National Statements

General Segment, delivered by Australia's Special Envoy for International Human Rights the Hon Mark Dreyfus KC MP – 25 February 2026

I am honoured to speak to you as Australia's Special Envoy for International Human Rights.

Respect for human rights is respect for each other's humanity.

Yet every day across the world we see the cost of failure to respect that humanity.

In December, on Sydney's Bondi Beach, fifteen innocent people were murdered by antisemitic terrorists at a Chanukah celebration.

There is no place for hatred in Australia, or elsewhere.

We will do all we can to combat antisemitism, Islamophobia, and attacks on all communities, including on our First Nations peoples.

Regrettably, human rights situations are getting worse.

Constraints on civil society are increasing, and human rights defenders, journalists and dissenting voices are being targeted.

Regression in gender equality, and conflict-related sexual violence is increasing.

This is unacceptable.

Conflict has exacerbated catastrophic human rights situations around the world, including in Myanmar, Sudan and Gaza.

We call on Russia to comply with its international human rights obligations and end its immoral invasion of Ukraine.

We remain gravely concerned by China's human rights violations against Uyghurs, Tibetans, and the erosion of rights and freedoms in Hong Kong.

Last year saw an alarming increase in executions in countries that retain the death penalty – including in Iran, which continues brutal oppression of its people.

Australia has a proud record of human rights leadership in areas that I will focus on as Special Envoy, including the abolition of the death penalty, and the rights of children, older persons, people living with a disability, and LGBTQIA+ individuals.

Friends, we will work with the international community because human rights are by definition international.

And because when people are marginalised or persecuted, humanity suffers.

I thank you.

Enhanced Interactive Dialogue on the report of the High Commissioner on Sudan, with the High Commissioner and the designated Expert on human rights, and on the report of the independent international fact-finding mission for the Sudan on the human rights situation in El Fasher – 26 February 2026

Thank you President / Vice President,

Australia thanks the High Commissioner and the Fact-Finding Mission for their reports.

We are deeply appalled by the Mission's Report findings that war crimes and crimes against humanity were committed in El Fasher. We are disturbed by continued reports of the atrocities, including in Kordofan. Australia continues to support all efforts to investigate the atrocities and ensure those responsible are held to account.

Over 30 million people are in urgent need of assistance due to the ongoing conflict as Sudan faces the world's largest humanitarian and displacement crisis. Australia unequivocally condemns attacks on civilians, humanitarian operations and critical infrastructure, and urges an immediate end to violence.

We call on all parties to uphold their obligations under international law - including to protect civilians and humanitarian workers, facilitate safe passage for those fleeing conflict-affected areas, and ensure unimpeded access to humanitarian assistance. A permanent cessation of hostilities is urgently needed.

We ask: how can the international community reinforce protection for civilians and humanitarian actors while supporting broader efforts to de-escalate the conflict?

Enhanced Interactive Dialogue on the report of the Special Rapporteur Afghanistan and on the comprehensive report of OHCHR on the situation of human rights in Afghanistan, delivered by Australia on behalf of CANZ – 26 February 2026

Thank you President / Vice President

Australia delivers this statement on behalf of Canada, Australia and New Zealand.

We are gravely concerned by the human rights and humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan, particularly the Taliban's ongoing, systematic campaign of oppression targeting women, girls, and minorities.

We deplore the Taliban's sustained campaign to erase women and girls from public life by eroding their human rights and fundamental freedoms.

Nearly 22 million Afghans are in urgent need of humanitarian assistance. Due to the Taliban's oppression of women and girls, they face disproportionate effects.

The new so-called 'Criminal Procedural Regulations' normalise family violence, further entrench discrimination and undermine due process.

As with the so-called law on 'Prevention of Vice', the regulations demonstrate a willful, flagrant disregard for Afghanistan's obligations under international law, including international human rights law.

These actions undermine peace and stability in the region and do not provide a credible foundation for Afghanistan's reengagement with the international community.

We reiterate our calls for human rights to be upheld in accordance with Afghanistan's obligations under international law.

Special Rapporteur, how can we ensure humanitarian support effectively assists oppressed Afghans – particularly women and girls – to address the Taliban's failure to meet their basic needs?

Interactive Dialogue on the report of the High Commissioner on the human rights situation in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, and the obligation to ensure accountability and justice – 26-27 February 2026

Thank you President / Vice President

Australia remains gravely concerned by ongoing human rights violations and abuses in Palestine.

We have consistently urged all parties to the conflict to abide by international law, including humanitarian and human rights law.

Civilians, humanitarian workers and UN facilities and staff must be protected.

Sustained and unimpeded humanitarian assistance must flow into Gaza.

Hamas must play no role in Palestine's future and we condemn its ongoing abuses and acts of terror.

Mr/Mrs President, a two-state solution remains the only avenue for enduring peace and security for both Israel and Palestine and we are deeply concerned by actions that are undermining progress towards that goal. 

Australia condemns escalating settler violence and call on Israel to cease settlement expansion in the West Bank, which is illegal under international law.

We also call on Israel to reverse its decision to expand its control over the West Bank.

Along with partners, Australia strongly opposes any form of annexation.

Mr President, how can we work together towards a just and enduring peace that ensures the human rights of Palestinians and Israelis alike?

Interactive Dialogue on the oral update of the High Commissioner on the situation of human rights of Rohingya Muslims and other minorities in Myanmar – 27 February 2026

Thank you President/Vice President.

Australia remains deeply concerned by the worsening humanitarian and security situation faced by Rohingyas.

