meeting of the 62nd session of the Human Rights Council.
Excellency, distinguished representatives.
This morning we begin our consideration of draft resolutions.
Before doing so.
However, we should conduct a test of the electronic voting system.
I asked the Secretariat to please activate the voting system.
Okay.
Well, it seems like you all know what to do, but let me just say that delegations are requested to use the voting buttons marked with both stickers.
The plus button the green plus button for yes, the red minus button for no, and the white zero button for abstention.
I ask that all of you, all delegates, confirm that their vote is accurately reflected on the screen.
If so, I ask the Secretariat to close the voting machine.
We will now begin to take action on draft resolutions.
We will follow the standard voting procedure as in previous council sessions, of which I will highlight the main points as follows.
I remind you that the voting process is open for members only.
Observer states may intervene in only two instances.
The first is to introduce a draft proposal or where applicable.
The second, as a country concerned by a draft resolution or decision.
Apart from these two instances, observer states cannot take the floor until the voting process has been completed, not even on a point of order.
If time permits, observer states may have the opportunity to make general comments after the adoption of all draft resolutions and decisions on July 8th.
We will proceed with the consideration of draft proposals in the chronological order of agenda items.
Within each agenda item, we will act upon draft texts in order of their submission.
I will inform you when a text is not ready for action.
I will make every effort to ensure that concerned parties have sufficient time to negotiate draft texts with a view to their adoption by consensus.
All procedural motions such as oral amendments and request for votes on separate paragraphs should be announced during the general comment segment.
If this is not the case and a procedural motion is raised, when the vote has already started with the explanation of votes before the vote, the motion will be deemed inadmissible.
So please keep this in mind.
I'll also remind you that explanations of vote and general comments after the vote will be allowed only after action has been taken on the last draft proposal under a specific agenda item.
Furthermore, in accordance with Rule 128 of the rules of procedures of the General Assembly, the sponsor of a draft proposal or an amendment is not permitted to explain their vote on their own draft proposal or amendments.
Finally, speaking time during the voting process is limited to 3 minutes for all speakers.
I urge all delegations to use allocated time efficiently.
Where more than one delegation introduces a draft proposal, the 3 minutes speaking time must be shared among them.
I ask everyone to be mindful of their speaking time to ensure we are able to finish this session by 1:00 P.M.
On Wednesday, hopefully earlier.
Excellencies, distinguished representatives, colleagues.
I've been informed that a number of resolutions are ready for adoption during this meeting as shown on the screen.
All the PPIs received have been posted on the HRC extranet.
As previously communicated by the Secretariat and in line with the standard practice of the General Assembly, oral statements on program budget implications will not be issued for draft resolutions under consideration where the mandated activities are already resourced within the proposed program budget.
All right.
The Council will now consider draft proposal L 48, entitled Human Rights Situation in and Around El Obi in the context of the ongoing conflict in the Sudan.
I give the floor to the representative of the United Kingdom to introduce the draft text.
You have the floor, Madam.
Thank you, Mr.
President.
I deliver this statement on behalf of the Sudan Core Group consisting of Germany, Ireland, the Netherlands, Norway, and the UK.
Mr.
President, as we heard from so many during the urgent debate last week, the imminent risk of large scale atrocities in and around Elbaid demands our attention.
Escalating drone strikes have killed civilians and destroyed civilian infrastructure in El Abaid.
Key supply routes have been hit along with fuel stations in the electricity grid.
500,000 civilians are in grave danger at risk of atrocities that would deepen the wounds already inflicted on Sudan.
Mr.
President, just eight months ago, this council stood united in condemning the wave of devastating violence and displacement by the rapid support forces in Al Fasa.
These horrors must not be repeated.
The rapid support forces must end their siege of El Abid.
All parties to the conflict must immediately de escalate, facilitate safe, voluntary passage for civilians, and guarantee rapid, unhindered humanitarian access.
Mr.
President, we know that ending impunity in Sudan is essential for long term peace.
The key outcome of this resolution is the urgent inquiry to be carried out by the UN fact finding mission.
Its efforts to document and preserve evidence of any violations and abuses lay the groundwork for justice.
Without it, accountability will remain out of reach and the cycle of impunity will continue.
We also pay tribute to the Sudanese civil society actors who continue to serve their communities under extraordinary pressure.
Their courage and resilience are a reminder of the values that this council is designed to uphold.
It is not enough to express shock and concern.
We must take concrete action to support accountability for these crimes.
Council must make a reality of its role in preventing atrocities.
The strongest signal we can send is to adopt this resolution by consensus today.
Let us show the people of AID that they are not forgotten and that this council will take action to prevent atrocities.
Thank you.
Thank you.
I have been informed by the Secretariat that there are now 11 additional co sponsors.
I now give the floor to members of the council who wish to make general comments.
South Africa.
I recognize the distinguished representative of South Africa.
Thank you, Mr.
President.
As has been stressed, the situation in and around Albaid is extremely grave.
As the High Commissioner warned, this is not a draw, it is a red alert as the rapid security forces are drawing from the very same genocidal playbook they used in Al facia and elsewhere in Sudan.
The Council therefore cannot claim ignorance.
We must take meaningful action to protect the people of Nuba who cannot be left to endure yet another preventable tragedy.
Accordingly, South Africa, thanks to the core Group for tabling this resolution and for taking on board several of our proposals.
Amongst others, these were intended to highlight the importance of regional initiatives in resolving the conflict.
Indeed, we firmly believe that Africa's challenges are best addressed and led by Africans themselves in partnership with the broader international community.
As such, all member states are urged to support African efforts as outlined in the EU's roadmap to protect civilians, reach a ceasefire, secure humanitarian access, and to create conditions for a genuine Sudanese owned and Sudanese led political settlement.
Fragmented diplomacy will not save lives, instead, complementarity and coordinated action under the auspices of the EUO.
In addition to regional efforts, South Africa's amendments to the resolution sought to draw attention to the context in which the RSFs actions in Albaid occur.
These actions do not occur in isolation, but rather form part of the ongoing conflict in Sudan.
Accordingly, unless we deal decisively with the foreign interference of those who have an interest in fueling the conflict, through the provision of political, financial, and military support, including through the provision of drones and the deployment of guns for hire, we will be unable to effectively silence the guns.
This in turn will undermine our ability to protect the people of Hoby and indeed Sudan.
In this regard, we must hold all parties accountable.
Those who aid and abet them in perpetrating their crimes are equally complicit.
We would therefore have liked this aspect of the resolution to be stronger since this lies at the very heart of the prolonged hostilities.
We would recall that previously, the international community did not hesitate to take action to hold the perpetrators of the authorities of those that committed the atrocities in Darfur and to hold them accountable.
Why should we be hesitant to do so now.
Notwithstanding this, South Africa believes that this resolution represents an opportunity for the council to unite and speak with one voice on Sudan.
We are highly concerned about the message that a vote will communicate not only to the victims who have already suffered far too much, but also to the perpetrator.
We therefore urge the council to adopt this resolution by consensus and we are pleased that we have been able to do so today.
Thank you.
Thank you.
I give the floor to distinguished representative of Japan.
Thank you, Mr.
President.
We'd like to express our appreciation to the core group for the coordination and flexibility in pulling this resolution together to respond to the urgent need for an inquiry in El Obed, Sudan and the surrounding area.
Japan is deeply concerned by reports of the escalation of military mobilization by the rapid support forces and the allied forces in and around El Obeid.
This significantly increases the risk of violence against civilians and attacks on civilian infrastructure.
Japan emphasizes the importance of drawing the international community's attention to the need to further prevent another humanitarian and human rights crisis in Sudan.
It is also important that the fact finding mission respond flexibility to the situation init, concerning which the Human Rights Council has acknowledged both the importance of prevention and the urgent inquiry required.
We strongly hope that this resolution will contribute to those efforts.
No further day delay is acceptable.
Japan reiterates its call on the RSF and the allied forces to immediately cease any action that put innocent lives at risk, obstruct humanitarian access or contribute to further atrocities and suffering.
Japan, together with the countries concerned, intend to support Sudanese efforts toward the restoration of the transition to civilian rule in close cooperation with the regional countries and other stakeholders.
Thank you, Mr.
President.
Thank you.
I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Kenya.
Thank you, Mr.
President.
We underscore the importance of a coordinated and coherent international approach, ensuring alignment between the Human Rights Council, the Security Council, and regional mechanisms.
In this regard, we stress the primacy of the African Union led processes which remain best anchored in the realities on the ground and are essential for securing sustainable outcomes.
Kenya emphasizes that centrality of a Sudanese led and Sudanese owned political process that is inclusive and representative, including the meaningful participation of civilians, women, and youth.
We caution against approaches that may inad evenvtly deepen divisions, undermine dialogue, or alienate key stakeholders whose engagement is necessary for a durable solution.
Reiterate that there is no military solution to the conflict.
Kenya strongly supports robust provisions on humanitarian access, the protection of civilian and support to neighboring countries arising from the growing refugee flows and displacement from Sudan.
There remains an urgent need for predictable, sustained and equitable international burden and responsibility sharing to address the wider humanitarian, socio economic and security implications of the conflict.
I thank you, Mr.
President.
Thank you.
I give the floor to the distinguished representative of China.
President, I would like to make an explanatory inventory statement, not at this moment.
I give the floor to distinguished representative of Indonesia.
Thank you, Mr.
President.
Indonesia stands in solidarity with the Sudan and its people.
We support the objective of these resolutions to prevent a repeat of Al Phar and to protect the people of LOB.
We must be united in demanding immediate civilian protections and rapid, safe, and unhindered humanitarian access.
As we consider these draft resolutions, let's be honest.
Words alone did not spare Alphas.
If this resolution is to matter, we must be clear about what more is required.
First, our response must be precise in attributing responsibility, a state defending its its people cannot be equated with armed group attacking them.
Buring the line will only reinforce impunity as we saw in Alphas.
Second, words must be matched by actions on the ground.
A resolution is only as meaningful as what follows it.
This means above all, ending the external flows of weapons, particularly the drones being used to attack civilians and civilian infrastructures and to force their displacement.
This must end.
We urge all states with influence to stop sustaining this conflict and Third, any response must respect the sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity of the Sudan and must support and not supplant Sudanese led efforts towards peace.
On this basis, Indonesia supports the adoption of these draft resolution by consensus.
Thank you, Mr.
President.
Thank you.
We shall now hear from the concerned country and I give the floor to the distinguished representative of the Sudan.
Skananid, thank you very much, President.
In order to comment this resolution, I would ask you to please put down on record the following.
We'd like to begin by thanking all the states and organizations that condemned the terrorist militia and the state which is sponsoring it.
We would like to thank all those friendly states who have undertaken efforts to amend the resolution.
We also commend the positive paragraphs that are found in this draft resolution, which we welcome in particular, the condemnation of the terrorist militia and the rejection of the creation of any parallel mechanism to the Sudanese government.
We also welcome those paragraphs which assert that we are committed to respecting Sudan's territorial integrity and independence and also the paragraphs that condemn foreign interference and the supply of weapons, including drones to the militia which is bombing the city of El Owed and other areas.
This paragraph reiterates that it is a violation of the Security Council resolution 15 56.
That said, despite the condemnation of foreign intervention, these paragraphs have opted for relatively vague language without naming the state that has violated the Security Council resolution.
Thus, resolution 15 91, and I'm speaking about the United Arab Emirates, of course, are not named.
This is not just what Sudan claims, it is the results of a report compiled by experts following the resolution that is cited repeatedly in this resolution that we are looking at today.
Furthermore, Sudan has not stood in the way of the publication of this resolution for a number of reasons.
This resolution include positive paragraphs that condemned the rebels, the militia, and also strongly condemns foreign intervention.
But we do strongly reject the paragraphs Which we need to dissociate ourselves from, in particular, the following.
First of all, paragraph seven and nine preambular paragraphs, that is, these paragraphs call for a fact finding mission.
Then paragraph 14, which indicates the points to the state that sponsors the militia without naming it explicitly, and also paragraph 17, which is solely about the mandate of the fact finding mission.
Sudan has a well known position regarding this mission because it is well known that there is an equation that is drawn between the regular army and the militia which has such a dark past.
Thank you.
Thank you.
I've been informed by the Secretariat that there are no PBIs for this draft proposal.
I now give the floor to members of the council who wish to make explanations or vote before the vote on the draft proposal.
I give the floor to a distinguished representative of China.
Precedent.
The situation in Sudan has again drawn international attention.
China repeatedly stressed that the large scale atrocities and fasion should never reoccur.
The Sudanese people's fundamental human rights, including the right to life must be effectively respected.
The ISF should exercise restraint, cease fire as soon as possible and fulfill their obligations under international law.
China supports the statement by the delegation of Sudan just now.
China reiterates that the debate in the council must fully respect Sudan's sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity and uphold the ownership of the people of Sudan.
China has always opposed the imposition of country specific mechanisms without the consent of the CC.
The IFFM was established without Sudan's consent from the outset.
The international community should not disregard Sudan's opposition in expanding its mandate.
This doesn't help resolve the issue rather complicating it.
We hope that the council will respect and hear the view of the CC and promote a lasting solution through dialogue and negotiation.
In view of the, China will dissociate itself from the consensus on the relevant paragraphs about the RFLM.
Thank you.
Thank you.
I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Egypt.
