Human rights

It is my pleasure to deliver this statement on behalf of the Group of Friends of the mandate of the Independent Expert on the protection against violence and discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity.

Since women and girls are uniquely affected and targeted in many situations where atrocity crimes are being perpetrated, the systematic application of a gender lens by HRC mechanisms and procedures would enhance holistic atrocity prevention strategies and improve the effective implementation of the Responsibility to Protect (R2P)

On behalf of 42 Member States of the Equal Rights Coalition, a cross-regional intergovernmental body dedicated to the protection of the rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and intersex (LGBTI) people and to promoting inclusive development in both member and non-member countries. The full list of ERC sponsors can be found in the online version.

I am pleased to deliver this statement on behalf of the 46 member states in Geneva of the Group of Friends of Accountability Following the Aggression against Ukraine.

Today's commemorative event not only provides us with a moment of reflection on the past 49 sessions of the Human Rights Council but also an opportunity to warmly thank you, Madame High Commissioner, on behalf of over 100 countries, for your tireless work throughout the past years.

We encourage you to engage on the global food security crisis as an important part of your work for the coming year. The latest report from the UN Secretary General suggests that more than 1.7 billion people across over 100 countries are affected by this crisis, with over 43 million people at risk of famine.

We thank the High Commissioner for the work of her office in highlighting human rights violations and abuses around the world. Such violations and abuses, especially when paired with other exacerbating risk factors such as limited civic space or high levels of political, social or economic instability, can be an indicator of potential atrocity risks.

The new Australian Government has already committed to a more ambitious 2030 target, to reduce emissions to 43% below 2005 levels, putting Australia on track to achieve net-zero by 2050.

Transparent, responsible, accountable and participatory government underpins the protection of human rights, especially when confronted with unprecedented crises like the COVID-19 pandemic.

Menstruation is a normal and natural part of life. However, in many parts of the world, gender inequality, discriminatory social norms and cultural taboos, and a lack of access to sexual and reproductive health services mean that menstrual hygiene needs go unmet.