Economic and Social Council: 39th plenary meeting, 2026 Management Segment

I call to order the 39th Meeting of the Economic and Social Council. I call to order the 39th Meeting of the Economic and Social Council. Sorry for the delay. The programme of work of the segment was circulated in eDelegate and is also available on the iGov portal and on the website of the Council. Participants are reminded that for the meetings taking place this morning and the afternoon, Introductory statements by elected officers of subsidiary bodies and Secretariat representatives are limited to 4 minutes. Time limits for the general discussion of agenda items are 5 minutes for group of states and 3 minutes for individual delegations. Explanation of vote or position on general statement or general statements in connection with draft proposal for consideration under the same sub-item may be once— may be made once before consideration of all draft proposals under a given item or sub-item, or once after the adoption of all draft proposals under the item or sub-item and are limited to 5 minutes. Let's go to the items. Review and coordination of the implementation of the Doha Programme of Action for the Least Developed Countries. The Council will begin its consideration of Agenda Item 11, Review and Coordination of the Implementation of the Doha Programme of Action for the Least Developed Countries. The Council has before it the note by the Secretariat of the same title. As Agenda Item 11B, issued in Document E/2026/51. The floor is open for a general discussion of Item 11B. No request from the floor? No request for the floor. Should I— the Council has thus concluded the general discussion. Of item 11B, the Council will now consider draft resolution E 2026/L15 entitled Doha Programme of Action for the Least Developed Countries for the Decade 2020 to 2030. 31, which I have submitted in my capacity as Vice President of the Council. I have been informed that the draft resolution has no programme budget implications. Does any delegation wish to make a statement in connection with the draft proposal? More requests. May I take— may I take it that the Council wishes to adopt draft resolution E/2026/L/15? No objections. It is so decided. Any delegation wish to make statement after the adoption? I see no request. Then the Council has concluded its consideration of Agenda Item 11.

Thank you.

Is there a podium change?

Yes, we have.

Brief pause, brief pause, brief pause for a podium change. Now, Item 11. I invite the Council to begin its consideration of Agenda Item 11: Follow-up to and implementation of the Antigua and Barbuda Agenda for Small Island Developing States. The Council has before it the report of the Secretary-General issued in Document E/2026/69 entitled Follow-up to and Implementation of the Antigua and Barbuda Agenda for Small Island Developing States: A Renewed Declaration for Resilient Prosperity. I invite Mr. Navid Hanif, Assistant Secretary-General for Economic Development, to introduce the report. You have the floor, sir.

Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Excellencies, distinguished delegates, I have the honour to introduce Secretary-General's first report on Antigua and Barbuda Agenda for SIDS implementation, which is being submitted simultaneously to both the Economic and Social Council and the UN General Assembly. That alone signals something important. SIDS are a priority for all of us, but priorities must be matched by progress, and this report is clear about where we stand. The report presents a mixed picture. There has been progress. More SIDS are adopting Disaster risk reduction strategies aligned with the Sendai Framework. 27 countries in 2024 compared with just 6 in 2015. Renewable energy capacity per capita grew by 10% in 2024. Youth representation in national parliaments continues to exceed the global average. Yet structural challenges remain deeply entrenched. SIDS lose more than half a point of their GDP to disasters each year, more than double the global average. Nearly half the population faces food insecurity. 1 in 5 young people is not in employment, education, or training. These challenges are compounded by limited statistical capacity and fragmented data systems, making it difficult not only to monitor progress, but also to identify gaps and target support where it is needed the most. We now have a solution to this, a monitoring and evaluation framework with 59 targets and 83 indicators endorsed by the General Assembly in December last year. For the first time, we can measure ABAS implementation with a common, rigorous standard. However, the framework reveals that one of the biggest obstacles to implementation remains the availability of data itself. Of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals, only 3 have data available for more than half of SIDS. For the remaining goals, data average coverage falls below 50%, and for many it falls below 40%. The gaps are particularly acute in areas that matter most to SIDS. On climate action, for example, fewer than 10% of SIDS have reported any data since 2015. Ladies and gentlemen, closing these gaps will require sustained commitment at all levels. 3 imperatives stand out. First, embed ABAS into national budgets and sector plans, not as a parallel reporting exercise, but as a core driver of decision-making. Awareness at the central level is growing. Operational uptake across ministries is not keeping pace. That gap must be closed. Second, invest urgently in data and statistics. Too many countries are constrained by outdated legal frameworks, weak institutional capacity, and fragmented data ecosystems. Third, strengthen UN system delivery for SIDS. The report calls for a more coordinated and effective UN response, with better alignment of expertise, financing, and capacity development support to countries in need. It also recommends an independent assessment of options, including a potential single SIDS-dedicated entity within the Secretariat, for consideration by the General Assembly. This report delivers a clear message: Progress is underway, but vulnerabilities remain acute. For the first time, we have a common framework to measure implementation, identify where support is needed the most, and this should drive action. The midterm review of ABAS is in 2029, 3 years from now. The window to accelerate implementation is narrowing. The evidence is before us. The mandate is clear. Excellencies, now let's deliver on our commitments. Thank you, Mr. President.

Mr. Naveed, for the statement. The floor is open for a general discussion of item 11C. I see Australia. You have the floor.

Thank you, Chair.

Australia welcomes the Secretary-General's comprehensive first report on implementation of the Antigua and Barbuda Agenda for Small Island Developing States. As a longstanding partner of SIDS, including in our own Pacific region, Australia recognizes the importance of tailored and sustained support for SIDS priorities. The report provides a valuable early assessment of ABAS implementation, establishing an important baseline while identifying both encouraging developments and persistent challenges facing SIDS. It also reminds us why ABAS matters. Despite their resilience and leadership, SIDS continue to face deep structural challenges including geographic isolation, exposure to disasters, and external economic shocks. These constraints hinder the pace of progress and underscore the need for renewed international action. The report also paints a stark picture of the data constraints facing SIDS, with significant gaps remaining in availability, institutional capacity, and financing. Australia welcomes progress on the ABAS monitoring and evaluation framework, This is what distinguishes ABAS from previous SIDS programs of action. It is key not only to monitoring progress, but to driving it. Strengthening national statistical systems, improving data availability, and building monitoring and evaluation capability, including through ongoing ABAS capacity-building initiatives, will be essential to measuring progress and achieving outcomes. Australia strongly supports ongoing efforts in this area. Chair, Australia looks forward to continuing to work with partners to support reforms that better recognize SIDS' structural vulnerabilities, including through the full operationalization of the Multidimensional Vulnerability Index. We also welcome the report's emphasis on stronger coordination across the UN system, recognizing that a more coherent, streamlined, and responsive UN development system is essential to delivering effectively for SIDS. Time and again, SIDS have demonstrated their capacity to adapt, work together, and to lead on global challenges. Australia remains committed to working with SIDS partners, the UN, and member states to ensure ABASS continues to deliver meaningful outcomes.

Thank you.

