Organizational Meeting - 58th Session of the Human Rights Council

Excellencies, distinguished colleagues, the organizational meeting of the 58th session of the Human Rights Council is now called to order. This meeting is organised in keeping with article 8b of the rules of the Council. We will review the programme of work and share information on the draft resolutions and other initiatives planned during the 58th session. Let us start with the draft programme. The 58th session of the Council will be held from 24 February to 4 April 2025. The latest version of the programme of work is available on the Human Rights Commission intranet. It is an evoluting document that is regularly updated. The draft programme of work indicates that the session will last six weeks. That is because of the rise in mandatory activities, the restrictions that have been imposed on meetings during lunchtime and the official holiday that happens during the session. To ensure completion of work in the time frame, a collective effort will be needed. I thank all of you in advance for your commitment to keeping to speaking times. I also encourage the main authors of resolutions to explore alternative approaches that could allow implementation of their goals while reducing the work of the Council. Signing up online for states on speaking lists for all of the general debates, interactive dialogues and discussions will open on Monday 17th February at 4 p.m. Online inscription, once it is closed, Delegations can still sign up or withdraw by contacting the secretariat in room 20 or by sending an e-mail to the address on the screen. The list of speakers will be closed approximately 15 minutes after each debate starts. I call on all delegations to respect the time frame, by courtesy towards other speakers and the secretariat. Online inscription on the speakers list for the adoption of the EPR results will open on Monday 10th March at 9am and close on Thursday 13th March at 6 o'clock and it will not be possible to sign up after that is closed. For National Human Rights Institutions and NGOs, online sign up for the speakers list for all debates during the session will be available starting from Tuesday 18th February at 2 p.m. Signing up on the speakers list for discussions will be identical to previous sessions. Interested States are invited to classify the discussions by order of preference, and time frames will be granted by the system dependent on preference. If the number of states giving highest priority to a particular discussion goes beyond the maximum possible speaking time, slots will be granted on the principle of first come, first served. Speaking time for discussions is now limited to one minute and 30 seconds. The opening meeting of the session will take place on 24 February at 9 a.m. We will hear statements by the President of the General Assembly, the United Nations Secretary-General, the High Commissioner for Human Rights, and the head of the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs of Switzerland as host country representative. That meeting will be followed by the high-level segment. The Secretary has informed me that to date 104 dignitaries have signed up to participate in the high-level segment. The provisional list of dignitaries is available on the extranet and regularly updated. The speaking time is seven minutes for heads of state and government and five minutes for all other participants within the high-level segment. The high-level segment is reserved to Heads of State, Heads of Government, Deputy Heads of State, Deputy Heads of Government, Ministers, Vice-Ministers, and Heads of specialized institutions, programs, and international organizations. After the high-level segment concludes on Wednesday, 26 February, we will pass immediately to the general segment. during which delegations that were not represented by a dignitary during the high-level segment can take the floor. For the general segment, the speaking time will be limited to three minutes for Member States of the Council and two minutes for observer States and other observers. I draw your attention to the fact that additional security measures may be applied during the high-level segment. Given the large number of participants anticipated on the opening day, the secretariat will communicate relevant information if required. Excellencies, distinguished colleagues, during the 58th session, the Council will hold nine discussions. I now invite the main authors to present their respective initiatives. Delegations that wish to share information on draft resolutions and other initiatives will be able to do so subsequently. The discussions are the following. The first is the high level debate on systematic incorporation of human rights in keeping with resolution 1621 and 574 of the Council. with the topic 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Programme of Action. The debate will be accessible to persons with disabilities. In keeping with the mandate of this Council to promote effective coordination and mainstreaming of human rights within the United Nations system, this high-level roundtable will bring together United Nations representatives and those of States and other stakeholders to review progress made over the past 30 years in implementing the Beijing declaration and programme of action and to discuss its relevance in addressing the persisting and new challenges, as well as accelerating progress towards equality between women and men. The biennial high-level discussion on the death penalty held in keeping with resolutions 26/2 and 54/35 of the Council, on the topic: "The contribution of the judiciary to promoting human rights and the issue of the death penalty". The debate will be accessible to persons with disabilities. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Belgium to present this initiative on behalf of the main sponsors. You have the floor.

Thank you, President. On the question of death penalty, Belgium would like to brief the Council on the preparations for the biennial high-level panel on the question of the death penalty. That will take place on Tuesday, the 25th of February, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. in room 20. As requested by resolution 54/35, this panel discussion will address the contribution of the judiciary to the advancement of human rights and the question of the death penalty. In particular, the panel discussion aims to, first, provide concrete examples of how judiciaries have contributed to the abolition of the death penalty. Second, explore how judiciaries can contribute to a reduction in the application of the death penalty as initial steps towards abolition. Third, discuss how the Council and its mechanisms can support Member States to abide by their international human rights obligations regarding the death penalty. After an opening statement by the High Commissioner for Human Rights, the following speakers will make an intervention. Her Excellency, Ms. Virginia Mabiza, Attorney General of Zimbabwe. Mr. Hicham El Mellati, Director of Criminal Affairs, Pardons, and Crime Detection at the Ministry of Justice of Morocco. The Honorable Mr. Ramkarpal Singh, Member of Parliament and former Deputy Minister in the Prime Minister's Department of Malaysia. and Mr. Donald Patrick Malloy, Chancellor of the University of Maine System and former Governor of the State of Connecticut, United States of America. We believe that the high-level panel will strengthen our understanding of this important issue and provide a useful dialogue that will contribute to the work of this Council and its members. like to encourage everyone's presence and active participation during the interactive dialogue while confining their intervention to the topic of the panel. I thank you, Mr. President.

I thank you. The panel on the implementation of human rights in continuing and strengthening progress made in response to HIV and the need to leave no one behind to be held in resolution 56/20 of the Council will be accessible to persons with disabilities and they get the floor to the distinguished representative of Brazil to present the initiative.

Thank you Mr. President. The panel discussion on the realization of human rights in sustaining and increasing the gains made in the HIV response aims to highlight achievements, challenges, and necessary actions to ensure that no one is left behind in global HIV policies. Convened under the mandate of the Human Rights Council Resolution 56/20, the event will provide the platform for discussing best practices, innovations, and partnerships essential for equitable and sustainable HIV responses. The panel will also examine barriers to access, particularly for key populations, women, and girls, while promoting measures to combat stigma, discrimination, and human rights violations associated with HIV. Panelists from international organizations, academia, and civil society will share their insights, reinforcing the importance of inclusive policies and robust funding mechanisms to advance global commitments. The discussion will also contribute to a forthcoming report by the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights on sustainable HIV response strategies to be presented at the 60th session of the Human Rights Council. The panel will explore ways to integrate HIV services into broader health and social protection systems, emphasizing the importance of enabling laws, policies, and education campaigns. Furthermore, it will address issues on investment gaps and the role of international cooperation in expanding access to treatments, medicines, and technologies necessary for combating HIV. The panel format will include presentations from panelists and we will allow time for interactive discussion and questions. We call for active participation by all delegations and stakeholders, including through joint statements to ensure that viewpoints can be gathered comprehensively and efficiently within the available timeframe on this item. By ensuring accessibility and participation from diverse stakeholders, including persons with disabilities, the panel will reaffirm the Human Rights Council commitment to advancing a rights-based approach to the HIV response, while promoting shared responsibility and global solidarity in achieving the 2025 and 2030 targets. Thank you.

