HUMAN RIGHTS COUNCIL HEARS STATEMENTS BY DIGNITARIES FROM 28 STATES AND ONE ORGANIZATION AS IT BEGINS ITS HIGH-LEVEL SEGMENT

The Human Rights Council today started its high-level segment, hearing statements by dignitaries from 28 States and one organization.

Mahmoud Abbas, President of the State of Palestine, updated the Human Rights Council on the current situation in the occupied State of Palestine, underlining that the occupying power was undermining the letter and the spirit of the United Nations Charter and the Geneva Conventions. He cautioned any party against any unilateral actions and any encouragement of the occupation of Palestine, including any transfer of embassies in the occupied territories.

Faiez Mustafa Serraj, President of the Presidency Council of the Government of National Accord of Libya, said that respecting human rights required concerted efforts more than ever, as well as solidarity to put an end to hatred. It was important to provide technical assistance to Libya as it was facing major challenges that it had to address on all levels.

Taban Deng Gai, First Vice President of South Sudan, noted that the Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan was the only way to bring about reconciliation, ensure the protection of human rights, and bring about peace and prosperity in the country. South Sudan did not and would not condone impunity under any circumstances, especially with respect to issues concerning gender and sexually based violence.

Davor Ivo Stier, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign and European Affairs of Croatia, said that a lack of accountability was worrying, and that all perpetrators must be brought to justice. With the climate in the Human Rights Council becoming divisive, it was important to promote dialogue and avoid selectivity.

Augusto Santos Silva, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs of Portugal, stressed the importance of human rights diplomacy, which was the twin sister of diplomacy of peace, security and sustainable development. He underlined the robust defence of the universality, indivisibility and interdependence of human rights, whether they were civil, cultural, economic, political or social.

Miroslav Lajčák, Minister of Foreign and European Affairs of Slovakia, noted that the migration phenomenon remained a huge challenge with significant human rights implications. He warned that a shift toward discriminatory policies in many countries risked undermining fundamental human rights principles.

Eladio Loizaga, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Paraguay, said that the Human Rights Council was a space of dialogue for the international community in which it sought consensus and solutions for different global challenges. The effective and systematic contribution of the international community guaranteed the vigour of human rights in all countries, which in turn ensured peace and security on international level.

Hugo Martínez Bonilla, Minister for Foreign Affairs of El Salvador, said that the Human Rights Council was a key component not only of national policies, but also a cornerstone of foreign policy. El Salvador’s aspirations during the Council presidency were strengthening the international human rights system, building a culture of respect, and promoting a comprehensive vision fostering room for dialogue and cooperation.

Perfecto R. Yasay Jr., Secretary for Foreign Affairs of the Philippines, explained that the Philippines stood firm in its adherence to due process and the strict observance of the rule of law, and its obligations under existing human rights treaties. The widespread use and distribution of drugs posed a great danger to the people of the Philippines, and it had to be dealt with swiftly.

Ayman Safadi, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates of Jordan, said it was incumbent on the international community to fight despair which was exploited by extremists to undermine stability and poison social harmony.

Khemaies Jhinaoui, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Tunisia, noted that lasting social peace could not be achieved without development that reduced gaps between the rich and poor areas. To achieve victory on that front, all areas had to be mobilized to ensure that all opportunities were seized.

Concetta Fierravanti-Wells, Minister for International Development and the Pacific, Australia, reminded that Australian core values were based on respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms, and human rights would remain a pillar of foreign policy and outreach. Much work remained in closing the gap between indigenous Australians and others.

Helen Clark, Administrator of the United Nations Development Programme, said that efforts to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals were a critical means to help protect and promote human rights and address inequalities and discrimination, all of which were vital for building peaceful, just and inclusive societies.

Jean Asselborn, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Luxembourg, said that the power of human rights lay in their indivisible nature. However, those rights were increasingly threatened at their institutional basis under the pretext of the principle of national sovereignty.

Luislinda Dias De Valois Santos, Minister for Human Rights of Brazil, stressed that it was not possible to conceive of a globalized world without gender equality, freedom to live fully one’s religion, the right to participate in government, and protection from torture, forced labour, slavery, and all forms of violence and discrimination.

Anders Samuelsen, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Denmark, stated that the failure to ensure respect for human rights generated insecurity, instability and poverty. It was impossible to overlook that there was a growing tendency to question the virtues of multilateral cooperation, which was why the world had to demonstrate the benefits of such cooperation.

Ibrahim Al-Jaafari, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Iraq, noted that Iraq was suffering from terrorism and was undertaking great deeds to protect human beings and their dignity; Iraq was not a terrorist country but was a country which would prevail over it.

Manekur Ndiaye, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Senegal, said that the ability to raise awareness of human rights violations and the ability to create innovative mechanisms to document those violations, was a value added of the Council. Violent extremism was the most serious threat to the free world, and the threat of terrorism concerned everyone in the world.

