Third Committee, 14th plenary meeting - General Assembly, 81st session General Assembly Date: 12 October 2026 Language: English Transcript: https://transcripts.un.org/en/ga/c3/81/14 Transcripts available through this tool are created by using automatic speech recognition and are not official records nor official documents of the United Nations. Official records and official documents are available on the Official Document System of the United Nations. --- 3rd Committee · Chair [15:55]: Okay, colleagues, thank you so much for being on time. Please take your seats and we'll commence in a moment. Thank you so much. The 14th meeting of the Third Committee at the 81st session of the General Assembly is called to order. I would invite the committee to resume its consideration of agenda item 67, entitled Rights of Indigenous Peoples, and its sub-items A and B. The documentation under agenda item 67 and its sub-items is listed on iGov. I wish to remind delegations that the deadline for the submission of draft proposals under the item is 1pm on Tuesday 20 October. Now, I would very much like to welcome the Special Rapporteur on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, Mr. Albert Barume. You're very, very welcome. We're glad to have you here. Participants wishing to make comments and pose questions to the Speaker are invited at this time to press their microphone button within the next three minutes, after which the list will be closed. The time limit for each speaker will be announced before the floor is given for the first intervention, although I think recent experience is it's going to be around about a couple of minutes. I thank you very much in anticipation for your cooperation on those time limitations. That's very important for us. I would now invite the Special Rapporteur on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, Mr. Broom, to make an introductory statement. Sir, you have the floor. UN · Special Rapporteur [17:46]: Thank you, Mr. Chair, distinguished delegates, colleagues, friends. I'm honored to present today my second report to this committee in my capacity as the UN Special Rapporteur on the Rights of Indigenous People. This is my final report on Indigenous peoples' right to land, titled "Identification, demarcation, registration, titling practices and lessons." It builds on my interim report I presented last year. Overall, this report reveals that nearly 20 years after the adoption of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, the demarcation and titling of Indigenous peoples' land and territory remain uneven and inadequate. Yet the declaration was written to enable states to redress historical land injustices suffered by Indigenous people and thereby foster reconciliation between states and Indigenous people. Organized around the seven cultural regions of Indigenous Peoples, this report presents the following regional overview. In Africa, no country has formally demarcated or titled Indigenous Peoples' land and territory as required by the Declaration. Most states provide Indigenous Peoples with weaker right to use or access to resources, most notably forests, wildlife, and grazing land, rather than providing genuine ownership rights over their ancestral land. Most African legal frameworks prioritize states, businesses, and conservation interests, while treating Indigenous Peoples' land rights as secondary and expendable. Moreover, No African country has adopted a standalone law on free, prior and informed consent. In the Arctic, the challenges persist also in demarcating and titling Indigenous peoples' land. Sami land, for example, have been only partially demarcated and titled. In some countries, only certain grazing area are protected. In several other countries, Sami customary land rights continue to depend on litigation before domestic court, while, as in other cases, Sami homeland remain legally classified as state land. Across the Arctic, Indigenous peoples' land are affected by mining, energy projects, forestry, tourism, infrastructure, military expansion, geopolitical interests. In part of the region, the adoption of the European Union Critical Raw Mineral Act has raised the concern that Indigenous people land rights are being increasingly subordinated to broad economic and security objective. In Asia, no state has enacted specific legislation recognizing Indigenous people land rights in the last 20 years since the adoption of the declaration. Yet Asia is home to Two third of the world Indigenous Peoples and more than 30 Asian country voted in favor of the declarations. In the other region, Indigenous People land rights through Asia are systematically subordinated to mining, hydropower, agribusinesses, infrastructure development, climate and conservation initiative. Failure to protect Indigenous Peoples land rights has fueled conflict and violence in Asia. In many cases across the continent, military forces have been deployed to protect economic interests on Indigenous Peoples' land and have resorted to intimidation and violence, including attacks and killings. Asia is indeed among the region where Indigenous human rights defenders are most at risk. In Latin America, There has been some of the most advanced legal framework for Indigenous peoples' land rights. However, nearly two decades after the adoption of the declaration, effective protection remain limited by slow demarcation, competing interest, and security, violence, and reversals. Even where Indigenous people land rights are legally recognized, significant limitation persists. Some countries have introduced cut-off dates for indigenous peoples' land rights. In other, recognized land rights for indigenous people do not include water, coastal areas, renewable resources, and all other issues associated with land. Across the region, a deeply concerning trend of stagnation and, in some cases, regression is evident in the protection of Indigenous peoples' land rights. In numerous countries, existing legal and policy frameworks have been amended or are under pressure to be amended in a way to weaken land rights protection to facilitate extractive industry, renewable energy projects, agribusiness, and large-scale infrastructure projects. Latin America is also remain also one of the most dangerous region for indigenous peoples, land, human rights and environmental defender. An independent 2026 report indicates that 80% of land and environmental defender killed worldwide were in Latin America with indigenous accounting for a substantial share of the victims in North America. Also, although indigenous peoples are recognized to varying degree as sovereign nations, they do not exercise full control over their land, territory, resources, and lives. Indigenous people rights are often not safeguarded when they compete with economic interests. The approval of resource development project without indigenous people's consent and the unrestricted exploitation of mineral on the land continue to generate conflict in North America. Indigenous people defending their land and territory in North America are often subjected to police surveillance, harassment, excessive use of force, injunction, and costly legal proceedings, criminal charges, and economic pressure. free, prior and informed consent, as well as consultation of Indigenous people, is frequently treated in North America as a mere procedural requirement without substantive effect. States at federal and other levels continue to exercise broad authority over Indigenous peoples' land and territory. In the Pacific, regressive law and policy in some countries are eroding Indigenous peoples' land rights. Since the adoption of the Declaration, no major legislation recognizing Indigenous peoples has been passed. Let me say that such a report does conclude with a number of recommendations that I call on States to genuinely implement. Before I finish, let me say, indigenous territory are often strategically located in region frequently across borders. They contain critical mineral, including important one. They are frequently occupied by criminal network, including drug dealers and other type of traffickers, including migrants. This vulnerability is often due to limited presence of deterrent capacity of state. in this area. Indigenous peoples' self-determined control and governance of their land are therefore essential for security. The stronger the rights in their ancestral land and territory, the more effectively those territories can be protected. Allow me to conclude by reiterating a point I made before this Committee last year: States and the international community as a whole have much to gain, including on national and international security agenda, by ensuring that Indigenous people can exercise full and effective self-determination and control over the land and territory. Indigenous people are the first line of protection for many countries and regions. Indigenous people are not a threat to states, on the contrary. I hope this report will help forge a new partnership between states and Indigenous people as we embark on the second decade for the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous People. Thank you, Mr. Chair. 3rd Committee · Chair [27:43]: Thank you very much indeed, Mr. Vurum. I am now able to open the floor for any questions or comments. As indicated, each speaker will have two minutes. As has been the case for previous sessions, the microphone will time out at two minutes, so please, if you'd be mindful of that. I have a list of speakers, a long list of speakers, so let me open the floor initially to Mexico and then followed by the United Republic of Tanzania, followed by the Permanent Representative of Guatemala and followed by the representative of Australia. Mexico, you have the floor. Mexico · Group of Friends of Indigenous Peoples [28:26]: Thank you, Chair. I have the honor to deliver this statement on behalf of several member states of the Group of Friends of Indigenous Peoples. Due to time limits, I will deliver the shortened version, and the full statement will be available in the UN journal. We thank the Special Rapporteur, Mr. Albert Barume, for presenting his report. We agree that the effective protection of Indigenous Peoples' lands, territories and resources is essential to ensuring the enjoyment of their right to self-determination. We welcome the important progress identified in the report across several regions, while noting persistent implementation gaps and continuing threats faced by Indigenous Peoples' leaders and defenders. We further highlight the adoption of General Assembly resolution 80/303 on enhancing the participation of Indigenous Peoples' representatives and representative institutions in meetings of relevant UN bodies on issues affecting them. We encourage continued support for the UN Voluntary Fund for Indigenous Peoples. We express concern and indigenous peoples continue to face poverty, exclusion, discrimination and barriers to accessing basic public services. Indigenous women and girls remain disproportionately affected by multiple and intersecting forms of discrimination and violence. These persistent challenges underscore the importance of the work of existing UN mechanisms and mandates. Looking ahead, The group believes that progress will best be achieved through the effective implementation of existing commitments, continued dialogue, international cooperation, and the exchange of good practices. We also take note and thank you for your recommendations. Thank you. 3rd Committee · Chair [30:17]: I thank the representative of Mexico. I pass the floor to the United Republic of Tanzania. You have the floor. United Republic of Tanzania [30:29]: the Special Rapporteur, Mr. Albert Barume, for his presentation and wish to make the following legal clarification on the paragraph 12 of the report. I wish to first state that Tanzania constitution and legal framework does not establish a distinct legal category of indigenous people. And under Tanzania's Land Act and Village Act, all land in Tanzania mainland is public is public land vested in the president and as trustee and on behalf of the Tanzanian citizens. Tanzania land tenure system recognizes only three categories, general, village, and reserved land. It is in this context that Hadzabe community secure land through a certificate of customary right of occupancy and a Village Land Act number 5 of 1999. And in terms of the matter relating to Ngorongoro and Loliondo, these are distinct land. They have distinct land category. While Loliondo is governed through Village Act, Ngorongoro is a reserve land and UNESCO World Heritage governed by a distinct conservation area framework with distinction on land ownership and development. Tanzania remains committed to the administration of land in accordance with its national legal framework and calls for assessment of land tenure system be governed in verification of document evidence, applicable legislation and specific circumstances of a country concerned. We request this statement to be included in the record of this meeting. I thank you. 3rd Committee · Chair [32:21]: I thank the United Republic of Tanzania. I pass the floor to the Permanent Representative of Guatemala, to be followed by Australia, Denmark, China and Chile. Permanent Representative of Guatemala, you have the floor. Guatemala · Permanent Representative [32:33]: Mr. Chair, we align ourselves with the intervention of Mexico on behalf of the Group of Friends of Indigenous Peoples. Guatemala thanks the Special Rapporteur on the rights of indigenous peoples, Mr. Albert Barume, for the presentation of his report and we recognize the work done during his mandate. With regard to the report on the demarcation, registration and titling of lands and territories of indigenous peoples, Guatemala would like to say that as good practice and dialogue between the government and ancestral peoples through which We have created joint areas and we have identified priorities in accordance with those communities. We have also established spaces of dialogue on those common space and legal certainty with regard to institutions responsible for registration and regularisation of land. What Nali would also like to specify the reference contained in the report with regard to law 7273 on the regularisation of laws. This is an initiative that is part of the legislative process, that is still in process and it's still not legislation yet. With regard to the peace agreement and the agreement of the OIT, Guatemala has been reinforcing its mechanisms to implement that. We have mechanisms that contemplate the identification of indigenous peoples. previous consultation, joint design of processes, the transmission of information and intercultural dialogue. We've also followed up and given on legal decisions on the right of consultation. We've established institutional mechanisms for planning and follow-up of those processes. In that context, Mr. Rapporteur, what good practices and elements do you think it's are important to ensure that consultation processes evolve from being just a formality to being an authentic process. Thank you very much. 3rd Committee · Chair [34:35]: I thank the Permanent Representative of Guatemala, and I pass the floor to Senator Durinda Cox of Australia, to be followed by Denmark, China, and Chile. Senator Cox, you have the floor. Australia · Senator [34:46]: Thank you, Chair. We thank the Special Rapporteur for his report. Australia recognizes Indigenous peoples' longstanding connection to their traditional lands and waters. that is foundational to their cultural, spiritual, physical and economic wellbeing. We note the report's observations on the context of Indigenous peoples' land rights in Australia, including matters relating to native title recognition, compensation and future act processes. Approximately 58% of Australia's land mass is subject to First Nations legal rights or interests. Australia has specific targets under its National Agreement on Closing the Gap to increase First Nations communities' benefits for their lands and waters. Target 15A commits to 15% increase in First Nations people's legal rights and interest to land by 2030 and is on track to be met. A similar commitment to see in target 15B was met ahead of schedule in 2022 and is expected to be exceeded by 2030. Australia is committed in supporting Indigenous peoples and communities on land and water rights, including economic opportunities arising from their rights and interests. Rapporteur, what are some of the other examples that are for addressing barriers to these economic opportunities? Thank you, Chair. 