Any other request for the floor? I see none. The Council has thus concluded the general discussion and its consideration of Agenda Item 11C and of Item 11 as a whole. May I briefly pause the meeting for a podium change? Thank you again. I invite the Council to resume its consideration of Agenda Item 12, Long-Term Programme of Support for Haiti. The floor is open for a general discussion of Item 12. I see no request. May I consider that the Council has thus concluded the general discussion of Item 12E. The Council will now consider Haiti. You have the floor.

Thank you, Chair.

Mr. President, I would ask you to please accept congratulations from the Republic of Haiti for your election to ECOSOC. to the ECOSOC presidency. I would like to also recall that your predecessor received Haiti's official candidacy for the HPLFVNR for 2027. We hope to benefit from appropriate support in order to implement this exercise in the framework of the evaluation of the SDGs Roadmap, which expires in 2030. President Haiti would like to thank Canada, whose leadership and constructive commitment have allowed us to lead effectively the renewal of the ad hoc group on Haiti. We welcome his availability and the cooperation that was provided to us throughout the process of approval of the draft resolution. We also thank the co-authors and all delegates that contributed to this resolution. Their support is proof of solidarity with the Haitian people and the willingness to support a sustainable cooperation framework that is aligned with our national priorities. The adoption by consensus of this resolution is very important for Haiti. It showcases the collective will of the international community to work in a structured fashion with us. Strengthen national leadership, which is an important part of coordinating the aid and defining priorities, especially measures to reestablish security and fight against the structural causes of violence. A comprehensive humanitarian approach to respond to the emergency, and this prepares the way to transition to development. We're also receiving more support to fight against impunity and to reestablish public services in order to address the underlying causes of the crisis. President, my delegation would also like to respectfully recall that the Ad Hoc Consultative Group for Haiti exists. Its mandate, its raison d'être, and its work have been conceived to support the country in its efforts to recover and develop. Therefore, it is critical that the group prioritize Haiti's needs as indicated by national authorities, and Haitian representatives need to be fully included in decision-making and initiatives that are taken on its behalf. This active participation is indispensable in order to ensure the relevance, coherence, and sustainability of international support. The resolution also recognizes the need to receive considerable humanitarian financing especially the call for over $800 million to respond to the immediate needs of the most vulnerable population and to strengthen the country's capacity to face several different systemic shocks. To conclude, my delegation welcomes the spirit of collaboration here, and we reaffirm our determination to work hand in glove with the ad hoc consultative group in order to move forward the goals of recovery, institutional stability, and sustainable development for Haiti. I thank you, Mr.

I thank the representative of Haiti for his statement. The Council will now consider draft resolution E/2026/L13 entitled Ad hoc advisory group on Haiti, as submitted by Canada on behalf of the sponsors listed in the document. I give the floor to the representative of Canada to introduce draft resolution E/2026L. 13, entitled Ad Hoc Advisory Group on Haiti. You have the floor, Canada.

Merci, Monsieur le Président.

Thank you, Mr. President. I have the honor of introducing the draft resolution on the Ad Hoc Advisory Group on Haiti for ECOSOC on behalf of the President of the Group, His Excellence David Lametti. This annual resolution takes note of the report drafted by the Ad Hoc Advisory Group and decides to prolong the mandate of the group for an additional year. The advisory group is made up of 29 member states that have committed to supporting the socioeconomic development of Haiti in the long term because armed violence has condemned around 1.4 million people, around 12% of the population, to flee their homes. Food insecurity— severe food insecurity affects around 5.7 million people, and 6.4 million people need humanitarian aid. Attacks against essential services continue, and health clinics and schools are Yes. Regularly targeted and have to close their doors. The crisis in Haiti is severe, but there is hope. Thanks to sustained support, the international community can support Haiti's efforts in order to overcome these crises. The Gang Suppression Force is a clear symbol of the international community's commitment to help Haiti to reestablish security, allow people to live without fear, and strengthen trust In the country on behalf of investors. Nevertheless, solid support is necessary to respond to humanitarian needs and immediate protection needs in parallel to sustainable development.

A comprehensive approach that supports Haitian-led solutions and includes urgent measures regarding security, humanitarian, and development assistance is critical. We must address the root causes of instability such as poverty, inequality, and inclusion through sustainable development initiatives and community resilience programs. The funding gap for this year's Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan is still more than half a billion dollars.

I want to express the group's appreciation for the support provided by UN colleagues at headquarters and in Haiti.

The active support and expertise of the United Nations is essential in advancing Haitian-led solutions Together with all partners, including regional organizations and the international financial institutions. Finally, I also recognize the excellent support and advice provided by UNDESA here in New York, without whom our group could not accomplish its mandate.

Je vous remercie.

I thank the representative of Canada. for his introduction. I have been informed that the draft resolution has no program budget implications. I now give the floor to the Secretariat regarding co-sponsorship of the resolution.

Thank you, Mr. Vice President. I would like to announce that since the submission of the draft resolution, and in addition to those delegations listed on the Australia, Ecuador, El Salvador, Kenya, Paraguay, Portugal, Saint Lucia, Trinidad and Tobago, and Uruguay have also become sponsors of Draft Resolution L.13. If any other delegation wishes to co-sponsor Draft Resolution E.2026, please signify by pressing the microphone button. Saint Kitts and Nevis? France? That concludes the list. Thank you, Mr. Vice President.

Thank you. Does any delegation wish to make a statement in connection with the draft proposal? I see no request for the floor. May I take that the Council wishes to adopt Draft Resolution E 2026 L13. I see no objection. It is so decided. Does any delegation wish to make a statement after the adoption? No request for the floor. The Council has concluded its consideration of Agenda Item 12E. I briefly pause the meeting for a podium change. Thank you. May I propose that— May I propose that the Council take up Item 14 at a later stage in the meeting, and we will jump to Item 16. Item 16, economic and social repercussions of the Israeli occupation on the living conditions of the Palestinian people in the occupied Palestinian Authority territory, including East Jerusalem, and the Arab population in the occupied I now invite the Council to begin its consideration of Agenda Item 16. I repeat: Economic and Social Repercussions of the Israeli Occupation on the Living Conditions of the Palestinian People in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem. and the Arab population in the occupied Syrian Golan. The Council has before it the note by the Secretary-General on the same title as Agenda Item 16, issued as Document E/2026/77. I now invite Ms. Ghania Al-Maschat, Executive Secretary of the Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia, to introduce via pre-recorded video the note by the Secretary-General. Please play the video.

Mr. Chairman, distinguished delegates, I have the honor of presenting the note of the Secretary-General on the economic and social repercussions of the Israeli occupation on the living condition of Palestinian people in the occupied Palestinian territory, including East Jerusalem, and of Arab population in the occupied Syrian Golan. The report is submitted pursuant to the Economic and Social Council Resolution 2025/33 and General Assembly Resolution 80/158. It covers the main developments during the reporting period from April 1st, 2025, To March 31st, 2026. On behalf of ASCWA, I express our sincere appreciation to colleagues across the United Nations system for their invaluable contributions to the report. Mr. Chairman, distinguished delegates, the ceasefire that entered into effect on October 10th, 2025 remained in place, though fragile. All hostages held in Gaza have since been released, yet Israeli military occupation continues.