Vice President, Egypt would like to reiterate its condemnation of the atrocities that have been perpetrated by the rapid support forces in Al Baid, the killings, the intimidation, the bombing of civilian infrastructure, and we also lament the fact that we are once again here in the council discussing another tragedy in another Sudanese city.
We had sounded the alarm from the very outset about this crisis and we warned about treating on an equal footing a sovereign state and a militia.
We are involved in the negotiations in a constructive spirit so that the council can send a message that strongly condemns the atrocities committed Obed and explicitly name the perpetrators.
We would like to affirm our solidarity.
The draft resolution which condemns the actions of the rapid support forces does, however, contain ambiguities that we cannot ignore.
In some bits, The Sudanese armed forces, the national institution tasked with protecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the country, are placed on an equal footing with a rebel militia that has engaged in atrocities against the Sudanese people.
The fact finding mission is mandated to carry out investigations when there are already other mechanisms that have been approved by the Sudanese state and that could have access on the ground.
The situation has worsened, especially because the mandate is based on this misguided logic which considers that the Sudanese state amounts to a terrorist militia.
Political initiatives in particular are flagged.
In some parts, the resolution moves away from the desired outcome.
Egypt believes we should have the resolution on existing consensus based mechanisms that have been approved by Sudan and that we should support the national Sudanese institutions thereby protecting civilians and ensuring better accountability in a more balanced way.
Egypt aligns itself with this draft resolution and we strongly condemn the atrocities, but we do dissociate ourselves from all the elements that relate to the fact finding mission and all the wording that points to the rapid support forces and the Sudanese state being equal in all the paragraphs of this resolution.
Thank you.
Thank you.
I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Cuba.
Senor President, war cannot become the new normal because it's always the worst enemy of human rights.
Cuba is following with great concern the escalation of violence in North Kordofan, and we support the legitimate peace initiatives, underscoring the importance of the African Union in that context.
We very much hope that the Quintet established under the leadership of the African Union will contribute to enhance coordination of efforts to seek a viable inconclusive and lasting solution to the conflict in Sudan.
As an outcome of violence, the humanitarian situation is deteriorating in Ilowid, including restrictions with respect to access of the civilian population to food, water, medical supplies, and other essential services.
There's also been a rapid increase in the number of displaced persons.
It is a priority to guarantee safe, sustained, and unfettered access of humanitarian aid so that vital resources can reach the communities in need.
Nor can we lose sight of the fact that over 30 million people in Sudan require urgent assistance.
However, humanitarian operations for that country continue to be critically underfunded and this regrettably is the case for many other parts of the world.
President, sovereignty, unity, and the territorial integrity of Sudan must be fully respected by all, including the Human Rights Council.
The Sudanese government has very clearly expressed its willingness to cooperate with the team on the ground of the OHCHR so that it can monitor and report on human rights violations inlaid.
This would complement the investigations carried out by the Sudanese authorities, including the commission to investigate crimes and violations of international humanitarian law.
However, draft resolution L 48 does not adequately reflect the position of the country concerned and there is a stress placed on further expanding the mandate of the fact finding mission, which has proven to be ineffective.
We cannot impose mechanisms which cannot be effective because they do not have the consent of the country concerned.
Cuba will not oppose the consensus on draft resolution L 48.
However, we disassociate ourselves from the paragraphs referring to the fact finding mission because of the reasons outlined.
We call upon this council to cooperate on the basis of good faith with the government of Sudan and to provide an effective response to the human rights situation in Elbaid which requires urgent attention.
Thank you very much indeed, sir.
Thank you.
I now give the floor to a distinguished representative of Pakistan.
Thank you, Mr.
President.
Pakistan remains deeply concerned by the situation in and around El Abaied amidst the buildup of rapid support forces and the growing risk of a ground offensive.
The RSF's pattern of mass atrocities must not be repeated in El Bayd.
It must halt its assault, refrain from further escalation, and comply in full with international humanitarian law and ensure the protection of civilians.
Sudan is a major Arab and African country and a member of the OIC.
The conflict in the country, now in its fourth year, has brought immense suffering to the Sudanese people and all their rights.
Its spillover effects have exacerbated the already volatile regional situation.
The solution lies in a Sudan owned and led political process while upholding Sudanese sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity.
Strengthening national institutions and maintaining the Sudanes government's constructive engagement with the Office of the High Commissioner remain essential for protection of human rights and effective accountability.
Mr.
President, Pakistan appreciates the draft resolution LdR 48 has emphasized the need for all parties to uphold their obligations under international humanitarian law, particularly with regard to humanitarian relief and the protection of civilians and civilian infrastructure.
We note also its emphasis on upholding Sudan's unity and territorial integrity and rejection of parallel structures.
The implied equivalence between the Sudanese armed forces and the RSF, on the other hand, is one of the factors that has prolonged this conflict.
Greater emphasis on holding the RRSF responsible for the grave situation in and around Eobayed as well as elsewhere in the Sudan was therefore warranted.
Moreover, given Sudan's cooperation with human rights mechanisms, this council's approach should emphasize dialogue and cooperation instead of the imposition of a mandate that does not enjoy the country's support, namely the fact finding mission.
My delegation therefore dissociates from the consensus on references to the fact finding mission, particularly in OP 15.
Thank you.
Thank you.
I see no further requests for explanation or vote before the vote.
Is there a request for a vote? I see no such request.
May I take it that draft proposal L 48 may be adopted without a vote.
Thank you.
It is so decided.
We will now move to explanation of vote and general comments after the vote on resolutions under this agenda item, Agenda item one, since there is only one item, are there any delegations wishing to take the floor for an explanation of vote after the vote? I see no such request.
The Council will now consider draft proposal ref one entitled Situation of Human Rights in Eritrea.
We now move to item two, and now this is draft proposal L three slash ref one on the Situation of Human Rights in Eritrea.
I give the floor to the representative of Ireland to introduce a draft text.
President, thank you on behalf of the European Union.
I have the honor to present draft resolution L three rev one entitled Situation of Human Rights in Eritrea.
This resolution seeks to renew the mandate of the Special Rapporteur for an additional year.
At the outset, we stress that the EU has appreciated the increased dialogue with Eritrea and looks forward to strengthening this dialogue further.
There have been some encouraging developments since last year's resolution, including a human rights training conducted by the Office of the High Commissioner Human Rights in Osmara and the release of arbitrarily detained persons.
This is a welcome development and one we believe should be continued.
However, as reported by the Special Rapporteur, systematic human rights violations and abuses have continued in Eritrea, including enforced disappearance, decades long arbitrary detention, and the persecution of political opponents, journalists, and religious groups.
This year's report highlights arrests of religious leaders and closure of Muslim religious institutions.
These violations and abuses take place against the backdrop of a continued lack of accountability.
During the negotiations, President, some states indicated a preference for a technical assistance mandate.
We take note of this, but we emphasize that technical assistance and special procedures mandates are not mutually exclusive, rather they are mutually reinforcing.
As regards the duration of the mandate, the core group continuously assesses this element.
However, traditionally in this council, mandates have concluded when the countries concerned, have engaged with the established mechanisms, taken concrete steps forward, and implemented reforms to improve the human rights situation of their populations.
To date, this has not been the case with Eritrea and therefore, in our view, the mandate of the Special Rapporteur should be renewed.
This work is essential for monitoring and reporting on the human rights situation, as well as for advancing accountability when no domestic avenues for justice or redress exist.
President, we encourage Eritrea to consider taking up the genuine offers for constructive cooperation by the Special Rapporteur and the OHCHR to improve all aspects of human rights in the country.
We also hope to continue strengthening our bilateral dialogue with Eritrea to address human rights and other areas of mutual interest.
We thank all the delegations for their cooperation on this text, and we hope that this resolution can be adopted by consensus.
Thank you, President.
Thank you.
I've been informed by the Secretariat that there are three additional co sponsors to this draft.
I now give the floor to members of the council who wish to make general comments.
I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Switzerland.
President, we would like to thank the key authors for submitting L three Rev one, which is to renew the mandate of the Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Eritrea.
We also welcome the efforts undertaken to engage in dialogue with the delegation of the country concerned.
L three Rev one is a short and procedural text.
Which also mentions the progress made.
The key authors have carried out transparent and open negotiations to reach a balanced result.
We would like to recall that special procedures exist to improve fundamental freedoms pursuant to the mandate under this council.
We would also like to restate that the lack of a consent of one or more than one of the countries concerned is not a criterion which would prevent this council from taking action since the establishment of the mandate of the Special in 2012, various mandate holders have enabled this council to look at the situation in Eritrea, which is a situation which warrants the attention of the council.
We believe that progress has been made in the country by granting a visit to the Special P and UCMs.
At the beginning of this year, we regret the fact that no other special procedure mandate holder has had access to the country.
We'd like to recall that one of the principles which must lead the work of the council is constructive dialogue and cooperation.
Thus, we encourage all stakeholders to cooperate fully with this council and its mechanisms to guarantee its integrity and its smooth running.
Thank you very much.
Thank you.
I give the floor to a distinguished representative of Albania.
Thank you, Mr.
President.
Albania thanks you for its transparent, inclusive and constructive engagement throughout the negotiations and for presenting a balanced draft resolution.
Albania remains deeply concerned by the continued human rights situation in Eritrea, despite some limited positive development as acknowledged in the draft resolution, including the release of some arbitrarily detained individuals, Eritrea's engagement with fourth cycle of Universal periodic review and recent cooperation with Office of High Commissioner through human rights training activities, serious and persistent human rights violations continue to be reported.
These include arbitrary detention, incommunicado detention, enforced disappearances, restrictions on fundamental freedoms, prolonged and indefinite national service, and the lack of accountability for violations committed through with impunity.
We believe that the Human Rights Council has a responsibility to address situations where great human rights violations persist and where meaningful domestic accountability and cooperation with the international human rights mechanisms remain insufficient.
In this regard, the continuation of the mandate of the special rapporteur remains necessary.
We call on the government of Eritrea to engage constructively with the Special Rapporteur and the Office of High Commissioner for Human Rights to grant them unhydric access and to implement the recommendations made by the Council's mechanisms.
Mr.
President, Albania fully supports this European Union led draft resolution on a balanced and forward looking text that appropriately recognizes positive developments while maintaining the council's attention on areas of continued concern and encouraging further cooperation and reforms.
Accordingly, Albania will vote in favor of the draft resolution three revised one, and we call all members to do the same.
We will also vote against any amendments that seek to weaken the text or undermine the mandate of the special rapporteur.
I thank you.
Thank you.
I give the floor to distinguished representative of Iceland.
Mr.
President, Iceland thanks the EU for presenting draft resolution L three slash one on the situation of human rights in Eritrea and welcomes the renewal of the mandate of the Special Rapporteur.
The human rights situation in Eritrea remains deeply concerning.
As most recently reported by the Special Rapporteur, Continued arbitrary detention, enforced disappearances and widespread persecution of political opponents, journalists, and religious leaders are alarming and require the sustained attention of this council.
Accountability remains essential not only to addressing past violations, but also for building and sustaining long term peace and stability.
At the same time, Iceland wishes to underscore the importance of constructive cooperation in the promotion and protection of human rights.
Progress is most effective and sustainable when states engage openly with international and regional human rights mechanisms.
In this regard, Iceland welcomes the recent positive steps taken by Eritrea in its engagement with the Oil CSR and acknowledge the changes made to the draft resolution in this regard.
Iceland supports resolution L three slash 31 and urges others to do the same.
I thank you.
Thank you.
I see no further requests for general comments.
And now we shall hear from the concerned country, and I give the floor to a distinguished representative of Eritrea.
I thank you, Mr.
President.
14 years ago, this council established the country specific mandate on Eritrea under the guise of promoting and protecting human rights.
Today, member states are once again called upon to reconsider its renewal.
While the mandate has generated annual reports, recurring debates, and successive resolutions, it has, however, become a cyclical exercise that perpetuates confrontation.
The credibility of the council rests not on the longevity of its mandates, but on their fidelity to the principles of General Assembly resolution 60 slash 251, objectivity, impartiality, non selectivity, constructive dialogue and cooperation.
Yet, year after year, the council has witnessed substantially unchanged draft resolutions, coordinated interventions, and predictable voting patterns that persist irrespective of the substance of the deliberations.
Over the course of the 14 years, the mandate has repeatedly circulated serious allegations that Eritrea has consistently disputed as being unverified, selective, or insufficiently substantiated, contributing to a cumulative narrative that has unfortunately unfairly damaged the reputation of Eritrean institutions and society without the rigorous evidentiary scrutiny that should accompany claims of such gravity.
Regrettably, even recent statements delivered on behalf of the Office of the High Commissioner of Human Rights have repeated allegations that were neither adequately verified with nor meaningfully put to the government of Eritrea prior to their public presentation, thereby compounding concerns about balance, accuracy, and due process.
Equally concerning is the financial burden of maintaining this mandate.
Over 14 years, its cumulative program budget implications have exceeded $8 million, a significant commitment to scarce UN resources at a time of acute financial constraints.
The opportunity cost is undeniable.
Resources of this magnitude could have supported technical cooperation and national capacity building with measurable results.
Under Eritrea' policy of self reliance, a comparable investment has financed more than 40 solar powered regional water systems, providing safe drinking water to over 100,000 people.
Also contributing to the rehabilitation of public hospitals.
The contrast is clear.