3rd Committee · Chair [36:00]: I thank Australia, and I pass the floor to Denmark to be followed by China. Denmark, you have the floor. Denmark · Nordic-Baltic countries [36:11]: Thank you, Chair. I have the honor to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries, Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, Sweden, and my own country, Denmark, together with Greenland. We thank the Special Rapporteur for his comprehensive report on the demarcation, registration, and titling of Indigenous Peoples' land, territories, and resources. Nearly 20 years after the adoption of the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, a wide implementation gap persists. We reaffirm Indigenous peoples' right to self-determination and their rights to lands, territories and resources. Recognition, demarcation and titling must give practical effect to rights that already exist. We welcome the report's attention to the different realities across the seven sociocultural regions, including those of mobile Indigenous peoples, Indigenous peoples in voluntary isolation and initial contact, and Indigenous peoples with marine and coastal territories. Relevant processes must be timely and adequately resourced with the full, effective, and meaningful participation of Indigenous Peoples through their own representative institutions. A green transition is vital, but it must not create new injustices. States must engage in meaningful consultation and cooperate in good faith with Indigenous Peoples in order to obtain their free, prior and informed consent before adopting measures or approving projects that may affect their lands, territories or resources, as set out in the UNDRIP. Mr. Chair, we are also alarmed by the criminalization and violence faced by Indigenous Peoples' human rights defenders. We reiterate that they must be able to promote and protect human rights without fear of intimidation or reprisals. States must protect defenders, investigate attacks, and ensure accountability. As we approach the 20th anniversary of UNDRIP, progress must be measured by implementation. Special Rapporteur, what practical steps should States prioritize to close the gap between legal recognition 3rd Committee · Chair [38:12]: Thank you, Denmark. I pass the floor to China to be followed by Chile, Cuba, European Union and Malaysia. China, you have the floor. China [38:21]: Chair. Indigenous peoples are important custodians of the diversity of human civilization. Owing to the poisonous legacy of colonialism, many indigenous groups are still suffering discrimination and oppression. Today, the combined impacts of armed conflicts, the climate crisis, and unequal development have further exacerbated the challenges facing indigenous peoples. Protecting the rights of indigenous peoples bears on international fairness and justice and on the common future of humanity, and it requires joint efforts the international community. First, we should support the development and empowerment of indigenous peoples. Due consideration should be given to their development needs and specific challenges. We should make efforts to advance the implementation of relevant SDGs concerning them under the 2030 Agenda, address the practical difficulties they face in education, employment, healthcare, and land rights, and ensure their equitable access to development opportunities and outcomes. Second, we should maintain international peace and security. We must abide by the purposes and principles of the UN Charter and settle international disputes by peaceful means so as to prevent harm to Indigenous Peoples at its root. At the same time, we should pay attention to the humanitarian crisis facing Indigenous groups in conflict situations and step up protection and assistance to the forcibly displaced. Third, we should promote the building of equal and inclusive societies. Historical traumas stemming from colonialism as well as systemic discrimination and social injustice continue to persist. Relevant countries should take concrete steps to redress historical injustices, eliminate prejudice, discrimination, and violence against indigenous groups, protect their legitimate rights and interests, and uphold social justice and inclusive development. China firmly supports the promotion and protection of the fundamental rights human rights and freedoms of indigenous peoples and will continue to play a positive role in safeguarding their rights and interests and in promoting the full implementation of the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. Thank you. 3rd Committee · Chair [40:24]: I pass the floor to Chile, followed by Cuba. Chile, you have the floor. Chile [40:28]: Thank you very much, Mr. Chair. Chile thanks the Special Rapporteur for the presentation of his report, shares his call to guarantee the participation of indigenous peoples and to possess and control their lands and resources. Along those lines, the government of Chile recognizes that the effective protection of territorial rights of indigenous peoples must also take into account opportunities to perform productive activities and make the best use of the resources in accordance with their development priorities. Chile therefore promotes the economic autonomy of indigenous peoples as a growing program that produces food for those collective groups, contributing to the strengthening of their productive capacities and the generation of new economic opportunities. The program also has a special focus on indigenous women. The idea is to promote progress, autonomy and economic empowerment of indigenous peoples, respecting their rights and their cultural specificities. Mr. Rapporteur, considering the various property models and administration and use of land models examined in your report, what experience and good practices have you identified that would make it possible to ensure the protection of territorial rights with a better dynamic of well-being and prosperity for those communities? Thank you very much. 3rd Committee · Chair [41:53]: Thank you Chile. I pass to Cuba, followed by European Union, Malaysia and Lao People's Democratic Republic. Cuba, you have the floor. Cuba [42:01]: Mr. Chair, Cuba supports the mandate of this special procedure. We wish you success in the performance of your work. The story of colonization and oppression that the indigenous peoples have lived through has left marginalization and poverty that has remained to our days. I think it's terrible that in the 21st century we can still see that the indigenous peoples are still victims of racism and social discrimination. They are living a situation that we cannot ignore. It is undeniable that the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples is the main instrument that we have in our hands to make progress in the cause of those peoples, which for centuries have been subject to marginalization and oblivion. We need all States, especially those with more resources, to show political will to implement fully the principles of that declaration. We can't continue just being passive witnesses of the constant violation of the rights of indigenous peoples. In many cases, their rights to maintain their own institutions are taken away to preserve their cultural identity and practice their traditions. This act of marginalization is a direct act on their essence and their identity as communities. From Cuba, we feel entirely proud of our mixed-race heritage, which includes the indigenous peoples who used to live on our territory and who were ended by colonialism. We wish them to, indigenous peoples, to fully enjoy their rights, their traditions, and their dignity. Thank you very much. 3rd Committee · Chair [43:36]: Thank you, Cuba. I'll pass the European Union, followed by Malaysia, the People's Democratic Republic, and Colombia. European Union, you have the floor. EU · EU [43:45]: Chair, I have the honor to speak on behalf of the European Union and its member states. We would like to thank the Special Rapporteur for his work and welcome his report. Progress is still needed in most states to effectively protect the land, territories, and resources of Indigenous Peoples. We note with concern the trend of stagnation or even regression of the protection of Indigenous Peoples' land rights in many States. The report clearly underlines an alarming increase in the criminalization, militarization and violence affecting Indigenous Peoples defending their lands and territories, particularly women leaders. The EU firmly condemns such violence. Indigenous peoples' human rights defenders must be able to promote human rights and defend their lands without fear of reprisals. Free, prior and informed consent must be respected and effectively implemented in accordance with UNDRIP. The EU is a long-standing supporter of UNDRIP. We have contributed to its implementation through our human rights policies, our development policy and our financing instruments. The EU stepped up support for Indigenous Peoples with a 7 million euro package announced last year to advance their rights and strengthen their participation in decisions affecting their lives. Chair, we appreciate the work of the Fund to ensure the participation of Indigenous Peoples' representatives in relevant United Nations meetings and processes. The EU supports the full, effective and meaningful participation of Indigenous Peoples' representatives and representative institutions from all seven Indigenous social cultural regions in all relevant United Nations meetings on issues affecting them. Mr. Special Rapporteur, where do you see the most significant gaps between States' commitments under UNDRIP and their implementation? Thank you. 3rd Committee · Chair [45:39]: Thank you, European Union. Malaysia, followed by Lao People's Democratic Republic. Malaysia, you have the floor. Malaysia [45:46]: Thank you, Mr. Chair. Malaysia thanks the Special Rapporteur, Mr. Albert Barume, for his presentation and report. Malaysia recognizes the importance of protecting the rights of indigenous peoples, including their customary lands, cultural heritage, traditional knowledge, and livelihood. We acknowledge that effective land administration and meaningful consultation with affected communities are important in ensuring that development is inclusive and responsive to their needs. At the national level, Malaysia is formulating a new Orang Asli development policy in collaboration with UNDP. The policy adopts a holistic approach encompassing land, education, health, economic empowerment, leadership, infrastructure, and cultural preservation. More than 4,000 Orang Asli respondents have been consulted to ensure that community perspective inform its development. This effort reflects Malaysia's commitment to advancing the rights and well-being of indigenous communities through inclusive development, meaningful participation, and respect for their cultural identities. Mr. Chair, in this regard, Malaysia would welcome the Special Rapporteur's views on how states can strengthen the recognition and protection of customary land rights, particularly where competing developments and conservation interests exist, while ensuring meaningful consultation with affected indigenous communities. Thank you. 3rd Committee · Chair [47:24]: Thank you, Malaysia. I have Lao People's Democratic Republic, followed by Colombia, Peru, Japan, Denmark and Congo. Lao People's Democratic Republic, you have the floor. Lao People's Democratic Republic [47:38]: Thank you, Mr. Chair. I thank the Special Rapporteur for the report on the rights of indigenous people. I would like to inform that the Lao PDR does not designate a specific population as indigenous people. Our country is a proud home to the 50 distinct ethnic groups. Our constitution guarantees absolute equality before the law for all ethnic groups without discrimination. explicitly protecting the fundamental rights and equal rights to land. Mr. Chair, the lands of the Rapa Nui are a property of the national community for which the state acts as the representative owner and manager in a centralized and unified manner throughout the country. The state grants long-term and stable land use rights to our citizens, including legal entities, collective and organizations of our citizenship. In case of a necessity for the collective benefit of the nation, the state shall reacquire land use rights back by providing compensation for the damage incurred in compliance with the law. Thank you. 3rd Committee · Chair [49:07]: Thank you, Lao PDR. Colombia, followed by Peru. Colombia, you have the floor. Colombia [49:15]: Thank you, Chairman. We're grateful for the presentation of the report and would like to highlight the importance of the mandate of the Special Rapporteur, Dr. Albert Berume, in particular his exhaustive analysis on the demarcation, registration, and titling of lands, territories, and the resources of Indigenous Peoples. which is a valuable input to guide international discussions on their rights. Colombia constitutionally recognizes the rights of Indigenous peoples on its territories, and with specificity of their ethnic and cultural identity, their own forms of social identity, their traditional uses, We value the fact that the report recognizes that in our country, indigenous authorities exercise official jurisdiction over their territory, conformity the constitution we also appreciate that Colombia is identified as an example of good practice in the region given the active participation of indigenous peoples in the process of demarcation and titling which strengthens their rights over their territories we acknowledge their persistent challenges for the effective protection of lands territories and resources of indigenous peoples however we reiterate our commitment to to make progress in guaranteeing their rights on the basis of respect for prior, free and informed consultation enshrined in our legislation. Thank you. 3rd Committee · Chair [50:53]: Thank you, Colombia. I pass the floor to Peru, followed by Denmark and then Congo. Peru, you have the floor. Peru [51:04]: Thank you, Chairman. Peru is grateful to the Special Rapporteur on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples for his report dedicated to demarcation, registration, and titling of lands, territories, and resources of Indigenous peoples. 20 years almost after the adoption of the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, the report reminds us of the importance of the security over land and territory for the exercise of collective rights. In this framework, we'd like to share with you that this year, Peru adopted the national policy regarding Indigenous Peoples up to 2040. The policy elaborated with the participation of representative Indigenous groups was submitted to prior consultation. Among its priorities is to guarantee the legal security of ancestral lands and territories, collective lands. those belonging to original or indigenous peoples. This policy is a significant step forward given the existing challenges, in particular in the area of titling and geo-referencing of native and peasant communities. Along these lines, we intend to move forward on demarcation, titling, and strengthening the participation of indigenous peoples with differentiated strategies for Amazonic and Andean communities. With this in mind, Peru reaffirms its readiness to continue working for the benefit of indigenous peoples. Thank you. 3rd Committee · Chair [52:40]: Thank you, Peru. I misspoke when I said Denmark. Denmark has already spoken. I have Congo, Indonesia, Russian Federation, and India. Congo, you have the floor. Congo [52:54]: Thank you, Chairman. The delegation of the Republic of the Congo thanks the report of the Special Rapporteur on the rights of indigenous peoples. We welcome the recognition in the report of the scope of the law of 2011. on the promotion and protection of the rights of indigenous peoples. In order to ensure the effective implementation of this law, the Congolese government has adopted a number of bylaws, in particular in the area of health care, education, and civil registration. These measures in particular apply to free health care, provision of study fellowships in the first year of higher education in the framework of affirmative action as well as delivering identity cards. Now, based on these initiatives, significant progress has been achieved in the area of social inclusion and equal opportunities. Just as an example, the Republic of the Congo for the past three years has a woman from an indigenous group as one of its magistrates. In 2025, the Congolese government began to develop a draft decree establishing special measures to secure the property and customary rights of indigenous peoples. This draft decree was validated on the 24th of December, 2025, following a participatory process involving public administration, development partners, the private sector, and organizations of civil society. This text seeks to strengthen the protection of customary land rights of indigenous populations by defining the modalities of identification, mapping, demarcation, and securitization of their traditional lands. Aware of the challenges that subsist in this area, the Republic of the Congo, the microphone is Minister Steff. 