Civilians and civilian infrastructure continue to be targeted, with ongoing human rights abuses, systematic sexual and gender-based violence, and forced recruitment. The campaign of violence against Rohingyas must stop.

Facing mass displacement and untold suffering, more Rohingyas are driven to undertake dangerous sea voyages.

We have committed over AUD$1.26 billion in humanitarian assistance to Myanmar and Bangladesh since 2017, including a new three–year program worth $370 million.

Australia's Minister for Foreign Affairs, Senator the Hon Penny Wong, and Minister for International Development, the Hon Dr Anne Aly MP, have both visited Cox's Bazar in Bangladesh. They have seen first-hand the life-saving assistance being provided and the resilience of the 1.2 million Rohingyas residing there in temporary shelters. We thank Bangladesh and others hosting those displaced.

Australia stands with the Rohingya, including their right to return to Myanmar as citizens. Their return, when it is safe to do so, should be voluntary, dignified and sustainable.

High Commissioner, what more can be done to improve humanitarian access to help us all alleviate suffering in Rakhine State?

Item 2 General Debate – 2 March 2026

Australia thanks the High Commissioner for his report.

Globally, human rights are under attack.

The space for civil society and human rights defenders narrows, including in Iran, Russia, Democratic Republic of the Congo, China, Myanmar, Belarus, Afghanistan, Nicaragua, Georgia and Burkina Faso, and transnational repression is growing.

Australia stands with the brave people of Iran in their struggle against oppression, and calls on the regime to uphold human rights of its citizens.

We call on Russia to comply with its international human rights obligations and end its invasion of Ukraine.

Australia remains gravely concerned by human rights violations, including forced labour, in Xinjiang and Tibet, and the erosion of rights and freedoms in Hong Kong.

As the scourge of antisemitism and Islamophobia continues to rise, Australia remains committed to combating hatred in all its forms.

Australia is gravely concerned by ongoing violations and abuses of human rights of Palestinians in Gaza and the West Bank.

Globally, we are concerned by ongoing use of the death penalty, suppression of women's rights, and heightened rates of violence and discrimination LGBTQIA+ people face.

In our region, the climate crisis is eroding human rights, especially in the Pacific, with the most vulnerable bearing the brunt.

We must do more to safeguard human rights – because when people are marginalised or persecuted, humanity suffers.

Item 2 General Debate, delivered by New Zealand on behalf of CANZ – 2 March 2026

Mr President,

I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of Australia, Canada and New Zealand.

After 80 years, we are at profound moment for the United Nations and for the commitments enshrined in the Charter. The Secretary-General's UN80 initiative is vital to ensure that the organisation is fit for purpose and effective to meet the challenges we are facing including in the global human rights landscape.

We as Member States have a responsibility to engage constructively in this process. Reform cannot be left to the Secretariat alone. It requires our collective ownership, careful prioritisation, financial discipline, restored predictability in the UN's assessed contributions, and a shared commitment to achieving efficiencies that strengthen the impact of our work in this Council and complement the Council's own efficiency and rationalisation efforts.

Reforms must enhance the UN's coherence and effectiveness, while ensuring that resources remain aligned with mandates and Member State expectations. Expanding expectations without expanding support is neither responsible nor sustainable.

As Member States, we must resource the human rights pillar adequately and reliably. Too often this is not the case. In a period of heightened global pressure on the rules-based international system, payment of contributions in full and on time is crucial to upholding the UN's normative and accountability roles. We must avoid any weakening of the UN's core human rights functions.

We remain committed to working with all partners to ensure that UN80 delivers a stronger, more effective, and more credible United Nations across all three pillars.

Thank you.

Interactive Dialogue on the report of the Special Rapporteur on human rights defenders – 3 March 2026

Thank you President/Vice President.

Australia welcomes the Special Rapporteur's amplification of human rights defender voices from around the world in her final report as mandate holder.

This is more crucial than ever in light of increasing threats, discrimination and violence, including alarming findings by OHCHR that the killing and disappearing of human rights defenders and media workers reached a record high in 2024.

This is unacceptable.

Despite these significant challenges and increased risk of reprisals for their work, it is inspiring to read in the Special Rapporteur's report that human rights defenders remain committed to the promotion and protection of human rights and continue to seek justice through the multilateral system.

Australia shares this commitment. Reform of the UN system must enable the human rights architecture to remain efficient, effective, and inclusive of human rights defenders.

This is how we support their vital work.

This is how we achieve peace and prosperity for all.

Australia thanks the Special Rapporteur for her tireless work over many years. Can you share some practical examples on how States can support human rights defender networks?

Panel Discussion on Financing Sustainable Development in line with Economic, Social and Cultural Rights Obligations, delivered by Canada on behalf of CANZ

Chair, Excellencies,

I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of Australia, New Zealand, and my own country Canada.

Sustainable development depends on our collective ability to mobilize all sources of development finance and support a global financial system capable of delivering results at scale.

All human rights, including economic, social, and cultural rights, are essential to overcoming inequalities. Yet pressures including high debt service burdens and climate change are eroding progress and limiting governments' ability to meet their obligations.

In line with the Seville Commitment, we are committed to working with development partners to expand fiscal space through more targeted financing, supporting debt sustainability, and the use of innovative finance instruments.

Resources must be used more strategically to deliver impact and empower the building of long-term resilience – particularly in Small Island Developing States and Least Developed Countries.

Good governance and sound public financial management are crucial to ensuring that resources translate into results, with transparency, accountability, and evidence-based decision-making at the forefront.