Thank you.

The report underscores that the past 2.5 years have inflicted unprecedented suffering on the Palestinian people. More than 73,000 Palestinians have been killed. Recovery and reconstruction needs are estimated at over $70 billion, and human development in Gaza has been set back by 77 years. Mr. Chairman, distinguished delegates, settler-related violence reached the highest level recorded by the United Nations since 2006, An average of more than 5 incidents per day, including attacks on farmers, obstruction of access to land, and the destruction of olive trees and harvests. The report also raises serious concerns regarding detention practices. As of March 2026, close to 10,000 Palestinians were reportedly held in Israeli prisons, including women and children, many without charge or trial. Distinguished delegates, The scale of destruction in Gaza is unprecedented. 60% of population is without homes. Civilian infrastructure and essential services have been severely damaged. Forced displacement remains immense. In Gaza, nearly 1.9 million people, around 90% of the population, have been reportedly displaced, relying almost entirely on humanitarian assistance. In the West Bank, Operation Iron Wall triggered the largest displacement since 1967, With nearly 34,000 Palestinian refugees displaced from Jenin, Tulkarm, and Nur Shams camps. Settlement expansion in the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, continued at a high rate. During the reporting period, some 10,000 housing units were advanced or approved in East Jerusalem and more than 26,000 in Area C. Movement restrictions also intensified. In the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, 925 movement obstacles were recorded, the highest level in 2 decades, further fragmenting communities and limiting access to farmland, schools, hospitals, and essential services. Distinguished delegates, the occupied Palestinian territory is facing its most severe socioeconomic crisis on record. In Gaza, GDP contracted by 84% in 2025 compared with 2023. Gaza's GDP per capita has fallen to approximately $161 per year, less than 50% per day. Across the occupied Palestinian territory, unemployment reached 46% in 2025, including 78% in Gaza, 28% in West Bank. Food insecurity has deepened sharply. In 2025, famine was confirmed in parts of Gaza. Under the 2026 flash appeal, 3 million people across the occupied Palestinian territory were identified as needing food assistance. Essential services and human development have also deteriorated severely. In Gaza, only half of hospitals and fewer than half of primary healthcare centers remain partially functional as of January 2026. Also, around 700,000 school-aged children remain out of formal schooling. Nearly 98% of school buildings have been damaged, and all children in Gaza are assessed as needing psychological support. Distinguished delegates, the report also addresses the occupied Syrian Golan. Settlement expansion and the exploitation of land and natural resources continued. Around 31,000 Israeli settlers now live across some 35 settlements. The report also notes deterioration in and around the area of separation, where Israeli forces have remained present in several locations since December 2024, with reported impacts on civilians, including curfew movements, restrictions, property damage, displacement, and reduced access to livelihoods. Distinguished delegates, in conclusion, the Secretary-General calls for urgent and sustained action to address the catastrophic humanitarian situation in Gaza. He stresses that humanitarian aid must flow safely, rapidly, and unimpeded at scale and reach all those in need. Humanitarian aid is not negotiable. The Secretary-General also advocates that the occupation must end as rapidly as possible. He emphasized that a lasting and comprehensive peace can only be achieved through a negotiated two-state solution, and that the United Nations remains committed to supporting Palestinians and Israelis in ending the occupation and resolving the conflict in line with international law, United Nations resolutions, and other relevant agreements in the pursuance of the vision of two states. Thank you.

I thank Ms. Rania Al-Mashat, the Executive Secretary of the Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia. The floor is open for a general discussion of Item 16. State of Palestine, you have the floor.

Thank you, Mr. President. Mr. President, Excellencies, allow me at the outset to convey our appreciation for your leadership of ECOSOC during this session, and through you, I also wish to extend our sincere sincere appreciation to Ms. Rania Al-Mushat, Executive Secretary of ESCWA, and her team for their tireless work and critical inputs into the Secretary-General's report on the economic and social repercussions of the Israeli occupation on the living conditions of the Palestinian people in the occupied Palestinian territory, including East Jerusalem, and of the Arab population in the occupied Syrian Golan. In this connection, we would like to reiterate our serious concern regarding the continued delay in the issuance of the report, which regrettably has become a recurring trend in recent years. Mr. President, while the report provides an important account of the socioeconomic injustices committed and perpetuated by Israel, the occupying power, the grave reality and profound human impact inflicted on the Palestinian people extends far beyond figures and findings contained in any document. Behind every statistic lies a story, over 250,000 Palestinians killed or injured in just 2 and a half years, more than 20,000 children killed, millions deprived of their livelihoods, families uprooted from their homes, and an entire people enduring profound humanitarian and socioeconomic suffering. The reality is one of genocide, of ethnic cleansing, of man-made famine imposed by siege, of institutionalized apartheid, and 6 decades of belligerent colonial occupation that denies our people the most basic human rights and conditions for life, let alone for sustainable development. The report highlights that the Israeli aggression on Gaza has caused the fastest and most devastating economic collapse ever recorded, destroyed more than 371,000 homes, unleashed 68 million metric tons of hazardous debris, and inflicted $35 billion in damage to critical infrastructure, erasing 77 years of human development. Mr. President, these injustices are part of a broader campaign against the Palestinian people, as the occupied West Bank also bears witness to Israeli crimes and violations that undermine the foundations of Palestinian life, human rights, and sustainable development. This objective of this campaign is clear: maximize Israeli control over Palestinian land while minimizing the presence and rights of the Palestinian people. This is done through the entrenchment of occupation, the confinement of entire towns and cities by colonial settlements and walls, the destruction of homes and infrastructure, the exploitation of natural resources, restrictions on movement, and the fragmentation of Palestine into disconnected islands. Mr. President, while the ECOSOC resolution entitled Situation of and assistance to Palestinian women is now considered on a biennial basis, it is important to underscore the disproportionate impact of the ongoing Israeli aggression on Palestinian women, with an average of 47 women and girls killed by Israel every day for over 2 years. As stressed in the report, Palestinian women and girls face a systematic erosion of their rights to safety, healthcare, education, and participation. Ensuring the protection and empowerment of Palestinian women and girls must therefore remain central to our collective efforts to uphold human rights, advance sustainable development, and leave no one behind. Mr. President, the international community does not lack information, resolutions, reports, or legal frameworks on the question of Palestine. After all, Palestine remains the longest-standing item on the UN agenda. Yet its continued failure to fulfill just A just resolution reflects the persistent lack of implementation, lack of accountability, and lack of justice that has allowed the occupation to deepen and expand into a reality of apartheid and genocide. International action to advance justice and accountability are not beyond our reach. They exist within the Charter and resolutions of this organization, international law, and the national capacities of states.

States.