Meaningful progress is achieved through partnership and practical cooperation, not the indefinite continuous Ineffective mandates, continuation of ineffective mandates.
If this resolution is to pass, Eritrea will no longer engage with the council on this mandate.
Eritrea's decision to disengage from this annual exercise should not be misconstrued.
It reflects the considered conclusion that continued participation in a process with a predetermined outcome only serves to legitimize a mechanism that has exhausted both its credibility and its utility.
Eritrea remains committed to the engagement through the UPR, treaty bodies, technical cooperation, and genuine dialogue grounded in sovereign equality and mutual respect.
Ultimately, this vote is not about Eritrean any longer.
It's about the credibility of this council and its willingness to apply the same standards of effectiveness, accountability, and periodic review to its own mechanisms.
We therefore call on this council to reject the draft resolution and bring this mandate to an end.
Thank you.
Thank you.
Thank you.
I've been informed by the Secretariat that there are PBIs for this draft resolution.
The corresponding PBI oral statement has been made available on the HRC extranet.
And I'll give the floor to members of the council who wish to make explanations or vote before the vote on the draft proposal L three slash ref one.
I give the floor to the distinguished representative of China, followed by the UK.
Mr.
President, we support the statement by the delegation of Eritrea.
The work of HRC should adhere to principles of universality, fairness, objectivity, and non selectivity.
China has always advocated that countries should deal with their differences through constructive dialogue and cooperation instead of politicizing human rights issues and applying public pressure.
We oppose setting up country mechanism without the consent of the countries concerned.
Regrettably, The resolution's proponment countries ignored the wish of the country concerned and repeated the repeated clear requests by its government for HRC to terminate the mandate of the Special Rapporteur forcing through the extension of the mandate, attempting to impose external standards on its development and interferes in its internal affairs.
China expresses serious concern over this.
In view of the above, China will uh express our vote and vote against this resolution, we appeal to other member states to do the same.
Thank you.
Okay.
Thank you.
I would like to inform the council that the UK has withdrawn its co sponsorship of this draft resolution as reflected in E delegate and can therefore intervene on this resolution, and I give the floor to the distinguished representative of the UK, followed by Cuba.
Thank you, Mr.
President.
The UK remains concerned by the human rights situation in Eritrea.
The system of indefinite national service has a suffocating impact on the lives of Eritreans, especially young people and has contributed to mass immigration, including to the UK.
It requires urgent reform.
We welcome areas of progress that have been made in Eritrea, including relating to essential health services and education.
In particular, and as recognized in this draft resolution, we are pleased to see the release of some arbitrarily detained persons held for political or religious reasons.
We encourage the Eritrean government to extend these releases to the many more that remain arbitrarily detained.
It is clear that the Special Rapporteur's efforts to report on the human rights situation in Eritrea continues to be needed.
As such, the UK supports the draft resolution on the human rights situation in Eritrea and its outcome to extend the mandate of the Special Rapporteur.
We thank the core group behind this resolution for constructive and transparent engagement with the council and support the adoption of this resolution by consensus.
If a vote is called, we will vote yes and encourage others to do the same.
Thank you.
Thank you.
I give the floor to distinguished representative of Cuba, followed by Egypt.
So you proceed.
President, the evidence that the mechanism posed by this council is unquestionable in the past 14 years, does not comply with any constructive purpose.
Year after year, the same discussions take place.
The same resolutions are reiterated, and there's a proliferation of costly reports who very few actually read.
The annual renewal of the mandate of the Special aeur has become a goal in and of itself without any genuine impact on the progress of human rights.
Under no objective circumstances could this exercise be qualified as minimally efficient.
This has become a political sterile exercise.
We are facing a clear example of institutional inertia.
The mechanism imposed against Eritrea cannot be effective because it prioritizes confrontation and hostility against the country concerned instead of respectful dialogue and genuine cooperation based on the respect of sovereignty and non interference.
We cannot continue to waste the valuable time and the scarce resources of the council which were all paying for.
The member states are entitled to request that our financial contributions be used more responsibly.
All the more so when the UN is facing serious liquidity restrictions.
It is contradictory that the same countries who insist on streamlining thematic mandates are silent in the face of a mechanism which for 14 years has wasted the budget of the United Nations, the $8 million which have been spent on this mandate, which would be much more useful by supporting the implementation of recommendations accepted by Eritrea during the universal periodic review and in the treaty bodies.
That money should be devoted to assistance and cooperation projects which have been mutually agreed upon to improve the living conditions of the Eritrean people.
For the reasons outlined, sir, the Cuban delegation will vote against draft resolution L three.
Thank you very much indeed.
Thank you.
I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Egypt, followed by Indonesia.
Mr.
President, Asia reiterates its unwavering commitment to the universality, indivisibility and interdependence of all human rights, as well as its firm conviction in the important role of the Human Rights Council in supporting states and strengthening their national capacities to protect and promote human rights through dialogue and constructive cooperation.
Asia reaffirms that states bear the primary responsibility for the promotion and protection of all human rights and fundamental freedoms in line with the respective international human rights obligations.
We reiterate our long standing position that the establishment of council's mechanisms or the expansion of existing ones should be grounded in the consent of the states concerned, particularly when such states have shown readiness to cooperate with the council and its mechanisms.
In this regard, Egypt notes the steps taken by Eritrea in the field of Human Rights despite challenges it has been facing, including its engagement with the Universal periodic Review and its cooperation with the Office of the High Commissioner.
We believe the council should encourage and build upon such existing avenues of engagement and cooperation.
We also believe that the consideration of human rights situations should take due account of the broader regional circumstances and national context of the states concerned, including the challenges arising therefrom.
Egypt remains convinced that cooperative approaches rooted in dialogue, technical assistance, and capacity building are more effective in supporting sustainable progress on the ground.
At a time of mounting challenges and increasing financial constraints facing the United Nations system and this council, it is particularly important to ensure that the council's actions remains focused on approaches that promote genuine engagement and deliver practical impact.
For these reasons, Egypt will vote against draft resolution three.
Thank you, Mr.
President.
Thank you.
I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Indonesia, followed by Brazil.
Thank you, Mr.
President.
Indonesia believes that the Council's consideration of any human rights situation must be objective and balanced, giving equal weight to civil, political, economic, social, and cultural rights.
Progress in one dimension must not be rendered invisible by exclusive scrutiny on another.
In this regard, we recognize Eritrea's efforts in advancing human rights for its people, including in health, education, and food sectors.
We also acknowledge Eritrea's cooperation with the UN Human Rights mechanism, including the UPR, treaty bodies, and the Office of the High Commissioner.
Yet after 14 years, the mandate of the special porteur on Eritrea continues to be renewed without consent of the state concerned.
During the interactive dialogue with the SR, several delegations questioned how this mandate could be effectively contribute to improving the situation on the ground.
We consider these concerns worth further reflection by this council.
In our view, concrete change is best achieved through cooperation with the state concern.
Without it, Country specific mechanisms risk becoming symbolic rather than substantive.
For these reasons, Indonesia will remain abstain on this draft resolution.
As no country is without human rights challenges, we encourage Eritrea to continue addressing its own in line with its international human rights obligation and national priorities.
Equally, we urge the supporters of this draft resolution to engage with Eritrea towards a more collaborative approach that delivers meaningful results for the people it is meant to serve.
Thank you, Mr.
President.
Thank you.
I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Brazil.
Thank you, Mr.
President.
Brazil is following the situation of human rights in Eritrea with great concern.
We recognize the progress achieved on economic and social rights, particularly in health and education and the initial steps taken towards releasing some arbitrary detained individuals.
However, we we regret the absence of more tangible progress on the ground, and we encourage renewed efforts to achieve change.
We welcome the capacity building training conducted by the OHCHR in Asmata, but we remain concerned by the continued lack of full cooperation with the Special Rapporteur and other special procedures.
We urge the government of Eritrea to cooperate with HRC mandates and to implement the concrete benchmarks proposed, particularly regarding the rule of law, national service reforms, and the protection of fundamental freedoms.
Brazil will vote in favor of this resolution because we believe that extending the mandate of the Special Rportur for another year remains a useful tool to help Eritrea overcome its human rights challenges.
In our view, this resolution serves as a critical framework for the Eritrean government to strengthen cooperation with international mechanisms.
Thank you.
Thank you.
I see no further request for explanation or vote before the vote.
I understand there's a request for a vote from the delegation of China.
So at the request of the delegation of China, the Council will now proceed to a recorded vote on draft proposal L three slash reg one.
I now ask the Secretariat to open the voting machine.
And I request all delegations to register their votes.
The last I take up Have all delegations registered their votes? Please check if your vote is accurately reflected on the screen.
I now ask the Secretariat to close the voting machine.
The results of the recorded votes are as follows, 23 in favor, six against, and 17 abstention.
Draft proposal L three slash one is therefore adopted.
A copy of the results of the vote will shortly be uploaded to the extranet.
The Council will now consider draft proposal L 20 entitled The Situation of Human Rights of Rohingya Muslims and other minorities in Myanmar.
I give the floor to the representative of Pakistan to introduce the draft text.
You have the floor.
Thank you again, Mr.
President.
On behalf of the OIC group, I have the honor to introduce draft resolution entitled Situation of Human Rights of Rohingya Muslims and other minorities in Myanmar as contained in Do L 20.
We note with grave concern that the incidence of human rights violations against Rohingya Muslims and other minorities in Myanmar have continued unchecked.
We are therefore presenting this text again to draw this council's attention to the gravity of the human rights situation facing the Rohingya Muslims, especially their decades of institutionalized discrimination, disenfranchisement, marginalization, and longstanding persecution alongside other minorities in the country.
Mr.
President, the High Commissioner for Human Rights has repeatedly raised alarm over renewed violence and property destruction in Rakhine state.
The Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Myanmar has likewise sounded the alarm.
Yet successive authorities have failed to uphold their obligations towards Rohingya Muslims and other minorities, perpetuating the marginalization and systematic violations of their fundamental rights.
Accountability for grave violations and abuses remains a priority.
We therefore call for international independent and transparent investigations to hold perpetrators to account and to strip away impunity that has long enabled systemic discrimination against the Rohingya.
The resolution also renews this council's call on the international community to maintain strong political solidarity with the Rohingya and to continue providing adequate financial support for humanitarian and protection efforts.
The forcibly displaced Rohingya Muslims and other minorities must be able to return to their places of origin in Myanmar in a voluntary, safe, dignified, and sustainable manner.
Mr.
President, the text before the council in document LR 20 is the result of inclusive and transparent consultations with the member states and civil society.
We, the sponsors, appreciate their active and constructive engagement and have made every effort to accommodate the range of views expressed.
We have carefully considered and accommodated suggestions to review the operative part of the text in line with the council's focus on rationalization and in order to streamline its program of work.
We are grateful for the support received for the OICs initiative and hope that the council would join consensus on resolution L 20 in solidarity with the Rohingya Muslims and other minorities in Myanmar and their full enjoyment of all human rights.
Thank you.
Thank you.
I've been informed by the Secretariat that there are three additional co sponsors.
I now give the floor to members of the council who wish to make general comments.
I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Estonian.
I have the honor to speak on behalf of the EU member states that are members of the Human Rights Council.
This general comment has been agreed by the European Union as a whole.
We thank the OIC for presenting L 20 on the situation of human rights of Rohingya Muslims and other minorities in Myanmar.
The EU remains gravely alarmed by the situation in Myanmar.
Human rights violations and abuses against the Rohingya and other minorities in Myanmar persist.
As the OHHR reported, airstrikes by the Myanmar military remained the single largest cause of destruction and suffering.
The holding of elections by the Myanmar military, which were neither free nor fair, only intensified violence.
The EU welcomes the draft resolution strong condemnation of atrocities and its call for cessation of violence by all parties.
We acknowledge improvements in this year's text.
We regret that the resolution does not include language on halting arms transfers to Myanmar despite repeated calls by the High Commissioner and the Special Rapporteur.
We are convinced that L 20 should have better reflected the responsibility of the Myanmar military for the overwhelming majority of human rights violations and abuses and violations of international humanitarian law.
The EU recognizes and supports Bangladesh's efforts in accommodating over 1 million Rohingya refugees.
Conditions for their safe, voluntary, dignified, and sustainable return to Myanmar, which includes unfettered humanitarian access to Rakhine state and meaningful progress in addressing the root causes of the crisis are not in place.
These too could have been clearer in 2020.
President, we would like to warmly thank the pen holders for their constructive approach in the negotiations.
In particular, we welcome the OEC's efforts towards the rationalization of the work of this council on the situation in Myanmar while ensuring it remains a priority for this council.
All victims of violence and repression in Myanmar, including Rohingya and other ethnic or religious minorities, deserve a resolute message from this council, assuring them of our support, our commitment to justice, and our determination to hold perpetrators accountable.
With these considerations, we can join consensus on this resolution.
Thank you.
Thank you.
I see no further request for general comments.
The concerned country is not represented in the council.
And I've been informed by the Secretariat that there are PBIs for this draft proposal and the required resources, hold on.
Okay.
The corresponding PBI oral statement has been made available on the HRC extranet.
I now give the floor to members of the council who wish to make explanation of vote before the vote on the draft proposal L 20.
I give the floor to distinguished representative of China.
Thank you, President.
China would like to support Myanmar on its development path, which has been chosen in keeping with its national path.