Financing for development is ultimately about people. We reaffirm our commitment to work with all partners to deliver financing frameworks that strengthen rights, reduce inequalities, and accelerate progress towards the 2030 Agenda and its SDGs.

Thank you.

Interactive Dialogue on the report of the Special Rapporteur on the rights of persons with disabilities – 6 March 2026

Thank you, [President/Vice-President].

Australia thanks the Special Rapporteur and the Committee for their important work, and we welcome the focus of the Special Rapporteur's report on equal participation in political life.

People with disability are valued members of Australian society and active participants in our democracy. Australians with disability serve as state and federal parliamentarians and engage with our political processes through advocacy groups. As the report notes, Australia is taking active steps to make our Parliament House physically and procedurally accessible to all Australians, including those with disability.

Internationally, Australia's International Disability Equity and Rights Strategy continues our proud legacy of support for the rights of people with disability globally.

Australia strongly supports the principle of 'nothing about us without us'. Our Stronger Movements, Stronger Futures initiative is working with global and regional organisations to build organisational capacity so that people with disability and their representative organisations are at the centre of policy and decision-making.

We ask, what more can Member States do to remove barriers to people with disability standing for and holding political office?

Interactive Dialogue on the report of the Special Rapporteur on the sale, sexual exploitation and sexual abuse of children – 9 March 2026

Thank you, Chair.

We thank the Special Rapporteur for her report. Australia is committed to preventing and eradicating all forms of the sale, sexual exploitation and sexual abuse of children. Children's rights must be upheld to ensure they are safe, supported and protected, online and offline.

Australia continues to build on existing work to prevent and respond to child sexual abuse, including through the Australian Centre to Counter Child Exploitation. We recognise that a cohesive approach between Australia's state, territory and federal governments is critical to promoting and protecting children's rights.

We welcome the Special Rapporteur's focus on child abuse online. Algorithms do not have a moral compass, and governments must set guard rails to protect children's rights.

Australia understands the need to respond to the rising threat of online harm. From December 2025, Australia enacted a minimum age for social media usage, through a law which requires social media platforms to act with responsibility towards children.

While online spaces can empower children's education on their rights, risks must be mitigated. Could you share examples of successful risk mitigations?

Interactive Dialogue on the comprehensive report of the Independent International Commission of Inquiry on Ukraine – 12 March 2026

Thank you President / Vice President

Australia thanks the Commission of Inquiry for its report, which comes four years since Russia launched its unjustified and unprovoked full-scale invasion of Ukraine – a blatant violation of international law, including the United Nations Charter.

We strongly condemn Russia's ongoing aggression that continues to inflict devastating impacts on the human rights of all Ukrainians.

We are deeply concerned by findings of Russia's systematic use of torture, sexual violence, enforced disappearances and summary executions of Ukrainian prisoners.

Russia is weaponising winter by attacking Ukraine's critical energy infrastructure and civilian populations, and continues to violate the human rights of Ukrainian civilians, including through the reported forced transfer and deportation of Ukrainian children, which violates international legal protections and undermines family unity.

We will continue to work with international partners, including through the Coalition of the Willing, to secure a just and lasting peace for Ukraine.

We call on Russia to withdraw from Ukraine and end this inhumane war.

What more can the international community do to ensure human rights are protected and hold Russia to account?

Interactive Dialogue on the report of the Independent International Commission of Inquiry on the Syrian Arab Republic – 13 March 2026

Thank you President / Vice President,

Australia thanks the Commission for its continued reporting on the human rights situation in Syria.

Since the fall of the Assad regime, we recognise the Syrian transitional government's efforts to stabilise and rebuild the country – including through establishing a National Commission for Transitional Justice, working to restore basic services and infrastructure, and working to re‑establish Syria as a responsible partner on the global stage. These developments offer a positive step forward after fifteen years of devastating conflict.

However, the situation in Syria remains fragile. We are deeply concerned by the COI's findings regarding ongoing violence against innocent civilians. The protection of all of Syria's peoples, including minorities, is critical to ensuring a more peaceful and stable chapter for Syria.

Australia reaffirms our commitment to a Syrian-led and inclusive political transition that enables all Syrians – including women and youth – to shape their future, free from conflict, division and oppression.

How can the international community best assist the Syrian-led transition process to protect all Syrians and provide accountability for past atrocities?

Interactive Dialogue on the report of the Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Myanmar – 13 March 2026

Thank you, President/Vice President

We thank the Special Rapporteur for his efforts to sustain international attention on the crisis in Myanmar, more than five years since the Myanmar military overthrew the democratically elected government.

For too long, the people of Myanmar have endured escalating violence, oppression, and severe humanitarian suffering. Human rights abuses remain widespread.

Australia has consistently condemned the regime's brutal and ongoing atrocities against the people of Myanmar.

We remain gravely concerned by ongoing reports of attacks on civilians and civilian infrastructure, including airstrikes on schools, hospitals and religious sites. We call on the regime to cease violence and for all States to prevent the flow of arms to the military.

We continue to call for the release of the thousands who remain unjustly detained.

Recent elections were held amid ongoing violence and repression. They did not meet the conditions for free, fair and inclusive elections.

Australia is ready to support genuine efforts to alleviate humanitarian suffering and advance a sustainable resolution that reflects the will of the people.

How can we encourage the international community to sustain attention on the crisis?

Interactive Dialogue on the report of the Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in the Democratic People's Republic of Korea – 13 March 2026

Thank you President/Vice President,

We thank the Special Rapporteur for her report on the dire situation of human rights in the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK).