3rd Committee · Chair [54:55]: Thank you, thank you, Congo. I pass the floor to Indonesia, followed by Russian Federation. Indonesia, you have the floor. Indonesia [55:05]: Thank you, Mr. Chair. Indonesia takes note of the SR's report. Our full statement will be sent in written through website. Allow us to make three points. First, there is no internationally agreed legal definition of indigenous peoples. The historical, cultural, and social circumstances of communities differ significantly across countries. In Indonesia, the rights of are recognized and protected within our constitutional and legal framework. The Constitutional Court has affirmed that customary forests are not state forests, while national regulations provide mechanisms for the recognition and registration of customary lands. The administrative process for recognizing aims to provide legal certainty regarding the communities concerned, their territories, and their rights. Second, Indonesia rejects the report's characterization regarding development projects in Papua. National strategic projects in Papua form part of Indonesia's broader effort to promote equitable development and improve the welfare of Papuans. In South Papua, the food security program is implemented through engagement with regional governments, customary communities, and local stakeholders. Participatory mapping, public consultation, and FPIC are incorporated into its implementation, alongside measures to address environmental and social concerns. Military support for national food security should not be conflated with an alleged deployment of forces to customary adat communities. Third, Indonesia takes all credible allegations of human rights violations seriously. Our national institutions and legal mechanisms remain available to address such allegations in accordance with national law. We therefore encourage the Sr. to engage constructively with. 3rd Committee · Chair [57:06]: Thank you, Indonesia. My remaining list is as follows: Russian Federation, India, Canada, Brazil, Nepal and Sovereign Order of Malta. And that concludes our list. I now give Russian Federation the floor. Thank you. Russian Federation [57:24]: Mr. Chairman, we examined very carefully the report of Dr. Baroumi. We unfortunately with regret note that as regards Russia, the report is rather superficial. So we'd like to tell you a little bit about the Russian specific. the specificity of the Russian approach to this issue. Russia has its own and unique experience going back many centuries that has made it possible to preserve the numbers, way of life, types of settlement, livelihoods, and self-government of indigenous persons with small numbers. Their rights are enshrined in legislation, including at the level of the constitution. We're working on regulating the provisions pertaining to registering citizens that are nomadic or semi-nomadic to realize their social and economic rights. We're improving their favorable tax treatment, providing, specifying the rules of governing fishing. We are also ensuring the rights of these small indigenous peoples. We have established some 700 territories of traditional land use. Business activity on these territories is limited by law. At the same time, there are mechanisms for cooperation with various businesses, which amounts to adapting to Russia the practice of free, prior, informed consent in implementing projects that affect the territory where indigenous peoples live. We call on the Special Rapporteur to more actively cooperate with States in order to prepare a more balanced and depoliticized report. Thank you. 3rd Committee · Chair [59:06]: Thank you, Russian Federation. I pass to India, followed by Canada, then Brazil. India, you have the floor. India [59:13]: Mr. Chair, India takes note of the report of the Special Rapporteur on the rights of Indigenous Peoples. India has consistently supported the promotion and protection of the rights of Indigenous Peoples and welcomed the adoption of the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples in 2007. In India's context, we consider the entire population at the time of our independence and their successors to be Indigenous. The concept of Indigenous Peoples, as understood in certain international discourse, is not applicable to India's civilizational history, where diverse communities have coexisted for millennia. Mr. Chair, while the acknowledges that the Forest Rights Act recognizes individual and collective rights. My delegation takes strong exception to the unsubstantiated reference to India in paragraph 42 of the report. The assertion that a substantial number of claims under the Forest Rights Act remains unresolved rests on a single submission by an individual. It is not supported by any official data. Such selective reliance on unverified input calls into question the rigor and objectivity of the report. Please allow me to present the facts from official data. Over 5.4 million claims have been filed under the Forest Rights Act, out of which more than 80% have been decided, and over 2.5 million titles have been distributed. My delegation remains available to provide updated data to the Special Rapporteur so that such anomalies based on unverified submissions can be rectified. Given the unique diversity and social structure of India, our Constituent Assembly had the foresight to provide for special provisions in our Constitution for certain communities. Targeted programs ensure holistic development and protection of rights. Under the good governance motto of Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, all together together with all development for all. Special focus has been given to enhance social economic conditions of vulnerable tribal communities through housing, water and sanitation, health, education and connectivity. India remains committed to the sustainable and holistic development that leaves no community behind. Full statement shall be emailed for uploading. I thank you. 3rd Committee · Chair [1:01:01]: Thank you, India. I have Canada, Brazil, Nepal and Japan. Canada, you have the floor. Canada [1:01:09]: Thank you, Mr. Chair. Canada thanks the Special Rapporteur for his report and presentation today. We recognize that addressing historical land-related injustices can be lengthy, complex, and financially burdensome. Canada has sought to reduce these barriers by providing financial support for Indigenous peoples' participation in these processes. The recognition and effective protection of Indigenous peoples' lands, territories, and resources are essential to the realization of their rights, including their right to self-determination. Canada recognizes the right affirmed in UNDRIP, including its provisions on free, prior and informed consent, and remains committed to implementing them through good faith consultation and cooperation with Indigenous peoples through their own representative institutions. Where claims remain unresolved, continued efforts are needed to protect the rights at issue and prevent further harm while durable solutions are pursued. Canada remains committed to working with First Nations, Inuit and metis to advance this necessary work. We'll conclude with these two questions for the Special Rapporteur. Where land recognition or claims processes remain unresolved for prolonged periods, what interim measures should states take to protect Indigenous peoples' rights and prevent further harm while a durable resolution is pursued? How can overlapping territorial claims among Indigenous peoples be addressed without imposing state concepts of exclusive ownership are undermining relationships among Indigenous peoples. Thank you. 3rd Committee · Chair [1:02:40]: Thank you, Canada. Brazil, Nepal, Japan, Ukraine, and Sovereign Order of Malta are on my list. Brazil, you have the floor. Brazil [1:02:50]: Thank you, Chair. Brazil, which is home to more than 390 Indigenous peoples in nearly 300 Indigenous languages, thanks the Special Rapporteur for his report. Brazil has placed indigenous rights at the center of our agenda. In addition to the ratification of ILO Convention number 169, Brazil established a dedicated Ministry of Indigenous Peoples and strengthened the participation of indigenous leaders in key decision-making processes. Also, operations have been carried out to remove illegal occupants from indigenous territories. Brazil remains firmly committed to combating illegal mining, organized crime, and environmental degradation affecting indigenous communities. In the Yanomami territory, coordinated action has dismantled major illegal mining operations and led to significant reduction in new illegal mining sites. At the same time, we recognize the important challenges that remain. Brazil reaffirms its commitment to addressing these in full respect of our constitutional and international obligations. Mr. Chair, my delegation would appreciate the Special Rapporteur's assessment on the progress achieved since the adoption of the UN Declaration in advancing legislation and practices that uphold the free, prior, and informed consent of Indigenous peoples, recognizing it as a fundamental safeguard for the protection their territorial rights. I thank you. 3rd Committee · Chair [1:04:28]: Thank you, Brazil. I pass to Nepal and then Japan. Nepal, you have the floor. Nepal [1:04:34]: Mr. Chair, Nepal thanks the Special Rapporteur, Albert K. Barrom, for his comprehensive report on the demarcation, registration, and titling of Indigenous Peoples' lands, territories, and resources. As explicitly noted in the report, Nepal has taken steps to incorporate consultation requirements into its constitutional framework, supported by dedicated bodies like the Indigenous Nationalities Commission and National Foundation for Development of Indigenous Nationalities, alongside guaranteeing inclusive parliamentary representation of indigenous peoples, sectoral legislation, including forestry, environmental protection and. Local governance, and through its ratification of the Indigenous and Tribal Peoples Convention, 1989, No. 169. We acknowledge the Special Rapporteur's timely warning regarding the persistent implementation gap globally. Nepal recognizes that formal legal provisions must be matched by robust statutory mechanisms. mechanisms for free, prior and informed consent. We remain deeply committed to refining our national frameworks, addressing structural challenges in land administration and ensuring that development, conservation and climate initiatives fully respect the ancestral rights and self-determination of Indigenous Peoples. Nepal stands ready to engage constructively with international human rights mechanisms and protect the vital heritage of our indigenous communities. I thank you, Mr. Chair. 3rd Committee · Chair [1:06:15]: Thank you, Nepal. I pass to Japan, followed by Ukraine, and finally, Sovereign Order of Malta. Japan, you have the floor. Japan [1:06:23]: Thank you, Mr. Chair. I thank the Special Rapporteur for his briefing and report on the land rights of indigenous peoples. Japan remains committed to promoting and protecting the human rights of all people, including indigenous peoples, in line with international human rights standards. In this regard, I would like to ask Mr. Special Rapporteur, nearly two decades after the adoption of the UN Declaration of the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, where do you see the greatest opportunities for progress in the years ahead? Thank you. 3rd Committee · Chair [1:07:01]: Thank you, Japan. I have Ukraine and Sovereign Order of Malta. Ukraine, you have the floor. Ukraine [1:07:09]: Thank you, Mr. Chair. Ukraine thanks the Special Rapporteur for his report as well. Ukraine's commitment is entered in our constitution, the 2021 law on Indigenous Peoples, and this year, the formal recognition of the Melees as the representative body of the Crimean Tatar people. For Crimean Tatars, land and belonging are inseparable. In 1944, nearly 200,000 people actually were deported from their homeland. Today, under Russia's temporary occupation, the erasure continues. Some 50,000 of about 300,000 Crimean Tatars have been forced to leave, while over a million Russian citizens have been resettled in Crimea. Crimean Tatars are 159 of at least 284 victims of politically motivated persecution. Classes taught in Crimean Tatar fell from 384 to 119. In January 2024, the International Court of Justice found that Russia its binding order to allow the MELeS to operate, and it remains banned. We're also concerned by the persecution of indigenous activists inside Russia under laws on extremism and foreign agents, including for engaging with the UN, and by the disproportionate impact of Russia's war recruitment on indigenous peoples and ethnic minorities. So we think that free, prior and informed consent is central to any titling and registration of indigenous lands. So how should this principle apply when an occupying power resettles its own citizens onto indigenous territory? And what can states and UN mechanisms do in such cases? I thank you. 3rd Committee · Chair [1:08:54]: Thank you, Ukraine. And finally, Sovereign Order of Malta, you have the floor. SMOM [1:09:01]: Mr. Chair, my delegation thanks the Special Rapporteur for his valuable report and continued efforts to advance the rights and protection of Indigenous Peoples worldwide. Indigenous Peoples are custodians of invaluable cultural traditions, languages, knowledge, systems, and ecosystems. Yet many continue to face persistent inequalities and barriers to essential services, including healthcare, education, and clean water. For the Sovereign Order of Malta, protecting indigenous rights means ensuring that communities are not simply beneficiaries of humanitarian assistance, but active partners in shaping the solutions that affect their lives. In Colombia, the Order of Malta has worked with the Wayuu people in La Guajira. In 2025, we supported 53 young people from Wayuu communities in training as technical nurse assistants. By combining ancestral knowledge with Western medicine and enabling healthcare workers to communicate in the language of the Wayuu, this initiative helps make healthcare more accessible and culturally appropriate, while strengthening local capacity. Mr. Chair, this experience demonstrates that sustainable humanitarian action must be developed with indigenous communities, rather than simply for them. Their knowledge, culture and voices must be central to the policies and programmes that affect their futures. We therefore encourage Member States and other stakeholders to strengthen meaningful partnerships with Indigenous Peoples. I thank you. 3rd Committee · Chair [1:10:39]: Thank you, Sovereign Order of Malta. And now it's my pleasure to pass the floor back to Mr. Baruma for any response to those questions. Wearing your hands. Thank you. UN · Special Rapporteur [1:10:51]: Thank you. Thank you, Mr. Chair. And let me start by thanking all those who asked question and clarification and commented the report. It's really a pleasure. I want just to make, Mr. Chair, three or three and a half points, really. The first is to say that there cannot and there will be no possibility of reconciling states with indigenous peoples unless the historical land injustices are addressed. And it for that reason that I thought it was timely as we seek to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the declaration that states are reminded and given a snapshot of what the implementation of those rights have been over the last 20 years. And the pitch in the report is that It's a glam picture. Today, Indigenous peoples' land are on high demand, very high demand. Everybody want a piece of Indigenous peoples' land for the purpose of green energy, transition minerals, and so on and so forth. Indigenous people are living on the last piece of the land because they have been pushing back for centuries. Now they live in the last bit of the land. There is no land to push back to anymore. That's why in many regions, my mandate is noticing tensions growing between states and Indigenous peoples. Mr. Chair, this year, my report to the Human Rights Council was on Indigenous women reproductive rights. And I want to underline this, Mr. Chair, because land and indigenous women bodies were the two, continue to be the two major target when attack are done on indigenous peoples. And as we celebrate the 25th anniversary, I wanted states to remind themselves that unless progress are done on those two key fronts, there is no chance that there will be reconciliation or undoing of the wrongdoing indigenous people historically suffered from. Mr. Chair, my second point is the reason I also wrote my first report to the Human Rights Council when I was appointed on recognition, because I do understand, Mr. Chair, that regions like Africa and Asia are still struggling to understand what indigenous peoples means on those regions. I happened before I was appointed as a special rapporteur as a chair, I used to work for the African Commission on Human and People's Rights. And it during that time of mine that the African Commission successfully managed to conceptualize what the term indigenous peoples means as a human right concept in Africa. And it for that reason that we got country like Congo and a number of other country today making landmark decision to recognize indigenous people. Indigenous peoples as a human right concept is a claim made by certain communities whose way of life, livelihood, are looked down upon as backward and thereby were never legally protected as valuable customary use and occupation of land. It is an unfair historical fact that affected numerous community in Africa and in Asia. And on those continents, the concept does not necessarily mean being first on a land. That's what the African Commission on Human and People's Rights, we do understand states will take time to understand, and we look forward to assisting those states because they cannot possibly deliver on rights as they don't understand who are the right holders. Mr. Let me finish by saying that the free, prior and informed consent that many have raised here, and that's my last point, Mr. Chair, the free, prior and informed consent is a safeguard right devised to protect the indigenous people's substantive rights. And those substantive rights, the free, prior and informed consent was devised for include land rights, and right to life and several other rights. Mr. Chair, if it is a safeguard, it is impossible actually to effectively apply free, prior and informed consent if those rights it was devised to protect are not first recognized. There will, in that case, and this is the case in numerous case, we see companies, we see states, we see several actors, each and everyone saying, "I got my free prior informed consent." Which is what? It's just turning up in a village, sharing a few dollars, few iron sheets, and having a piece of paper on which indigenous people sign agreeing on a mining project or something. That's not a free prior, because those rights are not protected those rights for which the AFPIK was devised as a safeguard. So I call, Mr. Chair, my last word, I really call on states, as I said, as we embark on a second decade, or third decade, for the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, the only legal instrument devised to enable state to reconcile with indigenous peoples. State have interests in reconciling with their indigenous peoples, and there is no true legal instrument device for that. But that cannot be possibly achieved if land issue is not part or central to any national policy seeking to achieve that reconciliation. I thank you, Mr. Chair. 