We commend the general reforms and support the political dialogue aimed at achieving peace and reconstruction post disaster.
China supports the central role of Asean and would like the five point consensus of Asean and the five point road map to be mutually reinforcing and effectively implemented.
The international community should do more to try and contribute to bringing positions closer together and addressing problems as regards the repatriation of the people displaced from the Rakhine area.
The solution lies in dialogue between Myanmar and Bangladesh.
China is actively facilitating this not just through diplomacy, but also through several shipments of humanitarian aid to these countries.
The international community should for its part, support both parties in consolidating what has been achieved and strengthening dialogue and determination in order to build favorable conditions for return.
China supports human rights on the basis of equality and mutual respect and we are opposed to establishing mechanisms that do not enjoy the consent of the country concerned.
Therefore, China does not wish to join the consensus regarding this draft resolution L 20.
Thank you.
Thank you.
I give the floor to the distinguished representative of the UK.
Thank you, Mr.
President.
The UK would like to thank the OIC for presenting resolution L 20 on the human rights situation for Rohingya Muslims and other minorities in Myanmar.
As we've heard repeatedly through this council, including from the High Commissioner and the special Rapporteur, the Rohingya and other minorities in Myanmar, continued to suffer from appalling human rights violations and abuses at the hands of the military and other armed groups.
The High Commissioner's latest report highlights the continued deterioration of the situation in Myanmar, including at least 702 civilian deaths during the reporting period of which 476 resulted from airstrikes.
Behind these stark figures are lives lost, families torn apart and communities living in fear every day.
The UK condemns the military's continued use of violence, which is inflicting immense suffering on civilians and deepening an already devastating humanitarian crisis.
The Rohingya continue to face persecution, discrimination, statelessness, and restrictions on freedom of movement.
Onnggoing violence in Rakhine state has further exacerbated their vulnerability alongside other minority communities, exposing many to sexual and gender based violence and forcing thousands more to flee their homes in search of safety.
The UK recognizes the important role played by Bangladesh in hosting over 1.2 million Rohingya refugees and acknowledges the immense challenges it faces, including pressures on infrastructure and security in the camps.
Greater self reliance for refugees and improved safety and security are vital to supporting the well being of the Rohingya and in creating the conditions for eventual safe, voluntary, sustainable and dignified returns.
This resolution rightly maintains the council's attention on the plight of Rohingya Muslims and other minorities in Myanmar.
We welcome its strong focus on accountability, including through ongoing international processes and mechanisms.
Ending impunity is essential to breaking cycles of violence and ensuring justice for victims and survivors.
Mr.
President, while we will join consensus on this resolution, we wish to place on record the UK's position that though we continue to address human rights violations and abuses wherever they occur in Myanmar, we must be clear that the military player bears primary responsibility for systematic violations against the Rohingya and other civilian populations.
The situation in Myanmar deserves sustained collective attention and the resolve of this council.
The United Kingdom remains committed to working with the OIC and international partners to address the root causes of the crisis, support accountability, and advance the rights and dignity of the Rohingya and all people of Myanmar.
Thank you.
Thank you.
I see no further request for explanation or vote before the vote.
Is there a request for a vote? I see none.
May I therefore take it that draft proposal L 20 may be adopted without a vote.
It is so decided.
Colleagues, the Council will now consider draft proposal L 25 slash ref one as already revised, entitled Human Rights Implication of the obstructions and Denial of Humanitarian access and threats to the safety of Humanitarian personnel in armed conflict.
I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Kuwait to introduce the draft text.
You have the floor, sir.
Su Cedar.
Thank you, Vice President.
I have the great pleasure on behalf of the core group, Egypt, Malaysia, Kuwait and Bahrain.
We have the honor of Introducing draft resolution L 251.
This comes at a sensitive time when humanitarian needs are on the rise as is the need to grad humanitarian access and protect humanitarian personnel in armed conflict zones around the world, where the challenges continue to mount on the ground.
Ensuring humanitarian access without any obstacle is the prerequisite for civilian life in times of war when supply is hindered, catastrophic consequences affect the most vulnerable children end up without food, the wounded end up without medical care and this leads to very difficult living conditions.
President, this issue is of growing priority for the international community during the last session of this August council, and during the 57th session, under agenda item two, an emphasis was placed on the right to life and human dignity through humanitarian access and protection of humanitarian personnel.
The resolution was approved by 130 countries, which reflects the fact that the entire world acknowledges just how serious this matter is.
During the 59th Human Rights Council session, A side event highlighted the impact on humanitarian access and the protection of humanitarian personnel as a pillar for the protection of human rights in times of conflict.
This was a platform during which testimonies were exchanged and it was reaffirmed that access for humanitarian aid was not just a technical organizational issue, it was a matter that was directly related to people's inherent right to survive.
This group of states has therefore engaged in informal consultations in a very open spirit, and we have listened with great interest to the comments from all of the regional groups.
We tried to incorporate them into the draft text that we are presenting today in order to achieve a practical resolution that reflects the difficult situation on the ground and the challenges that need to be overcome through a very meticulous legal approach.
We call on all member states and non members to adopt this resolution by consensus and we call on everybody to join the sponsors so as to reaffirm our collective responsibility to protect life and safeguard human dignity while ensuring humanitarian access for those who are in dire need of it.
Thank you.
Thank you.
I've been informed by the Secretariat that there are 12 additional co sponsors.
I now give the floor to members of the council who wish to make general comments.
I recognize the distinguished representative of Egypt, followed by Pakistan and Cuba.
President, we have the honor of delivering this statement as a member of the core group and this resolution comes at a time where armed conflicts are spreading, humanitarian needs are on the rise.
And humanitarian staff is coming under attack.
Access to humanitarian aid is impeded and this is leading to repercussions on civilians and their fundamental rights.
We are witnessing the scale of the tragedy affecting civilians and the great dangers that humanitarian personnel face when fulfilling their noble mission to alleviate people's suffering and try and resolve conflicts.
Humanitarian personnel are not alone at stake.
There are thousands of civilians whose lives are at stake.
The right to education, to water, to housing, and other fundamental rights are compromised.
These rights all depend on access to humanitarian assistance.
The resolution here places an emphasis on human rights.
And humanitarian access, and we call for the repercussions of these issues to be carefully analyzed.
We have always supported in the group a participatory approach.
We have engaged in informal consultations and bilateral meetings with all delegations, even after the publication of the draft resolution.
We have already amended it and amended our resolution in writing as well in order to try and meet the constructive comments that we received whilst preserving balance.
The draft resolution was sponsored by 65 states from all regional groups, which really reflects that the protection of humanitarians personnel and humanitarian access is a collective responsibility.
It must be safe and unhindered and it is a collective responsibility for all of the international community.
We hope that this draft resolution will be approved by consensus so that we can translate our collective commitment into action and protect humanitarian personnel and ensure that humankind is not the victim of armed conflicts.
Thank you.
I give the floor to the Distinguished representative of Pakistan, followed by Cuba and Cyprus.
Thank you very much, Mr.
President.
I have the honor of delivering this statement on behalf of the OIC Group.
The OIC Group welcomes the draft resolution contained in document L 0.25 entitled Human Rights Implications of the obstruction and Denial of humanitarian access and threats to the safety of humanitarian personnel in armed conflict.
We thank the core group comprising Kuwait, Egypt, Indonesia and Malaysia for presenting it.
At a time of growing conflict around the world, the protection of humanitarian personnel and the delivery of humanitarian assistance remain matters of urgent and compelling importance with a decisive impact on the enjoyment of human rights.
The OIC group reaffirms that humanitarian personnel are civilians who must be protected at all times in accordance with international humanitarian law and international human rights law.
The OIC group expresses its appreciation to the core group for its constructive engagement throughout the consultations leading to the draft resolution contained in document L 0.25.
The sponsors have worked diligently to strengthen the text and have incorporated a wide range of comments and suggestions.
The draft resolution presented today is balanced, comprehensive and grounded in relevant international instruments.
The OIC group reiterates its sincere appreciation to the group and the core group and urges the council to adopt this resolution by consensus and invites all states to support it through C sponsorship.
I thank you, Mr.
President.
Thank you.
I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Cuba, followed by Cyprus and Kenya.
So you may proceed.
President, we welcome the presentation of the draft resolution L 25, which Cuba supports.
We condemn any attack or threat or act of violence against humanitarian personnel and UN staff.
We also condemn denial of humanitarian access and the obstruction of assistance to populations in need.
Humanitarian assistance should always respect the principles of neutrality, impartiality and independence without interference or any conditions.
Equally, the sovereignty and territorial integrity of states inviolable.
The repeated attacks by Israel against humanitarian personnel in Palestine, which Cuba condemns are a clear example of the relevance of considering this topic within the council.
In Cuba's case, our people is suffering from the brutal humanitarian consequences of the economic blockade and the policy of aggression waged by the government of the US, which have been intensified to a point of extreme over the last few months.
The economic energy noose that has been imposed on Cuba for the last few months is like a naval blockade.
In other words, it is tantamount to an act of war.
The Cuban population is subjected to a cruel collective punishment which jeopardizes its humanity and independence.
It is impossible to quantify the damages caused by this policy of suffocation against the Cuban people.
The energy blockade is also impeding work and in Cuba and the work of UN agencies.
UN agencies cannot distribute through dozens of containers worth of humanitarian goods in our country due to this energy blockade and also donations coming from third parties and multinational organizations cannot reach the Cuban population.
The United States has tried to unsuccessfully block the World Food Program from approving food aid for the Cuban people.
As everybody is aware, Cuba also faces the public threat of military aggression from the United States, which should this come to pass would trigger humanitarian disaster.
This situation requires urgent attention because the multidimensional aggression against Cuba is already underway and it is stepping up.
It is not a future or looming threat, but a crime against humanity that is taking place right now.
We call on the members of the Human Rights Council to adopt L 25 by consensus, many thanks.
Thank you.
I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Cyprus, followed by Kenya and Switzerland.
Thank you, Mr.
President.
Cyprus appreciates the objective of this resolution, namely to address the human rights implications of the obstruction and denial of humanitarian access, as well as the threats to the safety of humanitarian personnel in situations of armed conflict.
In this context, we wish to put on record our understanding of the references to international humanitarian law as lex specialis as reflected in this and any other draft resolution to be considered during this session.
International human rights law continues to apply in situations of armed conflict, including in situations of occupation.
The relationship between international humanitarian law and international human rights law should not be understood as one of automatic displacement or general precedence of one body of law over the other.
Rather, consistent with the recent jurisprudence of the ICJ and the European Court of Human Rights, where both bodies of law apply, they should be interpreted and applied in a coherent and harmonious manner, taking into account the specific circumstances of each case.
Accordingly, references to international humanitarian law alec specialis should not be understood as excluding or limiting the continued application of international human rights law.
I thank you.
Thank you.
I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Kenya, followed by Switzerland and Iraq.
President, Kenya reaffirms that the protection of humanitarian personnel and the facilitation of safe, rapid and unhindered humanitarian access are fundamental obligations under international humanitarian law.
We remain deeply concerned by the increasing attacks against humanitarian personnel and the obstruction of humanitarian assistance, which not only endanger those delivering lifesaving assistance, but also deprive affected populations of access to food, water, medicine, and other essential services.
The protection of humanitarian personnel is indispensable to safeguarding the human rights and dignity of civilians affected by armed conflict.
Kenya continued contribution to regional peace efforts and humanitarian response has underscored the critical importance of safeguarding humanitarian personnel and ensuring safe, rapid and unhindered humanitarian access.
Both are essential to protecting affected communities in armed conflict and ensuring the effective delivery of lifesaving humanitarian assistance.
Kenya therefore welcomes the resolution's reaffirmation of humanitarian principles of humanity, neutrality, impartiality and independence, and its recognition of the important role played by national and locally recruited humanitarian personnel who often face the great risks while serving their communities.
Thank you, Mr.
President.
Thank you.
I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Switzerland, followed by Iraq and Idesia.
President President, we would like to thank the delegations of Kuwait, Egypt, Indonesia and Malaysia for presenting draft resolution L 25 as revised.
Switzerland teaches major importance to the protection of humanitarian staff.
This is a topic that we have brought to the United Nations Security Council through the adoption of Resolution 27 30.
We would like to take this opportunity to put forward the Secretary-General recommendations on measures to prevent and respond to attacks against humanitarian staff as requested in Resolution 27 30.
Restrictions placed on humanitarian access and attacks against humanitarian staff in armed conflicts also have a major impact on the enjoyment of human rights of the people affected.
We therefore hail the core groups intention and efforts to highlight and shed light on this topic.
We're pleased to note that draft resolution L 25 in its preamble, acknowledges that international human rights law and international humanitarian law are complementary and mutually reinforcing.
This is Switzerland's ongoing position.
Both legal corpus are complementary and mutually reinforcing in their common goal to afford protection of human dignity.
Human rights law continues to apply at all times, including during armed conflict.
Switzerland also notes that draft resolution L 25 makes a specific reference to the concept lex specialis.
We wish to clarify this.
This is an interpretation rule which makes it possible to resolve an apparent conflict between two norms that are applicable to the same situation.
When two norms simultaneously govern the same case, the special norm takes precedence.
This concept should not be used under any circumstances to suggest that international human rights law does not apply to situations of armed conflicts or to authorize a selective application of international human rights law.
Indeed, the specific scope of certain human rights obligations in armed conflicts is a topic for legal debate.