Thank you. That brings us to the panel on early alert, rapid alert and responsibility and prevention of genocides to be held under resolution 5513 of the Council, accessible to persons with disabilities, and I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Armenia to present the initiative. You have the floor.

Thank you. I present the panel on early warning and prevention of genocide, which, as you mentioned, will be held on the 5th of March under resolution 5513. The discussion will be a platform to explore international tools for early warning and prevention of genocide, emphasizing collective efforts to strengthen prevention and response mechanisms. and warning signs, looking at international legal instruments, responsibility and combating impunity. The panel will also be a platform to share good practice and progress made in early warning and prevention, and address the challenges facing States in implementing their commitments and the role of OHCH are working with the Special Council for the Prevention of Genocide to identify the most effective ways to help states to meet their obligations in terms of prevention. We will have a high-level panel of experts to enrich our exchange with recommendations, including Virginia Gamba, special adviser of the Secretary-General for the prevention of genocide, speaking by video message. and also followed by Mublaqar, Special Counsel of the Secretary General for Responsibility for Protection, Mr. Juan Mendez, a human rights specialist and former Special Advisor to the Secretary General on Preventive Genocide, Sean Meschey, Professor in International Law at the George Washington University and former Special Rapporteur on Crimes Against Humanity, And Salita Panday, Executive Center of the Global Center for the Responsibility to Protect. Jo Globa, President of the Human Rights Council, will preside over the panel. In keeping with Resolution 5513, A report of the panel will be prepared by OHCHR and presented at the 59th session of the Council, before the interactive dialogue planned at the 62nd session. We encourage active participation by delegations to enrich the discussion and strengthen our collective commitment to prevent genocide. Thank you.

Thank you. the Panel on the Implementation of the Right to Work and the Right to Social Security in the Informal Sector to be held under resolution 55/9 of the Council. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Egypt to present this initiative on behalf of the main sponsors.

Mr. President, Egypt, on behalf of a cross-regional group comprised of Greece, Indonesia and Romania, is honored to present the panel discussion scheduled on the 7th of March 2025, mandated by the resolution 55/9 that decided to organize during the 58th session. A panel discussion on the realization of the rights to work and to social security in the informal economy. in the context of sustainable and inclusive economies, with an emphasis on the importance of international cooperation and partnerships in this regard. The core group has been presenting the resolution since 2015. The past iterations of the resolution focused on a wide spectrum of themes and issues that are intertwined with the right to work, such as the right to work for women, persons with disabilities, youth, and also the impact of climate change. The upcoming panel discussion shall facilitate discussion on the challenges faced by workers in the informal economy. It will aim at exploring ways to improve their access to decent job opportunities and decent working conditions to expand the social security and to formalize the informal economy. The panel shall also discuss effective ways for the workers in the informal economy to have their concerns heard and to be and to meaningfully participate in the development of legislation and policies. With panelists from ILO, OHCHR, and representatives of workers in informal economy. We encourage all delegations to actively participate in the panel discussion and share their experiences and best practices. Thank you.

Thank you. The annual debate on the rights of persons with disabilities to be held under resolutions 7/9, 55/8 and 57.6 of the Council will be based on the topic "Rights of persons with disabilities digital technologies and assistance technologies, combating cyberbullying and digital inclusivity. This will be accessible to persons with disabilities. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Mexico to present this initiative on behalf of the main sponsors.

Thank you, President. I have the honour to make this statement on behalf of Mexico and New Zealand. Under resolution 55/8, adopted by the Human Rights Council on 3 April 2024, during the 58th session of the Council, there will be an interactive debate on the rights of persons with disabilities based on their rights and the technologies and tools available digitally, including support technologies. As part of the joint efforts to improve the Council's efficiency, Mexico and New Zealand have agreed with the members of the core group under resolution 51/10 on combating cyberbullying, led by Argentina, to hold an interactive joint debate addressing also combating of cyberbullying of persons with disabilities. We thank those delegations and the secretariat for their readiness and flexibility to organize the joint panel. The interactive dialogue will be held on Monday 10th March in this room during the afternoon and will have a format that is accessible to persons with disabilities. It will explore the role of digital technologies and assistance tools as key elements in systems for care and support and review how they are essential to guaranteeing the rights of persons with disabilities to live independently in their communities with dignity and in autonomy. It will also address challenges related to cyberbullying, privacy, access to information and informed decision-making. It will discuss how governance and digital technologies, when co-designed with persons with disabilities, can improve autonomy, social and political participation, access to services, can reduce administrative costs and reduce work involved in care and support, which disproportionately affects women. It will be moderated by Heba Hegras, Special Rapporteur on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, and with the participation of the following panellists: Sanha Tarchai, President of the Global Federation of Deaf and Blind Persons; Praveena Sukhesh Eeli, Director of Governance and Compliance of the Division of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities of the National Department for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities of South Africa. Digital creator and TV presenter with a focus on cyberbullying, the rights of persons with disabilities and health. We call on all delegations to participate in this annual interactive debate to share their points of view and their experience on this important topic. Thank you, President.

Thank you. The annual day on the rights of the child, to be held under resolution 7/29 and 55.29 of the Council, has the topic development of early childhood. and will also be available to persons with disabilities. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Uruguay to present this initiative on behalf of the main stakeholders.

Thank you, President. Representing the EU and members of CREW, we represent the annual Day on the Rights of the Child. organised by the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights under the resolution on the rights of the child and co-led by the European Union and the Group of European States of the Council of Europe. It will be held on 13 March, based on the development of early childhood, and will have two discussion panels. The first will analyse priorities in promoting focus on the development of the child, and the second on early childhood development in situations of emergency, giving priority to the rights of the child. More detail can be found in the concept note that is available on the intranet of the Human Rights Council.

The international day for the elimination of racial discrimination held under resolution 79161 of the General Assembly will be based on the topic 60th anniversary of the adoption of the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Ghana to present the initiative on behalf of the main sponsors.

Thank you, Mr. President. The African Group welcomes the convening of a panel discussion on the commemoration of the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination to be held on 27 March 2025 during the Human Rights Council 58th session. It is gratifying to note that the panel discussion will focus on how to enhance implementation by states of the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination. It is the expectation of the African Group that the panel discussion will yield concrete outcomes, especially increase the capacity of all stakeholders to develop comprehensive and sustainable solutions to achieve racial justice and equality. We invite all Council members and observer states to prioritize this panel discussion by participating actively. I thank you very much.