María Angela Holguín, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Colombia, called for the exchange of good practices and experiences in the promotion and protection of human rights. The world called for success stories that could change the lives of millions of people, such as Colombia’s story.

Geoffrey Onyeama, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Nigeria, warned that due to their re-emergence, far-right ideologies remained a threat to migrants, asylum seekers, refugees and others fleeing prosecution. Those who shut their doors to refugees or failed to rescue them at sea must abide by the principle of non-refoulement.

Aurelia Frick, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Liechtenstein, said the Council’s work had become polarized, and that opposition to certain country-specific and thematic issues had become a matter of politics. It was unacceptable that reprisals against persons who cooperated with United Nations human rights representatives and mechanisms had become more severe.

Mohamed Asim, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Maldives, stressed that being a small island State did not prevent Maldives from promoting the values and principles underpinning the international human rights mechanisms. The country’s most important achievements included providing free medical care to the entire population, providing free education, and caring for the elderly and the vulnerable.

Bert Koenders, Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Netherlands, urged States to provide all political and financial support to an international, impartial and independent mechanism to assist in the investigation and prosecution of the most serious crimes committed in Syria. Accountability and justice were also needed in Yemen to open up prospects for peace, and to push forward on the independent investigation of human rights violations and breaches of humanitarian law.

Gudlaugur Thordarson, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Iceland, reiterated commitment to strengthening the universality of human rights and to supporting civil society voices calling for those rights. Noting the situation of human rights in “North Korea” and extrajudicial killings in the Philippines, among numerous other conflicts and situations, he said the international community needed to speak honestly and hold itself accountable.

Owen Bonnici, Minister of Justice, Culture and Local Government of Malta, said that while commitments had been made through various international treaties, it was alarming how human rights were being violated and abused. In particular, violence or harassment against lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex and questioning people on account of their sexual or gender identity continued to occur at alarming levels around the world.

Mikheil Janelidze, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Georgia, noted that the humanitarian and human rights situation in the occupied Georgian regions of Abkhazia and Tskhinvali remained of grave concern, and the local population was deprived of fundamental rights and freedoms. He expressed gratitude to those countries that supported the joint statements on the human rights and humanitarian situation in those regions during the last two sessions of the Council.

Yun Byung-se, Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Korea, noted that significant gaps between commitments to protecting human rights and the dire reality on the ground could still be witnessed. A case in point was “North Korea” where systematic and widespread human rights abuses had continued with impunity.

Soltan bin Saad Al-Muraikhi, State Minister for Foreign Affairs of Qatar, said the significant challenges facing human rights required additional efforts to allow the Council to achieve its noble goals. This could only be achieved through cooperation between States, confidence-building, mutual respect and by refraining from policies that led to discord and exclusion.

Virasakdi Futrakul, Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs of Thailand, stated that the international community needed to work on creating the right mind-set, instilling values and encouraging a positive attitude of embracing human rights among the general public. It was also important to ensure that social media did not divide but rather united the world.

The Human Rights Council is having a full day of meetings today. At 3 p.m., it will hold its annual high-level panel discussion on human rights mainstreaming: contribution of human rights to peace-building.

High-Level Segment

MAHMOUD ABBAS, President of the State of Palestine, updated the Human Rights Council on the current situation in the occupied State of Palestine, stressing that the occupying force was undermining the letter and the spirit of the United Nations Charter and the Geneva Conventions. Israeli forces had compelled one half of the Palestinian population to live in exile. Approximately 50 years had passed since Israel had begun occupying Palestinian lands. That disastrous reality had led to systematic human rights violations. There was more than ever a need for the United Nations specialized agencies to ensure Israel’s accountability for those violations, and to guarantee the end of the confiscation of lands, the taking of underground water reserves, the destruction of houses, and the racist practices of the Israeli regime. Mr. Abbas reiterated the appeal to end the occupation and bring an end to all the consequences of the occupation to ensure the establishment of a fully independent Palestinian State. Israel had continued to practice human rights violations and arrests, leaving thousands of Palestinians in prison. Palestine today was a reality anchored in history and international relations, while Israel was trying to withdraw from the progress previously achieved.

Mr. Abbas called on all States to recognize the State of Palestine, noting that the Government of the State of Palestine was extending a hand of peace. It was against any form of terrorism or violence, and it was disposed to work with everyone, including the administration of Donald Trump. Mr. Abbas cautioned against any unilateral actions and any encouragement of the further occupation of Palestine. He also cautioned against any transfer of embassies to the occupied territories, and called for the establishment of a database of businesses which violated human rights. As for the working of the national bodies to uphold the rule of law, Mr. Abbas announced the upcoming submission of the first report on the fight of all forms of discrimination against women. He called for the end of the occupation of the State of Palestine, which would end all human rights violations there and was crucial for upholding the credibility of the Council.