This is a debate which this resolution does not resolve.
Lastly, we must ensure that in these thematic choices that the Human Rights Council attaches priority to issues pertaining to the promotion and protection of human rights.
By way of conclusion, we would like to thank the core group for the constructive dialogue we have had throughout the session and also for its openness in taking into account the concerns of a large number of delegations.
I thank you.
Thank you.
I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Iraq, followed by Indonesia and Qatar.
Thank you, President.
The Republic of Iraq is honored to make the statement on behalf of the Arab group.
We welcome draft resolution presented by the group made up of Egypt, Indonesia, Kuwait, Malaysia, and Pakistan, entitled The Human Rights Implications of the obstruction and Denial of Humanitarian access and Threats to the safety of humanitarian personnel in armed conflict.
This draft is part of the topic of armed conflict, which is intensifying and where humanitarian staff is targeted, compromising the enjoyment of fundamental rights for civilians, in particular the integrity and life.
The protection of humanitarian personnel and guarantees of rapid and safe access of humanitarian aid is a legal and ethical commitment.
This is a fundamental pillar for the protection of civilians and to relieve suffering.
The Arab group wishes to express its thanks to the core group, which has shown to be open during informal consultations, making it possible to submit a balanced draft proposal based on international law and strengthening the protection of humanitarian personnel.
Thus, the Arab Group calls on the council to adopt the draft resolution by consensus, and we call on all states to support the resolution to reflect international commitment to protect civilians and guarantee the supply of humanitarian aid without any hindrances whatsoever.
The distinguished representative of Indonesia, followed by Qatar and Japan.
Thank you, Mr.
President.
I have the honor to deliver this statement on behalf of some members of the group of friends on the protection of humanitarian personnel.
The lease of co sponsor will be uploaded on Extranet.
We welcome continued attentions by these councils on the protections of humanitarian personnel and to the human rights implications of attacks, threats, violence, and obstructions affecting humanitarian actions.
This timely resolution responds to alarming reality.
Humanitarian personnel face unprecedented dangers in reaching civilians in need.
Their safety is essential to principle humanitarian assistance and to the protections and enjoyment of human rights.
We stress that attacks, threats, and acts of violence against humanitarian personnel and the UN and associated personnel as well as against humanitarian consignments, assets, and facilities may constitute violations of international law, including international humanitarian law and international human rights law.
We also condemn in the strongest terms actions that have killed UN peacekeepers and heightened risk faced by medical personnel.
This must stop.
Mr.
President, the objectives of this resolution closely align with the declarations for the protection of humanitarian personnel.
We reaffirm our commitment to strengthening the protection of humanitarian personnel and upholding full, safe, rapid, and unhindered humanitarian access.
We encourage efforts across the UN system, including in relevant human rights fora to strengthen respect for international law, improve preventions and accountability, and ensure that humanitarian personnel, including national and locally recruited personnel and volunteers can work safely and without obstructions.
We emphasize the Council's vital role in maintaining international attentions on the human rights implications of attacks against humanitarian personnel and restrictions on humanitarian access.
Against this backdrop, we call on all delegations to support these resolutions for adoption by consensus.
I thank you.
Thank you.
I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Qatar followed by Japan.
I say thank you, Mr.
President.
I have the honor to take the floor to comment on L 25.
We thank Kuwait, Egypt, Indonesia and Malaysia for sponsoring this draft resolutions and efforts made during informal consultations.
We express grave concern at the deterioration of the situation of humanitarian personnel.
The SGS report in 2025 referred to the fact that last year was the bloodiest The escalation of attacks on humanitarian personnel and civilian infrastructure led to depriving thousands of lifesaving services.
We support the report in calling on all conflicting parties and abiding by their legal obligations in accordance with IHL and human rights law.
To protect humanitarian personnel, their infrastructure and transport and not to target them, detain them, or criminalize their work in order to make sure that humanitarian access is guaranteed safely and unhindered.
We call on all members of the council to adopt this resolution by consensus.
Thank you.
Thank you.
I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Japan.
Thank you, Mr.
President.
At the outset, Japan would like to express its sincere appreciation to the core group for their tireless efforts to present this draft resolution.
Japan has consistently emphasized the importance of complying with international humanitarian law, protecting humanitarian personnel, and ensuring rapid, safe, unimpeded humanitarian access.
Consistent with this position, Japan co sponsored and supported the adoption of United Nations Security Council Resolution 2730.
We also contributed as a member of the ministerial group led by Australia to the development of the Declaration on the Protection of humanitarian personnel referred to in the preamble of this draft resolution.
Japan therefore supports the objectives pursued by the present draft resolution.
Japan understands that this draft resolution neither alters the existing framework of the public international law nor the respective fields of application of international humanitarian law and international human rights law.
On the basis of this understanding, Japan strongly condemns all attacks, threats, and acts of violence against humanitarian personnel.
We call on all parties to arm the conflict, to comply with the obligations under international law and ensure safe, rapid and unimpeded humanitarian access for persons in need of humanitarian assistance.
Japan will continue to work closely with the international community to actively contribute to the protection of humanitarian personnel, ensure respect for international humanitarian law.
At the same time, we will steadfastly advocate for the protection of human rights even in the situations of armed conflict.
In light of these considerations, we express our support for the adoption of this draft resolution by consensus.
I thank you.
Thank you.
I see no further requests for general comments.
I've been informed by the Secretariat that there are PBIs for this draft proposal.
The corresponding PBI oral statement has been made available on the HRC extranet.
I now give the floor to members of the council who wish to make an explanation or vote before the vote on draft proposal L 25 slash ref one as already revised.
I see no request for an explanation of India.
I give the floor to the distinguished representative of India.
Thank you, Mr.
President.
India thanks the Core Group for its engagement on this important resolution.
We consider adherence to international humanitarian law to be one of the most important obligations of states as codified in Geneva Conventions.
India is a party to all four Geneva Conventions.
However, India has not undertaken obligations under the additional protocols to the Geneva Conventions and therefore cannot be bound by the instruments to which it is not a party.
India has consistently maintained that the regimes of IHL and human rights law are distinct with IHL functioning as lex specialis in the situation of armed conflict.
Principal position of India is that humanitarian access must be provided with the consent of the host state.
Humanitarian agencies must respect sovereignty and integrity of the host state and the humanitarian personnel must maintain neutrality and impartiality and humanitarian assistance should be needs based.
Mr.
President, we value the humanitarian intent of the resolution and therefore wish to join the consensus.
However, for the reasons outlined earlier, my delegation respectfully disassociates from the operative paragraph four to the extent it provides unhindered access without regard to the consent of the host state.
I thank you.
Thank you.
I see no further request for an explanation of vote before the vote.
Is there a request for a vote? I see such request.
May I therefore take it that draft proposal L 25 slash RF one as already revised, may be adopted without a vote.
It is so decided.
Okay.
So we have come to the end of our deliberation under item two, and we move on to explanation of vote and general comments after the vote on all resolutions adopted under agenda item two.
Are there any delegation who wish to take the floor? I see no such request.
So we shall now move to item three, and the Council will now consider draft proposal L one entitled Business and Human Rights.
And I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Argentina to introduce the draft text.
Or proceed then.
Thank you, President.
I have the honor to submit on behalf of the Republic of Argentina draft resolution entitled Business and Human Rights, contained in document L one.
This initiative is a technical renewal of resolution 53 slash three adopted by consensus by this council in 2023.
Sir, the draft reaffirms the council's commitment to the topic and guarantees the continuity of the mechanisms established to promote it.
In particular, it renews for a three year period the mandate of the working group on business and human rights, as well as transnational companies and other companies, as well as the support provided by the Office of the High Commissioner.
Argentina would like to thank in particular the broad support it has received during the informal consultations, which made it possible for the process to develop briefly and efficiently as well as constructively.
We also appreciate the significant number of co sponsors received thus far.
This reflects the joint commitment shown to this topic.
We trust that this draft will maintain the broad support which historically has characterized this resolution, and we hope that the council will be able to adopt it by consensus.
Thank you very much.
Thank you.
I've been informed by the Secretariat that there are 13 additional co sponsors.
I now give the floor to members of the council who wish to make general comments.
I recognize the distinguished representative of Kenya, followed by Japan.
Mr.
President, Kenya reaffirms its commitment to advancing responsible business conduct that respects, protects, and promotes human rights.
We recognize the guiding principles on business and human rights as an important framework for fostering sustainable economic growth, attracting responsible investment, and ensuring access to effective remedy for those adversely affected by business activities.
Kenya welcomes the renewal of the mandate of the working group on Business and human rights and its continued role in supporting the implementation of the guiding principles, facilitating dialogue among states and other stakeholders and promoting the exchange of good practices.
We also recognize the value of the Annual Forum on Business and Human Rights as an important platform for advancing practical solutions and strengthening international cooperation.
We further welcome the continued engagement of the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights in supporting the implementation of the guiding principles and promoting accountability and remedy.
Kenya remains committed to constructive engagement in advancing the business and Humans agenda.
Thank you, Mr.
President.
Thank you.
I give the floor to Distinguished representative of Japan, followed by Cuba and Mexico.
Thank you, Mr.
President.
We would like to express our appreciation to Argentina for presenting the important draft resolution L one.
Business and human rights is a priority for Japan and we have developed various measures in this area based on our national action plan, which was most recently revised in December 2025.
We note with appreciation that the working group has played an important role in continuously holding the forum on Business and human rights, which contributes to further protection and promotion of human rights in the context of business.
We have therefore supported this resolution as a co sponsor to date and have once again joined as a cosponsor of the draft resolution this year.
As such, we hope that this resolution will be adopted by consensus.
In the event of a vote, Japan will vote in favor of the resolution, and we hope that other members will do the same.
Thank you, Mr.
President.
Thank you.
I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Cuba, followed by Mexico.
Senor, proceed.
President, Cuba supports draft resolution L one and the renewal of the mandate of the working group.
We reaffirm that states have a key role to play in drafting and implementing laws, regulations and standards guaranteeing that transnational and other companies comply with international obligations in the field of human rights.
The guiding principles on business and human rights adopted by the consensus in 2011, need to be complemented as soon as possible with the legally binding instrument which regulates appropriately the impact of transnational companies on human rights.
The adoption of an international treaty on transnational companies and human rights in no way undermines the guiding principles.
On the contrary, this would strengthen the international architecture to guarantee the full respect of human rights.
Thank you very much, President.
Thank you.
I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Mexico.
Thank you.
Mexico would like to thank Argentina for presenting draft resolution L one, which requests the High Commissioner to continue its work in the area of business and human rights.
It seeks to renew the mandate of the working group on business and human rights.
We acknowledge the significant work of the working group to foster the dissemination and implementation of the guiding principles which 15 years from their adoption maintain their effectiveness and relevance based on this.
Currently, in Mexico, we are holding consultations with all stakeholders to adopt a national policy on business and human rights.
We also welcome the work of the working group to foster the realization or the holding rather of annual forum at the regional universal levels on business and human rights.
These are key so that thousands of annual participants can take part, including representatives from states, companies, individuals, and affected communities, and this increases public support for this agenda.
Since the mandate was established, the recommendations of the working group and its tripartid approach to foster the development of ability and capacities have been particularly relevant to assist states in complying with their obligation to protect persons against acts of companies which undermine the enjoyment of human rights.
That is why Mexico supports the renewal of the working groups mandate and calls upon states to join the consensus to adopt draft resolution L one.
Thank you very much, sir.
Thank you.
I've been informed by the Secretariat that there are PBIs for this draft proposal.
The corresponding PBI oral statement has been made available on the HRC extranet.
I I give the floor to members of the council who wish to take the floor on explanation of vote before the vote on draft proposal.
On draft proposal L.
I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Spain.
Thank you, sir.
This is a general comment to the submission of the draft resolution.
Spain would like to thank Argentina for submitting draft resolution L one as it did so three years ago.
The work of the working group on Business and Human Rights has been and is key in developing standards and good practices to properly implement due diligence in all countries which aspire to comprehensively comply with the guiding principles on business and human rights.
This year, they are celebrating their 15th anniversary.
Spain will continue to support the mandate of the working group.
The annual Forum on Business and Human Rights has a key role to play.
Welcome the fact that this resolution allows for the annual form to take place because it allows for annual exchanges between a large number of players in Geneva.
The guiding principles have made a substantive contribution to the legal developments of the EU and its member states.
Spain is currently transposing European legislation.
We have national experience in this regard based on the National Plan on Business and Human Rights.
We are mindful of the fact that above and beyond legal obligations, the conduct of businesses has changed and has gone beyond mere profits.
However, much remains to be done.
The guiding principles underpin the working methodology between states and companies.
They reflect the responsibility of all players in respecting human rights.
They have a focus based on the need to prevent participation of communities that are potentially affected and a guarantee of access to justice in the case of abuse.
Spain once again supports and thanks Argentina for submitting draft resolution L one.
We support the resolution by consensus and we restate our commitment to human rights based economy.
Thank you.
Thank you.
My apologies to the delegation of Spain for missing the signal.
I have to admit that there are certain blind spot from this vantage point.
So now we turn to explanation of vote before the vote.
I'll give the floor to members of the council who wish to make explanations or vote before the vote on draft proposal L one, Business and Human Rights.
I see no such request.
Is there a request for a vote? I see none.