Thank you. That brings us to the end of the updates on panels, and I encourage all participants to consult the concept notes on the extranet of the Council in the next few days. Excellencies, distinguished colleagues, We will now move to review of the programme of work. On 3 March, Monday, the Council will hear an oral update from the High Commissioner for Human Rights. The general debate on the oral update will be held following the presentation by the High Commissioner of several country-specific reports and mandated updates under item 2 of the agenda. During the session, the Council will hold 31 interactive dialogues with the High Commissioner, the Bureau and the designated experts, special procedures mandate holders and mandate holders of the investigation mechanisms and the special representatives of the Secretary-General. The Council will also hold five extended interactive debates, one high-level debate and nine general debates. The Council will also adopt the results of the UPR for Norway, Albania, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Cote d'Ivoire, Portugal, Bhutan, Dominica, the DPRK, Brunei, Darussalam, Costa Rica, Equatorial Guinea, Ethiopia, Qatar and Nicaragua examined at the 48th session of the Working Group on the Universal Periodic Review. Excellencies, distinguished participants, towards the end of the session, the Council will proceed to select three mandate holders for expert mechanisms. My list of proposed candidates will be disseminated and published on the extranet. I take this opportunity to thank the members of the advisory group for their work. I recall that on 10 January this year, the Bureau examined the question of the representative of the Union of Myanmar. within the Human Rights Council and noted that the situation remained unchanged since 2021. In keeping with the practice of the past four years, the bureau took note of the fact that the situation relating to the representation of Myanmar in the Human Rights Council remained unchanged. Consequently, it was noted that, pending the decision of the General Assembly on this matter, the secretariat of the Human Rights Council could not address requests for participation by anybody belonging to the delegation of Myanmar within the Council in 2025. In keeping with the previous decisions of the Council, the Bureau proposed to the Council that the two interactive dialogues planned at the 58th session on Myanmar, namely the interactive dialogue on the oral update of the High Commissioner concerning Myanmar And the interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the human rights situation in Myanmar should be held as planned, without participation by the concerned country. This is proposed on the basis that this exceptional circumstance does not constitute a precedent for the future. Do any members of the Council wish to comment on this proposal?

I understand that there is no objection to the Bureau's proposal to proceed with the two interactive dialogues on Myanmar as planned without the participation of the country concerned. It is so decided. Excellencies, distinguished colleagues, are there any delegations wishing to take the floor at this stage to comment on the draft programme of work as it is currently presented? Please note that we'll discuss the modalities for the 58th session and share information on draft resolutions and other initiatives by delegations at a later stage of this meeting. I don't see any requests from the floor. Excellencies, distinguished colleagues, the deadline for submitting draft proposals for the 58th session will be Thursday, 21 March, at 13:00. Any request for an extension will only be approved by the Commission in exceptional circumstances for a maximum of 24 hours by the Council. In this context, let me kindly ask all delegations to submit their draft proposals on time. The e-delegate gate platform will continue to be used for the submission and sponsorship of draft resolutions, and states are encouraged to check in advance that they have access to e-delegate. The three-year program of work for 2025-2027 was last updated on 3 January 2025 and was published on the extranet. Let me remind the main sponsors of draft resolutions that they are encouraged to take into account the multi-year program of work when proposing new initiatives. I now request delegations to share information on draft resolutions and other initiatives. Delegations wishing to speak in the room should raise their nameplates. Are there any requests for the floor? Oh, I see quite a few. Algeria first. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Algeria.

Thank you, President. At the outset, I'd like to express my congratulations on your election to guide the work of the Council, and rest assured of the support of my delegation to ensure success of your mandate. On the occasion of the 58th session, Algeria will be presenting, as part of the core group, including South Africa, Croatia, Mozambique, the United Kingdom, Peru, and Vanuatu, a draft resolution on the impact of anti-personnel mines on the enjoyment of human rights. This initiative aims at focusing on the impact of the use of anti-personnel mines on human rights and fundamental freedoms. Anti-personnel mines affect principally civilians, especially in post-conflict war zones, that they lead to serious injuries and permanent disabilities, and they deprive local communities of access to essential resources like land, water, and basic infrastructure. That is a violation of the right to life, security, and human dignity. On behalf of the Core Group, Algeria invites all countries to participate in negotiations in a constructive manner and will work towards making sure that this resolution is adopted on the day that will be associated with the celebration of the International Day in line with the resolution of the UN General Assembly. Now, the Human Rights Council, the ICRC, and the International Campaign to Ban Anti-Personnel Landmines, Algeria will be organizing a parallel event on the theme of the resolution. This event will take place on 11 March. 2025 from 11 to 1 p.m. with the participation of panelists, especially Special Rapporteur on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. The objective is to assess the impact of anti-personal mines on human rights during and after conflicts. My delegation hopes to see many of you participate in that roundtable. Thank you.

Next one is Pakistan, followed by the Netherlands, Mexico, Cuba, and Spain. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Pakistan.

Thank you, Mr. President. The OIC congratulates you on assuming the HRC presidency and assures you of our cooperation in the discharge of your important responsibilities. The upcoming session of the Council will be held under a challenging global human rights landscape. We are confident that under your leadership, the Council will focus its efforts and respond constructively and collaboratively. During the forthcoming session, the OIC group intends to present the following traditional resolutions under items 2 and 7 of the Council's agenda, which form part of the international community's normative response to the continuous tragedy in the Middle East. Number one, human rights situation in the occupied Palestinian territory, including East Jerusalem, and the obligation to ensure accountability and justice. Number two, right of the Palestinian people to self-determination. Number three, Israeli settlements in the occupied Palestinian territory, including East Jerusalem and the occupied Syrian Golan. And number four, human rights in the occupied Syrian Golan. The group intends also to introduce the resolution on combating intolerance, negative stereotyping and stigmatization of and discrimination, incitement to violence and violence against persons based on religion or belief under item 9. At a time of sharply increasing discrimination, incitement and violence based on religion, especially Islamophobia, the resolution represents the bare minimum and we hope to see its consensual adoption translated into tangible action. As in the past, we expect the Council to lend its full support to the Group's draft resolutions and assures you, likewise, of our constructive engagement. Thank you, sir.

Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of the Kingdom of the Netherlands.

Thank you, Mr. President. Thank you. Thank you for allowing me to invite, with sincere pleasure, all delegations and civil society colleagues to attend the high-level event How to protect journalists and civilians' right to access to information in times of conflict. This will be hosted by the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, His Excellency Casper Veldkamp, on Wednesday, the 26th of February, from 9 to 10 in Room 24. And this high-level event will showcase the power of journalism in conflict settings and demonstrates how journalists and other media workers function as a lifeline for civilians. It will further underscore the obligations and responsibilities of states to protect journalists in conflict settings. The event will feature testimonies from journalists working in conflict settings, including Sudan, Ukraine and Gaza, and bring together state representatives, UN officials and civil society with the aim of strengthening and renewing our common commitment towards the safety of journalists. And I hope to see many of you at that event, and I thank you, Mr. President.

Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Mexico.

Thank you very much, President. I'm pleased to inform you that during the 50th session, Mexico will be presenting a draft resolution related to the mandate of the Special Rapporteur on the promotion and protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms in the fight against terrorism. This draft resolution of a procedural nature, has as its objective to renew the mandate of the Special Rapporteur for a period of three additional years. Mr. President, in 2025, we'll be celebrating 20 years since the establishment of the mandate of the Special Rapporteur that was created on the basis of Resolution 2005/80 of the Human Rights Commission, presented by Mexico and adopted on the 21st of April, 2005. The last renewal of the mandate was done based on resolution 49/10 of this Council, adopted by consensus on the 31st of March 2022, with 60 countries co-sponsoring the resolution. We thank all the delegations that supported the mandate throughout its history and invite the Council to renew the mandate once again. Also, just like every year, Mexico, together with Finland, will be presenting a joint statement to commemorate the International Women's Day. We do hope to receive support of other delegations. Thank you.

Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Cuba.