3rd Committee · Chair [1:17:59]: Thank you, Special Rapporteur. We very much appreciate your joining us today and very much value that briefing. Much appreciated. Thank you. I now will briefly pause the meeting in order for the podium to be arranged. Please remain seated in the hall and we'll have our additional briefers for the next session come to join us. One moment. Thank you so much, indeed, for allowing us to make that quick pause. I now invite the committee to resume its joint consideration of agenda items 110, entitled Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice, and 111, entitled International Drug Control. The documentation under agenda items 110 and 111 is listed on iGov. I would remind delegations that the deadline for submission of draft proposals under the two items is 1pm tomorrow, 13 October, as well as item 24. And it is now my great pleasure to welcome the Director of the Division for Policy Analysis and Public Affairs of the UNODC, Candice Welsh, who is joining us virtually online. Participants wishing to make comments and pose questions to the speaker are invited to press the microphone button within the next three minutes. Afterwards, the list will be closed. The time limit for each speaker will be announced before the floor is given in the usual way. Now, let me open the floor to Ms. Candace Welsh, UNODC, speaking to us from Vienna. Thank you so much. UNODC · Director, Division for Policy Analysis and Public Affairs [1:20:38]: Thank you very much, Mr. Chair, distinguished delegates. On behalf of the Executive Director of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, I would like to thank you for the opportunity to address this committee. As the United Nations lead entity on addressing drugs and crime, UNODC works with member states and partners to advance peace, security, and development through integrated responses to the challenges posed by drugs, crime, cybercrime, corruption, and terrorism. We provide normative, analytical, and technical support to member states, including through our field network, which covers over 160 countries. Allow me to begin by expressing our gratitude to the United Arab Emirates for hosting in September the 15th UN Crime Congress, which resulted in the adoption of the Abu Dhabi Declaration. The declaration will help guide global efforts to strengthen inclusive criminal justice systems and international cooperation in the years ahead. UNODC possesses unique global mandates and continues to support member states to strengthen the international legal framework on drugs and crime. As of today, the United Nations Convention against Cybercrime, adopted by the General Assembly in December 2024, has 95 signatories and three state parties. I encourage all states to sign and ratify the convention, which remains open for signature until the 31st of December 2026. The new Cybercrime Convention complements the UN Convention against Transnational Organized Crime, as well as the Convention against Corruption, which is moving ahead with the second phase of its implementation review mechanism. The international legal framework of these conventions has become ever more vital as the crime challenges that we face continue to evolve. Threats such as online scams and organized fraud are accelerating and expanding. In March, UNODC co-convened the Global Fraud Summit to strengthen public-private partnerships to combat these crimes, and the Office is delivering integrated support to tackle money laundering and financial crime. UNODC is also stepping up its support to Member States to prevent and address drug challenges, including to disrupt drug production and trafficking and increase coverage of evidence-based prevention and treatment services. UNODC's World Drug Report 2026 highlighted an unprecedented spike in new and potentially lethal drugs on the market, with five times more drug types found in seizures in 2024 than before 2000. At the same time, seizures of cocaine more than tripled over the last decade, with demand for cocaine continuing to rise. In 2025, UNODC expanded to support expanded its support to prevent and address organized crime in conflict-afflicted areas, including Haiti, Ukraine, Syria, and Myanmar. Prevention remains a priority overall of UNODC assistance. With the adoption by the General Assembly last year of the Kyoto Model Strategies on reducing reoffending, we are continuing to support rehabilitation and reintegration as part of our work to improve prison conditions and to promote effective criminal justice systems. Across its operations, UNODC is seeking efficiencies, strengthening accountability, and improving results-based management to ensure that the resources Member States entrust to our Office translate into measurable impact on the ground. Distinguished delegates, The global challenges posed by drugs, crime, cyber crime, corruption, financial crime, and terrorism are growing and threaten to undermine the international community's efforts to promote peace and security and advance the rule of law. Now more than ever, adequate, predictable, and sustainable core funding is needed to strengthen UNODC's capacity to respond to growing demand from member states and provide vital assistance to those who need us. UNODC remains fully engaged in delivering on our mandates, and we rely on Member States to help ensure that we achieve this mission. Thank you for your attention. 3rd Committee · Chair [1:24:58]: I thank the Director, and I now open the floor for questions or comments to Ms. Welsh. We have 1.5 minutes per delegation, and I will open the floor starting with Brazil, to be followed by Israel and then the European Union. Brazil, you have the floor. Microphone to Brazil, please. Brazil [1:25:29]: Thank you, Chair. Brazil thanks the Executive Director and the UNODC team for their report. As indicated in the document, the world drug problem is growing and diversifying. At the same time, treatment remains out of reach for most. Inequality in access to treatment is particularly pronounced among women. As a report notes, women face particular barriers, including stigma, expectations about their social roles, the lack of childcare, and the fear of losing custody to their children while in treatment. Brazil's national drug policy plan was built through broad public consultations grounded in human rights, racial justice, and the gender perspective. Protecting children and adolescents is central. In 2025, Brazil and UNODC launched the Growing Up in Peace strategy to keep minors from violence, crime, and drug use. We also welcome the report's recognition of the links between drug trafficking and crimes that affect the environment. Brazil recognizes the importance of combating drug trafficking and criminal organizations behind it, beyond arrests and seizures, through financial investigations, asset recovery, and stronger intelligence capabilities by means of some strengthened international cooperation. I thank you. 3rd Committee · Chair [1:26:49]: Thank you, Brazil. Israel, followed by European Union and Poland. Israel, you have the floor. Israel [1:26:57]: Thank you, Chair. Israel firmly believes that effective crime prevention and criminal justice requires strong international cooperation, practical solutions, and an unwavering commitment to protecting victims. These principles are particularly important when addressing terrorism and its devastating consequences, including sexual and gender-based violence. Last week, we marked three years since the October 7 massacre perpetrated by Hamas terrorists. The horrific atrocities committed that day included sexual and gender-based violence. Alongside first-hand testimonies from survivors, bodies were found burned, mutilated, or shot, including documented cases of victims found naked or partially dressed with gunshot wounds to the face and genital area. These atrocities underscore the urgent need for stronger international mechanisms to respond to such crimes. Responding effectively to sexual and gender-based violence requires rapid documentation, survivor-centered care, and effective accountability mechanisms. Yet critical evidence is often lost in the immediate aftermath of attacks. Drawing on the painful lessons learned from this tragedy, Israel is proud to sponsor, alongside Switzerland and Germany, the development of a first-of-its-kind universal toolkit led by UNODC for emergency first responders. Israel recently had the opportunity to present this important toolkit at the 15th UN Crime Congress in Abu Dhabi. Through this joint effort, we seek to... 3rd Committee · Chair [1:28:29]: Thank you, Israel. I have the European Union to be followed by Poland, Morocco, Namibia, and El Salvador. European Union, you have the floor. EU · EU [1:28:39]: Chair, I have the honor to speak on behalf of the European Union and its member states. We reaffirm our steadfast support for UNHRC's mandate, firmly anchored in the promotion and protection of human rights for all, international law, and multilateral cooperation. The EU and its member states remain one of the main contributors to UNHRC's budget through voluntary funding, supporting over 60 projects worldwide. Allow me to align three relevant EU priorities. First, we attach particular importance to stronger action against transnational organized crime. We also reaffirm our commitment to countering terrorism. We remain committed to a rights-centered, evidence-based and comprehensive approach to drug policy. The EU's drug strategy aims to enhance preparedness, protect public health, and reduce drug-related harm through prevention, treatment, harm reduction, rehabilitation, and social reintegration, while strengthening security and international cooperation. The EU Action Plan against drug trafficking complements these efforts. Third, we support efficient, coordinated and actionable multilateral action, including through the UNAT process, while ensuring that any UN reforms strengthen UNODC's operational impact, effectiveness and normative role. Thank you. 3rd Committee · Chair [1:30:04]: Thank you, European Union. I have Poland, followed by Morocco. Poland, you have the floor. Poland [1:30:09]: Thank you, Mr. Chair. Online fraud has become organized crime on an industrial scale. UN agencies estimate that at least 300,000 people are forced to work in scam compounds. Social media platforms approve, target, and get paid for scam ads that use deep fakes of trusted people, and older people lose their savings to them. When Poland's national cybersecurity team reported 122 such ads to one platform, 106 stayed online. The same business model profits from children. According to financial reporting, platforms earn at least $11 billion in a single year from advertising to minors. Criminals use the same reach to exploit them. The Committee on the Rights of the Child has already called on the states to prohibit by law the targeting of children. A platform that is paid to target an ad or to keep a child scrolling is not a neutral host, as a Polish appeals court found this year, it must share responsibility for the harm. Thank you. 3rd Committee · Chair [1:31:07]: Thank you, Poland. I have Morocco, followed by Namibia. Morocco, you have the floor. Morocco [1:31:14]: Thank you, Chair. Morocco thanks UNODC for this dialogue and for its continuous support in strengthening the rule of law and effective criminal justice systems. Mr. Chair, Africa's cultural heritage remains highly exposed to illicit trafficking. This crime erases the memory of our peoples and fuels transnational organized crime networks. From an African perspective, it must be treated as a serious crime. Morocco has made significant legislative progress in this field. It has modernized its framework for heritage protection, strengthened control on exports and circulation of cultural goods, and toughened the criminal sanctions for illicit trafficking. These efforts have enabled the recovery of numerous archeological and paleontological items. Morocco stands ready to share this experience with its African partners and invite UNODC to strengthen technical assistance to the continent. I thank you, Mr. Chair. 3rd Committee · Chair [1:32:04]: Thank you, Morocco. I'm going to jump actually to El Salvador, followed by Libya and then Nigeria. El Salvador, you have the floor. El Salvador [1:32:13]: Thank you very much, Mr. Chair. El Salvador thanks the Executive Director of UNECE for her presentation and technical cooperation for national international cooperation. We think this is absolutely essential and it needs to be based on scientific evidence and we need to guide prevention on the basis of international conventions for the prevention of consumption of drugs, for consumption and institutional coordination and certification of professionals. And we also need to strengthen the capacities of control of drugs through specialized technical agencies and platforms that check the verifications. We need to guarantee the access to checked medicines and we need to prevent their undue use. Through the couple of three program we are trying to share good practices on the prescription and auditing of drugs in spaces promoted by UNODC. the banning of narcotics. And we want to ask what adjustments do you think we need to make to technical cooperation in the region to ensure technical cooperation and care before greater impacts are felt? Thank you very much. 3rd Committee · Chair [1:33:41]: Thank you, El Salvador. I have Libya, followed by Nigeria, and then Mexico. Libya, you have the floor. Microphone to Libya, please. Libya · Youth Delegate [1:34:01]: Thank you, Mr. Chair. Libya would like to thank the UNODC for this valuable briefing and for the ongoing partnership. I speak to you today as the youth delegate for this session. The Secretary-General's report emphasizes a global drugs problem in its paragraph 59. see that these drugs follow the same corridors and we in Libya are facing this as we are at the crossroads of the corridors used by drugs networks the youth are either the ones suffering from the drugs or being used as tools to traffic them. The National Unity Government in Libya is working with national funding in cooperation with the UNODC. There is also a ministerial youth resilience project, and we are working on a national strategy for youth peace and stability, youth peace and security, rather. And cybersecurity as a pillar comes in this strategy in response to paragraph 52 of the report, which highlights that drug trafficking has used and employed digital platforms. We would like to ask the UNODC, could technical support be expanded to include a digital awareness factor targeting youth to facilitate the implementation of the strategy? Thank you. 3rd