May I therefore take it that draft proposal L one may be adopted without a vote.
It is so decided.
Excellency's distinguished representatives, the Council will now consider draft proposal L two, entitled Enhancement of International Cooperation in the Field of Human Rights.
I give the floor to the distinguished representatives of Uganda on behalf of the non aligned movement to introduce the draft resolution.
Thank you, Mr.
President.
Uganda has the honor to table resolution ADS HRC 6202 on behalf of the non aligned movement.
The resolution is sponsored by the 120 member states of the NAM and co sponsored by the State of Palestine.
We appreciate the constructive engagement we had with all member states during the informal consultation and reaffirm that NAM remains committed to dialogue with all partners towards possible consensus on this important resolution.
This resolution contains texts from the previously adopted resolution with minor technical updates.
Specifically, the resolution reaffirms the need for the international community to maximize the benefits of globalization through the strengthening and enhancement of international cooperation and global communications.
Considering the current trends and the realtime attack on multilateralsm, this resolution recalls the need of this council and all relevant stakeholders to engage in cooperative and constructive approach in resolving human rights issues globally.
Mr.
President, we acknowledge the divergent views on certain concepts and positions, including on the need for an international economic order and unilateral coercive measures.
However, we should at least all agree that international cooperation is the bedrock of multilateralsm, and unilateralism coupled with unfair trade trends have far reaching implications on the enjoyment of human rights by the general population of targeted states, disproportionately affecting the poor and persons in the most vulnerable situations.
It is against this backdrop and our renewed commitment to enhance international cooperation in this council and beyond that Van tables this resolution.
We request and invite all the members of the council to adopt this resolution by consensus, and if called to vote, we request that you all vote in favor of the resolution to reaffirm that multilateralism exists because we all believe in international cooperation.
Thank you, Mr.
President.
Thank you.
I've been informed by the Secretariat that there is one additional co sponsor.
I now give the floor to members of the council who wish to make general comments I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Cuba, followed by Egypt.
Senor President President, we'd like to thank Uganda for the presentation of draft L two on behalf of the non aligned movement.
We acknowledge the leadership in holding the consultations.
As the draft emphasizes, dialogue on human rights must be based on the principles of universality, indivisibility, objectivity, non selectivity, non politicization, mutual respect, and equal treatment in order to facilitate understanding and constructive cooperation.
International cooperation, as is highlighted in the draft, should always take place following the request from the state concerned and in accordance with the priorities set out by said state.
We also agree with the firm rejection contained in the draft of unilateralism and the imposition of unilateral coercive measures which harm the populations of the affected states and violate those populations human rights.
As the draft underscores, essential goods and services, including food, medicine, and basic fuels, should under no circumstances be used as a tool for coercion.
This language strengthens our condemnation of the illegal and inhumane actions of the US against the Cuban people.
Nothing can justify the beefing up of the economic blockade against Cuba with ever more measures which have a dire impact on the most vulnerable sectors including pregnant women, the sick, children, and older persons.
We are reaching the brutal culmination of preventing fuel from reaching our island and this is part of the US plan to create a humanitarian disaster in Cuba and trigger a social uprising.
This is a way of causing shortages among many people for political ends, and this is not acceptable under any circumstances.
Therefore, Cuba supports draft resolution L two and calls on the members of the council to vote in favor of it.
I thank you very much, President.
Thank you.
I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Egypt, followed by Ethiopia and China.
Skran Sedaris.
Thank you, Mr.
Chair.
We welcome the draft resolution and we commend Uganda's effort as the chair of the NAM Group.
Egypt being one of the founding members of the non allied movements, reiterates its support to this initiative and to the collective call that reflects the opinion of more than 120 UN member states.
Our group has always pushed for the importance of cooperation, dialogue, mutual respect between countries as the pillars of a healthy human rights system that can be responsive to most of the challenges.
The resolution is also important because international cooperation is not a secondary matter, but a main pillar to fulfill our human rights commitment.
It allows exchange of expertise, best practices, capacity building, facing challenges through partnership instead of polarization.
This is also very important for many countries of the global tau because it reflects our priorities and our commitment to fulfill human rights through a constructive partnership.
We are aware that there are some differences of opinions regarding some paragraphs of this resolution.
This is a natural thing.
However, these differences of opinions should not hamper achieving further progress for mutual interests.
We encourage countries to accept this resolution for further and more constructive cooperation.
We will vote in favor of this resolution.
We invite the members of the council to support the draft resolution to send a clear message that when we observe principles of solidarity and cooperation, we can achieve greater results.
Cooperation is still essential for the international agenda of human rights and for the work of this council.
Thank you.
State of Ethiopia, followed by China.
Thank you, Mr.
President.
Ethiopia has the honor to take the floor as a member of the core group on this important draft resolution.
At the outset, we extend our sincere appreciation to all delegations that engaged constructively throughout the consultations.
The spirit of dialogue and flexibility demonstrated during the negotiations has resulted in a balanced and forward looking text that commands broad support.
Ethiopia firmly believes that international cooperation remains indispensable for the promotion and protection of all human rights.
The realization of human rights is achieved through genuine dialogue, mutual respect, solidarity, capacity building, and technical cooperation, taking into account national priorities and circumstances.
In this regard, the resolution reaffirms principles that are firmly anchored in the charter of the United Nations and the institution building framework of this council.
The draft appropriately recognizes the complementary roles of North, South, South, South, and triangular cooperation in supporting sustainable development and strengthening national capacities.
It also reaffirms the important role of the Universal periodic review as a cooperative mechanism that promotes constructive engagement, the sharing of experiences, and the implementation of recommendations through dialogue and technical assistance.
Mr.
President, at a time when the international community continues to confront multiple and interconnected global challenges, including the impact of climate change, health emergencies, food insecurity, economic pressures, and humanitarian crisis, strengthening international cooperation is more important than ever.
Adré these challenges requires collective action founded on partnership, inclusivity, and shared responsibility.
Tupe remains convinced that dialogue and cooperation rather than confrontation and polarization provide the most effective path towards the promotion and protection of all human rights.
We therefore encourage all delegations to join consensus on this important resolution, thereby reaffirming our shared commitment to strengthening international cooperation in the field of human rights should of what we called TTP respectfully urges all delegations to support the draft resolution.
Thank you.
Thank you.
I give the floor to the distinguished representative of China.
Thank you, President.
The current geopolitical conflicts emerging one after another and imbalanced global development have led to severe tests to the international human rights protection mechanisms.
The international community should unite and cooperate, jointly promote and protect human rights, firmly follow human rights development paths in line with national conditions and people's needs, and oppose depoliticization and instrumentalizing human rights.
UCMs run counter to the purposes and principles of the UN charter.
Undermine the foundation on multilingualism and rule of international law, violate the basic human rights of other countries, disrupt global development cooperation, and seriously impede the implementation of 2030 agenda for sustainable development.
China supports strengthening international solidarity and cooperation in human rights and calls on a few Western countries to heed the just call of the international community, honor their commitments to the UN Charter and international law, and abandon UCMs.
In view of the above, China will join the consensus on L two.
Thank you.
Thank you.
I see no further requests for general comments.
I've been informed by the Secretariat that there are PBIs for this draft proposal.
The corresponding PBI oral statement has been made available on the HRC expronet.
I now give the floor to members of the council who wish to make explanation or vote before the vote on the draft proposal L two.
Estonia I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Estonia.
Thank you, Mr.
President.
I have the honor to speak on behalf of the EU member states that are members of the Human Rights Council.
This explanation of vote has been agreed by the EU as a whole.
International cooperation remains an essential element of EU's external relations, and we are determined to promote an international system based on strong multilateral cooperation and good global governance.
The EU thanks Uganda for holding on behalf of the non aligned movement, the informal consultation on this draft resolution.
As this was a technical rollover of the resolution, several of our concerns from previous years remain valid.
The EU regrets that the resolution contains elements and concepts that lack endorsement by the UN membership as a whole, such as new international economic order.
The language on terrorism remains unbalanced and fails to include respect for human rights, international humanitarian law, and international refugee law as the framework within which the fight against terrorism must take place.
The EU also regrets that this draft uses biased language on so called unilateral coercion measures despite the availability of consensual language on the matter.
Finally, we regret that the EU's suggestion to present the resolution on a biannual basis aimed at enhancing the efficiency of the council's work was not considered by the core group.
For the aforementioned reasons, the EU is compelled to call A two for a vote.
The EU member states that are members of this council will be voting against the resolution and we call on others to do the same.
For future sessions, the EU remains open for a dialogue with the non aligned movement in order to restore a consensual approach to the issue of international cooperation.
Thank you.
I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Japan.
Thank you, Mr.
President.
We thank Uganda for preparing the draft resolution L two on behalf of the NAM countries.
Japan fully understands the importance of international cooperation and has prioritized its promotion as a central pillar of our foreign policy.
We also recognize the crucial need to build a global governance system based on the shared responsibility of all countries.
However, we regret inclusion in this resolution of language that lacks the support of all member states such as New International Economic Order and unilateral cohesive measures.
We cannot accept the implication that states have an obligation to promote a new international economic order, nor can we accept the assertion that so called unilateral cohesive measures inherently constitute human rights violations.
Furthermore, the primary right holder is the individual, not the state.
This resolution should have more fully acknowledged that it is the primary responsibility of each individual state to protect and promote the human rights of its citizens.
For these reasons, we will vote against this resolution, and we hope other council members will do the same.
Thank you, Mr.
President.
Thank you.
I would like to inform the council that Chile had withdrawn co sponsorship of this draft resolution L two as reflected in E delegate and can therefore intervene on this resolution.
And I call on the distinguished delegate of Chile.
Thank you very much, Chairman.
Chile would like to explain its vote regarding draft resolution entitled Enhancement of International Cooperation in the Field of Human Rights presented by Uganda on behalf of the non aligned movement of which Chile is a member.
We have decided to dissociate ourselves from this draft.
In this context, we would like to begin by reaffirming that my country attaches the greatest significance to international cooperation as a fundamental element for the promotion and protection of human rights.
This commitment is the very commitment that leads us to speaking frankly about our vote here.
First of all, we regret that this version of the draft was presented without a genuine negotiations process, which meant that members states were not able to make comments or provide input on those elements that required a bit of, um, tweaking.
Secondly, the text contains substantive wording that Chile cannot support.
The draft condemns certain elements against human rights, suggesting that these stem from the international context and that the primary responsibility to protect and promote human rights stems from the very obligations of states and we should not lose track either of the fact that the individual is the hold off rights and state has obligations that relate thereto.
Therefore, the text regarding an international economic order here is something which Chile cannot share as a framework here.
Our commitment to cooperation rests on the multilateral system and an open international interaction.
Chair, for these reasons, Chile has decided to abstain when voting for this draft resolution.
This does not in any way undermine Chuy's firm commitment to international cooperation in the field of human rights, which we consider to be absolutely essential.
That is why we'd like to conclude by reaffirming our readiness to engage in constructive dialogue in the future so that this resolution can be adopted by consensus in the future in this council.
Thank you.
Thank you.
I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Mexico.
President.
Thank you, President of Mexico.
I would like to thank Uganda on behalf of the non aligned movement for presenting draft resolution L two regarding enhancing international cooperation in the field of human rights.
Mexico agrees that international cooperation is an essential part of international relations.
It enables us to address global challenges in an effective way by focusing on those people who most need help.
We also reaffirmed that dialogue and cooperation are fundamental elements of this council's mandate.
In the current context, with the proliferation of armed conflicts and threats to international peace and security of setbacks in human rights standards and serious violations of these rights, and with shrinking development budgets in favor of military expenditure, it seems essential to us that the Human Rights Council should promote international cooperation in the field of human rights.
Therefore, Mexico will vote in favor of draft resolution L two.
However, we do underscore that the primary responsibility to protect and promote human rights falls on states and that only individuals are rights holders.
Therefore, we underscore that international cooperation must be considered in the context of states obligations to protect and promote human rights.
Thank you.
Thank you.
I understand that the delegate of Estonia has requested for a vote.
The Council will now proceed to a recorded vote on draft proposal L two.
I I now ask the Secretariat to open the voting machine.
And I ask all delegation to register their vote.
Okay.
Have all delegations registered their vote? I ask all delegation to check whether their vote is accurately reflected on screen.
If so, I asked the Secretariat to close the voting machine.
The voting is now closed.
The results of the recorded votes are as follows, 29 in favor, 16 against, and one abstention.
Draft proposal L two is therefore adopted.
The copy of the results of the vote will shortly be uploaded on the extranet.
The Council will now consider draft proposal L four, entitled Special Rapporteur on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.
I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Mexico to introduce the draft text.
You have the floor, Madam.
Thank you, President.
I have the honor of speaking on behalf of Mexico and New Zealand in order to introduce draft resolution L four, entitled Special Rapporteur on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.
The purpose of this draft resolution is to renew the mandate of the Special Rapporteur for an additional three year period.
Since it was created in 2014, this mandate has played a fundamental role in the International Human Rights system.
The Special Rapporteur works to strengthen recognition of promotion and implementation of the Human Rights of persons with disabilities in keeping with the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.
Over the years, the mandate holder has provided guidance and technical assistance to states.
She has maintained a constant dialogue with civil society and organizations of persons with disabilities and the mandatora has contributed to raising awareness about ongoing and emerging challenges that they face.
