International organisations

Australia is deeply concerned about the situation in Myanmar and agrees with the Special Rapporteur’s assessment that the situation is worsening and continues to threaten regional stability.

Australia is deeply concerned about the situation in Myanmar, as highlighted in the report and condemns ongoing human rights abuses by the regime. Humanitarian needs have surged, including in already conflict-affected and displaced communities such as the Rohingya in Rakhine State.

UN member states have repeatedly recognised the importance of civil society and human rights defenders. They are crucial in supporting our work at the UN. They inform and enrich our decision-making and ensure that our decisions at the UN have an impact on the ground. We therefore condemn any act of intimidation or reprisal, whether online or offline, against individuals and groups who cooperate, seek to cooperate, or have cooperated with the UN.

A human rights based approach to “build back better” from the COVID-19 pandemic requires not only to put human rights at the heart of all UN actions, but also to enhance closer cooperation between the different UN bodies and mechanisms to overcome silos, mainstream human rights and unleash their preventive potential. In this regard, it is our conviction that also the Peacebuilding Commission should brief the Human Rights Council.

The vision of the 2030 Agenda and the promise of ‘leaving no one behind’ can only be achieved if we pull together. Governments, non-governmental organizations and the private sector.

Australia recognises that persons with disabilities are disproportionately affected by the health, economic and social impacts of COVID-19, and may experience barriers that make it difficult to keep themselves safe from contracting COVID-19 and to access essential health services.

Australia firmly believes that everyone has the right to hold any belief or none, to change religion or belief and to manifest religion or belief, either alone or in community with others.

Human rights remain central to international cooperation and decision making, not only in relation to COVID-19 but, as we ‘build back better’, also on climate change, peace and security, gender equality and social inclusion matters, and to ensure a strong independent civil society and national human rights institutions.

Whether in the home, workplace, education or community, all forms of violence against women and girls constitute grave human rights violations. Australia is pleased to be working with international partners to address this urgent issue, including as part of the Group of Friends for the Elimination of Violence Against Women and Girls here in New York.

Cross-Regional Joint Statement On The Human Rights Situation In Xinjiang, Delivered by France on behalf of 43 Member states, 3rd Committee – UN General Assembly, New York, 21 October 2021.