Thank you, President. Good afternoon. The delegation of Cuba would like to reiterate our support to your work and wish you full success to you and members of the Bureau as you carry out your functions. We welcome the new members of the Council, and we ensure them of the willingness of Cuba to work with all of them in a constructive and cooperative manner. We live in an international context that is even more complex since 20th of January, characterized by serious threats to the UN Charter, international law, the President of the United States, seems to be interpreting his arrival to power as a position of an emperor, showing disrespect to the international cooperation, multilateral institutions, announcing that the country will be withdrawing from the Human Rights Council, the WHO, and the Paris Agreement. This government's ambitions include the conquest of Canada, the occupation of Greenland, the change of name to the Gulf of Mexico, and taking the Panama Canal away from Panamanians, violating the rights of regular migrants in the country that's suffering from indiscriminate deportations. The discriminatory policy against Cuba has become unprecedented, leading to flagrant violations of the human rights of Cuban people. The Human Rights Council cannot remain impassive facing these realities. that require our attention and actions. In these circumstances, we call upon all members to renew their commitment to the mandate of this body. Mr. President, in the upcoming session of the Council, Cuba will be presenting three draft resolutions in its national capacity: the draft on the right to Food will relate to the renewal of the mandate of the Special Rapporteur, whose work helped deal with food insecurity, hunger, and extreme poverty, and provide support to developing countries in the production of agricultural products, imports, strengthening food, sustainable food systems, and productive development of national industry. We also will be submitting a draft resolution on the consequences of foreign debt and other related financial international obligations of states and the full enjoyment of human rights, especially economic, social, and cultural rights. That text has as its objectives to ensure that the impact of foreign debt remains visual, the impact on human rights, including the right to development. And also, it'll focus on the urgent need to reform the unjust and anti-democratic international financial system. Finally, the draft resolution on the promotion of the enjoyment of cultural rights of all and respect for cultural diversity will highlight the importance to respect national specific features, as well as historic, cultural, and religious diversities between and among states. that develop their own economic and social systems. In conclusion, I would say that the Cuban delegation is ready to work in a constructive, transparent, and inclusive manner with all delegations and civil society organizations in informal consultations and other platforms as we negotiate these three proposals. And we thank in advance the support of all of you. Thank you.

Thank you. Colleagues, I'd like to remind you that this is an organizational meeting, and I would like to invite you to respect the nature of this meeting and to concentrate exclusively on the presentation of your initiatives at this stage. Thank you very much. Spain is next on my list, followed by Bolivia, Cyprus, Colombia, Ghana, and Iceland. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Spain.

Thank you, President. committed to the recognition of the rights of caretakers and that provide support. Spain will be celebrating a parallel event during the 58th session together with the Office of the High Commissioner and other members of groups that support resolution 54/6. The mandate has been supported by the resolution of the Councils with the participation of experts that will cover international resolutions and relevant work on this work. This will provide the opportunity to share experiences and best practices that relate to the promotion and respect of human rights of those who provide care and those who are cared. And in order to ensure sustainable development. Also, Spain, as the distinguished delegate of Morocco will speak at a later stage, we're part of a group of countries that have been promoting a resolution related to the role of women in diplomacy, promoting gender equality in multilateralism as a fundamental element to ensure peace and security, sustainable development, and human rights of everyone. Thank you.

I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Bolivia.

Thank you very much, President. The Plurinational State of Bolivia would like to inform that during this upcoming session of the Human Rights Council, we'll be submitting together with other -- we'll be hosting a parallel event with other countries, the role of the UN Declaration on the Rights of Peasants and other agricultural workers in rural areas in the realization of the right to food, the role of women peasants. This event will take place on the 7th of March, Friday. at 1 p.m. in room 24. Also, we'd like to inform all members of the Council as well as observer countries, and we invite them to participate actively and constructively in the third session of the Working Group on the Rights of Peasants and Other Workers in Rural Areas. It will take place during the week of the 24th to 28th of February. Thank you.

Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Cyprus.

Thank you, Mr. President. On behalf of a cross-regional core group comprised of Argentina, Ethiopia, Greece, Iraq, Ireland, Italy, Mali, Poland, and Serbia, and my own country, Cyprus, I wish to inform you that we will be presenting the triennial resolution on cultural rights and the protection of cultural heritage under agenda item three of the session. The HRC plays a vital role in calling upon all states to respect, promote, and protect the right of everyone to take part in cultural life, including the ability to access and enjoy cultural heritage. The draft will be updated to reflect developments since its previous iteration, while maintaining its human-based rights approach to cultural heritage protection. The text will ask the Office of the High Commissioner of Human Rights to convene a one-day workshop on the issue of digital heritage, with a view to discussing exchange good practices as well as challenges encountered in the digitization of cultural heritage. The zero draft will be circulated as we get closer to the session and we look forward to engaging with you with a view to its consensual adoption. Thank you.

Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Colombia. Gracias.

Thank you. Thank you, President. Colombia would like to congratulate you on your election as President. We wish you full success. On basis of our experience during previous decades, during this session, 58th session, the Human Rights Council will be hosting a parallel event with the participation of the Special Rapporteur on the Protection of Human Rights Defenders as part of her preparation of the future report on human rights defenders in rural areas and other contexts. Two human rights defenders will participate in this work, and they will share their experience, challenges, and achievements in the protection of human rights in different parts of the world. We do hope you can participate in this event. We also will be hosting an event together with the Dominican Republic on mechanisms related to implementation and follow-up to international recommendations, and an event on sexual and reproductive health organized with other states and not governmental organizations. Thank you.

Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Ghana.

Thank you, Mr. President. I am pleased to inform that the African group will present three resolutions during the upcoming 58th session, as follows. Under agenda item 3, the group will present for consideration the biennial resolution on the negative impact of the non-repatriation of funds of illicit origin on the enjoyment of human rights. Two, under agenda item 10, a resolution in respect of the mandate renewal for the technical assistance and capacity building for Mali in the field of human rights. And three, another recurring resolution which will be tabled by the African group under the agenda item 10, is the mandate renewal for technical assistance and capacity building for South Sudan. These three resolutions were presented in the spirit of cooperation and shared responsibility in our collective efforts for advancing human rights. The African Group requests all member states to lend their support to these critical resolutions. I thank you.

Thank you. Iceland is next on my list, followed by Indonesia, Armenia, Switzerland, Morocco, and the United Kingdom. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Iceland.

Thank you, Mr. President. On behalf of Germany, Moldova, North Macedonia, United Kingdom, and my own country, Iceland, I would like to inform the Council that we will present a resolution on the situation of human rights in the Islamic Republic of Iran. We will hold open and formal consultations in line with standard Council practice, and we look forward to engaging with colleagues on this important resolution in the weeks ahead. Also, on behalf of Iceland, we would like to announce a side event. But Iceland, together with the International Organization for Standardization, better known as ISO, will hold a side event titled Launch of the First ISO Guidelines on Child Protection and Standardization of the Rights of the Child on 12 March from 1 to 2 in room 24. Thank you.

Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Indonesia.

Thank you, Mr. President. On behalf of the core states consisting of my own country, Indonesia, as well as the Bahamas, Chile, Denmark, Fiji, Ghana, and Morocco, I'm pleased to announce that the Convention Against Torture Initiative, or CTI, will be organizing a side event on Wednesday, 5 March, from 12 to 1 p.m. at the Palais Room 22. This event will focus on state-to-state cooperation on the fight against torture and highlight the relevance of CTI's work based in bilateral and multilateral engagement. Through this side event, CTI aims to take stock of the impactful work we have undertaken since our launch in 2014 to support states to ratify and improve implementation of the UN Convention Against Torture, including through the launch of a booklet capturing some of our key successes. It will also launch CTI's second phase, which will run for six years until 2030, and we will present our new strategic plan. The event will also hear from the experiences of states who have engaged with GTI and how the technical assistance we have provided has supported their respective domestic efforts on torture prevention and response. We look forward to participation of all delegation. I thank you.