FAIEZ MUSTAFA SERRAJ, President of the Presidency Council of the Government of National Accord of Libya, said that respecting human rights required concerted efforts more than ever, as well as solidarity to put an end to hatred. Stressing the importance of integrating human rights with Agenda 2030, he noted that Libya was undergoing a transitional path, facing major challenges which the country had to address on all levels. The achievement of progress was conditional on the stability established in the fields of politics and security. Great importance was accorded to the implementation of effective programmes to demobilize, disarm and reintegrate combatants and build effective institutions. The Presidency Council was exerting efforts toward establishing a legitimate Government to promote the capabilities of State institutions. As was the case with other countries suffering armed conflict, there were several human rights violations that affected civilians, such as disappearances and torture. That was a reason for grave concern, but the utmost was being done to find a comprehensive solution which would lead to stability and would put an end to all those violations.

Libya condemned the announcement put forward by some authorities that limited the right to travel and encroached on the rights of women under the pretext of defending national security, and called on States that were in a position to do so to provide assistance to the Presidential Council to carry out its relevant policies. It was important to provide technical assistance to Libya to help it achieve progress. Libya was looking forward to the restoration of functions of the United Nations Support Mission in Libya so that it could provide technical assistance more efficiently.

TABAN DENG GAI, First Vice President of South Sudan, reaffirmed the commitment of the Government of South Sudan to cooperating with all United Nations bodies working to promote and protect human rights. He stressed that the Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan to end the conflict in the country was the only way to bring about reconciliation, ensure the protection of human rights, and bring about peace and prosperity in the country. The transitional Government appreciated the recommendations made by the various United Nations missions to operationalize transitional justice institutions and mechanisms, a key aspect of the peace agreement. The transitional Government had formed a technical committee in order to implement provisions of the peace agreement pertaining to transitional justice, reconciliation and healing. As for the establishment of a hybrid court for South Sudan, the Government was still awaiting for the necessary steps to be taken by the African Union in order to sign a memorandum of understanding between the transitional Government and the African Union.

The Government did not, and would not, condone impunity under any circumstances, especially with respect to issues concerning gender and sexually based violence. The Government had embarked on improved security and criminal prosecutions to mitigate abuses of human rights. However, it lacked adequate resources for those efforts. The First Vice President of South Sudan reported on the relative calm in the Equatoria region, noting that the notion of a looming genocide and possible ethnic cleansing was fading away. He also highlighted the resolution of a long-standing land dispute among the communities of the Dinka and Chollo communities in the Greater Upper Nile. The Government continued to urge all estranged opposition to embrace the dialogue and not violence as the only viable way to settling differences. It had endorsed a comprehensive humanitarian intervention plan and a framework for return, resettlement and reintegration of displaced persons.

DAVOR IVO STIER, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign and European Affairs of Croatia, said that a lack of accountability was worrying, and all perpetrators had to be brought to justice. The international community had been witnessing large-scale atrocities committed by groups which negated all universal values of humanity. Building on the country’s experience in peacebuilding, Croatia stood ready to provide expertise in transitions to peace. All human rights were universal, indivisible, interrelated and mutually reinforcing. With the climate in the Council becoming divisive, it was important to promote dialogue and avoid selectivity. The Universal Periodic Review brought added value to monitoring mechanisms by enhancing follow-up. Having noted with concern that the number of attacks on religious minorities was rising, Croatia, as a new member of the Council, was determined to raise awareness about the violence and persecution of religious minorities and notably Christians. Other topics for special attention included the promotion and protection of the rights of children and other vulnerable social groups. Human life needed to be respected at all stages, he said, adding that no State should grant itself the right to take life, and where the death penalty still existed, Croatia called for its use to be progressively restricted. Regarding the issue of refugees and migrants, he said legislative measures to fight xenophobia and racism should be based on tolerance toward refugees and hate crime legislation with sanctions against the perpetrators.

AUGUSTO SANTOS SILVA, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs of Portugal, stressed the importance of human rights diplomacy, which was the twin sister of diplomacy of peace, security and sustainable development. He underlined the robust defence of the universality, indivisibility and interdependence of human rights, whether they were civil, cultural, economic, political or social. Mr. Santos Silva also highlighted the collective thinking and dialogue about human rights and the circumstances of their universal application, as well as the promotion of human rights through an inclusive and non-confrontational dialogue. Civil society had played an important role in the promotion and protection of human rights. Portugal had paid particular attention to economic, social and cultural rights, the right to education and the issue of human rights and mental health. Accordingly, Portugal had supported the Global Platform for Syrian Students and had presented an innovative resolution on human rights and mental health together with Brazil. The Government of Portugal had also attached great importance to the abolition of the death penalty and it called on all “retentionist” countries to establish a de facto moratorium on the death penalty. Portugal placed great trust in the work of the Human Rights Council, the High Commissioner for Human Rights, the Universal Periodic Review mechanism, the Special Procedures and the treaty bodies.

