?Human Rights Mainstreaming
– As delivered –
Statement by H.E. Mr. Miroslav Laj?ák, President of the 72nd Session of the UN General Assembly, at?Annual High-Level Panel Discussion on Human Rights Mainstreaming
Thank you Mr. Chair, President of the Human Rights Council.
Mr. High Commissioner for Human Rights, Excellencies, colleagues, Ladies and Gentlemen – Good morning.
We are all born with human rights. But this offers little comfort to the people whose rights and dignity are trampled on with impunity. So, it is our duty to make sure that people’s rights are promoted and protected. This is why the work of the work of the Human Rights Council is essential. And the Universal Periodic Review has been a critical tool in doing so.
At the same time, we must reflect on the challenges and opportunities presented by the Universal Periodic Review – to ensure that this tool remains relevant.
So, I will start with the good news. The Universal Periodic Review has enjoyed success. All Member States have participated in it. It is universal. And it is based on equal treatment of all countries.
It is a Member State driven process that still allows for contributions from the UN system and other stakeholders. Its inclusivity must be commended.
The Universal Periodic Review is a unique dialogue- a space where Member States, the UN system and other stakeholders have the opportunity to listen to one another. Where difficult questions are asked and information is clarified. From all accounts, this has been done in a transparent and respectful manner. Indeed, it is not about shaming. Instead, it is about highlighting opportunities to improve the human rights situation in a given country. It is about creating space for discussion, to pose questions and to get answers. It is about concrete steps, which should improve the lives of people, on the ground.
The UPR process seeks to build a constructive conversation around human rights in and among Member States. And difficult topics do come up. From the death penalty to reproductive rights and LGBT issues. From the rights of indigenous people to criminal justice and accountability for torture. These discussions can be contentious but they are absolutely necessary. And people must remain at their core.
For all the good that the Universal Periodic Review does, there are still opportunities to make it better. No tool is perfect. Each one must be continually shaped, to keep it fit for its purpose.
When assessing the success of the Universal Periodic Review, what is most important is its impact on people’s lives.
We need to strive to put in place UPR recommendations on the ground.
Also, there must be appropriate follow-up at the national and international level.
Resources to implement the recommendations are critical. I encourage Member States to contribute to the Voluntary Fund for Financial and Technical Assistance.
And the nature of the recommendations is important, too. They must be action-oriented and sufficiently specific for proper implementation.
Human rights are central to our humanity. They are not just a matter for conference rooms in Geneva, or in New York. First and foremost, they are a matter for people who may never enter these rooms. But, these people’s voices are heard in the Universal Periodic Review.
In conclusion, the Universal Periodic Review has now entered its third cycle. It has been over ten years since the General Assembly adopted the resolution to begin this important process of review. And, I believe that our multilateral system is stronger with this mechanism as part of it.
We have, collectively, made progress in some areas. Challenges do remain. But we must press on.
Human rights are central to our humanity. They are not just a matter for conference rooms in Geneva, or in New York. First and foremost, they are a matter for people who may never enter these rooms. But, these people’s voices are heard in the Universal Periodic Review – through national reports, information compiled by the United Nations, and information submitted by other stakeholders. And, importantly, Governments have the chance to respond.
After this, many recommendations are implemented on the ground – which can preserve human dignity and save lives.
Congratulations to the Human Rights Council and to all who have made the Universal Periodic Review a success.
It has made the international human rights architecture better. It has strengthened institutions, laws and policies at home. And it stands as a beacon of hope for people.
Thank you.