This means moving from recognition to action, from condemnation to accountability, and from commitments to implementation. While reaffirming our deep gratitude to the international community and member states for the longstanding support and solidarity extended to Palestine, we urgently call upon all states and organizations to uphold their legal obligations to assist the Palestinian people to realize their inalienable right to self-determination and all other human rights, including right to development. This requires a steadfast commitment to accountability to bring an end to the Israeli impunity and violations. I thank you, Mr. President.

I thank the representative of the State of Palestine. I now give the floor to the representative of the Syrian Arab Republic. You have the floor, sir.

Thank you, Mr. President. At the outset, I would like to thank the representative of ESCWA for her valuable and comprehensive briefing. Mr. President, Israeli violations continue in the occupied Syrian Golan and the area of separation into which the occupying forces have advanced since the 8th of December of 2024. These violations have included the bulldozing of agricultural land, the uprooting of trees in several forested areas, the construction of dirt roads, the establishment of burns and military posts, and the spraying of toxic substances and pesticides over green vegetation. These violations have also included assaults against civilians, their intimidation, and the killing, displacement, and abduction of a number of them, in addition to the demolition of their homes and destruction of their vehicles, the confiscation of their property, the killing of their livestock, the damage to their infrastructure, and the imposition of severe restrictions on the movement of civilian population.

Thank you.

Subjecting them to harsh conditions and inhumane practices. The Israeli occupying power has shown no regard for the adverse consequences of these actions on social stability and the lives of local communities, let alone the enormous economic damage they entail. In a serious threat to Syria's water and food security, the occupying forces have assumed control over most of the dams and water facilities in the southern region of Syria. The latter constitute the principal source of drinking water, irrigation, and agricultural supply for that area. My country condemns the settlement policies implemented by Israel in the occupied Syrian Golan and warns of the dangers posed by the 2026-2030 5-year plan approved by the Israeli government. The plan aims to transform the occupied Syrian town of Katsrin into the first city in the Golan at a cost of 1 billion Israeli shekels, with the objective of attracting thousands of new settler families and entrenching the occupied Syrian Golan as a center of demographic and economic settlement expansion. My country emphasizes the need to refrain from providing any assistance to the Israeli occupying authorities, particularly in the economic sphere and in commercial and tourism-related activities. This is especially pertinent when such support contributes to the continuation of existing Israeli settlements or the establishment of new ones. Syria reiterates its call for Israel to be compelled to cease its attempts to alter the cultural identity, demographic composition, urban character, institutional structure, and legal status of the occupied Syrian Golan. The Israeli occupation government has previously declared, as stated by the ESCWA briefer, they have declared their objective of doubling the number of settlers in the occupied Syrian Golan before the year 2027 so that they outnumber the Syrian population. This objective constitutes a war crime. Syria also condemns Israel's Israel's resumption of its project to construct dozens of wind turbines across extensive areas in the northern occupied Syrian Golan. This is an attempt to displace the Syrian civilian population. My country warns of the catastrophic health, environmental, and economic consequences of this project. Syria further warns against the burial of nuclear waste in the territory of the Golan, which exposes its Syrian inhabitants to the risk of cancer. To conclude, I call upon all member states of the ECOSOC to vote for the draft resolution presented by the G77 and China on that item. Thank you, Mr. President.

I thank the representative of the Syrian Arab Republic. I see No further requests. The Council has thus concluded the general discussion of item 16. I now invite the Council to turn to draft resolution E. 2026 L23, entitled Economic and Social Repercussion of the Israeli Occupation on the Living Condition of the Palestinian People in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem, and the Arab Population in the occupied Syrian Golan, as submitted by Uruguay on behalf of the Group of 77 and China. I give the floor to the representative of Uruguay to introduce the draft resolution on behalf of the Group of 77 and China. You have the floor.

Mr. President, on behalf of the Group of 77 and China, I am honored to introduce draft resolution E/2026/L.23, titled Economic and Social Repercussions of the Israeli Occupation on the Living Conditions of the Palestinian People. In the occupied Palestinian territory, including East Jerusalem, and the Arab population in the occupied Syrian Golan. The group expresses concern over the delay in the issuance of the Secretary-General's report, which runs counter to the timely consideration of the draft resolution. The draft resolution is a technical rollover, and relevant updates have been reflected in the text. In this regard, the draft resolution expresses grave concern about the detrimental repercussions on the economic and social conditions of the Palestinian people caused by the prolonged occupation and its associated regime inside the occupied Palestinian territory, including in and around East Jerusalem, with a particular emphasis on the dire situation in the Gaza Strip. Grip, and the resulting violation of their economic and social rights, including the rights to work, to health, to education, to property, to an adequate standard of living, and to freedom of access and movement. To this end, the draft resolution calls for the cessation of the construction of settlements and for the occupying power to cease the construction of the wall and to comply with its legal obligations as per the 2004 ICJ advisory opinion, and to cease its destruction of homes and properties, and to cease its exploitation of natural resources in the occupied Palestinian territory and the occupied Syrian Golan, in keeping with the principle of the permanent sovereignty of people under foreign occupation over their natural resources. It also recalls the 2024 ICJ advisory opinion on the legality of Israel's continued presence in the occupied Palestinian territory and further expresses deep concern at the rising incidents of violence, harassment, provocation, vandalism, and incitement by Israeli settlers against Palestinians and calls for their accountability for these illegal actions. Moreover, the draft resolution expresses appreciation for the economic and humanitarian assistance being provided to the Palestinian people and urged continued assistance commensurate with increased socioeconomic and humanitarian needs. It encourages all states and international organizations to continue to actively pursue policies that ensure respect for their obligations under international law with regard to all illegal Israeli practices and measures in the occupied Palestinian territory, including East Jerusalem. The draft resolution underscores the urgency of achieving without delay an end to the Israeli occupation that began in 1967, and a just, lasting, and comprehensive peace settlement on all tracks based on internationally recognized terms of reference, and reiterates the need for increased and renewed international efforts in this regard. We look forward to the adoption of this draft resolution with strong hope that it will contribute to alleviating the economic and social hardships of the Palestinian and Syrian civilian populations living under Israel's foreign occupation, and ultimately contribute to the international efforts to bring an end to the injust— to this injustice and achieve peace in line with the United Nations Charter and international law. I thank you.

I thank the representative of Uruguay. I have been informed that the draft resolution has no program Budget Application. And I now give the floor to the Secretariat to read out the additional sponsors of the draft resolution.

Thank you, Mr. Vice President. I would like to announce that since the submission of the draft resolution, and in addition to those delegations listed on the L document, The Russian Federation has also become a sponsor of the draft resolution. If any other delegation not a member of the G77 and China wishes to co-sponsor Draft Resolution E/2026, please signify by pressing the microphone button. That concludes the list. Thank you, Mr. Chair. Mr. Vice President.

I thank you. A recorded vote has been requested on Draft Resolution E/2026.

The Council will now proceed to a vote on draft resolution E/2026/L23.