Australia remains deeply concerned by the regression of human rights in the DPRK. We have seen no progress since the Commission of Inquiry on Human Rights determined in 2014 that the DPRK had committed systematic and widespread human rights violations which may amount to crimes against humanity, including torture, enforced disappearances, and murder in the form of summary executions, including in political prison camps

We are disturbed by reports of the widespread use of forced labour, gender-based violence by the state, and the cruel, inhuman and degrading treatment of those who have been forcibly repatriated, particularly women and girls.

The DPRK's pervasive surveillance and political persecution, enable the regime to divert national resources away from meeting the urgent humanitarian needs of its people, who continue to endure severe economic hardship and chronic malnutrition, while prioritising its illicit weapons of mass destruction and ballistic missile programs.

How can the international community support the UN to press DPRK to lift entry restrictions to UN, humanitarian and development workers?

Joint Interactive Dialogue on the report of the Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in the Islamic Republic of Iran and on the report of the Independent International Fact-Finding Mission on the Islamic Republic of Iran, delivered by Canada on behalf of CANZ – 16 March 2026

I am pleased to speak on behalf of Australia, New Zealand, and Canada. We thank the Special Rapporteur and the Fact-Finding Mission for their vital updates.

We are closely following developments in the Middle East and are deeply concerned about the mounting loss of life. We condemn the dangerous and destabilizing strikes by Iran on civilians and civilian infrastructure across the region. We implore all parties to de-escalate tensions, protect civilians and civilian infrastructure, and prioritize pathways for diplomacy.

We fear that Iran's unprecedented response to dissent earlier this year – marked by unlawful killings, arbitrary detentions, disappearances, torture and internet shutdowns – will only intensify as regional tensions escalate.

We affirm the rights of Iranians related to peaceful protest, and support legitimate aspirations to decide their own future.

Iran's use of the death penalty – over 1,600 executions in 2025, and more than 100 executions in January 2026 alone – is intolerable.

We also remain deeply concerned by the persecution of ethnic and religious minorities —including the Bahá'í, Kurds, and Baluchis— and by the systemic discrimination women and girls face in public and private life.

We call on Iran to halt repression – including transnationally – release all those arbitrarily detained, stop executions, and comply with its international human rights obligations.

Question:  Medical staff and facilities caring for protesters have faced serious reprisals by Iranian authorities. How can the international community better protect and support them?

Item 4 General Debate – 16-17 March 2026

Australia highlights the following country situations:

We are deeply concerned about mounting losses of life in the Middle East. We condemn Iran's strikes on civilians and civilian infrastructure across the region, and its reported use of lethal force against protesters.

Iran and Afghanistan display contempt for human rights through the persecution of women and girls, activists and minorities.

In the DPRK we have seen no progress since the Commission of Inquiry on Human Rights in 2014 found systematic and widespread human rights violations.

We remain gravely concerned by reports of human rights violations and abuses in Myanmar, including the military regime's ongoing attacks against civilians.

In Syria, we are concerned by ongoing violence against civilians, and call for the protection of all of Syria's peoples, including minorities.

Israel's illegal settlements severely impact the human rights of Palestinians and undermine prospects for a two-state solution. We want to see the ceasefire in Gaza maintained, civilians protected and aid to flow unimpeded.

We remain gravely concerned by ongoing human rights violations against Uyghurs and Tibetans. We continue to call for respect for all rights and fundamental freedoms, consistent with UN expert recommendations.

We are also deeply concerned by the broad application of national security legislation in Hong Kong, including to target democracy advocates extraterritorially.

Urgent Debate to discuss recent military aggression launched by Iran against Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates – 25 March 2026

Thank you President / Vice President

Australia condemns Iran's indiscriminate attacks against members of the Gulf Cooperation Council and Jordan, including its targeting of civilians and civilian infrastructure. We reiterate our call for Iran and its proxies to cease all such attacks immediately.

Australia stands in solidarity with members of the Gulf Cooperation Council and Jordan and affirms support for their sovereignty, security and territorial integrity.

We recognise the profound impact that Iran's actions are having on civilian populations in the region. Iran's weaponisation of the Strait of Hormuz, impacting oil and fuel prices worldwide, demonstrates the Iranian regime's willingness to inflict economic pain on households and businesses across the world. Australia wants to see critical energy supplies flow to our partners and our region.

As conflict across the region continues we have not lost sight of Iran's ongoing human rights violations against its own people , including through unlawful killings, arbitrary detentions, disappearances and torture. Internet blackouts exacerbate these actions by preventing the flow of information. We affirm the rights of the Iranian people and support their legitimate aspirations to decide their own future.

Australia continues to call on all parties to uphold international humanitarian law to protect civilians, including humanitarian personnel.

Thank you.

Urgent Debate: Protection of children and Educational Institutions in International Armed Conflicts: The Aerial Attacks on Shajareh Tayyebeh Girls' School in Minab, Iran, as a Grave Breach of International Humanitarian Law and International Human Rights Law – 27 March 2026

Thank you President / Vice President

Australia remains deeply concerned that the conflict in the Middle East continues to endanger civilian lives.

Since the outbreak of hostilities, Australia has called on all parties to uphold international humanitarian law and protect civilians and civilian infrastructure.

Vulnerable cohorts, especially children, are disproportionately affected by war. Attacks against schools, education infrastructure, and teachers deprive children of the right to learn in safety, and shelter from conflict for which they are not responsible. 

We urge all parties to conflict, to prioritise the protection of education, safeguard schools as civilian spaces, and ensure every child has access to safety, learning, and hope.