Despite the progress achieved, persons with disabilities continue to face significant obstacles to the full enjoyment of their human rights.
Therefore, we believe that the renewal of this mandate is necessary because it is the only United Nations mandate that specifically focuses on the rights of persons with disabilities.
The continuity of this mandate will keep international attention focused on these rights and will support states along with civil society and persons with disabilities in their efforts to protect and promote them.
Draft resolution L eight looks at the mandate of the Special Rapporteur that was adopted three years ago and includes important rationalization messs in keeping with Resolution 80 stroke 251 of the UN General Assembly.
The renewal of this mandate is of particular importance in the context of the 20th anniversary of the adoption of the convention, which will be marked at the end of this year.
Over those 20 years, states have made significant headway towards building inclusive societies for persons with disabilities.
However, major challenges remain in their implementation both at the national and at the international level.
Faced with these challenges, the Special Rapporteur plays a key role which is to promote dialogue between governments and organizations of persons with disabilities to shed light on the obstacles they face in combating discrimination and stigma and she offers recommendations and technical assistance in order to deliver on the goals of the convention.
Therefore, we urge all states to adopt draft resolution L four by consensus, and we respectfully call on all states to co sponsor it.
I thank you very much, President.
Thank you.
I've been informed by the Secretariat that there are 21 additional co sponsors.
And I now give the floor to members of the council who wish to make general comments.
I recognize the delegation of China.
Mr.
President, China attaches great importance to the rights and interests of people with disabilities, includes their course into the overall National Economic and Social Development plan and establishes a comprehensive service system for social protection and care for them.
Their sense of gain, happiness and safety continues to increase.
During this session with the support of 65 countries, China delivered a joint statement on AI for accessibility, continuously contributing positive energy to safeguarding the rights of the People with disabilities and improve their governance.
We support this.
We are ready to participate in the consensus.
Thank you.
Thank you.
I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Cuba, followed by Republic of Korea in Egypt.
President, we'd like to thank the delegations of Mexico and New Zealand for presenting draft resolution L four.
We reaffirm Cuba's commitment to the full implementation of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.
We support the renewal of the mandate of the Special Rapporteur.
Cuba attaches the greatest significance to the comprehensive development and social inclusion and protection of the rights of persons with disabilities under the principle of leaving nobody behind.
Our Constitution prohibits discrimination on grounds of disability.
The violation of the principle of equality is punished by law.
We have a national commission on the implementation and monitoring of the convention.
This commission enjoys active participation by civil society in Cuba.
Our efforts, however, are seriously impeded by the suffocating economic blockade imposed by the US and this blockade has been beefed up with ever more ruthless measures in recent months.
For a few weeks and months now, we are also seeing an energy blockade which is having a dire impact on the lives of people with disabilities and is violating their human rights.
The figures show this clearly and I will only mention two examples.
9 minutes of blockades cost Cuba $280,000, which amounts to the cost of all of the electric wheelchairs and conventional wheelchairs required to meet the needs of the special education system of our country.
Only 10 minutes of blockade amounts to $143,000 to cover the need of auditory prosthetics for children in situations of disability are following special education programs.
Despite these tremendous obstacles, we will never yield in our efforts to protect the rights of persons with disabilities.
Cuba supports draft resolution four and we hope that it will be adopted by consensus.
Thank you very much.
Thank you.
I give the floor to the distinguished representative of the Republic of Korea, followed by Egypt and Ethiopia.
Thank you, Mr.
President.
The Republic of Korea appreciates the core Group's efforts and supports the extension of mandates of the Special Rapporteur on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.
The protection and promotion of the rights of persons with disabilities remains an important task for the Human Rights Council.
This year marks the 20th anniversary of the adoption of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, offering a timely opportunity to reaffirm our commitment to the full and effective participation of persons with disabilities and the full enjoyment of their rights.
Special Rapporteur has played an important role in keeping the rights of persons with disabilities formally reflected in international human rights discussions while supporting national efforts to advance accessibility, equality, and participation.
The Republic of Korea hopes that the Special Rapporteur will continue to contribute to promoting the rights of persons with disabilities.
We also appreciate that the draft resolution maintains the core mandate of the Special Rapporteur while aligning with the council's rationalization efforts, including through adjustment to the reporting schedule.
As a co sponsor of this draft resolution, the Republic of Korea supports its adoption by consensus.
I thank you.
Thank you.
I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Egypt, followed by Ethiopia and Estonia.
President, Egypt would like to express its thanks to Mexico and New Zealand who have submitted draft resolution.
This is a crucial amendment to promote and ensure the integration of persons with disabilities throughout the world.
This increases in importance with the holding of the 20th anniversary of the Convention.
This is an historical convention which was a turning point in international understanding of the rights of persons with disabilities, thereby strengthening the commitment of everyone.
The mandate calls on member states to uphold the Convention on Persons with Disabilities by ensuring guidelines by bridging the gaps and focusing on good practice, which make it possible to reflect commitments into specific measures.
We restate our support to this mandate because our country is firmly committed to the protection of persons with disabilities, as has been set forth in the convention.
We attach particular importance to the promotion of the rights of persons with disabilities.
So as to draw on their skills and to ensure the integration and effective participation in all sectors of life.
We restate the importance to interact with the convention and we call on member states to cooperate with the special rapporteur so as to support the efforts aiming to implement the commitment set out in the Convention of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, highlighting one's ability as a synchron condition so that persons with disabilities can't enjoy all of their rights.
We hail the participatory approach of the core group.
Particularly the submission of reports so as to come up with this balanced text.
And we are very pleased to associate ourselves with this draft to reflect our common responsibility and the commitment of the international community to promote the rights of persons with disabilities, ensuring that no one is left behind.
Thank you very much.
Thank you.
I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Ethiopia, followed by Estonia and Japan.
Thank you, Mr.
President.
Ethiopia commends the distinguished delegations of Mexico and New Zealand for their constructive leadership and dedicated efforts in tabling and facilitating this important draft resolution.
Ethiopia attaches great importance to the promotion and protection of human rights of persons with disabilities in accordance with the principles of equality, non discrimination, inclusion, and human dignity.
We recognize the valuable role of the Special Rapporteur in advancing international dialogue, sharing good practices, and supporting states upon their request, and in accordance with their national priorities in strengthening the realization of the rights of persons with disabilities.
We welcome the proposed extension of the mandate, which will enable the continued promotion of constructive engagement, technical cooperation, and capacity building in support of national efforts to implement the rights enshrined in the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.
Ethiopia remains committed to working with all partners to advance inclusive development and to ensure that persons with disabilities are empowered to participate fully and effectively in all aspects of society.
In this spirit, Ethiopia therefore supports the adoption of this draft resolution by consensus and encourages all delegations to join consensus.
Thank you.
Thank you.
I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Estonia, followed by Japan and Gambia.
Thank you, Mr.
President.
I have the honor to speak on behalf of the EU member states that are members of the Human Rights Council.
This general comment has been agreed by the European Union as a whole.
The EU and its member states as parties to the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, remain dedicated to ensuring the full and equal enjoyment of all human rights and fundamental freedoms by persons with disabilities.
The mandate of the Special Rapporteur has played a key role in highlighting persistent and emerging challenges and in supporting states, civil society and persons with disabilities in advancing the implementation of the CRPD.
We thank New Zealand and Mexico for presenting E four aimed at the renewal of this mandate and for leading open, transparent, and inclusive negotiations.
We further commend the core group for its streamlining and rationalization, as well as for its innovative approach to identifying synergies.
President.
While progress has been achieved, persons with disabilities continue to face significant and persistent barriers in their daily lives that hinder the full enjoyment of their human rights.
These include barriers to accessibility, autonomy, and independent living, participation in public and political life, education, employment, healthcare, social protection, and equal access to services, as well as exposure to multiple and intersecting forms of discrimination.
The European Union stresses the importance of ensuring the full effective and meaningful participation of persons with disabilities in decision making processes and remains firmly committed to addressing intersectional discrimination, particularly affecting women and girls with disabilities.
We also recognize the critical role of civil society in our responses to these challenges, President.
The renewal of the mandate of the Special Rapporteur is essential to sustaining attention to the rights of persons with disabilities and to ensuring continued progress in their realization.
Within the framework of this council's work, we underscore the need to preserve accessibility, and we reiterate the importance of international sign language and simultaneous captioning in mandated activities.
Budgetary constraints cannot be an excuse for undermining inclusivity across the UN.
The European Union is pleased to support EOR as presented, and we call on this council to adopt this resolution by consensus.
Thank you.
Thank you.
I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Japan, followed by Gambia.
Thank you, Mr.
President.
Japan thanks Mexico and New Zealand for presenting draft resolution L four on the renewal of the mandate of the Special Rapporteur on the rights of persons with disabilities.
We particularly commend the core group's rationalization efforts and hope that this critical issue will remain high on the agenda of the Human Rights Council.
Japan welcomes the extension of this mandate for further three years.
This will ensure that the Special Rapporteur continues to play a vital role in identifying challenges and delivering practical recommendations to support states and civil society organizations in promoting and protecting the human rights of persons with disabilities.
Ultimately, these efforts will contribute to the full realization of the Convention of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.
Japan attaches great importance to this mandate, which ensures continued independent monitoring and sustained international attention to advancing the rights, inclusion, and full participation of persons with disabilities.
We are therefore pleased to join the consensus on this important resolution and I encourage all council members to follow suit.
Thank you, Mr.
President.
Thank you.
I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Gambia.
Thank you, Mr.
President.
The Gambia thanks the core group for their leadership on draft resolution L four on the mandate of the special rapporteur on the rights of persons with disabilities and supports the renewal of the mandate for a further period of three years.
Persons with disabilities continue to face discrimination, exclusion, stigma, and barriers that limit their full and equal participation in society, ranging from physical, legal, and institutional.
Therefore, in our view, the rights of persons with disabilities must remain central to the work of this council.
Disability inclusion is a human rights obligation, guaranteeing equal access to education, health care, employment, justice, public services, social protection, and participation in decision making processes.
Therefore, the Gambia attaches great importance to the role of the special rapporteur in supporting states through country engagement, thematic guidance, and practical recommendations.
This is especially important for developing countries that require technical support to build stronger institutions to fully implement the human rights obligations towards persons with disabilities.
The national level, the Gambia remains committed to advancing the rights of persons with disabilities, including through the Persons with Disabilities Act and focusing on international good practices to ensure the full and effective inclusion of persons with disabilities in our society and the full realization of their rights.
Mr.
President, the renewal of this mandate will help maintain visibility, accountability, and practical guidance on the rights of persons with disabilities.
It will also support the Council's wider commitment to equality, dignity and leaving no one behind.
For these reasons, the Gambia supports draft resolution Alpha and encourages its adoption by consensus.
Thank you.
Thank you.
I have no further requests for the floor on general comments.
I've been informed by the Secretariat that there are PBIs for this draft proposal.
The corresponding PBRO statement has been made available on the HRC extranet.
I now give the floor to members of the council who wish to make explanations of vote before the vote on draft proposal L four.
I see no request for the floor.
Is there a request for a vote? I see none.
May I therefore take it that draft proposal L four may be adopted without a vote.
It is so decided.
Excellencies, the council will now consider draft L six as orally revised, entitled The Right to Education.
I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Portugal to introduce the draft text.
Thank you, Mr.
President.
I have the honor to introduce draft resolution L six on the renewal of the mandate of the Special Rapporteur on the right to Education.
Portugal wishes to thank all delegations for their constructive engagement during informal consultations, as well as to the more than 60 cross regional sponsors so far for their support.
With the mandate of the Special Rapporteur on the right to education coming to an end, the main purpose of this triangle initiative presented as a technical rollover is to renew it for a further period of three years.
Mr.
President.
In the world marked by widening inequalities, rapid technological change, misinformation, conflict, displacement, and climate related disruption, education is more essential than ever, not only as a right in itself, but as a foundation for resilience, inclusion, and the realization of the broader 2030 agenda.
In this context, this mandate continues to be of the utmost importance for the Human Rights Council and for the promotion of the right to education for all.
Education is not a narrow or sectorial issue.
It's a foundational to almost every area of the United Nations work.
It is central to the enjoyment of human rights, the achievement of sustainable development, and conflict prevention.
Not to mention the reduction of inequalities, the promotion of gender equality, youth empowerment, democratic participation, and digital literacy.
This is why maintaining visibility for the work of this mandate across all three UN pillars remains important.
Portugal sincerely thanks Madam Farides Shahid, the current mandate holder, as well as their predecessors for their work and dedication.
Alongside the Office of the gh Commissioner, UNESCO, Civil Society, and other relevant stakeholders, this special procedure has been one of the main contributors to the global promotion of education as a human right for all.
Mr.
President, Portugal year by submits E six to the consideration of this council.
We are confident that it can be adopted again by consensus and with the widest possible support.
I thank you.
Thank you.
I've been informed by the Secretariat that there are 27 additional co sponsors to the draft.
I now give the floor to members of the council who wish to make general comments.
I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Egypt, followed by Ethiopia.
Cedaris Mr.
President, at the outset, we would like to express our thanks to Portugal for submitting the draft resolution and for the transparency and openness during the consultations.
Also for the simplified drafting that limits itself to renewing the mandate.
We are happy to be sponsors The right to education must be enhanced.