MIROSLAV LAJČÁK, Minister of Foreign and European Affairs of Slovakia, said that people all over the world looked to the United Nations when their human rights were violated. The Council had to stand up for those people. The migration phenomenon remained a huge challenge with significant human rights implications, and the international community needed to address human rights violations in countries of origin. A shift toward discriminatory policies in many countries risked undermining fundamental human rights principles; human rights violations were often the first indicators of instability. If the international community was serious about conflict prevention, human rights had to be placed at the core. Slovakia supported the current track of negotiations on Syria, as long as they had the potential to finally lead to the end of violence. In Yemen, an inclusive political dialogue had to remain a top priority. The ongoing conflict in Ukraine had had a huge human rights impact on that country’s population, and Slovakia commended the work of the United Nations Human Rights Monitoring Mission in Ukraine, noting that it was essential to keep Ukraine on the agenda of the Council. Human rights institutions at the United Nations needed to strengthen their coherent approach in order to address early warning signs of instability. Support for freedom of religion or belief and freedom of expression remained basic elements of Slovak human rights policy.

ELADIO LOIZAGA, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Paraguay, reiterated the conviction of the Government of Paraguay that the Human Rights Council was a space of dialogue for the international community in which it sought consensus and solutions for different global challenges. Paraguay was closely cooperating with the United Nations mechanisms and bodies in order to ensure the protection and promotion of human rights. It continued to make progress in ensuring that a democratic culture took root and that civic and political liberties had been implemented. Paraguay also worked to diminish social divides in order to achieve inclusive economic development and it had achieved good results in that respect. One of the most important decisions was the implementation of the National Programme for Poverty Reduction, whose objective was to allow poor and extremely poor families access to services. The Government had also developed and consolidated the system for the monitoring of recommendations, which allowed for follow-up on international recommendations. The effective and systematic contribution of the international community guaranteed the vigour of human rights in all countries, which in turn ensured peace and security at the international level. Paraguay supported tangible measures for the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals, which were closely linked with the respect for human rights.

HUGO MARTÍNEZ BONILLA, Minister for Foreign Affairs of El Salvador, said that the Human Rights Council was a key component not only of national policies, but it was also a cornerstone of foreign policy. Part of El Salvador’s aspirations during its presidency included strengthening the international human rights system, to build a culture of respect, and promote a comprehensive vision fostering room for dialogue and cooperation. The presidency coincided with a period full of challenges on the international agenda, but El Salvador was ready to seek out all alternatives to provide response to those challenges. Respecting human rights was a key foundation for building societies of peace as it strengthened the rule of law and democratic institutions. After the adoption of Agenda 2030, El Salvador became the first country in the world to sign an accelerated implementing protocol. The country had at national level promoted priority issues such as the situation of indigenous peoples and other vulnerable populations. Twenty-five years earlier, El Salvador had been bled dry by conflict, because of violations of human rights on the part of the State. “We are now filled with pride at progress made,” the Minister for Foreign Affairs said, thanking the Human Rights Council for its openness to addressing issues such as that of unaccompanied migrant children and also youth and human rights. The migratory topic in El Salvador’s region was an issue of sensitivity, which required a human rights-based approach.

PERFECTO R. YASAY JR., Secretary for Foreign Affairs of the Philippines, said that the Philippines’ abiding respect for human rights was deeply rooted in its consciousness as a nation forged by its historical experiences. As a colony of western powers for the past four centuries, the Philippines had endured untold brutalities against its people. This was why fundamental freedoms and the bill of human rights were vital to the country, and were held sacrosanct by its laws. In regards to the country’s war against illegal drugs, it stood firm in its adherence to due process and the strict observance of the rule of law, as well as the country’s obligations under existing human rights treaties. Mr. Yasay stressed that the widespread use and distribution of drugs posed a great danger to the Philippine people. Unless dealt with swiftly, the magnitude of the drug problem would lead the Philippines to become a narco-state. In that context, the drug campaign was a crucial move to save his people from the deadly effects of the illegal drug trade. Human rights had therefore to be viewed from the perspective of protecting the country as a whole and keeping the majority of the population out of harm’s way.

AYMAN SAFADI, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates of Jordan, said that Jordan’s foreign policy rested on a vision enshrining progress. Jordan was working to build an environment grounded in institutions while guaranteeing the fight against corruption, and had adopted numerous pieces of legislation. An independent electoral body had also been established. Jordan was of the view that human rights required the cooperation of civil society, and Jordan was endeavouring to reactivate that partnership. Jordan had outlined a plan and mechanism working toward better coordination between all stakeholders. Following recent parliamentary elections, women now held more seats in the Parliament. Finding a just and global solution to the Palestinian question was a major priority, and the people of the Middle East would only enjoy peace and security if there was a two-State solution with a restoration of a sovereign Palestinian State. It was crucial to find a daring solution which reflected international resoluteness on that matter. The current complications threatened the status of Jerusalem, and Jordan was working on better coordination in order to maintain the sacred sites. The situation of displaced Syrians was another source of concern for Jordan. It was incumbent on the international community to fight despair which was exploited by extremists to undermine stability and poison social harmony.