Does any member of the Council wish to make a statement in explanation of vote, or any delegation wish to make a general statement before the vote? The presidency gives the floor to Israel. You have the floor.

Mr. Vice President, the reappearance of this resolution year after year relies on willful collective amnesia. The main sponsors of the resolution and ESCWA, the Economic Commission for Western Asia, which prepared the report on which the resolution is based, would prefer that delegations have no idea how we got here or how many times we have been here before. The Palestinian delegation and its sponsors depend on this amnesia. They expect delegations to forget that Hamas, the terror organization that controls Gaza, is publicly sworn to Israel's destruction and has promised to repeat the massacre of October 7th again and again. Dear colleagues, do you know how many times Hamas is mentioned in the reports in front of you? In the resolution you are about to vote on? I invite you to count. It shouldn't take long because it's not even once. And yet it's the same Hamas that took power in 2007. The same Hamas that took your taxpayer development donations and dug hundreds of kilometers of underground tunnels.

Else.

The same Hamas that carried out the October 7th, 2023 massacre. That same Hamas that kidnapped over 250 of our civilians and the same terrorists who made a festival out of public executions. The Secretariat in the video we saw before said that they were all released, but that was another lie. I know that because we worked hard To dig out and to bring their bodies ourselves. It's the same Hamas who uses civilians as human shields and public infrastructure as terror operational bases. The same Hamas that still rules Gaza, that steals humanitarian aid, that till this day wants to destroy my country and calls for the elimination of the only Jewish state. You may have forgotten or want to ignore it, it, but we can't. And we never will. We don't have the privilege. I will be direct, Mr. President. By minimizing, ignoring, and denying terrorism, by not acknowledging the acts of Hamas, anyone who supports this report gives a green light to those who commit these atrocities. To the donor countries in this room, what would your own hardworking citizens say if they saw headlines exposing what happened to their taxes after being sent to the Palestinians by the billions of dollars? What would they say if they learned that their taxes now sit in the personal foreign banks accounts of these so-called leaders and their families, not to mention the luxury real estate in global capitals? And what have they done with the construction materials brought by the millions of tons? Look no further than the 500 kilometers of reinforced terror tunnels into which Israeli civilians were dragged and were many executed. Your citizens should know that this unimaginable corruption and terrorist infrastructure is where their taxes have been going for years. And if they knew, how would they tell you to vote today? Mr. Vice President, let's not kid ourselves. There is nothing in the report or in the resolution in front of us that aims to support the Palestinian people. It is so far from the truth and any potential balance that it could never, ever become a tool that promotes dialogue or bring us any closer to desirable peace between our peoples. The resolution does not even welcome positive changes on the ground, like the fact that we have a ceasefire and real efforts to bring an end to the cycles of violence. It offers no hope. The only reason we discuss this resolution year after year is to attack my country. The UN has become the ultimate platform for that end. Dear colleagues, we remain hopeful for a new era. Together, we must start with root-and-branch reform. We can start at ESCWA, rebuilding it from the ground up without the destructive political ideology that characterizes the organization today. And member states must tell sponsors and enablers of this annual resolution that lies and half-truths are clearly not working for the Palestinian people. It is time to find a new path.

Thank you. The Vice Presidency thanks the representative of Israel. The Council will now commence the process of voting on draft resolution E/ 2026 L23. In accordance with Rule 63 of the Rules of Procedure of the Economic and Social Council, no representative may interrupt the vote except on a point of order in connection with the actual process of voting. Council members are kindly requested to indicate their vote. Those in favor?

We need to wait for the person to appear on the screen.

We need to wait for the voting screen.

It's done?

I repeat, Council members are kindly requested to indicate their vote. Those in favor of draft resolution E/2026/L/23, please signify. Those against? And abstentions?

The Council is now voting on draft resolution E/2026, entitled Economic and Social Repercussions of the Israeli Occupation on the Living Conditions of the Palestinian People in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem. Will all members of the Council confirm that their votes are correctly reflected on the screen? The voting has been completed. The voting has been completed. Please lock the voting machine.

The voting is now closed. The result of the vote is as follows: in favor, 44; against, 1; abstentions, 3. Draft Resolution E/2026/L23 Resolution 2230 is adopted. Does any member of the Council wish to make a statement in explanation of vote, or any delegation wish to make a general statement after adoption of this resolution? I give the floor to the representative of United States.

States.

Thank you, Vice President. The United States would like to reiterate our well-known concerns. Colleagues, serious efforts are underway to rebuild Gaza in a way that will end the rule of Hamas terrorists, bring normalcy and dignity to the people of Gaza, and bring peace and prosperity to the Middle East. This resolution exemplifies how, even following President Trump's landmark peace plan and the historic adoption of Security Council Resolution 2803, the United Nations continues its decades-long pattern of unfairly targeting Israel. The United States rejects the politicized positioning of this resolution, which seems to be a continuation of the conclusions made in the ICJ's non-binding advisory opinions. Advisory opinions are not binding, and as such, their conclusions should not provide a basis for consensus decision-making. Advisory opinions should be used appropriately in limited circumstances and not as political tools to force an outcome pursuant to a non-binding legal opinion. This resolution also ignores the reality on the ground today and the positive developments of the past few months. As a result of President Trump's consequential and historic leadership and the support of our partners, the war in Gaza has ended, a ceasefire remains in effect, and aid is flowing at substantially increased levels. The Security Council endorsed President Trump's comprehensive plan to end the Gaza conflict, adopting Resolution 2803 by 13 votes in favor, 0 against, and 2 abstentions, with the support of Arab and Muslim partners, Israel and the Palestinian Authority. That resolution brought unity and hope. This performative text only sows division and impedes peace.

Thank you.

Representative of the United States, the Council has thus concluded I conclude its consideration of agenda item 16. Dear colleagues, let's go to finally item 14. I invite the Council to begin its consideration of Agenda Item 14, Implementation of the Declaration on the Granting of Independence to Colonial Countries and People by the Specialized Agencies, International institution associated with the United Nations. The Council has before it the report of the Secretary-General of the same title as Agenda Item 14, issued in Document A/81/ Thank you. And the report of the President of the Council issued in Document E/2026/55 entitled Information Submitted by the Specialized Agencies and Other Organizations of the United Nations system on their activities with regard to the implementation of the Declaration. There is an advanced version of an addendum to Document E/2026/55, which has been circulated on e-delegation this morning. There is also a corrigendum. For that, I give the floor to the representative of the Department of Political Peacebuilding Affairs, DPPA. You have the floor.

Thank you, Mr. President. Thank you.

I thank Mr. President.

Vice President, with regard to E/2026/55, in view of the fact that World Food Programme Country Report of 2024 is not publicly available, the reference to this report will be deleted from footnote 14. Thank you.

Thank you.

Thank you.

Then the footnote has been deleted. I now invite Her Excellency Minister Rambally of Saint Lucia, Chair of the Special Committee on the Situation with regard to the Implementation of the Declaration on the Granting of Independence to Colonial Countries and People, to introduce the report of the Secretary-General. You have the floor, Your Excellency.