It is essential to build a person's responsibility to build the cognitive and physical capacity of every individual, as well as enhancing human dignity so that every person in a community can participate while enhancing the values of friendship, integrity, and equality amongst people.
As per the UN Charter, the right to education is not only a means of achieving prosperity.
It is also an investment for future generations to have a more peaceful a future built on coexistence and newer generations should be able to have a better understanding to move forward.
Egypt enhances the right to education in accordance with our strategic national plan through workshops and trainings to integrate human rights in school curricula, as well as training of trainers.
In conclusion, we call on the council to adopt the resolution by consensus to renew our collective commitment to the right to education in accordance with the social characteristics of every country.
Thank you.
Thank you.
I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Ethiopia, followed by Cuba.
Thank you, Mr.
President.
Ethiopia thanks the delegation of Portugal for its leadership and constructive engagement throughout the consultations on this draft resolution.
The right to education is a fundamental human rights, an essential enabler for the realization of other human rights, sustainable development, peace and prosperity.
Ethiopia reaffirms its commitment to ensuring inclusive, equitable, and quality education for all.
In line with its international obligations and aspirations of the 2030 agenda for sustainable development, particularly SDG four.
We recognize the important role of the Special Rapporteur on the right to education in promoting dialogue, sharing good practices and supporting states in the progressive realization of the right to education.
We also reaffirm the importance of the special procedures system and recall that mandate holders should discharge their functions in accordance with Human Rights Council resolutions five slash one and five slash two, including the principles of impartiality, objectivity, independence, constructive dialogue and cooperation with states.
Ethiopia further underlines the international cooperation, technical assistance, and capacity building remain indispensable to supporting national efforts to strengthen education systems, particularly in developing countries facing resource constraints and other challenges.
Mr.
President, finally, in the series of consensus that has traditionally characterized this resolution, Ethiopia is pleased to join the consensus on draft resolution E six and looks forward to its continued and balanced and constructive implementation.
I thank you.
Thank you.
I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Cuba, followed by Spain and Gambia.
President President, education is a fundamental human right.
It is vital to realize other human rights.
It is also a key pillar for sustainable development and the prosperity of any nation.
Cuba acknowledges the valuable work of the special rapporteur and supports the renewal of the mandate.
We welcome the fact that the annual periodicity of the reports of the mandate to the Human Rights Council and the General Assembly.
We also support the request made in the text so that human resources and financial resources that are necessarily requested to comply with the mandate appropriately.
For Cuba, education is an extremely high priority, and 20% of our national budget is devoted to it.
In our country, universal and free of charge access is guaranteed to all levels of teaching.
The economic blockade on Cuba imposed by the US leading to a full fuel blockade seriously affects the educational system.
Despite the tremendous challenges imposed by the asphyxiating US policy, the Cuban education system has not collapsed or stopped.
We will continue to educate with the resources we have with tremendous efforts, creativity, as well.
We request the Special Rapporteur to document the serious effects of the right to education when it comes to the imposition of unilateral coercive measures, as is the case in Cuba and to set out specific measures so that states responsible put an end immediately to those measures.
Cuba supports draft resolution L six, and we hope that it will be adopted by consensus.
Thank you very much.
Thank you.
I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Spain, followed by Gambia.
Thank you, sir.
Spain would like to thank Portugal for submitting resolution L six and we reaffirm our strong support to the renewal of the Special Pratt mandate on the right to education.
A few days ago in Spain, the Isabel Osa Award was given to Malala Yousefi, acknowledging an exemplary background in the defense of human rights and in particular, the right to the education for women and girls.
Work reminds us that there can be no freedom or equality or sustainable development without access to quality education.
The promotion of the right to education holds a key place in our foreign policy and our commitment to human rights and democracy.
Guaranteeing this right for all persons without discrimination continues to be an undeniable priority.
That is why The situation of women and girls in Afghanistan continues to move us who are systematically deprived of their access to education.
We cannot allow such a serious and prolonged breach of human rights becomes normalized.
The right to education also depends on the fact that schools are safe.
We have listened with concern to the reports made by the mechanisms of this council on the devastation suffered by educational infrastructure and armed conflicts, including in Gaza.
When schools are destroyed, the future of entire generations is destroyed.
Education is a very powerful weapon and we cannot allow it to be used to spread propaganda or justify violations of international law.
In this respect, Spain restates its condemnation of the practices imposed by Russia in the occupied territories of Ukraine.
Spain would like to support the renewal of this mandate, which today is more necessary than ever.
We acknowledge the work carried out by the current mandate holder, whose solidity we have benefited from in recent years.
We would like to thank Portugal for the efforts undertaken to the support for education of this council.
That is why we call for consensus when it comes to renewing this important mandate.
I thank you.
Thank you.
I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Gambia.
Thank you, Mr.
President.
The Gambia thanks Portugal for their leadership on draft resolution L six on the right to education.
We welcome this draft resolution and support the renewal of the mandate of the Special Rapporteur for a further period of three years.
Education is one of the most powerful tools for human dignity, equality, and development.
It is for this reason that it is referred to as the Great equalizer as it opens opportunities for poverty reduction and helps break cycles of exclusion.
Yet without equitable access and resources, it can also exacerbate poverty, gender inequality, the digital divide, and other structural barriers.
Therefore, the right to education must be enjoyed by all, including girls, children with disabilities, children in rural communities, children affected by poverty, and those in vulnerable situations.
The Gambia attaches great importance to inclusive and equitable quality education through the constitutionally guaranteed free and compulsory basic education and affordable tertiary education measures.
In our view, education policy must respond to the lived realities of learners and not only the enrollment numbers.
Therefore, we welcome the continued attention to the education related sustainable development goals, as well as gender, age, and disability perspectives.
As such, the mandate of the special rapporteur remains important in supporting states true thematic guidance, country engagement, and practical recommendations.
For these reasons, the Gambia supports draft resolution L six and encourages its adoption by consensus.
Thank you.
Thank you.
I see no further requests for general comments.
I've been informed by the Secretariat that there are PBIs for this draft proposal.
The required resources have already been included in the proposed program budget.
I now give the floor to members of the council who wish to make explanation of vote before the vote on draft proposal L six as orally revised.
I see no request for the floor.
Is there any request for a vote? I see none.
May I take it that draft proposal L six as orally revised may be adopted without a vote.
It is so decided.
Colleagues, we can now go into draft proposal L six.
Interpreters have kindly also given us additional 10 minutes.
We may not be able to finish the whole process, but I think we can go into the introduction of the draft and maybe into general comments.
We'll see how we go.
But let us aim to finish by or slightly before 10 minutes past one.
So if you agree with that, we can now, as a council, consider draft proposal L nine entitled, Role of States in Countering the Negative Impact of Disinformation on the enjoyment and realization of human rights.
And I give the floor to the representative of Ukraine to introduce the draft text.
Mr.
President, on behalf of the core group consisting of Japan, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, the United Kingdom, and my own country, Ukraine, I have an honor to present draft resolution L nine entitled the role of States in countering the negative impact of Disinformation on the enjoyment and realization of human rights.
When this initiative was first introduced in 2022, it established an important principle.
Disinformation is not merely an information challenge, it is a human rights challenge.
It demonstrated that disinformation can undermine the enjoyment of all human rights and highlighted the responsibility of states to address it through the human rights based multidimensional and multi stakeholder approach.
Since then, the information environment has evolved considerably, as have the technologies and methods through which disinformation spreads and affects the enjoyment and realization of human rights.
Our collective response must evolve accordingly.
Against this background, the revised draft reflects emerging challenges posed by artificial intelligence, synthetic media, and foreign information manipulation and interference.
It acknowledges the real harm experienced by victims of disinformation, promotes greater transparency regarding the origin of digital content and further strengthens the concept of information integrity as an essential element of protecting human rights in today's digital environment.
Following extensive consultation with the Office of the High Commissioner of Human Rights, we also focused the operative part on a single forward looking request for a comprehensive study examining the human rights implication of the use of artificial intelligence in the dissemination of disinformation together with practical human rights based approaches to strengthening transparency and information integrity.
Sincerely thank all the delegation for their constructive engagement throughout the informal consultations.
Your valuable comments have helped improve the draft and preserve its cross regional and consensus based character.
With this in mind, we invite all members of the council to support draft resolution L nine, and we look forward to its adoption by consensus.
I thank you.
Thank you.
I've been informed by the Secretariat that there are 12 additional co sponsors.
I now give the floor to members of the council who wish to make general comments.
I give the floor to the distinguished representative of the UK, followed by Iceland and Brazil.
President, the UK is pleased to be a member of the core group and thanks Ukraine as pen holder for its leadership and constructive engagement throughout the negotiations.
This resolution addresses and recognizes disinformation as a growing challenge to the enjoyment of human rights and democratic participation.
We have seen firsthand the harmful impact of disinformation, including foreign information manipulation and interference, both in the UK and internationally.
Such activity seeks to undermine trust in democratic institutions, distort public debate, and in some cases, exacerbate conflict and human rights violations.
We therefore particularly welcome updates to the texts that reflect the evolving information environment, including references to foreign information, manipulation and interference, FIMI, synthetic media, information integrity, and the human rights implications of artificial intelligence.
These additions strengthen the resolution's relevance and underscore the need for rights respecting responses to emerging threats.
We encourage all delegations to support the draft.
Thank you.
Thank you.
I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Iceland, followed by Brazil and Cuba.
Thank you, Mr.
President.
Iceland thanks the core group and Ukraine for their work on draft resolution Al nine.
Disinformation can undermine the enjoyment of human rights.
Its harmful effects on democratic participation and public trust are well documented, particularly where access to accurate and reliable information is limited.
Disinformation campaigns often weaponize narratives around gender roles, gender equality, and sexual orientation to polarize public debate and spread fear.
Further, women and girls continue to be disproportionately affected by online violence, including abuse and harassment.
As we address these challenges, efforts to counter disinformation must remain firmly grounded in international human rights law and should protect rather than restrict freedom of expression and media freedom.
Iceland therefore welcomes the resolution's emphasis on human rights based and multidimensional approaches, including the promotion of media and information literacy and access to reliable information.
Iceland is pleased to join consensus on draft resolution Al nine and encourages other members to do the same.
I thank you.
Thank you.
I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Brazil, followed by Cuba.
Thank you, Mr.
President.
Brazil has consistently maintained the firm stance on the imperative to combat disinformation and hate speech.
We firmly believe that these phenomena pose severe threats to democratic institutions and to the full enjoyment of human rights, particularly for the most vulnerable groups in our societies.
In this regard, the core elements of this draft resolution align with Brazil's national priorities.
The text correctly identifies that disinformation and hate speech jeopardize the work of journalists and human rights defenders.
It also addresses the profound impact of new technologies, especially artificial intelligence in amplifying these challenges while rightly advocating for information integrity is a key solution Notwithstanding our support for the main objectives of these initiatives, Brazil notes with concern the introduction of the concept of foreign information manipulation and interference.
While Brazil acknowledges the specific concerns regarding FIMI, my delegation firmly believes that challenges related to freedom of expression, disinformation and hate speech are best addressed in this forum through an objective, human rights based approach.
Framing these topics through lenses that fall outside the explicit mandate of this council risks deepening geopolitical polarization.
Furthermore, we regret that this concept has been utilized to justify the adoption of unilateral coercive measures which lack a basis in international law, exacerbate divisions, and severely compromise the enjoyment of human rights.
Finally, it remains our understanding that foreign information manipulation and interference lacks consensus and does not constitute universally agreed language.
We strongly encourage the core group to seek a renewed consensus based approach on this critical matter at the next opportunity.
Thank you.
Thank you.
I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Cuba.
President, disinformation has become one of the main threats of our time.
Technological progress has revolutionized how we communicate, exposing people and nations to a scale that is unprecedented.
In imaginable a few years ago, this means that there is percent opportunities for the spread of knowledge and cultural enrichment and sustainable development.
But this progress is also facilitating increasingly the spread of disinformation with a volume and speed that are unprecedented in history.
This has a direct impact on the right of people to truthful information.
False information and lies and manipulative information are disseminated with a view to inciting to violence, hostility, and hate.
Children and young persons bear the worst of the burden of disinformation because they spend a lot of their lives online.
This compels us to act without delay.
A few major technological companies and a small number of countries of the North have excessive power and influence over the information ecosystem.
In a world that is dominated by digital connectivity, information should be recognized as a public good and as a shared resource shared by all of humankind.
As the draft L nine indicates, states should abstain from carrying out or sponsoring disinformation campaigns for political purposes.
Cuba is a victim of one such campaign.
A network of digital platforms and TV channels and radio channels and other media and they have a destructive objective and are often financed directly and directly by the US government are constantly spreading lies and disinformation with a view to spreading disinformation about Cuba.
States due to their legal and regulatory authority, have a responsibility, a primary responsibility in countering disinformation, including that spread over digital platforms.
I would like to conclude, President, by reaffirming that Cuba supports draft resolution L nine and we hope that it will be adopted by consensus.
Thank you very much.
Thank you.
Excellency, distinguished representatives.
We shall continue with the general comments after our break and we will go with our distinguished colleagues from Egypt, Gambia, and Estonia.
This brings us to the end of this meeting.
We will reconvene this afternoon at 3:00 P.M.
With the general comments and to continue the consideration on the draft proposal.
I'd like to thank the interpreters for their service, and I hereby close the 31st meeting of the 62nd session of the Human Rights Council.
Thank you very much.