KHEMAIES JHINAOUI, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Tunisia, said Tunisia had established a Government of national solidarity that had reflected its national aspirations and encouraged women to take up leadership roles. It had also avoided an acute crisis by seeking to build democratic institutions. Such efforts, however, should not conceal the magnitude of the challenge that Tunisia faced as it was in an unstable region that was undergoing deep transformations. The increased terrorism that the region was witnessing was a phenomenon that made it necessary to coordinate in the area of security, particularly in developing countries. In that vein, Tunisia had established a legal framework without undermining human rights principles. Nevertheless, lasting social peace could not be achieved without development that reduced the gaps between rich and poor areas. To achieve victory on that front, all must mobilise all areas so as to ensure that all opportunities were seized. The Minister for Foreign Affairs expressed support for the 2030 Millennium Goals and renewed Tunisia’s commitment to pursue these efforts. Tunisia was committed to the international underpinnings to international peace and security, a cornerstone to the country’s foreign policy, and welcomed all efforts made by the international community to address human rights violations. Lastly, the Minister reiterated his support for the plight of the Palestinian people, who have been suffering under the occupation.

CONCETTA FIERRAVANTI-WELLS, Minister for International Development and the Pacific, Australia, said Australia was one of the most culturally diverse countries on earth, home to people who spoke hundreds of languages. Australia had welcomed millions of migrants over the years, and she herself was the child of Italian migrants. Around 190,000 people moved to Australia every year. Australian core values were based on respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms, and human rights would remain a pillar of foreign policy and outreach. Australia’s candidacy for the Human Rights Council 2018-2020 reflected its commitment to advancing human rights, and Australia would play a crucial role in representing its vast region. If elected, Australia would focus on themes which included gender equality and the empowerment of women. Freedom of expression, good governance, and the rights of indigenous people were other important priorities. Australia faced challenges, and in November 2015 it received 290 recommendations during its Universal Periodic Review. Much work remained in closing the gap between indigenous Australians and others. Australia would ratify the Optional Protocol to the Convention against Torture later this year.

HELEN CLARK, Administrator of the United Nations Development Programme, said that efforts to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals were a critical means to help protect and promote human rights and address inequalities and discrimination, all of which were vital for building peaceful, just and inclusive societies. The United Nations Development Programme was supporting the mainstreaming of the Sustainable Development Goals into national plans and strategies and working to strengthen the capacities of national institutions. In that regard, the United Nations Development Programme had considerable experience in supporting countries in their preparation for the Universal Periodic Review process. For example, the United Nations Development Programme had supported Uzbekistan in the development and implementation of a National Action Plan to follow up on the recommendations of treaty bodies and on Universal Periodic Review recommendations. Ms. Clark said she looked forward to working closely with partners in the United Nations system to support countries to implement the commitments they had made when ratifying the international human rights conventions and the 2030 Agenda.

JEAN ASSELBORN, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Luxembourg, said that the power of human rights lay in their indivisible nature. Increasingly, however, those rights were threatened at their institutional basis. To those using the principle of national sovereignty to deny human rights to persons, he said that every man, woman and child enjoyed those rights because they were human beings. In the interconnected world of today, the work of human rights defenders deserved constant support. Denouncing an infringement of human rights would not have an impact unless the perpetrator was punished. The situation in Syria was difficult, the Minister for Foreign Affairs said, and Luxembourg supported the mechanism responsible for inspecting violations in Syria. The situation in South Sudan had deteriorated since last year, and the political crisis was compounded by a political crisis. Human rights had to be the shared concern of the international community, he said, noting that the Democratic People's Republic of Korea was locked on a dangerous path. The principle of two States of Israel and Palestine was the only path to follow. It was the obligation of all to protect the human rights of all persons, regardless of their migratory status. The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development promised to leave no one behind. Luxembourg would contribute to that work with determination.

LUISLINDA DIAS DE VALOIS SANTOS, Minister for Human Rights of Brazil, said that Brazil was back as a full member of the Council and would stand with its members, especially from the global south, to state that the voices of exclusion and intolerance were wrong. The people envisaged an inclusive globalisation, with concrete and positive outcomes for all; and globalisation would only be successful if there was a stable international order and if actions were guided by international human rights law. The challenge for the members of the Council therefore, was to offer the world a vision of a future that delivered on the promises in the Charter of the United Nations and in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, of a world free from fear for the excluded, the marginalized and the vulnerable people living in countries. This went beyond questions of war and peace. It was not possible to conceive of a globalized world without gender equality, in practice and in law; without freedom from discrimination by origin, race, sex, colour, religious belief, philosophical or political conviction or prejudice of any kind; and without the freedom to live fully one’s religion, or the right to participate in government. Globalisation must be combined with the respect for and the promotion of the dignity of the human person, and initiatives to prevent and fight against torture, to eradicate forced labour, and to fight all forms of violence and discrimination, must be further strengthened. There must be guarantees for children, for the youth, for the elderly, for persons with disabilities, for minorities, indigenous peoples; it was not possible to live without a humanistic perspective to harbouring those who had to flee their homes in order to escape from armed conflict and natural disasters.