Thank you, Mr. Vice President, distinguished delegates. It is my honor to address the Economic and Social Council in my capacity as Chair of the Special Committee on Decolonization under Agenda Item 14, entitled Implementation of of the Declaration on the Granting of Independence to Colonial Countries and Peoples by the Specialized Agencies and the International Institutions Associated with the United Nations. I would like to draw the Council's attention to the report of the Secretary General contained in Document A. 81/64, listing specialized agencies and international institutions associated with the United Nations to which the provisions of the General Assembly Resolution 80/87 apply. I would also refer to the report of the President of ECOSOC, document E/2026, /55, which contains information submitted by entities of the United Nations system and other relevant organizations on the support provided to the non-self-governing territories pursuant to the relevant resolutions of the General Assembly and the Economic and Social Council. Mr. Vice President, distinguished delegates, during the reporting period, the Special Committee continued to engage with with non-self-governing territories, including through its seminar in Managua and substantive session, reaffirming that many continue to face structural challenges that constrain sustainable development. These challenges underscore the importance of strengthened international cooperation and targeted assistance with the United Nations system and its partners playing an essential role in supporting resilience and sustainable economic and social development. Mr. Vice President, distinguished delegates, under this agenda item, I would like to draw the attention of the members of the Council to Draft Resolution E/2026/L22 entitled Support to Non-Self-Governing Territories by the Specialized Agencies international institutions associated with the United Nations, co-sponsored by the following member states: Antigua and Barbuda, the Bahamas, Cuba, Gabon, Nicaragua, Papua New Guinea, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. This draft resolution reaffirms the mandate of specialized agencies and other United Nations entities to take all appropriate measures within their respective competencies to contribute to the full implementation of the Declaration on Decolonization and other relevant resolutions. The text emphasized the unique and particular challenges faced by non-self-governing territories, especially small island territories, including their fragile economies, narrow resource bases, and vulnerabilities to natural disasters and the impact of climate change, including sea level rise. It also reiterates the importance of continuing and strengthening assistance programs, including mobilizing resources and improving access to technical and financial support. On a case-by-case basis, considering the specific conditions and priorities of each territory. I would also like to introduce a technical oral revision to footnote 2 of draft resolution to include a document symbolic of the addendum to the report of the President of ECOSOC, E/2026/55/Addendum1, the advanced version of which was circulated this morning. Mr. Vice President, distinguished delegates, the Special Committee remains convinced that sustained and coordinated support from the United Nations system is indispensable to advancing the decolonization process and to enabling the peoples of the non-self-governing territories to realize their right to self-determination on a case-by-case basis and in accordance with the Charter of the United Nations and relevant General Assembly resolutions. In concluding, I would like to invite all members of the Council to support the draft resolution to be adopted under this agenda item as a reaffirmation of our collective commitment to the full implementation of the Declaration on the Granting of Independence to Colonial Countries and peoples. With that, I thank you, Mr. Vice President.

Thank you.

I thank Her Excellency Minnie Sarambali of Saint Lucia, Chair of the Special Committee on the Situation with regard to the Implementation of the Declaration on the Granting of Independence to Colonial Countries The floor is now open for a general discussion on item 14. I see no requests. The Council has thus concluded the general discussion Of item 14, I now invite the Council to turn to draft resolution E 2026 L 22 entitled Support to Non-Self-Governing Territories by the Specialized agencies and international institutions associated with the United Nations, as orally revised and submitted by Saint Lucia on behalf of the sponsors listed in the document. I have been informed that the draft resolution has no program budget I now give the floor to the Secretariat to read out the additional sponsors of the draft resolution as orally revised.

Thank you, Mr. Vice President. I would like to announce that since the submission of the draft resolution, and in addition to the delegations listed on the L document, Sierra Leone has also become a sponsor of the draft resolution. If any other delegation wishes to co-sponsor Draft Resolution E/2026.22 as orally revised, please signify by pressing the microphone button. I see no further co-sponsors. Thank you, Mr. Vice President.

Thank you. A recorded vote has been requested on draft resolution E/2026/L22, entitled Support to Non-Self-Governing Territories by the Specialized agencies and international institutions associated with the United Nations, as orally revised. The Council will now proceed to a vote on Draft Resolution E/2026/L22. resolution entitled, again, Support to Non-Self-Governing Territories by the Specialized Agencies and International Institutions Associated with the United Nations, as orally revised. Does any member of the Council wish to make a statement in explanation of vote, or any delegation wish to make a general statement? Before the vote, I see no request. The Council will now commence with the process of voting on draft resolution E 2026 L 22 as orally revised. In accordance with Rule 63 of the Rules of Procedure of the Economic and Social Council, no representative may interrupt the vote except on a point of order in connection with the actual process of voting. Council members, Are kindly requested to indicate their vote. Those in favor of draft resolution E 2026 L 22 as orally revised, please signify. Those against and abstentions.

The Council is now voting on Draft Resolution E/2026.22, entitled Support to Non-Self-Governing Territories by the Specialized Agencies and International Institutions Associated with the United Nations, as orally revised. Will all members of the Council confirm that their votes are correctly reflected on the screen? The voting has been completed. Please lock the voting machine.

The result of the vote is as follows. In favor, 32. Against, 1. Abstentions, 17. Draft Resolution E/2026/L22, as orally revised, is adopted. Does any member of the Council wish to make a statement in explanation of vote, or any delegation wish to make a general statement after the adoption? I give the floor to the representative of the United States. You have the floor.

Thank you, Mr. President.

validly opt for free association or any other political status, including integration with the administering state, provided the people freely determine such status. In other words, territories can speak for themselves. It is not for this body to press for any particular outcome. Leaving the decision, whatever it might be, to the free will of the people is the essence of the right of self-determination. Furthermore, the U.S. government has a sovereign right to carry out its military activities in accordance with its national security interests. It is simplistic to assume military presence is necessarily harmful to the rights and interests of the people of a territory or incompatible with their wishes.

Thank you.

I thank the representative of the United States. Any other request for the floor? I see no further requests. The Council has thus concluded its consideration of agenda item 14. Let's go to item 17, and I invite the Council to resume its consideration of agenda item 17. Non-governmental organizations. The Council has before it the report of the Committee on Non-Governmental Organizations on its 2026 resumed session, issued in Document E/2026/32, Part 2. The floor is open for a general discussion on item 17. No requests for the floor. The Council has thus concluded the general discussion on item 17. The Council will now consider the draft proposals contained in Document E/2026/32, Part 2. Does any delegation wish to make a statement in connection with any of the draft proposals? No requests. May I take it that the Council wishes to adopt Draft Decision 1, entitled Application for Consultative Status, Request for Change of Name and Quadriennial Report received from non-governmental organizations. I hear no objection. It is so decided. May I take it that the Council wishes to adopt Draft Decision 2, entitled Suspension of the Consultative Status of Non-Governmental Organizations with Outstanding Cadaenal Report? Pursuant to Council Resolution 2008/4. I hear no objection. It is so decided. May I take it that the Council wishes to adopt Draft Decision 3, entitled Reinstatement of the Consultative Status of Non-Governmental Organizations May I take it that the Council wishes to adopt draft resolution 2008/4 entitled Withdrawal of the consultative status of non-governmental organizations pursuant to Council Resolution 2008/4. I hear no objection. It is so decided. May I take it that the Council wishes to adopt Draft Decision 5? 5, entitled Dates and Provisional Agenda of the 2027 Session of the Committee of Non-Governmental Organizations. Again, no objection. It is so decided. May I take it that the Council wishes to adopt Draft Decision Six, entitled Report of the Committee on Non-Governmental Organization on its 2026 resumed session. I see and I hear no objection. It is so decided. Now, does any delegation wish to make a statement after the adoption of the decisions? I see no requests. The Council has concluded its consideration of Agenda Item 17.