Thank you.

I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Armenia.

Thank you, President. I have the honor to inform you that Armenia and Estonia, on behalf of Transregional Group, will be submitting a joint declaration on digital technologies and the rights of women and girls. It is aimed at strengthening international cooperation in order to ensure gender equality in the digital domain. It is part of the Global Digital Compact that was adopted in September of last year to ensure inclusive, sustainable, and equitable and safe digital environment. The text of the joint statement will be submitted to delegation in the upcoming days, and we look forward to working with all delegations on that issue. Thank you.

I give the floor to the senior representative of Switzerland.

President, on behalf of the delegation of Switzerland, I would like to make three announcements related to the 58th session of the Human Rights Council. First, as part of the high-level biannual panel on the question of the death penalty, on the 25th of February, Switzerland and members of the core group will co-sponsor a side event devoted to the question of the death penalty as in abolitionist, de facto abolitionist states. and will provide additional information on that. Secondly, on the 5th of March, 2025, we'll hold a strengthened or enhanced interactive dialogue with the High Commission on Human Rights on transitional justice that will lead to the report related to lessons learned and best practices related to transitional justice in the context of peacekeeping and sustainable development, and SDG number 16. We encourage all delegations to participate in that work. Thirdly, we have the pleasure to inform that the Multicultural National Dress Day will take place on Thursday, 27 February, in the Serpent Bar, starting at 6:00 p.m. Additional information will be provided shortly. We thank many delegates that provide support to that event. And we do hope to see you there in your national dress. Thank you.

Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Morocco.

First, we would like to congratulate you and all the members of the Bureau and express our wishes, best wishes for your tenure in this 19th cycle of the Human Rights Council. My delegation is honored to announce that we are currently working with a cross-regional group of countries, which includes, among others, Maldives, Spain, Slovenia, and my own country, Morocco, on a draft resolution about women, diplomacy, and human rights. Our countries have always been strong advocates of gender equality and committed to the fair representation of women in diplomacy and multilateralism. We have already worked on a series of joint statements and side events about this important topic. This initiative will be building on the UNGA resolution 76/269 that institutionalized the International Day of Women in Diplomacy. Additionally, my delegation would like to announce that Paraguay, Portugal, the ICHR, the Universal Rights Group, and Morocco will be organizing a high-level side event on the International Network of NMRIFs. strengthening cooperation, promoting membership, and disseminating the Maracay guidance framework. The objectives of this event will be to follow up on the establishment of the international network of NMRIFs adopted in Asuncion, to present the outputs of the 10th Glion Dialogue and presentation of the Marrakesh Guidance Framework as a reference document, to exchange on the way forward, including the third international seminar on MRIFs in Lisbon, as well as the follow-up of HRC resolution 51/33, namely the second one-day seminar and the virtual knowledge hub it's requested. The event will be held on February 25 at 2:00 p.m. in Room 24. We hope to see as many of you as possible to have a constructive and substantive discussion about these important mechanisms of the human rights ecosystem. Thank you, Mr. President.

Thank you. The United Kingdom is next on my list, followed by Norway, Ukraine, the Philippines, China, and the Holy See. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of the United Kingdom.

Thank you, Mr. President. I would like to announce two initiatives that the UK will present at the 58th session of the Council as the coordinator of the respective groups. Firstly, the UK, on behalf of a core group of countries, will be presenting a resolution under item 2, advancing human rights in South Sudan. The main purpose of this resolution is to extend the mandate of the Commission of Human Rights in South Sudan and to reflect ongoing developments in the country. We welcome the continued engagement with the South Sudanese Government with the Commission and note the progress that has been made. However, further work is needed to support the recently extended revitalized peace agreement, including to continue to collect evidence on human rights violations to contribute to accountability, transitional justice and long-term peace. Secondly, Mr. President, we have all seen the historic developments in Syria in recent months. With the fall of the Assad regime, the revelations of the horrors faced by the Syrian people have been laid bare. Their aspirations for a future Syria grounded in human rights, freedom, and justice deserve this Council's full support. We welcome the engagement between the Interim Authorities and OHCHR, the Commission of Inquiry, and the International Impartial and Independent Mechanism, and the Independent Institution on Missing Persons. We very much hope that such positive engagement continues in order to facilitate an eventual Syrian-led transitional justice process. So the UK, as part of a core group, will therefore present a resolution renewing the mandate of the Commission of Inquiry to ensure that its vital work in documenting violations and abuses in Syria can continue. Indeed, we hope that its work will be enhanced by sustained access which they have until now been denied. In doing so, we look to support crucial efforts to hold those responsible for violations and abuses to account and contribute to the process of reconciliation and healing. We will hold open informal negotiations on both resolutions in line with standard Council practice. Thank you.

Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Norway.

Thank you, Mr. President. I am pleased to announce that Norway will introduce a new resolution on human rights defenders during the upcoming session. This is a tri-annual substantive resolution. It will focus on new and emerging technologies and human rights defenders, something we see as a topical and very relevant issue. We intend to capture both positive and negative aspects of how new technologies and digital spaces affect defenders. In other words, how technology can be an enabler, but also how it creates a new set of challenges, vulnerabilities, and threats. The point of departure from a human rights perspective is clear. Human rights are the same and apply in the same manner online and offline. The resolution builds on previous human rights defender resolutions, as well as all the relevant resolutions, including on new and emerging technologies, aiming to develop and consolidate the best practice in this field. So, dear colleagues, we look forward to working with all of you in constructive and transparent negotiations. and hope that this resolution will enjoy the Council's consensual support. I thank you.

Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Ukraine.

Thank you, President. We're happy to see you presiding over the Human Rights Council. And we reiterate our full support to you.

This anniversary of Russia's military aggression against Ukraine and three years since its full-scale invasion, the devastating impact of this war on human rights and fundamental freedoms is impossible to overstate. At the upcoming session, Ukraine will continue to draw the Council's attention to the ongoing crimes committed by Russia, stressing the urgent need for justice and accountability. Russia's daily deliberate attacks on civilian and critical infrastructure and residential areas, execution and inhumane treatment of prisoners of war and civilian detainees, unlawful deportation and forcible transfer of Ukrainian children. These crimes require a resolute global response. Ensuring justice for all victims of this war of aggression is a top priority. for Ukraine, we will continue working to hold Russia accountable for its crimes and to support all mechanisms that document and investigate these violations. In this regard, we will introduce an updated resolution on the human rights situation in Ukraine, extending the mandate of the Independent International Commission of Inquiry for another year. This commission plays a critical role in gathering evidence that will serve as a foundation for accountability in future international legal proceedings. We count on the strong support of Human Rights Council member states for this initiative and call for constructive engagement in the interactive dialogue following the presentation of reports by the Commission of Inquiry and the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights. At the same time, Ukraine remains fully committed to the broader human rights agenda and stands ready for an open and meaningful dialogue on all pressing human rights issues. The international community must stand firm in defending human rights and upholding justice. Failure to act will be a betrayal of the very principles of justice and humanity that bind us all. In this regard, I wish to underline an intrinsic link between Geneva and New York, peace and human rights, and call upon the countries represented in this room to support the draft UN General Assembly resolution calling for advancement of a comprehensive, just, and lasting peace for Ukraine. I thank you.