ANDERS SAMUELSEN, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Denmark, said that human rights were under threat in many parts of the world. Failure to ensure respect for human rights generated insecurity, instability and poverty. It was impossible to overlook that there was a growing tendency to question the virtues of multilateral cooperation. The world must demonstrate the benefits of such cooperation and institutions must adapt to ever-changing circumstances. Nevertheless, progress required mutual understanding and mutual understanding required dialogue. Every country had its shortcomings and sometimes criticism was necessary to bring about positive change. Sadly, violations of human rights were taking place around the world and the Council must pay attention to those situations. Specifically, there was an urgent need for a political settlement to bring back the rule of law and end impunity in Libya. Denmark also expressed concern about the situation in Syria, calling on all parties to the conflict to commit to an inclusive political settlement while condemning the mass executions of political prisoners and minors. Key regional actors in the Middle East, including Iran and Saudi Arabia, had a special responsibility in that regard, he said.

IBRAHIM AL-JAAFARI, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Iraq, recalled that Iraq, for the first time, was a member of the Human Rights Council, and said that Iraq was the cradle of human rights principles and values and had laid the foundations of human rights throughout the past 6,000 years of its history. The political system of Iraq had been built on this history, and its Constitution enshrined the principles of human rights. Children occupied a central place, and there was ongoing work on strengthening the human rights culture in the hearts and minds of the people. Iraq had prioritised cooperation with international organizations and organs, it had welcomed special procedures into the country, and strengthened cooperation on human rights with the United Nations Assistance Mission in Iraq. Policies had been adopted to address the terrorist threat and Mr. Al-Jaafari commended the human rights based conduct and the discipline of Iraqi police and the armed forces. Iraq was suffering from terrorism and was undertaking great deeds to protect human beings and their dignity; Iraq was not a terrorist country but was a country which would prevail over terrorism. Some parties supported terrorism to defend their own interests and were supporting the media to undermine the fight against terrorism. Media outlets were distorting the truth and only mobilized the public against the Government and so fed the terrorism.

MANKEUR NDIAYE, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Senegal, said that the ability to raise awareness of human rights violations and the ability to create innovative mechanisms to document those violations, was a value added of the Council. Its Universal Periodic Review was a valuable mechanism which must be perfected and retained. All aspects of human rights were equally important for preserving world stability. A number of serious human rights violations had occurred in areas where peacekeepers had been deployed, but they could not intervene because of their restricted mandates. The Council should address those issues as a matter of the fight against impunity and the responsibility to protect. Mr. Ndiaye underlined that violent extremism was the most serious threat to the free world, and that the threat of terrorism concerned everyone in the world. Senegal had adopted in 2013 a child protection strategy, which was a pillar of a true revolution in the domain of the promotion and protection of children’s rights, and was taking steps to address the situation in places of detention. In closing, the Minister announced the candidacy of Senegal for membership of the Council for the next cycle and urged other States to support its election.

MARÍA ANGELA HOLGUÍN, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Colombia, called for the exchange of good practices and experiences in the promotion and protection of human rights. She underscored the importance of the United Nations Declaration on the Right to Peace, adding that greater cooperation was needed in facing challenges in different regions of the world. Cooperation and open and constructive dialogue were key in achieving results in that respect. The world called for success stories that could change the lives of millions of people, such as Colombia’s story; 2016 had been the crucial year for peace in Colombia. The results of peace were tangible, such as the reintegration of guerrilla fighters. The Government was working to return them to civilian life as quickly as possible. Disarmament and demobilization were essential in achieving that goal. It was thus important for Colombia’s allies and friends at the United Nations to support the Government in that endeavour. Ms. Holguin reiterated that the Government would not allow violence to undermine the peace agreement. The Government’s focus was on victims and on providing them with reconciliation, establishment of the truth and non-repetition of conflict. Penalties would be applied to the perpetrators of crimes in Colombia, even though it was difficult to find the right balance between accountability and reconciliation.