Thank you.

Let's go to agenda item 12E— excuse me, 12D, Prevention and Control of Noncommunicable Diseases. I now invite the Council to begin its consideration of item 12, Prevention and Control of Non-Communicable Diseases. The Council has before it the note by the Secretary-General transmitting the report of the Director-General of the World Health Organization. Thank you, Mr. Secretary-General. I would like to welcome the presentation issued in Document E/2026/66 entitled United Nations Interagency Task Force on the Prevention and Control of Noncommunicable Diseases. The floor is open for general discussion of item Item 12D. I see no request. The Council— oh, excuse me. Philippine requested the floor. It's later? Ah, okay. Let me say that the Council has thus concluded the general discussion of Item 12. Now the Council will now consider Draft Resolution E/2026, entitled United Nations Interagency Task on the Prevention and Control of Noncommunicable Diseases. I give the floor to the representative of the Philippines, also on behalf of Peru, to introduce Draft Resolution E/2026/L18.

Thank you, Mr. President.

Thank you, Mr. President. The Philippines and Peru are pleased to introduce the draft resolution entitled United Nations Interagency Task Force on the Prevention and Control of Noncommunicable Diseases. This important procedural resolution reaffirms the continued contribution of the task force in reducing the burden of noncommunicable diseases or NCDs, improving mental health, and advancing the health-related Sustainable Development Goals. The resolution reaffirms previous ECOSOC resolutions and recognizes the growing global burden of NCDs, mental health, and neurological conditions, which continue to impede sustainable development, disproportionately affect developing countries, and widen health inequities. It also takes note of the WHO Director-General's 2026 report, which highlights persistent inequalities in access to services, the rising mental health burden, particularly, particularly among young people, the importance of country-led multilateral action, gaps in integrating NCDs and mental health into UN country frameworks, and the task force's central role in coordinating technical support. Importantly, the report recognizes the task force as an example of the United Nations delivering as one. As the Secretary-General's UNAT initiative advances, strengthening mechanisms that already demonstrate effective interagency collaboration will be essential. In particular, the resolution calls the task force to continue to: Number 1, Support member states in translating global commitments for effective prevention and control of NCDs and promotion of mental health. Support the capacity of member states to strengthen regulatory, fiscal, and legal frameworks that promote favorable health outcomes for NCDs and mental health. Strengthen its engagement with UN Resident Coordinators and UN country themes, supporting the integration of NCDs and mental health into UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Frameworks. The resolution also calls upon donors and other stakeholders to mobilize human and financial resources for the programmatic work of the task force, including through the Health for Life Fund. In this regard, the Philippines is proud to serve on the steering committee of the Health for Life Fund, which continues to support country-led action on NCDs and mental health through sustainable financing, partnerships, and South-South and triangular cooperation. Addressing NCDs and promoting mental health remain national priorities, as reflected in reforms advanced through the Universal Healthcare Law, health access, food labeling policies, and the Health Promotion Framework Strategy for 2021 to 2030. Building on these efforts, this September 2026, the Philippines will host the 3rd International Dialogue on Sustainable Financing for NCDs and Mental Health. Mr. President, at a time when we are striving for a more effective and coherent United Nations, this resolution reminds us that coordination is not simply an aspiration; it is a necessity. It demonstrates that by working together across the UN system, we can better support Member States in addressing one of the defining health and development challenges of our time. We therefore look forward to Member States' and the Council's strong support for this important resolution. Thank you.

I thank the representative of the Philippines for the introduction. Thank you, Mr. President. I have been informed that the draft resolution has no programme budget implications. I now give the floor to the Secretary.

Thank you, Mr. Vice President. I would like to announce that since the submission of the draft resolution, and in addition to the delegations listed on the L document, the Russian Federation has also become a sponsor of the draft resolution. If any other delegation wishes to co-sponsor draft resolution E2026

Thank you. A recorded vote has been requested on Draft Resolution E/2026, entitled United Nations Interagency Task Force on the Prevention and Control of Noncommunicable Diseases. The Council will now proceed to a vote on draft resolution E 2026 L 18. Does any member of the Council wish to make a statement in explanation of vote, or any delegation wish to make a general explanation? General statement before the vote. I see no request. The council will now commence the process of voting on draft resolution E 2026 L 18. Council members are kindly requested to indicate their votes. Those in favor of draft resolution E2026L18, please signify.

Those against and abstentions, The Council is now voting on draft resolution E/2026/L/18 entitled United Nations Interagency Task Force on the Prevention and Control of Noncommunicable Diseases. Will all members of the Council confirm that their votes are correctly reflected on the screen?

Aye.

The voting has been completed. Please lock the voting machine.

Dear colleagues, the result of the vote is as follows. In favour? 47 against 1, abstention 0. Draft Resolution E/2026/L18 is adopted. Does any member of the Council wish to make a statement in explanation of vote or any delegation wish to make a general statement after the adoption of the resolution? I see the United States. You have the floor, sir.

Thank you, Vice President, once again for giving me the floor. The United States cannot support language that endorses or operationalizes the 2025 Political Declaration on NCDs and Mental Health Health, including references directing the task force to implement or advance commitments contained therein. As previously stated, the United States disassociated from elements of that declaration that do not align with U.S. policy or exceed previously agreed international commitments. The United States opposes language that expands the mandate of the United Nations Interagency Task Force beyond its established coordinating role, including provisions directing it to develop national policy frameworks, investment cases, regulatory measures, or fiscal policy. Decisions regarding domestic health policy, regulation, taxation, and legal frameworks are sovereign matters for member states. The United States does not support references that endorse World Health Organization normative guidance or confer an expanded leadership role on WHO. WHO technical recommendations should be— should not be incorporated by reference into new mandates. The United States does not interpret references to the Sustainable Development Goals Universal Health Coverage, or UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Frameworks as creating legal obligations, new international commitments, financing expectations, or a basis for expanding the UN development system's role in domestic health policy. References linking task force activities to implementation of the SDGs should therefore be avoided. The United States cannot support language encouraging the mobilization of new financial resources, including the through the Health for Life Fund or other multilateral financing mechanisms, absent clear member state oversight, demonstrated effectiveness, and consistency with mandates agreed by member states. The task force should focus on efficient coordination within existing resources rather than expanding programming or financing expectations. Thank you.