Thank you. Colleagues, I'd like to remind you again that this is an organizational meeting, and I would invite you to respect the nature of the meeting and to concentrate on just presenting your initiatives that you are intending for the session. Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of the Philippines.

Thank you, Mr. President. I am pleased to inform the Council that the Philippines will organize a high-level side event to present a fourth Philippine human rights plan on 25 February from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m. at room 24. The side event will be headlined by deputy ministers from the Department of Foreign Affairs and the Office of the President of the Republic of the Philippines. Crafted through a multi-stakeholder process, the Plan of Action is the Philippines' blueprint for forging concrete partnerships with civil society, the country's independent national human rights institution, and external partners in order to advance the national human rights agenda. Through this side event, we aim to initiate discussions with partners on potential cooperation in the implementation of the plan, as well as to share our experience, including lessons learned in forging A multi-stakeholder consensus and a viable, comprehensive plan of action for human rights promotion and protection. Additionally, Brazil, Costa Rica, Italy, Morocco, Senegal, Slovenia, Thailand, and my own country, the Philippines, will organize a side event on the transformative power of human rights education in achieving gender equality in collaboration with the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights on 14 March 2025 from 1 to 2 p.m. at room 22. This is to celebrate the launch of the fifth phase of the World Program on Human Rights Education in January 2025 and International Women's The side event aims to engage diverse stakeholders, including government, youth and children, national human rights institutions, human rights treaty bodies and mandate holders, on how we can strengthen human rights education for children and youth on gender equality. We look forward to your participation in these initiatives. Thank you.

Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of China.

Thank you, President. We congratulate you on your election, in addition to the other Bureau members, and we welcome the new members. China reiterates its readiness to cooperate and participate to ensure the success of the Council's work. Given the current situation, China will participate in the work of the Council and propose initiatives following the same principles, namely human rights must be in line with national conditions respecting the human rights choices made by countries. Secondly, on the basis of equality and mutual respect and constructive dialogue. which builds trust and consensus. Thirdly, all human rights must be promoted together. President, as you presented just now, this year will be an anniversary year for the Beijing Programme and Platform for Action, and there will be an annual high-level panel, Beijing+30. We are convinced that With effort by all parties, the meeting will be crowned with success. China will work and contribute together with other members of the relevant group to ensure the success of the meeting. We have already proposed to work together for the cause of women and its development. Thank you.

Thank you. Holy See is the next on my list, followed by Maldives, Italy, Romania, Dominican Republic, and Slovenia. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of the Holy See.

The presidency of the Human Rights Council in the support and constructive engagement of my delegation. during this 19th cycle of the council. As the Catholic Church celebrates a jubilee year in 2025, it serves as a reminder that the goods of the earth are not destined for a privileged few, but for everyone. Central to this is the call for debt forgiveness. By framing debt forgiveness not just as a question of generosity, but as a matter of justice, a wide range of stakeholders can take transformative action that protects human dignity and gives the world's poorest countries a genuine chance to build prosperous futures free from the burden of unsustainable debt. In light of this call, the Holy See is co-organizing a high-level side event with UNCTAD on the sidelines of the high-level segment of the 58th session on debt forgiveness. The event will be held on Tuesday, February 25, at 1:00 PM in Room 22. And speakers include the Secretary General of UNCTAD, representatives from the Office of the High Commissioner of Human Rights, the International Monetary Fund, the World Bank, as well as our Minister of Foreign Affairs, who will be heading the delegation of the Holy See during the high-level segment. Full details have been sent to all missions. You are all most warmly welcome to join us. It is my delegation's desire that the work of this session will be a tangible sign of hope in a world that, at this time, so desperately needs it. Thank you, Mr. President.

Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of the Maldives.

Thank you, Mr. President. I have the honor to announce that the core group composed of Costa Rica, Morocco, Slovenia, Switzerland, and my own country, Maldives, will present the resolution entitled "The Right to a Clean, Healthy, and Sustainable Environment" at the upcoming session of the Human Rights Council. The text will be based on HRC resolution 52/23, adopted by consensus at the Council's 52nd session. This time, its thematic focus will be on the oceans and human rights. The core group will convene open negotiations with states, civil society organizations, and other relevant stakeholders in the spirit of dialogue and transparency. The time and venue of the informals will be communicated in due course. We count on delegations' constructive engagement throughout the negotiations. The Maldives is also pleased to announce that in collaboration with Costa Rica, Morocco, and Slovenia, we will be hosting a side event in the afternoon of February 24. The event, themed Advancing the Universal Right to a Clean, Healthy, and Sustainable Environment, will focus on actionable strategies and next steps to operationalize HRC resolution 52/2017. 2023 with a particular emphasis on the critical link between the ocean and human rights. We would greatly appreciate your engagement and look forward to welcoming you to the discussion. Thank you, Mr. President.

Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Italy.

I am glad to announce that during the high-level segment of the 58th session of the Human Rights Council, Italy will organize on the 26th of February at 1:00 PM at the Gallery of the Politecnico, the exhibition, the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities through the eyes of young people, with the participation of the Italian Minister for Disabilities, Alessandra Rocatelli, And among other speakers, the Director General of the United Nations Office in Geneva, Tatiana Valovaia, as well as the Deputy High Commissioner for Human Rights, Nada Al-Nashif. Furthermore, I would like to announce that Italy will co-promote three side events during the session. First one is toward an inclusive and equitable future, the protection of children in armed conflict, emerging technologies and women, peace, security principles in arms control. This will take place on March 10, 2025 at 1:00 PM in Room 24. It's organized together with UN Office of the Special Representative for Children and Armed Conflict and University Network for Children in Armed Conflict. The event will analyze the impact of lethal autonomous weapon system on international security and the connection with the women peace security agenda. The second event, Local and Regional Governments as Key Actors in Advancing Human Rights and the Sustainable Development Goals, will take place on March 17 at 1:00 PM in room 22. in collaboration with the delegation of Paraguay and Geneva Academy, will highlight the crucial role of regional and local governments in turning international human rights commitments and the sustainable development goals into concrete local action. Finally, the last event, Gender Decision-Making: The Contribution by CEDAW General Recommendation 40 to the Implementation of the Women, Peace and Security Agenda, will take place on March 19 at 1:00 PM in Room 24 in collaboration with Lebanon and the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, Treaty Bodies Division, dedicated to the interlinkages between CEDAW Recommendation and the women, peace, security agenda, moving from the 50 Italian action plan on women, peace, security as a good practice. Together with our partners, we hope to see many of you at this important event. Merci, Monsieur le President.

Merci. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Romania.

Thank you, Mr. President. It is a pleasure for us to announce that a cross-regional group of states comprising Morocco, Norway, Peru, the Republic of Korea, Tunisia, and my own country, Romania, will introduce a resolution on human rights, democracy, and the rule of law during the upcoming 58th session of the Human Rights Council. This is a biannual resolution which continues on the path set up by the previous iterations. One of its main objectives is to establish a theme for the sixth forum on human rights, democracy, and the rule of law to be organized in 2026. This year's iteration of the resolution will focus on the importance of education in empowering rights holders to successfully shape the future of societies by effectively promoting human rights, democracy, and the rule of law principles. We look forward to engaging in inclusive and transparent negotiation process, and we hope the resolution will enjoy the Council's consensual support, as it has been the case for the previous iteration. Thank you, Mr. President.

Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of the Dominican Republic.

Thank you, President. I wish to inform you that during the 58th session, the Dominican Republic will hold a side event working with the distinguished delegations of Paraguay, Colombia, and Costa Rica, entitled "Strengthening Human Rights: National Implementation and Reporting and Follow-up Mechanisms in Latin America". The main goal of the event is to promote an exchange of experience among Latin American states on the creation, strengthening and operation of national implementation, reporting and follow-up mechanisms, noting their role in the effective implementation of international resolutions and their impact on public policy on human rights. We invite you to participate actively in this event to be held in room 22 on the 11th of March from 2 to 3 p.m. We also invite you to participate in the World Down's Syndrome Day 2025 event on strengthening support systems to be held on 21st of March. This was organized working with the member states of Belgium and Lithuania and the United Nations Office at Geneva, as well as the Down's Syndrome International Organization and the Down syndrome organisation, as every year it will be held in the bar Serpente from 1 to 2 p.m. with statements by representatives of states and presentations by youngsters with Down syndromes, as well as recognition of efforts made to support persons with Down syndromes. We will also share various banners so that all can express support to persons with Down syndrome throughout the world. We call on all member states and observer states in this Council to approach us if they wish to co-sponsor the event and participate more closely in this activity. As a member of the Council, the Dominican Republic will continue to participate actively in the high-level segment panels and interactive discussions, as well as the process of adoption of resolutions. We reiterate once more our strong commitment to the promotion and protection of human rights nationally and internationally. Thank you, President.

Thank you. Slovenia is next on my list, followed by European Union, Uganda, the United Arab Emirates, Greece, and the Republic of Korea. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Slovenia.

Thank you, Mr. President. Slovenia would like to inform the Council on the planned side event during the high-level segment entitled "Implementing Foreign Policy Goals with a Human Rights Lens: Advancing Equality Through Multilateralism." We are organizing the event together with UN Women and partner countries. The event will be held on 25th of February at 2:00 p.m. We invite all countries to actively participate. I thank you.

Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of the European Union.

I would first like to wish you all possible success in the carrying out of your mandate as President of the Council. The European Union intends to present four resolutions, and all of them are renewals. First, there is the resolution on Belarus to renew both the investigative mandate of the Group of Independent Experts, as well as the mandate of the Special Rapporteur on the human rights situation in Belarus. We remain concerned about the human rights situation in Belarus. with repression of independent and dissenting voices, arbitrary detentions, widespread torture, the denial of due process and the right to a fair trial, and systematic impunity. As previously documented by the UN, some of the violations may amount to crimes against humanity. Secondly, we will present, together with Australia, the resolution on the Democratic People's Republic of Korea. This situation continues to draw attention to the human rights and humanitarian issues in the DPRK, and we will express continued support for the work on accountability and the need to address the findings of the Commission of Inquiry from 2014. The resolution will renew for one year the mandate of the Special Rapporteur, and for two years the capacity of the OHCHR, including its field-based structure in Seoul. We hope to be able to count on your support, colleagues, in view of adopting this resolution by consensus, as it was the case in the past. Thirdly, the resolution on Myanmar will address the concerning and continuously deteriorating human rights situation in the country. It will seek to renew the mandate of the Special Rapporteur and express continued support for accountability processes, including the Independent Investigative Mechanism on Myanmar. Finally, the EU will also present again a resolution on freedom of religion or belief in order to underline the Council's commitment to the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of religion or belief. All human beings, wherever they live, should be guaranteed the right to have or not to have, to choose, change or leave, to practice and to manifest their religion or belief without fear of violence, persecution or discrimination. For all these resolutions, we look forward to working constructively with colleagues and partners in the informal consultations, as well as on other initiatives. Thank you, President.

Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Uganda.

Thank you, President. I would also like to enjoin others to congratulate you and assure you of our support. President, Uganda, on behalf of the non-aligned movement, will table a resolution under item 3, our traditional resolution on the negative impact of unilateral coercive measures on the enjoyment of human rights. Like we have done before, we commit to constructive engagement with all partners, and our prayer is that we move towards a consensus where we all agree that people disproportionately, especially the poor in developing countries and least developed countries, are disproportionately affected by lateral coercive measures. And so we look forward to the support of all members. I thank you.

Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of the United Arab Emirates.

Thank you, President. We congratulate you on your appointment to the presidency and reiterate our support to the Council, which seeks to strengthen multilateralism. We are happy to announce that we will organize an event during the 58th session on the rights of persons with disabilities and artificial intelligence on 17th March at 2 p.m. in room 24, and we encourage all colleagues to participate. We will also take the floor to make a statement on the rights of persons with disabilities at the special session on that topic on 10 March, on behalf of a number of States. We hope that there will be fruitful cooperation in this work. We look forward to working with all Member States and civil society. Thank you.

Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Greece.

Thank you, President. On behalf of a cross-regional core group consisting of Chile, Singapore, Switzerland, and Greece, I would like to announce that the resolution on neurotechnology and human rights will be presented during the upcoming HRC session. The neurotechnology and human rights resolution was first adopted by consensus at the 51st session of the Council with a wide range of co-sponsors. The resolution focused on the impact, opportunities, and challenges of neurotechnology with regard to the promotion and protection of all human rights and mandated the Advisory Committee of the Human Rights Council to draft a report on the outcomes of its study on this topic. The report was presented to the Council at its 57th session. Neurotechnology is at the cutting edge of scientific and technological innovation, offering unprecedented possibilities in fields as wide-ranging as healthcare, communication, accessibility, and cognitive enhancement. It has the potential to significantly improve human well-being and promote human rights, particularly by advancing medical treatments for neurological disorders, enhancing the lives of individuals with disabilities, and enabling new forms of human-computer interaction. As neurotechnology evolves rapidly, we also need to be alert to the ethical, legal, and societal concerns associated with its use. The ability to assess, manipulate, or influence brain activity and mental processes raises complex questions that need answers consistent with human rights. Therefore, it is imperative to raise awareness and ensure that neurotechnology serves humanity in a responsible manner. With this resolution, we aim to engage in a constructive discussion and continued collaboration on this crucial issue. In this context, the core group also plans to organize a side event aiming to foster awareness and to contribute to the multidisciplinary dialogue on the opportunities and challenges of neurotechnology and human rights. The zero draft of the resolution will be circulated in due course. We look forward to engaging with all of you on this important topic. Thank you.

Thank you. Republic of Korea is next on my list, followed by Democratic Republic of Congo. What did I say? Republic of Korea. Sorry. And then DRC, Portugal, Qatar, Sierra Leone, Albania is the last on my list. If we missed your request for taking the floor, please come see the Secretariat. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of the Republic of Korea.

Thank you, Mr. President. I am pleased to announce that the permanent mission of the Republic of Korea will organize a side event titled, "Persistent Human Rights Violation in the Democratic People's Republic of Korea: A Pathway to Accountability" on 19th March from 12 to 13 at room 22. This side event will provide an opportunity to shed light on the ongoing and systematic human rights violations in the DPRK, including forced labor, arbitrary detention, and torture, while exploring ways to strengthen accountability mechanisms. The panel discussion will feature distinguished speakers, including Ms. Elizabeth Salmon, Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in the DPRK, Ms. Priya Gopalani, Vice Chair on Follow-up of the working groups on arbitrary detention, as well as North Korean human rights activists who will share their first-hand testimonies on the grave violations they have endured. Also, we are planning to organize a side event on the new and emerging digital technologies and human rights during this session. The core group members of this resolution and the OHCHR has been discussing actively for the last several months on the way forward, and we intend to introduce the concept of our next resolution through this side event. The concept note and further details for the two side event will be shared in due time. We look forward to the support and participation of all delegations. I thank you.