GEOFFREY ONYEAMA, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Nigeria, reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to peace and the human rights of every individual. Those rights were inalienable and were the bedrock of freedom, justice and peace in the world; they underlined the Constitution and the relations with other countries. Since its independence, Nigeria had been actively involved in the de-colonialization of the African continent, participated in peacekeeping operations, stood firmly against apartheid, and championed the fight against racism. The interventions aimed at regime changes in other countries often resulted in conflict, displacement and humanitarian crises. There were various models of democracy and no one model was perfect, stressed Mr. Onyeama. The re-emergence of far-right ideologies remained a threat to migrants, asylum seekers, refugees and others fleeing prosecution; those who shut their doors to refugees or failed to rescue them at sea must abide by the principle of non-refoulement. The history of the world was a history of migration. Nigeria thanked the international community for the support offered to refugees and internally displaced persons fleeing Boko-Haram. The terrorist group was almost defeated throughout the Lake Chad basin, save for some isolated areas. Nigeria was addressing the situation in places of detention and had put in place an amnesty mechanism for prisoners serving long sentences, and was taking steps to address the illegal circulation of small arms.

AURELIA FRICK, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Liechtenstein, said the Human Rights Council’s work had become polarized, and that opposition to certain country-specific and thematic issues had become a matter of politics. Around the world, a growing number of human rights defenders around the world were confronting intimidation, threats and reprisals. Reprisals against persons who cooperated with United Nations human rights representatives and mechanisms had become more severe, which was unacceptable, and which demanded a “united and robust” response from all. As, the international community looked toward the third cycle of the Universal Periodic Review, it was time to reflect on that mechanism’s achievements and shortcomings. For Liechtenstein the Universal Periodic Review was a powerful tool which had stimulated internal debate, including surrounding the process of setting up a national human rights institution. She commended the Council on the recent creation of a mandate for an independent expert on the protection against violence and discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity, urging all Member States to cooperate fully with the mandate. Noting that the Council had been seized with the situation in Syria for several years, she added that there had been no progress on accountability for war crimes and crimes against humanity. That was why Liechtenstein supported the establishment of a mechanism to that effect.

MOHAMED ASIM, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Maldives, said that the Human Rights Council held a special place because it had accepted Maldives’ request to examine the relationship between climate change and the full enjoyment of fundamental human rights, and because it had accepted the Maldives’ initiative to establish a special procedure on human rights and the environment. Mr. Asim stressed that being a small island State did not prevent Maldives from promoting the values and principles underpinning the international human rights mechanisms. Some of Maldives’ most important achievements included providing free medical care to the entire population, providing free education, and caring for the elderly and the vulnerable. The country’s democratic transition and strengthening of human rights had benefited from the engagement it had had with the international community, especially the United Nations system. The Government of Maldives called on Israel to withdraw from the Palestinian and Arab lands that it had illegally occupied since 1967, and to strictly adhere to the resolutions of the United Nations Security Council. It also called on all parties in Syria to end the violence and to respect the fundamental human rights of the people affected by the war. It called on all countries where Islamophobia and other intolerances were on the rise to promote respect for diversity.

BERT KOENDERS, Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Netherlands, said that as many as 13,000 people had been hanged in secret in Saydnaya Prison in Syria - most had been civilians, and they had been put to death for no other reason than that they had been suspected of opposing the Government. There could be no lasting peace in Syria without justice; there could be no justice without accountability; and there could be no accountability without the truth. Three months ago, the United Nations General Assembly had passed a resolution establishing an international, impartial and independent mechanism to assist in the investigation and the prosecution of those responsible for the most serious crimes committed in Syria, and Mr. Koenders urged all to provide all the political and financial support possible to the mechanism. Accountability and justice were also needed in Yemen to open up prospects for peace, and now was the time to push forward on the independent investigation of human rights violations and breaches of humanitarian law there. Terrorism continued to pose a threat to human rights around the world; in Afghanistan, the number of attacks had reached the highest level ever recorded by the United Nations, and a ten-fold increase in the number of attacks by ISIS had been observed. However, all must be concerned when the fight against terrorism put fundamental values in jeopardy, and when combatting terror became an excuse to mute all criticism. All must be concerned whenever human rights were presented as a threat to the national interest, and all should distrust any attempt to portray human rights as obstacles to security or stability.

GUDLAUGUR THORDARSON, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Iceland, quoting Eleanor Roosevelt, said human rights began in small places, close to home. With that in mind, Iceland had presented the report connected to its Universal Periodic Review. Since the establishment of the Human Rights Council, the Universal Periodic Review had proven to be a valuable tool allowing all Member States—even those who thought themselves beyond reproach—to examine their own record. Iceland was committed to strengthening the universality of human rights and to supporting civil society voices calling for those rights. The system needed to be protected as it had evolved from need. Noting the situation of human rights in “North Korea” as well as extrajudicial killings in the Philippines, among numerous other conflicts and situations, the Minister said the international community needed to speak honestly and hold itself accountable. Iceland was alarmed by the war in Syria, and condemned abuses committed on all sides. Expressing sympathy to the people of Turkey, the Minister condemned the attempted coup d’état in that country. Human rights and respect for diversity were key concepts that Icelanders held dear. The Government of Iceland reaffirmed its full support for the High Commissioner. Today, the world faced threats that crossed borders. The Human Rights Council needed to remain accountable and fit.