Committee · Chair [1:35:27]: Thank you, Olivia. I have Nigeria, followed by Mexico and Colombia. Nigeria, you have the floor. Nigeria [1:35:34]: Thank you, Mr. Chair. I have the floor. Mr. Chair, Nigeria's drug control effort has been evolving and has evolved from predominantly enforcement-focused organization to a more integrated, intelligence-led and people-centered institution, bringing together law enforcement, public health, technology, financial investigation, alternative livelihood, and international cooperation. This transformation was driven by an evolving drug trafficking threat, Drug trafficking networks have become more sophisticated. Technology has opened new channels for illicit activity. Criminal proceeds move rapidly across borders, and drug dependence continues to affect individuals, families, and communities. Nigeria, therefore, broadened its response from focusing principally on drug and offenders to addressing criminal networks, illicit profits, and underlying vulnerabilities that sustain drug economy. Today, our response combines drug supply reduction prevention, treatment, rehabilitation and community resilience. Through NDLA, we have strengthened intelligence-led enforcement, investigation, prosecution, forensic capability and financial investigation, while placing greater emphasis on prevention, treatment and recovery. At community level, drug control is increasingly linked to development through alternative development, particularly in areas vulnerable to illicit drug cultivation. This approach is anchored in using development, sustainable livelihoods, and community empowerment to remove economic incentives for illicit cultivation, whilst threatening food security, community resilience, and national security. Nigeria looks forward to the Director's perspective on how UNODC 3rd Committee · Chair [1:37:23]: Thank you, Nigeria. Mexico, followed by Colombia. Mexico, you have the floor. Mexico [1:37:28]: Thank you very much. Mexico thanks the UNODC for its reports on the international community's efforts to stop the international drug problem. Mexico is facilitating a new version of the UN's resolution entitled Addressing and Preventing the Drugs with through a balanced approach. We think that this is the multifaceted reflects the multifaceted nature of this phenomenon and we know that the effects and challenges vary among the member states depending on their various contexts and realities. The transnational character of the drug problem means that we need coordinated responses that combine national response with international cooperation which is effective. The increase in drug consumption including synthetic drugs together with the expansion of the precursor and substance markets and the level of sophistication of transnational organized crime, advises us to revise our strategies and look at the results in order to find more effective strategies that are tailored to the current challenges. Mexico reiterates its commitment to multilateralism and to the construction of consensus that would make it possible to coordinate our approach to the drug problem. We need solid technical financial cooperation based on the the principle of the common and shared responsibilities based on the needs of the member states thank you very much. 3rd Committee · Chair [1:38:57]: Colombia followed by Syrian Arab Republic. Colombia you have the floor. Colombia [1:39:04]: Thank you Mr. Chair. We thank the Director for her presentation and Director of UNODC. Under the leadership of President Abinader Ospina, Colombia has defined that it is strategic priority, the strengthening of security, the reestablishing the state's authority, and the rule of law throughout the territory. As seen in 81/138, criminal organizations are seeking to control territories and communities by financing themselves through illicit economies. Colombia is taking on the whole narco trafficking chain from production right up to financing and international networks. We're using all of the means of eradication allowed under the law, including air tracking with strict sanitary regulations. We agree with report 8198. that we need to strengthen financial investigations under the principle of common and shared responsibilities, taking account also of supply and demand. We also reiterate our support for the Office and we express our concern on the reduction on its budget that is planned for the next two years and we think that partners should guarantee sustainable financing. Thank you. 3rd Committee · Chair [1:40:33]: Thank you, Colombia. I pass the floor to the Syrian Arab Republic, to be followed by Namibia. Syrian Arab Republic, you have the floor. Syrian Arab Republic [1:40:43]: Thank you, Mr. Chair. Syria in the latest decade has seen one of its darkest eras in its modern history. The last regime turned the country into a factory of drugs to export to other countries and all over the world. After rebuilding the Ministry of Interior from the ground up, we have combated these issues. And in our participation of the 15th Crime Congress of the UN, we exhibited our readiness to engage in partnership with the UNODC and Interpol and all interested states and partners. In conclusion, in paragraph 10 of the Secretary-General's report on combating drugs, it was mentioned that the change of government in the Syrian Arab Republic in late 2024 has disrupted the Keptagon market without mentioning that the reason behind this is the positive strategies and policies adopted by the new Syrian government. And we would like this to be mentioned in the upcoming report, as law enforcement in Syria deserves to take credit for the massive effort it's exerting in order to eliminate this scourge in support of Syrians and everyone in the world. Thank you, Mr. Chair. 3rd Committee · Chair [1:41:58]: I thank the Syrian Arab Republic, and I now pass the floor to the Permanent Representative of Namibia. You have the floor. Thank you. Namibia · Africa Group · Permanent Representative [1:42:07]: Thank you, Chairperson. Your Excellencies, the African Group thanks the UN Secretary-General for the reports under this agenda item and takes note of the recommendations contained therein. The Group congratulates the appointment in May of Ambassador Yuma as the Executive Director of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime. Distinguished delegates, we recognize that crime is an impediment to sustainable development, hence the African group affirms its commitment to fight crime in all its forms and manifestations. We further recognize that effective cooperation at the national, subregional, and regional, and international levels and the provisions of technical assistance in criminal matters, especially in developing countries, majority of which reside in Africa, are essential to addressing the rapidly evolving transnational and technology-embedded nature of crime. In this regard, we are pleased with the established relationship between the United Nations Africa Institute for Prevention of Crime and the Treatment of the Offenders and UNODC, which we believe will strengthen the work of UNAFRI to fulfill its core mandate. Mr. Chairperson, UNAFRI remains committed to helping African states formulate effective policies and program prevention. 3rd Committee · Chair [1:43:40]: I thank the Permanent Representative of Namibia. I pass the floor to Algeria, to be followed by China, and then to complete our list, Lao People's Democratic Republic and Cuba. Algeria, you have the floor. Algeria [1:43:53]: Thank you, Mr. Chair. Algeria reaffirms its steadfast commitment to combating drug trafficking and transnational organized crime, which threatens international peace, security, and sustainable development. Our national efforts are also reflected in intensified border surveillance and coordinated security operations by security forces. In this context, during the first half of In 2026, our defense force seized more than 157 quantiles of treated cannabis resin, more than 731 kilograms of cocaine, and more than 26 million psychotropic tablets. We recognize that effectively dismantling organized crime requires targeting not only criminals' activities, but also their financial resources through asset recovery, information sharing, and judicial cooperation. Mr. Chair, I have a question to the representative of the UNODC. According to the Secretary General's report, cannabis remains the most widely used drug worldwide and the drug of greatest concern in terms of drug use disorders in a significant number of countries. What concrete measures can UNODC take to address the illicit cultivation of cannabis, particularly at its sources? Thank you. 3rd Committee · Chair [1:45:09]: Thank you, Algeria. I pass the floor to China. You have the floor. China [1:45:17]: Chair, crime prevention and drug control are important areas of global governance that bear on the well-being of the people of the world. The international community should practice true multilateralism, support UN's central role, and with firm political will and a sense of responsibility, address all traditional and emerging forms of crimes. China commends UNODC's important role in advancing criminal justice, promoting rule of law, international cooperation and technical assistance, and preventing and combating crimes. Going forward, a series of important processes will take place in the governance of global crime prevention and drug control. We hope UNODC will continue its focus on mandate and core responsibilities, being open, inclusive and efficient in carrying activities, and paying attention to developing countries' consensus. concerns. China attaches great importance to the rule of law, crime prevention, and criminal justice. We comprehensively strengthen law in key emerging foreign-related fields. As one of the first countries to sign and ratify the UN Convention against Transnational Organized Crime and the UN Anti-Corruption Convention, China has consistently and faithfully fulfilled its obligations, actively engaged in international cooperation, and effectively prevented and combated all forms of crimes. Guided by the concept of community with a the future of mankind, China will actively advocate for and implement the four global initiatives proposed by President Xi Jinping and make a contribution to the development of the rule of law. 3rd Committee · Chair [1:46:48]: Thank you, China. Lao PDR, you have the floor. Lao People's Democratic Republic [1:46:53]: Thank you, Mr. Chair. I would like to thank Ms. Monica Chuma for your comprehensive report. The Lao PDR appreciates to the UNODC for its investment in alternative development intervention in many countries, including in the Lao PDR. The Lao PDR highly appreciates the continued support and assistance provided by the UNODC, particularly through its development programme, which has contributed to the Lao PDR efforts in implementing our national on addressing drugs issue. We therefore stand ready to continue our cooperation with the UNODC, the UN agency and partners, and engage in technical action to address and counter the illicit drug and related problem in our country, subregion, region and globally. Thank you. 3rd Committee · Chair [1:47:55]: Thank you, Lao PDR. And finally, Cuba, you have the floor. Cuba [1:48:02]: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. We share the efforts of the United Nations in favor of the fight against crime and the promotion of criminal justice, understanding that confronting crime cannot be dissociated from the fight against underdevelopment, poverty, and a more just, democratic, and equitable world order. The creation of ranking among countries and are practices that should be denounced and abolished. These instruments only promote to politicization and selectivity, especially against countries of the South. We deeply regret attempts to alter the status quo in dealing with the global problem of drugs. We also reject the use of the fight against drug trafficking as a way to violate the sovereignty of countries and to attack boats in international waters in violation of international law and any legalities. established. We condemn extrajudicial executions in the Caribbean by the United States and in the waters of the Pacific. Cuba has fully complied with its obligations in the fight against organized crime and has demonstrated a commitment to confront international terrorism, drug trafficking, money laundering, and trafficking of persons. Instead of the worsened blockade by the United States, we're continuing to work in these areas. Thank you. 3rd Committee · Chair [1:49:23]: Thank you, Cuba. That completes our list of delegations seeking to intervene. I now refer back to Ms. Welsh for her response to any of the issues raised. Thank you very much indeed, Ms. Welsh. UNODC · Director, Division for Policy Analysis and Public Affairs [1:49:42]: Thank you very much, Chair, and really many thanks to the delegates who have highlighted the challenges that countries are facing that are increasingly complex due to transnational organized crime and various phenomena, including money laundering, terrorism, cybercrime, and others that have been highlighted. We are also very appreciative of the comments that have been made in support of UNODC's technical assistance that we look forward to continue to work with you to enable you to prevent and counter these challenges. I'd like to respond to the questions that were asked. One of them was relating from El Salvador on technical cooperation. There are many things I think that need to be done. And as were highlighted by El Salvador, they need to be not only at the national level, but also regional and global. So I would recommend strengthening cooperation amongst customs, police, and judicial authorities. to identify trafficking risks, disrupt illicit financial and drug flows, and to prevent criminal networks from exploiting communities. This is something that we work with countries to do, including through container control and also building national capacities to counter drug and precursor trafficking. I think it's also important as we've heard of the growing complexity of this, that we are that we can support countries to share information and intelligence and ensure that we're detecting the shifts as they're happening to allow countries to be able to counter. new trends and threats that are arising. And lastly, and it was highlighted by several countries, you know, the importance not only of going after the drug trafficking routes, but also all of the illicit financial proceeds that are made by this. And there's important work to be done in terms of financial investigations and sharing this information and going after stolen assets. There was a question from Libya with regards to the fact that drug trafficking is often being committed now online and questions around that. UNODC, I agree that there is work that needs to be done in terms of providing digital awareness tools and protecting children online. This is something that we do work with countries to do to try to enhance the protection in digital spaces by expanding digital literacy and also strengthening the capacity of relevant authorities to prevent and to counter technology-facilitated violence and exploitation of children. As we highlighted earlier, There have now been 95 signatories and three ratifications of the new Cybercrime Convention, and we believe that this will provide valuable tools to countries around the world once it enters into force to be able to do this. The other -- the point made by Syria in terms of the efforts of the government is well noted. We have done longer studies and with more detailed information on this. and have certainly highlighted the critical role that Syria has played in this, working also with other authorities in the region based on new research that we've done that have identified risks and really have led to immediate action taken by Syrian authorities and others in the region. There was also a question by Algeria in terms of cannabis. Indeed, cannabis does continue to be the drug that's widest use, and in some regions of the world, it is also the leading cause of persons who are seeking treatment for drug use. What UNODC can do, there are a number of things. First of all, part of what we do is monitoring crops as they're produced, and this is something we do in cooperation with countries. around the world in different areas. And of course, we strengthen the capacities of national authorities to detect and then disrupt drug trafficking flows that are happening. And as was highlighted by many countries, of course, no country can combat these issues alone. And we need to work to strengthen regional and global cooperation to make sure that authorities are working closely together. The other element of which is an important element way to counter this kind of drug supply, and this was highlighted by the representative of Lao PDR as well as Nigeria, is alternative development and really working with communities to transit them from illicit economies, including the cultivation and trafficking of drugs, towards licit economies. And we believe that this can play an important element of reducing global supply of drugs and providing more sustainable development opportunities for communities. I believe that those are the main points, and I know we're under time pressure, so, Chair, I will turn the floor back to you. Thank you very much for this opportunity and for the valuable questions and comments from the delegates. 