On 9 March 2026, Australia joined a statement in this forum alongside other nations who have endorsed the Safe Schools Declaration. We reaffirm today that the right to education must be respected during armed conflict. This is grounded in international law, and is the cornerstone of the children and armed conflict agenda.

Children deserve more than survival. They deserve a future. We have a responsibility to make it possible.

Joint Statements

Item 2 General Debate, Joint Statement on importance of multilateral human rights cooperation delivered by Albania on behalf of a group of countries – 2 March 2026

Thank you, Mr. President.

On behalf of a core group consisting of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, Albania, Chile, Kenya and Kyrgyzstan, I have the honor to deliver this statement on behalf of a cross-regional group of 88 States, representing all five regional groups.

In an era of rising global conflicts and crises, and declining respect for international law and institutions, defending and strengthening multilateralism is essential. Sovereign nations can only coexist peacefully, and people can only enjoy human rights and sustainable development, within an international order firmly anchored in respect for international law, with the United Nations and its principles at its center.

Human rights are essential for lasting peace, international security and sustainable development. By addressing the root causes of conflict and empowering individuals, communities and civil society, human rights make our world safer and ensure that development is inclusive, equitable and fair.

Despite chronic underfunding, the UN human rights system has delivered transformative results: supporting local reforms, strengthening national institutions, amplifying victims' voices, and advancing global standards in areas including equality and non-discrimination, environmental protection, disability inclusion, children's rights, and emerging technologies. The Human Rights Council, the Special Procedures and the Universal Periodic Review, as well as the OHCHR and the Treaty Bodies, have been instrumental in helping States from all regions embed human rights in law, policy, and development planning, and support victims of violations worldwide.

Yet today, the system faces unprecedented challenges that threaten to undermine and reverse the progress achieved. Its survival and effectiveness depend on renewed political will, vision and ambition, adequate resourcing, and an unwavering commitment from all States to principled multilateral human rights cooperation.

As Friends of Human Rights Multilateralism, we:

• renew our commitment to multilateralism and international cooperation in the field of human rights, grounded in full respect for the UN Charter and international human rights law, and the principles of good faith, equity and non-discrimination, solidarity and universality.
• commit to the promotion, protection and fulfillment of human rights and human dignity, the rule of law, justice, transparency and independent institutions, which are indispensable to global peace, security and sustainable development.
• reaffirm that all human rights are universal, indivisible, interdependent and interrelated.
• commit to safeguard a multilateral system that upholds international law, human rights and the rule of law.
• commit to engage with the UN80 reform process with a view to building and maintaining an international human rights system that is credible, adequately resourced, and responsive both to States' needs for technical assistance and capacity building and to the demands of victims and affected communities for accountability and justice.
• prioritize securing adequate, predictable and sustainable funding for the UN human rights pillar.
• commit to cooperate in good faith with the OHCHR, the Human Rights Council and its mechanisms, as well as other rights-based mechanisms, and safeguard their independence.
• strive to create a safe and enabling environment for civil society and engage robustly to prevent and address acts of intimidation, reprisals or sanctions against human rights mechanisms and those cooperating with them.
• support efforts to enhance the Council, including its relations with other UN bodies and organs, with a view to strengthening complementarity, contributing to prevention, peace, security and sustainable development, and upholding international law.

These commitments will strengthen our efforts to build peaceful, just and inclusive societies with accountable institutions at all levels that uphold human rights and fundamental freedoms for all, to guarantee that no one is left behind.

We call on all Member States to join us in making these commitments a reality.

Thank you.

Item 2 General Debate, Joint Statement on the human rights situation in Ethiopia delivered by the European Union on behalf of a group of countries – 2 March 2026

Mr. Chair,

I am making this statement on behalf of a group of 41 countries.

We appreciate Ethiopia's continued engagement with UN human rights mechanisms, including its constructive participation in the review by the Committee on the Rights of the Child and in the 4th UPR cycle, and look forward to maintaining an open and constructive dialogue.

As Ethiopia prepares for the general elections in June, we underline the importance of safeguarding the rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly and association in the country. We regret the further shrinking of the closed civic space in Ethiopia, including continued intimidation and harassment, arbitrary arrests and detentions of human rights defenders and independent media and journalists, while many have been forced into exile. Full respect for civil and political rights for all and a free civil society and media environment are preconditions for the conduct of free and fair elections, and we call on Ethiopia to abide by its international human rights obligations and reverse the current negative trend.

We have been following with great concern recent developments in Northern Ethiopia that have included military confrontations and clashes. Immediate de-escalation by all parties is imperative to prevent a renewed conflict that would have serious consequences for civilians and regional stability. We call on the Government of Ethiopia and all other actors to take concrete action to end ongoing human rights violations and abuses in areas of conflict, including in Amhara, Oromia, and Tigray. We recall the importance of the Pretoria Agreement, which remains the cornerstone of peace and stability in the country and to the benefit of the wider region, and needs to be upheld as the framework for resolving disputes through dialogue. All parties must refrain from further violations and abuses. We urge the authorities to uphold human rights across the country, ensure justice and accountability for all victims and survivors of grave human rights violations and abuses, including the killing of humanitarian workers, and adopt a victim and survivor-centred approach. We also recognise the important role of regional organisations, including the African Union and IGAD, in supporting dialogue and stability.