OWEN BONNICI, Minister for Justice, Culture and Local Government of Malta, said that every Government should protect and advocate for human rights. The advancement of human rights was an inherent aspect of Maltese politics, legislation and way of life and it continued to advocate for the protection of such rights in all fora. While commitments had been made through various international treaties, it was alarming how human rights were being violated and abused, the Minister said. In particular, violence or harassment against lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex and questioning people on account of their sexual or gender identity continued to occur at alarming levels around the world. Equality and freedom from discrimination were fundamental human rights that belonged to all people, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. Ending discrimination and abuse required States to not only acknowledge and criminalise such abuses, but also raise awareness of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex and questioning people’s rights across societies. The Government of Malta had expended significant resources and political capital on the issue.

MIKHEIL JANELIDZE, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Georgia, updated the Council on last year’s substantial developments related to compliance with human rights instruments. A human rights action plan focusing on gender equality had been approved, and Georgia had also acceded to the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child on a communications procedure. In 2016, Georgia had hosted three Special Rapporteurs. The active participation of civil society actors in the work of the Human Rights Council was instrumental, and it was important to safeguard the space for civil society to ensure that their voices were heard. The humanitarian and human rights situation in both occupied regions of Georgia remained of grave concern, and the local population was deprived of fundamental rights and freedoms. Gratitude was expressed to those countries that supported the statements on the human rights and humanitarian situation in Georgia’s regions of Abkhazia and Tskhinvali during the last two sessions of the Council. Developments in Syria were also deeply concerning, and all forms of terrorism and violent extremism were condemned in the strongest terms. The Minister reaffirmed Georgia’s commitment to working toward the improvement of human rights standards within the country.

YUN BYUNG-SE, Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Korea, noted that significant gaps between commitments to protecting human rights and the dire reality on the ground could still be witnessed. Those daunting challenges highlighted the need to mainstream human rights throughout the United Nations system. Time and again the international community had witnessed cases where persistent human rights violations had posed a serious threat to peace. A case in point was “North Korea.” Three years ago, the Commission of Inquiry had submitted to the Human Rights Council a historic report on the systematic, widespread and gross human rights violations in “North Korea”, establishing that those violations had been committed pursuant to policies established at the highest level of the State. In 2016 the General Assembly had adopted the strongest ever human rights resolution on “North Korea”, which for the first time highlighted the responsibility of the “North Korean” leadership for the human rights abuses. There was an endless list of dismal records of human rights abuses there, including the imprisonment of some 80,000 to 120,000 people who suffered from deliberate starvation, torture, forced labour, executions and rape. The Government of “North Korea” also ran labour camps abroad with tens of thousands of overseas workers whose fundamental human rights were denied. The international community should no longer allow innocent “North Koreans” to suffer such serious human rights abuses, and it should hold violators accountable by bringing the “North Korean” case to the International Criminal Court, as recommended by the resolutions adopted at the General Assembly.

SOLTAN BIN SAAD AL-MURAIKHI, State Minister for Foreign Affairs of Qatar, said the significant challenges facing human rights required additional efforts to allow the Council to achieve its noble goals. This could only be achieved through cooperation between States, confidence-building, mutual respect and by refraining from policies that led to discord and exclusion. In particular, an increase in hostility toward Islam and Muslims was a new phenomenon that had given rise to measures and Government policies that had led to unwarranted discrimination and hostility. He noted that the improvement of human rights was a fundamental prerequisite for achieving sustainable development. Toward that end, Qatar had pursued a development policy based on the promotion, respect and protection of the rights of all individuals. However, Qatar’s efforts had not been confined to the national level. Its foreign policy was based on strengthening regional and international humanitarian and development initiatives and aimed to assist many countries in meeting their development goals. At the same time, mediation efforts were being undertaken by the country to find lasting solutions to a number of the world’s crises and conflicts, he said.

VIRASAKDI FUTRAKUL, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Thailand, said human rights were embedded in all religions and cultures, and the promotion and protection of human rights should be based on genuine dialogue. That was also how the crisis in irregular migration needed to be addressed. The international community needed to work on creating the right mind-set, instilling values and encouraging a positive attitude of embracing human rights among the general public. It was also important to ensure that social media did not divide but united the world instead. More dialogue as well as a more inclusive and constructive approach in the Council needed to be promoted. Thailand had been building capacities within its own country, and since the second cycle of Thailand’s Universal Periodic Review last year, a plan of action had been endorsed to implement the accepted recommendations. As Thailand attached high importance to the development of its human capital, the universal health coverage and education for all policies had been extended to migrants, enabling them to contribute meaningfully in the societies in which they lived. A new Constitution had been approved in a referendum last August, which reaffirmed the principle of equal rights and protection under the law, non-discrimination, prohibition of torture, and freedom of religious belief. Looking ahead, he said the Thai Government would continue to do its best to ensure human rights improvements on the ground.


For use of the information media; not an official record

HRC17/003E