3rd Committee · Chair [1:55:08]: Thank you, Director, for that response. Very much appreciated. I have nobody else taking the floor, and I would just like to remind delegations that the deadline for submission of draft proposals under these items, as well as item 24, is tomorrow, Tuesday, 13 October, at 1:00 p.m. I will now move-- so thank you very much indeed, UNODC. I will now move to invite the committee to resume its consideration of agenda item 59, report of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, questions relating to refugees, returnees, and displaced persons, and humanitarian questions. and the Committee will now resume its general discussion of agenda item 59. We have a time limit of four minutes for delegations speaking on behalf of a group of States, and three minutes for interventions by individual delegations. The microphones will blink 30 seconds before expiration of the time limit, and will be automatically switched off, as has been the case throughout. I now have a list of speakers in front of me. I'm just going to check with the secretary. It's my pleasure to invite the permanent representative of Namibia on behalf of the African group to speak. You have the floor. Namibia · Africa Group · Permanent Representative [1:56:44]: Thank you, Chair. As we mark the 75th anniversary of the 1951 Refugee Convention and the 65th anniversary of the 1961 Convention on the Reduction of Statelessness, the Group reaffirms its commitment to international protection and equitable burden and responsibility sharing. These anniversaries must inspire renewed solidarity with displaced persons and host communities. Although global forced displacements declined to 117.8 million at the end of 2025, we remain concerned that the protection needs remain substantial. We note with concern that nearly 70% of refugees remain in protracted displacement and that some returns occurred under adverse conditions. Returns must be voluntary, safe, dignified, and sustainable, with full respect for non-refoulement. Mr. Chair, we remain deeply concerned about emergencies and displacement in our continent, compounded by insecurity and climate-related shocks. We commend the continued generosity of African host countries despite considerable pressures on their national resources and services. We are deeply concerned by the 26% decline in UNHCR's available resources in 2025, resulting in workforce reductions of more than one-third and the closure of 140 offices. We also regret the closure of at least 140 safe spaces for women and girls and the weakening of child protection capacity. We urge predictable, flexible, multi-year funding to sustain protection and assistance, including violence prevention, child protection, and uninterrupted education. Master Chair, we welcome the efforts across Africa to strengthen asylum systems, expand access to work and national services, and promote refugee self-reliance. These advances required investment benefiting refugees and host communities alike, stronger development partnerships, and equitable support for local and refugee-led organizations. We also welcome regional efforts to addressing internal displacement and statelessness, including through the Kampala Convention, and work towards a model law on national and statelessness. Civic documentation and birth registration remain essential to protecting rights and preventing exclusion. The African Group will present its annual draft resolution on assistance to refugees, returnees, and displaced persons in Africa. which seeks to mobilize sustained international support to address the continent's humanitarian challenges, including protracted refugee situations and internal displacements, while promoting equitable burden and responsibility sharing and support for African host countries and communities. We count on the constructive engagement and support of all delegations. I thank you, Mr. Chair. 3rd Committee · Chair [2:00:04]: I thank the Permanent Representative of Namibia. I now give the floor to Cuba, to be followed by Ethiopia. Cuba, you have the floor. Cuba · Group of Friends in Defence of the Charter of the United Nations [2:00:15]: Mr. Chairman, the Republic of Cuba has the honor to take the floor on behalf of the Group of Friends in Defense of the Charter of the United Nations. We'd like to begin by congratulating Mr. Ibrahim Salih on his appointment as the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees. In a world marked by conflicts, multidimensional crises, and growing threats to international peace and security, the work of the UNHCR remains as relevant today as it was when it was established 76 years ago. We recognize the vital work carried out by this agency in providing international protection for refugees, asylum seekers, displaced persons and stateless persons, as well as in seeking durable solutions for those forced to flee their homes. We consider that the best guarantee for ensuring sustained progress towards a more peaceful and secure world, in which development and human rights are a reality, is the full adherence to the spirit under which the United Nations was established, as clearly enshrined in the principles and purposes of its founding Charter, including the promotion of friendly relations among nations on the basis of respect for the principle of equal rights, self-determination and the settlement of disputes through dialogue and cooperation. These valuable principles are increasingly under threat by the advent of unilateral tendencies, including those resulting from the illegal application of unilateral coercive measures that, in a progressive manner, are attempting to undermine the validity of multilateralism as the way for addressing the great global challenges and threats of today's world. In this context, while welcoming and encouraging the work of the United Nations in the field of humanitarian assistance, including that of the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, the Group of Friends insists that the best guarantee for the success of its mandate is, again, ensuring full adherence to the core principles of humanity, neutrality, impartiality, and operational independence, as outlined in General Assembly resolution 46/182. We also consider it necessary to address the root causes of forced displacement, including armed conflict, violence, poverty, inequality, instability, and the consequences of certain policies that exacerbate economic and social vulnerabilities. only through full coordination and national ownership in a context of maximum transparency. The activities undertaken by the UNHCR will count with the legitimacy needed to for avoiding any risk of being politically exploited by external actors, which would ultimately undermine trust and call into question the credibility of the specialized agencies, programs, and funds of the United Nations system. To conclude, we reaffirm our willingness to collaborate at the national, regional, and international levels on this important subject, while reiterating the importance of addressing the issues inherent to the mandate of the UNHCR from a perspective of respect, dialogue, and cooperation, and avoiding at all times the politicization of the figure of refugee. I thank you, Mr. Chairman. 3rd Committee · Chair [2:03:44]: Thank you, Cuba. I pass to Ethiopia to be followed by Saudi Arabia. Ethiopia, you have the floor. Ethiopia [2:03:52]: Mr. Chair, my delegation aligns itself with the statement delivered by Namibia on behalf of the African Group. Ethiopia has long been recognized for hosting refugees due to high influx from neighboring countries and beyond owing to our open-door policy rooted in humanity and solidarity. We speak about refugees not only as one of the world's largest refugee hosting countries, but also from our history that dates back to the very origin of Islam. In the seventh century, an Ethiopian king granted protection to the companions of Prophet Muhammad, making Ethiopia the first land of refuge in Islamic history, a legacy of sanctuary that continues to define our national character. Therefore, Ethiopia speaks not from the margins of this conversation, rather from its very center. Ethiopia has demonstrated through action that protection and possibility are not competing priorities, rather complementary. Long before the endorsement of the Global Compact on Refugees, we formally launched a comprehensive refugee response framework. Our refugee proclamation is most progressive in granting refugees the right to work, access to education, freedom of movement, civil documentation, and access to land, including out-of-camp policy. Yet, the global burden-sharing architecture remains deeply unequal. Developing nations host over 75% of the world's refugees, often with limited resources and constrained fiscal space. Solidarity cannot remain a rhetorical commitment. It must translate into adequate financing, as well as meaningful resettlement pathways. Mr. Chair, the traditional humanitarian aid model in refugee hosting areas is increasingly showing its limitations. Parallel service delivery through humanitarian actors is often costly, disconnected from national systems and built on unsustainable financing mechanisms, while doing little to address the gap in access to services for refugees themselves. Over time, shifting priorities and policy changes inevitably lead to a drawdown of external support, leaving behind deteriorating services and strained relations between refugee and host communities. Breaking this cycle requires a fundamental shift. Ethiopia has launched a concrete initiative called the Makatet Roadmap, which literally means inclusion. The roadmap envisions a future where refugees and host communities enjoy access to strengthened economic opportunities, whereas refugees are considered as active contributors to the communities that host them. In conclusion, Mr. Chair, as we commemorate the 75th anniversary of the 1951 Convention, We must renew our collective commitment to upholding its principles and ensuring their universal application. We call on the international community to strengthen support for voluntary repatriation, local integration, and sub-country solutions. I thank you. 3rd Committee · Chair [2:06:49]: Thank you, Ethiopia. I give the floor to Saudi Arabia. Saudi Arabia [2:06:59]: Thank you, Mr. Chair. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia follows with concern the continued forced displacement in numerous regions of the world, with humanitarian suffering and burdens on host communities and countries. The report of the High Commissioner for Refugees mentions that the number of forcibly displaced has reached 117.8 million people by the end of 2025, and that the declining funding or financing, rather, has limited the ability of the HCR to provide protection and assistance. We saw the importance of sharing responsibility and support for host states, especially amid protracted crises. Mr. Chair, when dealing with those affected by conflicts, we are guided by our Islamic values that call for peace, brotherhood, and helping those in distress. The aid by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia provided to refugees and IDPs inside the kingdom and outside had totaled 25 billion US dollars. We also host brethren from crisis countries. We provide them with free education and health care, as well as job opportunities, movement, and integration in society. Internationally, we have implemented through the King Salman Humanitarian Relief Center projects in the fields of food, shelter, health, education, and protection in cooperation with UN bodies and host countries. There is, for instance, a program with HCR in order to promote services of protection, healthcare, legal assistance for IDPs and refugees in Yemen. We also provided a grant in cooperation with HCR in order to provide safe waters for communities affected by the crisis in or the conflict in Sudan, as well as basic services for refugees of Rohingya in Bangladesh. We believe that urgent needs must be, the response to urgent needs must be supported by addressing the root crisis of displacement. This includes as well voluntary, safe and dignified return, as well as reducing burdens for the host communities. We remain committed to cooperation with ACRO and the partners in order to alleviate the suffering of refugees and IDPs and working for sustainable solutions that safeguard their dignity and support the stability of their communities. I thank you. 3rd Committee · Chair [2:09:16]: Thank you, Saudi Arabia. I pass the floor to Algeria, to be followed by Thailand. Algeria, you have the floor. Algeria [2:09:27]: Mr. Chair, Algeria thanks the High Commissioner for his report and reaffirms its full support for UNHCR's mandate. As displacement deepens and resources tighten, assistance must remain guided by humanitarian needs. Funding shortfalls must not compound the hardship of peoples who have endured decades of exile. In this regard, Palestinians and Sahrawi, among other peoples, bear the brunt of this unfortunate situation, resulting in deprivation and looming threat of malnutrition. Mr. Chair, for more than 50 years, Sahrawi refugees in the Tindouf camps have awaited a just and lasting solution, while my country, Algeria, continues to fulfill its responsibilities as a host country and facilitate humanitarian work. We welcome renewed attention to durable solutions. Their success should be measured by whether refugees can make meaningful, informed, and unpressured choices, not simply by closure figures or numerical targets amid financial constraints. The three recognized pathways must not become administrative tools for closing protracted situations or be applied as in one-size-fits-all formula. Each must suit the circumstances and choices of the refugees concerned. This is important in the Sahrawi context. Western Sahara remains on the United Nations list of non-self-governing territories, and its final status has yet to be determined. Humanitarian action must therefore continue without delay, but must neither prejudge that status nor settle it by implication. Mr. Chair, as a host country, Algeria is committed to protecting refugees under the 1951 Refugee Convention and cannot accept measures that risk refoulement under the guise of durable solutions. Any return must be safe, dignified and genuinely voluntary. For the Sahrawi people, return is inseparable from their inalienable right to self-determination. This makes it even more essential to preserve UNHCR's humanitarian, social and non-political character. The Office must be able to carry out its mandate impartially, free from political instrumentalization or pressure to enter debates beyond its responsibilities. Finally, Algeria will continue to support UNHCR so that it may remain a beacon of hope for the oppressed and most vulnerable and continue its noble service to all humanity. I thank you. 3rd Committee · Chair [2:12:08]: Thank you, Algeria. I pass the floor to the Permanent Representative of Myanmar, to be followed by Thailand and then Cambodia. Permanent Representative of Myanmar, you have the floor. Myanmar · Permanent Representative [2:12:20]: Thank you, Mr. Chair. To begin, I would like to thank the High Commissioner for his comprehensive report and commend the UNHCR for his dedication. Suffering from ethnic conflict and a dire human rights and humanitarian situation since the illegal military coup, In 2021, Myanmar shared the deep concern regarding the alarming case of global refugees crisis. Looking at Myanmar alone, the people of Myanmar did not begin refugees by choice. The crisis has reached a new low with over 4 million people internally displaced and approximately 1.63 million refugees and asylum seekers scattered across the region. Every day, the Military Junta and its affiliates are abducting, forcibly recruiting, and committing multiple forms of lawless and tortures against the people of Myanmar. Their atrocities clearly mounting to war crimes and crimes against humanity. That's the safe return of refugee is currently impossible. However, we are deeply concerned by the recent developments presenting great new perils While there is a renewed fear for refugees in a dangerous and politically complex setting, we are witnessing thousands being sent back to the very perpetrators responsible for the crisis in Myanmar. Such actions expose refugees to the risk of further persecution, torture and harm, and even forced conscription. We therefore request that host countries abide by the principles of non-refoulement, continue providing access to asylum, and to uphold international protection obligations. At the same time, we remain grateful to the many host country governments, partners, and donors for providing protections and implementing policies that mitigate refugee suffering despite shrinking resources. We particularly recognize those of our neighbors who have been sharing the burden and supporting those fleeing violence. Here, we ask the international community to continue supporting host countries and all relevant actors involved in this endeavor. Without your persistent support, the survival of our refugees would be nearly impossible. In this respect, we are working to the fullest extent possible. We are of the view that any discussions of refugee return must be grounded in reality. Return cannot be forced while the root cause of the displacement remains unchecked. In the case of Myanmar, this root cause is the illegal military junta and its thugs. True protection, alongside the safe, voluntary and dignified return of our people, requires the complete dismantling of the military dictatorship and its culture of impunity. We ask the international community and our partner to stand by us with sustained solidarity, effective support, and resolute political will needed to resolve the refugee crisis. And thank you, Mr. Chair. 