We remain concerned by the stalled Transitional Justice process and underline the need of its full and swift implementation. Credible transitional justice, including accountability processes, is not only crucial for the victims and survivors, but also to ensuring lasting peace and reconciliation in the country. We call on Ethiopia to demonstrate its commitment by ensuring a comprehensive, victim-centred, inclusive and genuine approach to transitional justice and to take immediate decisive steps to ensure accountability for all violations of international humanitarian law and human rights law.

We urge the Government to implement the recommendations of the 2023 joint report of OHCHR and the Ethiopian Human Rights Commission (EHRC). With regard to the draft Transitional Justice legislation, we underline the importance of conducting broad and inclusive consultations with all relevant stakeholders, including civil society and victims' groups, and of ensuring that any legislation adopted is fully aligned with international human rights standards, the African Union Transitional Justice Policy and relevant UN standards. The independence of EHRC is of paramount importance to fully support the implementation of the Transitional Justice process and also for its role in human rights monitoring and reporting. We emphasize the important roles of the Transitional Justice Prosecutor's Office, The National Commission for Truth and Social Cohesion and the Vetting Commission set up under the Transitional Justice Code. The effective functioning of these bodies will depend on the existence of genuine political will, adequate resources and strong institutional safeguards ensuring their independence and credibility.

We also call on Ethiopia to commit to the National Dialogue initiative and stand ready to accompany Ethiopia with the implementation of the 4th cycle Universal Periodic Review (UPR) recommendations.

We encourage the Government of Ethiopia to take advantage to the fullest extent of the technical assistance available in the Office of the High Commissioner in the country, and encourage the Office to continue to monitor the situation and keep this Council informed.

Thank you.

Item 2 General Debate, Joint Statement on the situation of human rights of women and girls in Afghanistan, delivered by Colombia on behalf of a group of countries – 2 March 2026

Mr President,

I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of a cross‑regional group of 56 countries to express our grave concern at the continued deterioration in the human rights situation of women and girls in Afghanistan.

We are deeply alarmed by the Taliban´s so-called penal code and related regulations, which further institutionalise discrimination and violence against women and girls and severely undermine their human rights, including not to be discriminated against and to live free from violence, with dignity and autonomy. Provisions that in practice permit physical "disciplinary" punishment, including by husbands, significantly weaken the criminalisation of domestic violence, and effectively legalise and normalise violence against women and children. This reinforces impunity and denies survivors access to justice.

We are further concerned by provisions that criminalise women's freedom of movement and autonomy, including the possibility of imprisonment for married women who visit family members without their husband's permission, and sanctions against relatives who host them. We are gravely concerned by reports that, taken together with broader restrictions on education, employment, healthcare and participation in public life, these measures form a systematic and institutionalised pattern of discrimination that may amount to international crimes.

We call on the Taliban to repeal all discriminatory edicts, end all discriminatory practices and forms of violence against women and girls, and for Afghanistan to adhere to its international human rights obligations. We urge this Council and the wider international community to use all available mechanisms to ensure accountability and to provide robust support to Afghan women and girls in their pursuit of their rights and fundamental freedoms.

Thank you.

Item 2 General Debate, Joint Statement on the Responsibility to Protect, delivered by Sierra Leone on behalf of the Group of Friends of the Responsibility to Protect – 2 March 2026

Mr. President,

I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Group of Friends of the Responsibility to Protect, which brings together more than 50 cross-regional Delegations.

In 2025 and 2026, we commemorate the twin anniversaries of the Responsibility to Protect and the UN Human Rights Council. Over the past two decades, we have strengthened our understanding of the critical role of the human rights system plays in identifying early warning signs, including their incitement, of genocide, war crimes, crimes against humanity or ethnic cleansing. Through the establishment of Special Procedures, investigative and accountability mechanisms, the convening of Special Sessions, and its engagement with relevant stakeholders, including civil society, the Council provides a place within the multilateral system to recognise atrocities and the suffering of victims and survivors.

In this regard, the role of the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights is indispensable. Its global mandate, regular reporting on situations of concern, field presences, as well as its technical assistance and capacity-building programmes to support national protection systems, provide a vital function that underpins effective prevention and accountability efforts.

In the context of the UN80 reform process and the liquidity crisis, we invite the High Commissioner to share his views on how states can safeguard and strengthen the council's ability to effectively promote and protect human rights, as well as respond to evolving challenges, including atrocity crimes.

Thank you.

Interactive Dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on torture and other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment, Joint Statement on torture-free trade, delivered by Mongolia on behalf of the Global Alliance for Torture-free Trade – 2 March

Mr President,

I have the honour of delivering this message on behalf of the Global Alliance for Torture-free Trade.

The prohibition of torture and other forms of ill-treatment is one of the strongest and most universally recognized rules in international law.

While torture and other ill-treatment can never be justified, there are still no global regulations that ban inherently abusive equipment and control the trade in law enforcement equipment that can be misused for torture and other ill-treatment.

We welcome the work of the Special Rapporteur to clarify States' existing legal obligations to prohibit and prevent the production, trade and use of such items, including the listing of goods that the SR judges to be inherently cruel, inhuman or degrading.

We call on all States to take effective measures to prevent and prohibit the use and trade of inherently abusive law enforcement equipment and to join the Global Alliance for Torture-free Trade.

Upholding the absolute prohibition on torture, including by putting an end to the use and global trade of goods that have no practical use other than this purpose, must be a priority for our collective action.

Madam Special Rapporteur,

Could you elaborate on what states can do concretely to ensure that modern-day torture tools are not traded and that the trade in other law enforcement equipment is adequately controlled? How in your view, should national risk assessments and due diligence obligations be designed? Are there good examples of national early warning trigger mechanisms?