Thank you. I call on the.

Distinguished representative of the DRC.

Thank you, President. My country thanks you for holding this meeting, which allows us to exchange on the programme of work for the 58th session and the initiatives of States and groups. My country wishes to inform you that it will organise a side event from 13 to 14 hours on access to education for girls. The goal is to have an exchange on obstacles to education of girls and practical methods of overcoming them. The concept note and other details on the event will be shared in due course. Thank you.

I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Portugal.

In the upcoming HRC 58, Portugal will once again present the traditional omnibus resolution on the question of the realization in all countries of economic, social and cultural rights. This is a 30-year-old consensual resolution which dates back to the Human Rights Commission, gathering support from all regional groups. For years, Portugal has been one of the main advocates of economic, social and cultural rights. Back in the day, the idea of the existence of a hierarchy of rights still prevailed, a misconception that time came to demystify. Today we are happy to see that there is a broad consensus on the understanding that economic, social and cultural must be treated in a fair and equal manner, on the same footing and with the same emphasis as civil and political rights, as enshrined in the Vienna Declaration and Programme of Action. However, much remains to be done globally for the fulfillment of economic, social, and cultural rights. At this critical juncture, our commitment remains strong. Portugal will continue its leadership on this matter, defending the universal, indivisible, interrelated, interdependent, and mutually reinforcing nature of all human rights. This year's resolution will specifically address the topic of financing for development. We count on your constructive engagement during negotiations. Thank you.

Thank you.

I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Qatar.

Thank you, President. At the outset, I'd like to congratulate you on your election. to guide the work of the Council. We are ready to cooperate with you and the Bureau in order to ensure that we realize our common objectives. We thank the High Commissioner and his office for the efforts taken to ensure the success of the work of the Council. Mr. President, during the upcoming 58th session, we will be organizing two parallel events. First, a high-level event under the title to make it possible for girls to benefit from her rights through sports. This will take place in room 25 on the 12th of March. We will focus on the opportunities provided by sports to girls, especially through elimination of discrimination. We also will look at the challenges faced by women and girls when they wish to get involved in sports-related activities and how to overcome such obstacles. Also, the fourth anniversary of the International Day of Lawyers on the 27th of July. of 00 p.m. in Room 22. That will be a side event. On the 10th of March, this is an international day that was established by Qatar on the basis of Resolution 27475 of the UN General Assembly, presented under the initiative of Qatar. Thank you.

Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Sierra Leone.

Mr. President, my delegation along Luxembourg, the Dominican Republic, and the members of the Core Group on the Right to Education would like to announce the holding of a side event titled "Strengthening the Right to Free Education to Transform Millions of Lives." This event will take place on Monday 10 March from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. in room 22. We extend a warm invite to all delegations and other stakeholders.

Thank you, Mr. President.

Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Albania.

Thank you, Mr. President. I am pleased to announce that in the framework of the 58th session of the Human Rights Council, on 10 March 2025, at room 22, at 1 o'clock, the Permanent Mission of the Republic of Albania in Geneva, the EU delegation in Geneva, UNICEF, and the Office of the Special Representative to the Secretary-General on Violence against Children will co-organize a side event on addressing violence and social inclusion of children, exclusion of children, prioritizing access to service for all children and leverage the Child Guarantee framework. The side event aim to emphasize the urgent need to address violence against children by showcasing how the European Child Guarantee can serve as a powerful framework to tackle its root causes. This event will highlight the European Child Guarantee role in ensuring access to essential services for all children and families and addressing social exclusion. The event will emphasize the adaptability of this tool beyond the EU and foster dialogue and commitment to leveraging European Child Guarantee for accession countries and more broadly to protect and support vulnerable children and their families. In this regard, Albania welcome your participation at this side event. Thank you.

Thank you.

I thank delegations for sharing information on their initiatives. Let me emphasize that under resolution 5/1, delegations are invited to conduct informal consultations of an open nature in order to ensure the widest possible support of their initiatives. At least one open-ended informal consultation should take place on each draft resolution and/or decision before it is submitted to the Council for consideration. Consultations should, to the extent possible, be timely, transparent and inclusive, taking into account the constraints faced by delegations, especially smaller ones. This will help to create a constructive working atmosphere based on transparency, dialogue, and cooperation. Excellencies, distinguished Colleagues, let us continue with the modalities of the session. For the meetings of the 58th session of the Human Rights Council, States and other observers, NGOs in consultative status with ECOSOC, as well as national human rights institutions with A status, will have the opportunity to present their statements in person or through pre-recorded video statements. In order to reconcile the importance of inclusiveness with what is achievable in terms of time and resources, the list of speakers for NGOs during each general debate will be based on the average number of NGOs that participated in each general debate during the previous three March sessions. In other words, 50. 52nd and 49th sessions. With regard to the working hours of the session, I wish to recall that on 10 January, I informed the Bureau that I received a letter from the Prime Minister of Pakistan on behalf of the OIC, requesting that the working hours of the 58th session during Ramadan be adjusted in the same manner as at the 55th session in March last year. namely, the meetings are held from 9:30 a.m. 30 p.m. and from 2:30 to 5:30 p.m. I then conducted additional consultations, including with the Director General of UNOCH, who confirmed that such an adjustment could be taken into account by UNOCH if the Council decides to pursue that option. also consulted regional groups through their coordinators, and no objections have been recorded. The Bureau, therefore, decided to propose the Council for approval to adjust the working hours of the 58th session during Ramadan so that the meetings of the Council during this period from 28 February to 28 March would be held from 9:30 to 12:30 and from 2:30 to 5:30. I therefore submit this proposal to you. If there are no objections, it is therefore decided. Thank you. Are there any delegations wishing to take the floor on the question of modalities of the session? I do not see any. Excellencies, distinguished colleagues, let me move on to some important technical information with regard to documents for this session. 45 of 93 reports prepared for the session are already available in all the official UN languages and published on the Council's website. The others will be available in the coming weeks. And I would like to acknowledge that the Secretariat, including conference services, are doing their best to ensure that necessary documentation is available in all the official languages of the United Nations in time for their discussion. All participants are requested to download the electronic versions of oral statements via the online system or to send them to the relevant e-mail addresses. I would like to remind delegations that all oral statements must be submitted electronically to the interpreters at least one hour before their presentation. This is essential for the quality of the interpretation. In addition, the submission of transcripts is mandatory for all video statements. Let me also stress the importance of video statements recorded with appropriate sound quality using the right equipment. Excellencies, distinguished colleagues, we're coming to the end of this meeting. I'd like to open the floor for any comments or information on the issues discussed today. I do not see any requests. for the floor, and this brings us to the end of this meeting. I sincerely thank all of you for your cooperation today and for the information that you have shared. I look forward to seeing you in this room in two weeks, on the 24th of February at 9:00 a.m. I therefore declare closed the organizational meeting of the 58th regular session of the Human Rights Council. Thank you, and have a nice evening.