3rd Committee · Chair [2:15:18]: I thank the Permanent Representative of Myanmar. I pass to Thailand and then Cambodia. Thailand, you have the floor. Thailand [2:15:26]: Chair. Thailand thanks the High Commissioner for the comprehensive report and commends the UNHCR's continued efforts to protect and assist forcibly displaced persons worldwide. The report shows that despite reductions in the number of forcibly displaced persons, protracted displacement, declining humanitarian funding and limited resettlement opportunities continue to pose serious challenges. Against this backdrop, Thailand wishes to highlight three points. First, international solidarity and burden and responsibility sharing remain essential. 68% of refugees are being hosted by low and middle income countries. The international community must therefore strengthen support for host countries and communities. We welcome the pledges and financial commitments made at last December's Global Refugee Forum and look forward to their implementation. Second, Thailand remains committed to strengthening protection and promoting self-reliance for Myanmar displaced persons. We welcome the UNHCR's efforts to enhance efficiency and promote long-term, durable solutions. In 2025, Thailand began implementing a policy allowing Myanmar displaced persons to work outside the temporary shelters. Over 6,000 have now entered the labor market and have access to health insurance. Our goal is to reduce aid dependency, promote dignity, and enable displaced persons to contribute meaningfully to society. Thailand is also exploring measures on access to employment under our national screening mechanism for persons who may face persecution or serious harm if they return to their countries of origin. Third, ending statelessness remains a priority. As a founding member of the Global Alliance to End Statelessness, Thailand continues to implement an accelerated pathway to permanent residency and nationality for nearly 490,000 stateless persons. As of July 2026, over 121,000 individuals have benefited from this initiative. We also, earlier this year, adopted an action plan on resolving statelessness, delivering on our pledges at the Global Refugees Forum. Chair, Thailand reaffirms our commitment to working closely with the UNHCR and partners to advance durable solutions, uphold human dignity, and ensure that no one is left behind. I thank you. 3rd Committee · Chair [2:18:10]: Thank you, Thailand. I pass now to Cambodia, who in the absence of anybody else is the last delegation seeking to intervene from the floor. Cambodia, you have the floor. Cambodia [2:18:23]: Thank you, Chair. Cambodia expresses its appreciation to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees for its continued efforts. to protect and assist refugees, returnees and internally displaced persons across the globe. The work of UNHCR is even more indispensable at a time when humanitarian needs are rising and protection challenges are becoming increasingly complex. The conflict, geographical fragmentation and certain lateral action continue to weaken mechanism designed to safeguard civilians. The persistent increase in scale, severity and protected nature of forced displacement is a matter of serious concern for international community. Cambodia underscores that addressing the root cause of displacement requires sustained efforts to prevent conflict. promote peace, stability, reduce vulnerabilities, and advance sustainable development. These efforts must be supported by strengthened international cooperation, multilateral engagement, and genuine solidarity. Directly relevant to humanitarian concerns, Cambodia, more than 20,000 internally displaced persons, IDPs, affected by the border conflict, desire and deserve to return home in safety and dignity. Their return home and to their livelihoods requires greater attention, especially as children eagerly await to go back to their original schools. Cambodia reaffirms that the protection of and assistance to IDPs and the pursuit of durable solutions require full respect for international law and relevant agreements. We therefore call for continued international attention, cooperation and humanitarian support for affected populations and urge states to respect international law, sovereignty and territorial integrity as the bedrock principles. I thank you, Chair. 3rd Committee · Chair [2:20:50]: Thank you, Cambodia. That concludes our list of speakers seeking to intervene from the floor. I have one delegation who is seeking a right of reply. It has been requested in accordance with rule 115 of the Rules of Procedure of the General Assembly. I would remind delegations that the number of interventions in exercise of the right of reply for any delegation at a given meeting should be limited to two per item. The first intervention should be limited to five minutes and the second to three minutes. I give the floor to Morocco, who has requested the right of reply. Morocco, you have the floor. Morocco [2:21:31]: Thank you, Mr. Chair. My delegation is exercising its right to reply following the statement of the Algerian delegation. We regret the fact that Algeria has diverted a debate about the protection of refugees to the sustainable solutions for its separate political considerations and nothing to do with human rights. With regard to the Tindouf camp, the first obstacle to a sustainable solution is on its own territory, that's on Algerian territory. For almost five decades, these peoples have not been registered. And this refusal has continued despite the repeated calls of the Security Council and the conclusion of the HR Council. However, there are no individual protection, no assessment of needs, and no access to lasting solutions. So in violation of international law, they've ignored their international commitments, and there's an armed group on the soil of Algeria. This situation deprives the persons concerned of effective recourse and of their free movement and any considerations considering their future. The HCR can't provide any aid. The people of Dindouf are in a situation of prolonged refugee status, which is weaponized for political ends, and they're in a situation of humanitarian dependency. Morocco, for its part, has always stated that its doors are open to voluntary return, which is dignified and safe for those people, through the Moroccan autonomy programme. The Security Council considers this programme to be a serious and credible basis. Thank you very much. 3rd Committee · Chair [2:23:25]: Morocco, I have a right of reply requested by Algeria now. Algeria, you have the floor. Algeria [2:23:35]: I am compelled to take the floor to respond to the declaration of the representative of Morocco. Although it is usual, the statement of Morocco is always surprising. Surprising because in my statement, I did not mention at all Morocco. I addressed the issue of Sahrawi refugees that my country hosts in Tindouf camps in Algeria. The refugees camps are in Algeria, not in Morocco. The refugees are Sahrawi refugees, not Moroccan refugees. And yet, the declaration of Morocco not only deemed it appropriate to speak, but resorted to old stratagem of diversion and baseless allegations. I will not dignify their allegations and falsehood with any response. Those allegations amount not only to accusations against Algeria, but also accusations against the entire UN system and international aid agencies who are working closely with Algerian authorities in and around the Tindouf camps. To conclude, I reiterate that the Sahrawis in the refugee camps are the bearers of a just cause, a right to self-determination. a right that does not vanish with the prolongation of the occupation, nor be consigned to oblivion. I thank you. 3rd Committee · Chair [2:24:56]: Thank you, Algeria. Morocco has requested the floor again. Morocco, you have the floor. Morocco [2:25:01]: Thank you, Mr. Chair. My delegation will be very brief. The delegation of Algeria states that it is not a party to this dispute, but that's not the question that's being asked in this committee. Algeria has the like anyone involved, there's no, it's essential to register people to guarantee that they can stay on their territory. You can't just refuse those obligations. Algeria is mentioning also self-determination. Well, registration is a humanitarian measure, which is neutral and has no effect on any political issues. It's moreover, practiced everywhere else in the world. Refusing to count people because of their political principles is putting an agenda before protecting them. Lastly, the concerns regarding the delegation of responsibilities of the host country to an armed group don't come from Morocco. They were expressed by the Human Rights Committee in their last statement on Algeria. So it's a simple question. What is stopping the HRC to register the Tindouf camp and to give them a sustainable solution. Thank you. 3rd Committee · Chair [2:26:17]: And Algeria has also requested a further right of reply. Algeria, you have the floor. Algeria [2:26:25]: Thank you, Chair. I am compelled to take the floor once again to respond to the declaration of the representative of Morocco. This is very little to add, except to recall one fundamental fact: the people of Western Sahara remain under Moroccan colonial occupation. The question is very relevant to the work of our committee today, let alone that the question of Western Sahara is at the agenda of the UN as a matter of decolonization. This is not debatable. It gives me the opportunity to remind the following: In the Secretary-General report A/81/295, it is stated in paragraph 23 that the OHCHR has not been granted access to the territory since 2015, despite repeated requests, and although the Security Council has also made repeated requests for a technical visit. Since 2015, 11 years. But the report does not stop here. The same paragraph makes an even more serious observation. The absence of independent and sustained human rights monitoring remained a significant obstacle to assessing the human rights situation in the territory. These are documented facts, not allegations. I thank you. 3rd Committee · Chair [2:27:49]: Thank you, Algeria. I see no other delegation. wishing to take the floor, in which case that now concludes our general discussion of agenda item 59. I invite the committee to begin its consideration of agenda item 65, under the heading Report of the Human Rights Council. The documentation under agenda item 65 is listed on iGov. We will now move to our general discussion on that item. Time limits are four minutes for delegations speaking on behalf of a group of states, three minutes for interventions by individual delegations. The same principles apply, continue to apply in relation to time. Microphones will blink and then the microphone will be cut off. And I would encourage you all actively to monitor the live list to ensure you're ready to speak at the time that the list shows you. I have a range of states on my list in front of me, and I'm going to start by inviting the permanent representative of Namibia on behalf of the African group to initiate this discussion. Thank you, to be followed by Cuba. Namibia · Africa Group · Permanent Representative [2:29:06]: Thank you, Mr. Chair. The African group welcomes the report of the Human Rights Council, which consists of resolutions and decisions adopted in the 61st and 62nd session and special sessions of the council. The Council, since its establishment in 2006, has served as a main subsidiary body of this organization, mandated with the responsibility to promote and protect human rights as a core value enshrined in the UN Charter. The African Group has continually supported the work of the Council via active participation in sessions and more so in the various cycles of the universal periodic review undertaken by the Council. Mr. Chair, With a population of about 1.59 billion people, the issue of human rights is at the core of the African continent, as reflected in the African Charter on Human and Peoples' Rights, which is a complementary instrument to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. In this regard, the Group reasserts its unwavering support for the work of the Council in advancing the rights of women and children, quality education, accessible health services, independent and just institutions, sustainable development, and other fundamental rights and freedoms. We call for the independence of the Council in consideration of human rights issues, coupled with the transparent working methods and predictable and adequate financing of social procedures mandate holders. The credibility of the international human rights system depends on the consistent application of the principles and universality, impartiality, objectivity, and non-selectivity and non-politicization. We also reiterate that the effective promotion and protection of human rights requires a balanced approach that gives due attention to civil and political rights, as well as economic, social and cultural rights, including the right to development. Mr Chair, the group reaffirms that the effective and efficient Human Rights Council would require the implementation of the resolutions and outcomes adopted during its sessions as contained in the Council's annual report by Member States. In this regard, the group would be presenting its annual draft resolution on the adoption of the report of the Human Rights Council and calls for the support of all delegations in adopting the resolution and advance the mandate and work of the Council. I thank you, Mr. Chair. 