Thank you.

Annual Full Day Meeting on the Rights of the Child, Joint Statement on Safe Schools Declaration, delivered by Norway on behalf of the states that have endorsed the Safe Schools Declaration – 9 March 2026

I speak on behalf of 62 States1 that have endorsed the Safe Schools Declaration.

At this Annual Discussion on the Rights of the Child, dedicated to children affected by armed conflict, we reaffirm that the right to education should be realized during armed conflict. Its protection is grounded in international law and a cornerstone of the children and armed conflict agenda.

In 2024, grave violations against children hit unprecedented levels for the third year running.

The tenth anniversary of the Safe Schools Declaration and the Fifth International Conference on the Declaration, hosted by Kenya, reaffirmed that effective tools exist.

Ahead of the Council's consideration of the resolution on the rights of the child in armed conflict, we urge States to:

• Reaffirm the right to be safe in education in situations of armed conflict
• Advance universal endorsement of the Safe Schools Declaration
• Ensure that the military use of schools and universities is avoided, through law, policy and military doctrine, and ensure accountability for violations of international law in this regard
• Protect and adequately resource monitoring and reporting mechanisms, including through sustained funding
• Ensure the safe and meaningful participation of children and affected communities in the design and evaluation of these measures.

Protecting education is not optional. Failure to act is a choice — and its cost is borne by children.

Interactive Dialogue with the Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Children and Armed Conflict, Joint Statement delivered by Belgium on behalf of the Group of Friends on Children and Armed Conflict – 10 March 2026

President,

I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Group of Friends on Children and Armed Conflict co-chaired by Belgium and Uruguay.

The latest report of the SRSG for Children and Armed Conflict confirms the highest number of grave violations against children since the establishment of the monitoring and reporting mechanism, emphasizing the need for strengthened prevention, protection and accountability.

We are alarmed by the rise in conflict-related sexual violence against children which requires survivor-centred support, including access to health care, education and psychosocial services.

Children associated with armed forces or armed groups must be treated primarily as victims and supported through community-based, gender-, age- and disability-responsive reintegration.

Accountability demands reinforced national and international mechanisms ensuring child-sensitive investigations, prosecutions and effective remedies.

Child protection must also be integrated across all phases of conflict, ensuring children's safe and meaningful participation in prevention, mediation, peacebuilding and post-conflict reconstruction.

As we celebrate thirty years of the CAAC mandate, we welcome its evolution into a results-oriented framework, supported by the Monitoring and Reporting Mechanism and targeted action plans. However, the mandate's full and effective implementation depends on adequate resourcing.

We reaffirm our unwavering support for the mandate and urge all States and parties to conflict to cooperate fully with the UN, civil society and other relevant stakeholders to ensure that children remain at the centre of the peace and security agenda.

Thank you.

Item 3 General Debate, Joint Statement to mark the 20th anniversary of the Human Rights Council, delivered by Estonia on behalf of a group of countries – 11 March 2026

I am delivering this statement on behalf of a cross-regional group of states.

This year we will mark a historic milestone — the 20th anniversary of the Human Rights Council. Established by United Nations General Assembly resolution 60/251, adopted on 15 March 2006, the transition from the Human Rights Commission to the Council was undertaken with the ambitious aim of strengthening the protection, promotion and respect of human rights worldwide through inclusive dialogue, cooperation and mutual respect among States.

The Council has become the central intergovernmental body for the promotion, protection of all human rights around the globe. Through its debates, decisions and resolutions, including those establishing or renewing mandates of special procedures, intergovernmental working groups, investigative bodies, and other mechanisms, as well as the Universal Periodic Review with voluntary mid-term reporting, support and technical assistance by the OHCHR, it has clarified, developed and strengthened human rights standards, accelerated implementation of obligations and promoted accountability, supporting capacity-building initiatives as well as encouraged strengthened national implementation.

The HRC has an essential role, not only in improving the livelihood of people on the ground, but also addressing root causes of conflicts and contributing to peace and sustainable development.

For twenty years, the Council has provided a vital platform for dialogue and cooperation among States It has enabled engagement even in challenging times and ensured that civil society, national human rights institutions, human rights defenders, victims and survivors, and other relevant stakeholders have a voice in global discussions. At a time when multilateralism faces unprecedented pressure, the Council's mandate is more relevant than ever.

Despite financial constraints and rising demands, the Council continues to be relevant and continues to deliver and function as a key pillar of the multilateral system. Yet sustainable impact requires sustainable support.

We must stand firmly for adequate and predictable funding for the entire human rights pillar, including the treaty bodies, so that they can effectively carry out their mandates.

We all must take responsibility and shift from the passive to the active voice. It is not enough to call for efficiency to increase – we must increase efficiency. We must promote synergies between the Council and other relevant fora as well as cooperation between global and regional human rights mechanisms. We must think creatively and leverage modern technological opportunities. We should better address root causes of instability and encourage a stronger focus on prevention, enhance the implementation of our decisions and increase the visibility of the Council. This is our Council: We must all contribute to this effort.

Twenty years on, our responsibility is clear: to preserve, strengthen and support this institution. Let this anniversary be not only a celebration of what has been achieved, but a renewed commitment to an effective cooperation in the future.

Item 3 General Debate, Joint Statement on the Declaration for the Protection of Humanitarian Personnel, delivered by Jordan on behalf of the Group of Friends for the Declaration on the Protection of Humanitarian Personnel – 11 March 2026

President, Excellencies,

I am honoured to deliver this statement as Co-chair of the Group of Friends for the Declaration on the Protection of Humanitarian Personnel.

