Human rights

We reaffirm our commitment to the sovereignty, independence, unity and territorial integrity of Ukraine within its internationally recognized borders, extending to its territorial waters.

We believe a coordinated, whole of government and society approach – with respect for, and protection of human rights, fundamental freedoms, and the rule of law at its core – is the only way to preempt, expose, and successfully counter disinformation.

MIKTA countries are strong supporters of the rules-based international system, good global governance, and the protection of human rights. The achievement of gender equality and the empowerment of all women and girls is central to this aim and is a core priority for MIKTA.

As it is noted in the report, neglecting to address the challenges created by discrimination and violence based on SOGI could significantly compromise achievement of many of the sustainable development goals.

Women and girls are often the primary caregivers for children, elderly relatives and family members with disabilities. This is important and valuable work but it is often undervalued, unrecognised, unpaid, or underpaid. This is why we need to take a gender responsive approach to improve our care and support systems.

As the international community continues to grapple with the consequences of the Covid-19 pandemic, hundreds of millions of people could be pushed into extreme poverty this year as a result of the combined effects of the health crisis, the climate crisis, and of the war in Ukraine and its impact on global food and energy markets.

Our Group is gravely concerned about the decline of media freedom and the rise in threats to the safety of journalists and media workers across the globe, with severe negative consequences for human rights, the resilience of democracy, the rule of law, and development more broadly.

Education is a human right. The digital transformation provides unique opportunities to accelerate the achievement of SDG4 on ensuring access to inclusive and equitable quality education and promoting lifelong learning opportunities for all.

I would like to thank you for the opportunity to deliver this statement on behalf of “The role of good governance in the promotion and protection of human rights” resolution core group, comprising of Australia, Chile, Republic of Korea, South Africa and my own country Poland.

As highlighted in your report, national authorities must take all necessary measures to ensure the protection of the legal profession and the right to practice law without prejudice or interference.