I thank the representative of the United States. I see no further requests for the floor. The Council has concluded its consideration of Agenda 12D. I briefly pause the meeting for a podium change. Thank you.

Thank you.

I invite the Council to resume its consideration of Agenda Item 19. Human rights. The Council has before it the report of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, issued in document E 2026-12. I now invite Ms. Claudia I now invite Maria Fuentes Julio, Assistant Secretary-General for Human Rights, to introduce the report of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights. You have the floor, Madam.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. Distinguished delegates, at a time when progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals remains uneven, And when many countries face the combined pressure of debt, fiscal constraints, conflict, climate shocks, and growing inequalities, a fundamental question confronts the international community: How can economic governance better serve people and accelerate progress towards sustainable development? The report of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Rights before the Council addresses this question through the lens of economic, social, and cultural rights, and outlines efforts by our office to support member states in this regard. Its central message is simple: economic decisions are human rights decisions. Choices on taxation, public expenditure, debt, social protection, and development. determine whether people can enjoy their rights: the human rights to health, education, work, social security, an adequate standard of living, and their right to development. This is particularly relevant to the work of this Council. Across discussions on finance and financing for development, debt sustainability, and implementation of the 2030 Agenda, Member States are grappling with a common challenge: How to translate international commitments into tangible improvements in people's lives? The report argues that a human rights economy can help address this challenge by ensuring that economic policies are assessed not only by their contribution to growth, but also by their impact on inequality, inclusion, and the enjoyment of human rights. Importantly, the report. The fourth is about the implementation. During the reporting period, OHCHR expanded support to governments, parliamentaries, national human rights institutions, and other stakeholders seeking to integrate human rights into economic governance. This work includes practical assistance on human rights-based budgeting, taxation, fiscal policy analysis, expenditure tracking, budgeting, parliamentary oversight, debt governance, and climate finance. The report highlights practical examples from different regions. In Bangladesh, OHCHR supported work on progressive taxation and budget tagging for social protection. In the Republic of Congo, we worked with government institutions to integrate economic, social, and cultural rights standards into planning, budgeting, evaluation and audit processes. In The Gambia, Ghana, and Somalia, our support focused on strengthening parliamentary oversight of public finance. In Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan, our assistance reinforced budget monitoring, transparency, and accountability. In Kenya and Senegal, OHCHR supported rights-based approaches to budgeting and debt governance. In the United Kingdom, OHCHR supported efforts in Scotland to integrate economic, social, and cultural rights into law, policy, and budgeting. The report also highlights the ESCR Knowledge Hub launched by the Office in October 2025. The Hub brings together practical tools, methodologies, and promising practices on human rights indicators, budget analysis, fiscal assessment, assessment and monitoring. Together with technical cooperation and peer learning, it can support Member States' move from political commitment to concrete implementation. Mr. Chair, these examples demonstrate that advancing economic, social and cultural rights is not only about policies. Rather, it is about strengthening institutions and their capacities to deliver, improving accountability Improving accountability and ensuring that public resources reach those most at risk of being left behind. At the same time, the High Commissioner identifies persistent challenges, including limited fiscal space, rising debt burdens, climate pressures, conflict, insufficient data, and capacity constraints. These realities make it even more important to integrate human rights standards in economic policymaking and public finance decisions. As ECOSOC works to accelerate implementation of the SDGs in the final years to 2030, the report offers a practical contribution to the Council's effort. It demonstrates how greater coherence between human rights, development, and economic policy can help translate commitments commitments into results. OHCHR stands ready to support Member States in these efforts. Together, we can ensure that economic policies contribute not only to growth, but also to greater equality, inclusion, and the realization of economic, social, and cultural rights for all. Thank you.

Mr. President, I thank Ms. Claudia Fuentes Julio, Assistant Secretary-General for Human Rights. The floor is now open for a general discussion on Item 19.

I see Russian Federation.

You have the floor.

Thank you, Madam President— Mr. President, pardon me. We thank the ASG on Human Rights, Claudia Fuentes Julio, for her assessment. We read with interest the report of the United Nations High Commissioner on Human Rights on the promotion of economic, social, and cultural rights through the concept of the human rights economy. On the whole, we agree with the author's opinion about the fact that the full-fledged implementation of the aforementioned category of rights largely turns on the well-being of the economic situation in a state. However, we wish to share the following remarks. The main thrust of the report is placed on stamping out inequality within countries, while the profound systematic inequality between states at the global level is practically ignored. Measures proposed to implement the concept of the human rights economy are not differentiated based on level of development. So that means there's a covert shifting of equal responsibility for the implementation of economic, social, and cultural human rights rights onto all states without considering the historical context, including the legacy of colonialism. Thus, the authors are drawing their conclusions without taking into account Article 2 of the International Covenant on Economic, Social, and Cultural Rights, which enshrines the principle of gradual implementation of commitments to the maximum extent based on existing resources. And it also imposes on the parties to this agreement the obligation to implement these aforementioned rights not only individually but also in the context of international assistance and cooperation, thus imposing the concept of the human rights economy without linking it to the genuine economic capacity of states and without requiring that that developed countries provide assistance to developing countries could run counter to the spirit and the letter of the Covenant. These factors should definitely be considered. I thank you for your, for your attention.

I thank the representative of the Russian Federation. The Council has thus concluded the general discussion and its consideration of Agenda Item 19. We need a brief pause to change the podium. I invite the Council to resume its consideration of Agenda 12A. Report of coordination bodies. The Council has before it the report of the Committee for Programme and Coordination on its 66th session, issued in document A/8116. The floor is open for a general discussion of item 12A. I see no request. Then the Council has concluded the general discussion of item 12. May I take it that the Council wishes to take note of the report of the Committees for Programs and Coordination on its 66th session, issued in document A/81/16?

No objection.

It is so decided. And the Council has concluded its consideration of Agenda Item 12A. Now, Item 12B. I invite the Council to begin its consideration of Agenda 12B. Proposed by the Program Budget for 2027. The floor is open for general discussion on Item 12B. I see no request. The Council has thus concluded the general discussion of Item 12B. May I take it that the Council wishes to take note of the relevant sections of the proposed programme budget for 2027 issued in document A/81/ 6. No objections. It is so decided. The Council has concluded its consideration of Agenda Item B and of Item 12 as a whole.

Thank you.

Dear colleagues, distinguished delegates, we have completed our programme of work for the morning— not, for the whole day. The Council will reconvene at 3:00 PM. Why don't we continue?

Yes, we announced the program in a particular way.

Yeah. I'm sorry, but the Council will reconvene this afternoon at 3 PM in this chamber to continue with its program of work. I thank the interpreters. I want to recall that they will— they owe me 45 minutes. I wish you bon appétit. The meeting is adjourned. Why we don't?