We meet amid escalating threats to civilians and to those who work tirelessly to assist them. Humanitarian workers continue operating amid armed conflicts, facing strikes on staff, facilities, and the communities they serve. Already in 2026, 56 personnel have been killed, injured, abducted or detained. Many more face severe access constraints.

International humanitarian law and international human rights law require the protection of humanitarian personnel. States must uphold these obligations, facilitate unhindered humanitarian access and delivery of humanitarian aid, and, where appropriate, investigate and prosecute attacks in line with applicable international law. Yet too often calls for compliance go unanswered. Upholding accountability is essential.

Emerging risks—including urban warfare, misuse of digital technologies, and the spread of mis- and disinformation—further undermine trust and increase vulnerabilities.

We urge all States and parties to conflict to protect humanitarian personnel, facilitate humanitarian access, counter harmful narratives, and ensure accountability.

The Group of Friends remains committed to collective action so humanitarian personnel can work safely and deliver lifesaving assistance in full respect for human rights and humanitarian principles.

Thank you.

Item 3 General Debate, Joint Statement to accelerate implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals to promote gender equality, delivered by Vietnam on behalf of a group of countries – 11 March 2026

Mister President,

With only four years remaining to the 2030 deadline, the need to accelerate progress on the SDGs has never been more urgent. While commendable progress has been achieved in advancing gender equality, we acknowledge that challenges persist.

We welcome the adoption of the Beijing+30 Political Declaration and call upon all States to translate its commitments into concrete national action plans.

With that in mind, we reaffirm the following priorities:

First, ensuring the full, equal, and meaningful participation of women and girls across all decision-making spheres, and prioritizing policies aimed at empowering women and girls, including those addressing poverty reduction, entrepreneurship, and innovation, while eliminating structural barriers.

Second, increasing women's and girls' participation in science, technology, and digital transformation, and investing in digital literacy and affordable digital technology, while preventing gender-based discrimination and violence, including online.

Third, strengthening women's and girls' full involvement in peace and security processes, including humanitarian response and post-conflict reconstruction, recognizing that their leadership is essential for sustainable recovery and stability.

Fourth, mobilizing financing for gender equality through gender-responsive budgeting, innovative financial mechanisms, and strengthened international development cooperation to close the financing gap in implementation.

We strongly believe that accelerating progress towards gender equality and the empowerment of all women and girls will protect and promote human rights, and contribute significantly to building a world of peace, cooperation, and sustainable development.

I thank you.

Interactive Dialogue with the Commission of Inquiry on Ukraine, Joint Statement delivered by Albania on behalf of the Group of Accountability following the aggression against Ukraine – 12 March 2026

I am pleased to deliver this statement on behalf of the 'Group of Friends of Accountability following the aggression against Ukraine.'

Throughout the last four years, the Commission of Inquiry on Ukraine has continued to report credible evidence of serious violations of international human rights law and international humanitarian law committed by Russian authorities. We remain appalled by continued reports that Ukrainians have endured grave suffering at the hands of Russian forces, including torture and other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment.

Russia continued to strike civilian and energy infrastructure leaving millions without heating, electricity and water in a very harsh winter in Ukraine. We are also alarmed by the recent report of the Commission of Inquiry concluding that the deportation and forcible transfer of children from five oblasts in Ukraine amount to crimes against humanity.

The Group of Friends reiterates its unwavering commitment to supporting efforts aimed at bringing the perpetrators to justice and preventing further crimes in the context of Russia's aggression against Ukraine, including the ICC investigation. In 2025, the legal foundation for the Special Tribunal for the Crime of Aggression against Ukraine and the International Claims Commission was laid. We encourage all States to continue engaging with these efforts.

We will continue to work collectively to uphold accountability and to ensure justice and lasting peace for Ukraine.

Thank you.

Item 8 General Debate, Joint Statement on the 60th anniversary of the Covenants, delivered by the European Union on behalf of a group of countries – 24 March 2026

I am delivering this statement on behalf of a cross-regional group of countries.

This year we commemorate the 60th anniversary of the adoption of the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights by the General Assembly on 16 December 1966.

Together with the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, these comprehensive international treaties in the field of human rights are considered the International Bill of Human Rights, the bedrock of international human rights law.

Widely ratified, the Covenants codify and give binding legal effect to human rights in international law, committing States to protect, respect, and fulfill civil, cultural, economic, political and social rights of each individual person. As parties to both Covenants we remain actively committed to their implementation, including through the meaningful participation in reviews conducted by the corresponding treaty bodies and the effective follow-up to their recommendations.

In this regard we underline the important role of the Human Rights Committee and the Committee on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights in examining the progress made by States parties in fulfilling the obligations undertaken in the Covenants and in providing recommendations to States parties on their implementation including with regard to the provision of remedy for victims of human rights violations.

Given the crucial role of these treaty bodies, we are highly concerned about the current UN budgetary and liquidity crisis which has significantly reduced the session time of these and all treaty bodies, thereby delaying the vital review of States and the ensuing reports.

We underline the need for adequate, predictable, increased and sustainable funding of the UN human rights mechanisms, in line with the Pact for the Future, so that they, including the treaty bodies, can discharge their mandates effectively.

In these times of huge global challenges and extremely scarce resources we believe that the most meaningful way to celebrate the 60th anniversary, alongside the 20th anniversary of the Human Rights Council, is through the sincere respect for, protection and fulfillment of the universal human rights enshrined in the Covenants.

Thank you.