3rd Committee · Chair [2:31:52]: I thank the Permanent Representative of Namibia and I pass the floor to Cuba. on behalf of the Group of Friends in Defence of the Charter of the United Nations, to be followed by France and Ethiopia. Cuba, you have the floor. Cuba · Group of Friends in Defence of the Charter of the United Nations [2:32:05]: Mr. Chair, the Republic of Cuba has the honour to take the floor on behalf of the Group of Friends in Defence of the Charter of the United nations, whose member states note the most recent report of the Human Rights Council as presented to the General Assembly in accordance with resolution 60/251. The member states of our group attach the utmost importance to the promotion and protection of all human rights, both individual and collective, with no distinction based on levels or categories. The promotion and protection of those rights must be strengthened on the basis of dialogue and cooperation, in accordance with the principles of impartiality, objectivity, transparency, non-selectivity, non-politicization and non-confrontation, while respecting at the same time the principles of sovereignty and non-interference. in matters that are basically within the domestic jurisdiction of any state, as established in the Charter of the United Nations. In that regard, we expect the Human Rights Council to provide balanced and context-based responses to today's human rights challenges, prioritizing dialogue and cooperation with states, while preventing the instrumentalization of its work and mechanisms by external actors. The Universal Periodic Review is the most appropriate and non-discriminatory platform for constructive engagement on human rights situations worldwide. At the same time, the Council must continuously review and update its mechanisms and working methods in accordance with resolution 5/1 on its institution-building package, so as to remain faithful to the principles that inspired its establishment. We must end, before it is too late, the negative and dangerous trends that have already led to the dissolution of the former Human Rights Commission. We reiterate our categorical rejection of double standards over human rights, and we express our serious concern at the continued and growing proliferation of mechanisms and procedures that pretend to make impartial assessments of the human rights situation in certain States, but that in most cases not only lack the due consent on participation of the state in question, but they also base their reports on secondary, tertiary or other sources that may be partial or lack credibility, and that ends up turning such documents into mere propaganda pamphlets. We categorically reject the establishment of the so-called independent international fact-finding missions, as well as the special rapporteurs mandated by country-specific resolutions, particularly those targeting members of our group, which are clearly biased and result from political motivations. We recall that mechanisms of this kind, which contribute nothing to human rights but do contribute to their politicisation, are often applied against nations that are subject to UCMs. This trend towards politicisation must be curbed. The Council cannot continue to serve as a tool of coercion. Dialogue, cooperation, engagement and full national ownership are the only viable path to strengthening human rights, both nationally and internationally. We reiterate our determination to actively contribute to the improvement of the effectiveness of the United Nations human rights system, including by strengthening the Human Rights Council, in order to uphold the Charter in both letter and spirit. Thank you very much. 3rd Committee · Chair [2:35:49]: Cuba. I pass the floor to France, to be followed by Ethiopia. France, you have the floor. France [2:35:58]: Thank you, Mr. Chair. As this year we mark the 20th anniversary of the Human Rights Council, France reaffirms its complete commitment and its full support for these pillars of the international system for the protection of human rights. Through its legitimacy at the international level and by the means that it gives to civil society and human rights defenders, despite the opportunity for a long time, the Council is essential to defending the universality of human rights. Since 2006, the Council has tried to determine fundamental freedoms, in particular women's rights, the right to a healthy environment, and even to take into account new technologies on human rights. The 63rd session, which has just been finished, resulted in the adoption of important resolutions on the forced disappearances or involuntary disappearances, access to healthy food, and the Special Rapporteur on the human rights in Russia. That mandate has been renewed so that we can still have an independent and impartial means of documenting the continuing deterioration and concerning deterioration of public liberties and fundamental freedoms. During this session, France has endorsed a joint declaration signed by 53 people on human rights and many human rights organizations calling for the decriminalization of consensual relations between persons of the same sex. We will continue the debates on this matter. France also welcomes the remarkable work of the mechanism created by the Council to examine the violation was in several countries such as Myanmar, Belarus, Nicaragua, Sudan, North Korea, even Afghanistan, where a year after the ban on based on women, the situation of women and girls is continuing to deteriorate. France will continue to play its full part in the universal fight to protect and promote fundamental rights, human dignity and the state of the rule of law. It will continue to invest fully in the work of the Human Rights Council to ensure proper coordination of its work with those of the Committee and of the General Assembly, and the demanding work of the body established by the Council. 3rd Committee · Chair [2:38:30]: The floor to Ethiopia, followed by... I have a malus cubal. Ethiopia, you have the floor. Ethiopia [2:38:40]: Thanks once again, Mr. Chair. My delegation aligns itself with the statement delivered by Namibia on behalf of the Africa Group. As we mark the 20th anniversary of the Human Rights Council, Ethiopia recognizes its important role as a successor of the 60 years old Commission on Human Rights. We underscore the need to preserve the Council's credibility and effectiveness through impartiality and constructive dialogue, while safeguarding its role as a trusted pillar of the UN human rights system. Ethiopia also welcomes the recently adopted resolution 80/287 concerning the Council's role as a subsidiary body of the General Assembly. We underscore the importance of strengthening the Council's institutional standing and ensuring that it effectively fulfills its mandate in accordance with the principles of universality and non-selectivity. We emphasize that constructive engagement, mutual respect, and international cooperation should remain at the center of the Council's work. The promotion and protection of human rights must be pursued through a balanced and comprehensive approach that recognize the interdependence and equal importance, not only civil and political rights, but also social, economic and cultural rights, including the right to development. Mr. Chair, Ethiopia has undertaken significant legal and institutional reforms since 2018 under the leadership of our Prime Minister, His Excellency Dr. Abiy Ahmed. aimed at strengthening democratic institutions, expanding civic space and enhancing the national human rights protection framework. These efforts include reforms to the judiciary and other democratic institutions, alongside initiatives to advance transitional justice and national dialogue. In this regard, As an important institutional milestone, the Ethiopian Human Rights Commission has achieved grade A accreditation status under the Paris Principles, reflecting progress in strengthening its independence and capacity to promote and protect human rights. We also underscore the importance of adequate resourcing and technical assistance to enable the Council to discharge its responsibilities effectively, emphasizing that allocation of resource and financial support should be guided by objective needs, and the priorities of all Member States free from undue influence of other considerations. In conclusion, Mr. Chair, as an active member of the Council, Ethiopia remains committed to constructive engagement in advancing a human rights system grounded in cooperation, mutual respect, and tangible results. I thank you, Mr. Chair. 3rd Committee · Chair [2:41:21]: Thank you, Ethiopia. I give the floor to Cuba, to be followed by Kuwait, then Ghana. Cuba, you have the floor. Cuba [2:41:29]: Mr Chair, human rights are based on universal shared values which don't belong exclusively to any company. Nobody is free from challenges in this matter or should try to set themselves up as a paradigm of human rights or try to impose their view on everyone else. What we need is a true spirit of dialogue and constructive cooperation that will help to fully realize the rights of everybody, everywhere. In that regard, the HRC has an important role to play. The Council should advocate more actively for a democratic and equitable international order. It should take steps against those who promote UCMs, which have a devastating impact on the full enjoyment of the human rights of billions of people, and it should promote inalienable human rights, such as the right to development, food, peace, and international solidarity. We are concerned about the proliferation of negative trends such as selectivity, double standards, punitive approaches and politicization with regard to human rights. These generate confrontation and mistrust and they do not improve the situation of people on the ground. It's urgent to preserve the Council from these negative practices and it's unacceptable that we are still viewing selectively the situation of some countries in the Global South, some of which are suffering from UCMs which have a serious impact on human rights, while silence is kept, not a word is said about the violations committed in or by rich, highly developed countries. We must continue to promote the Universal Periodic Review as the only mechanism for the full analysis of the situation of human rights in all countries, on an equal footing and without discrimination. Special Procedures holders must observe the code of conduct adopted during the institution building process and they must work on the base of objective, accurate and substantiated information. The Council is and must remain being a subsidiary body of the GA, as confirmed recently in resolution 80/287. Its strengthening is an objective that we share and it should be pursued We oppose the attempts to establish a greater link between the Human Rights Council and the Security Council, or that the Security Council should take on responsibilities as part of its mandate. From our membership in this body, we will continue to act responsibly, promoting all human rights for all, convinced that constructive dialogue and international cooperation are the only ways to achieve progress in this area. Thank you very much. 3rd Committee · Chair [2:44:05]: Thank you, Cuba. I pass to Kuwait, then Ghana. Kuwait, you have the floor. Kuwait [2:44:13]: Thank you, Mr. Chair. At the outset, my delegation would like to express its appreciation for the efforts made by the Human Rights Council in the promotion and protection of human rights. We emphasize the importance of the role the Council plays in facing the increasing challenges and in entrenching the principles of equality and human dignity. Mr. Chair, we emphasize our full support for the Human Rights Council and its subsidiary bodies, and we emphasize the importance of its work being grounded in universality and objectivity and non-selectivity, with no double standards or politicization. This would enhance its credibility and its ability to uphold its responsibilities, and this would also guarantee that human rights matters are addressed in a spirit of cooperation and mutual respect. During our membership in the Security Council in 2024 to 2026, the State of Kuwait was keen to contribute effectively in the work of the Council through its participation in interactive dialogues and the comprehensive review mechanism, a periodic review mechanism, while giving special attention to humanitarian matters and the protection of humanitarian personnel. This is because we believe that the protection of humans and the preservation of their dignity is a shared responsibility that requires serious international commitment. In this context, we are submitting our candidacy for re-election for the Human Rights Council for the period 2027 to 2029 as confirmation of our desire to continue our responsible and constructive role We also intend to build on the initiatives and contributions we presented in our former term. We will cooperate with other Member States to uphold the goals for which the Council was created. We also emphasize the importance of coordination and integration between the treaty bodies and the General Assembly and the Human Rights Council with respecting the specific mandates of each and avoiding duplication and heeding the transformation of international commitments to tangible impact in people's basic enjoyment of their rights. In conclusion, we emphasize that the promotion of human rights cannot be measured by the size of obligations and oaths, but can be measured by the extent to which people can feel a difference in their daily lives. From this perspective, we renew our determination to continue collaborating with the international community for a more effective and credible Human Rights Council capable of protecting people's rights and preserving people's dignity without discrimination or selectivity. Thank you, Mr. Chair. 3rd Committee · Chair [2:47:01]: Thank you, Kuwait. Let me pass to Ghana, followed by Venezuela. Ghana, you have the floor. Microphone to Ghana, please. Ghana [2:47:30]: Ghana aligns itself with the statement of the African group. We now speak in our national capacity. The establishment of the Human Rights Council gave institutional expression to a funding promise of the United Nations to provide an invincible respect for human rights and the fundamental freedoms. Delivering on that promise remains our shared responsibility. Having served three previous terms on the Council, Ghana brings experience and resolve to its current membership. Our engagement is anchored in dialogue, cooperation, and principled action. We welcome the Council's reports and its consideration of thematic and country-specific human rights concerns. Its work must translate shared commitment into concrete protection for all. Ghana stands ready to advance its purpose with all member states. Mr. Chair, Ghana's commitment is reflected in action. We have participated in all four cycles of the universal periodic review and we are among the first African countries to join the African peer review mechanism. We continue to advance human rights through legislative reforms towards the abolition of the death penalty, the Justice for All program, and the strengthening of the Legal Aid Commission and the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice. Our objective is clear, to make rights meaningful and justice accessible to all. Government underscores the Council's credibility rests on universality, objectivity, non-selectivity, and non-politicization. These principles must guide the consistent and fair scrutiny of human rights concerns. Peace and security, development and human rights are mutually reinforcing. Progress in one depends on progress in the others. Mr. Chair, Ghana remains firmly committed to the Council's mandate and seeks re-election to build on its contribution. We count on the support of Member States to continue advancing on a Council that bridges differences, strengthens accountability, and delivers tangible improvements in people's lives. I thank you, Mr. Chair. 3rd Committee · Chair [2:49:55]: Thank you, Ghana. I pass to Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, to be followed by India and then Jordan. Venezuela, you have the floor. Venezuela (Bolivarian Republic of) [2:50:09]: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Venezuela is grateful for the holding of this meeting and reiterates its readiness to participate in a constructive dialogue based on mutual respect and cooperation among states. The 61st session of the Council commemorated the 40th anniversary of the Declaration on the Right to Development and the 60th anniversary of the UN Global Compact for Human Rights. This was an excellent opportunity to reaffirm the universality, indivisibility, and interdependence of all human rights as well as the principles of objectivity and non-politization that should govern their consideration. In this framework, we value progress towards a binding instrument that guarantees the right to development, and we renew our appeal to the General Assembly to begin without further delay negotiations on it and its adoption. We reaffirm also our firm opposition to mechanisms that operate without the consent of the state concerned at the margin of the principles of sovereignty, sovereign equality, and noninterference in the internal affairs of states. Venezuela is moving forward with determination in its recovery following the earthquakes of the 24th of June through the plan called Venezuela is Being Reborn that coordinates the reconstruction of housing, infrastructure, and basic services as a concrete expression of the right to development and the decisive will of the national government to leave no one behind. We agree with those who call, in the framework of the reform of this organization, to strengthen, rather than weaken, the human rights mechanisms in an architecture that is more efficient and respectful of the sovereign equality of states. while reaffirming that the Universal Periodic Review continues to be the most appropriate and non-confrontational mechanism for the review of human rights in all countries without distinction. Mr. Chairman, Venezuela reaffirms its commitment to multilateralism and to the strengthening of a Human Rights Council guided by universality, objectivity, impartiality, and international cooperation. We reiterate our readiness to contribute in a constructive manner to its work in defending an international human rights system based on dialogue, mutual respect, and the sovereign equality of states. Thank you very much. 3rd Committee · Chair [2:52:40]: Thank you, Venezuela. India, followed by Ukraine and Algeria. India, you have the floor. India [2:52:47]: Mr chair India takes note of the report regarding the work of human rights Council we thank the high Commissioner the president and the secretariat for their work throughout the year India's approach to human rights is rooted in our civilizational ethos of pluralism and peaceful coexistence as a member of the council India has engaged constructively in a spirit of dialogue and cooperation as the world's largest democracy India is committed to ensuring dignity for every citizen over 250 million people have have been lifted out of multidimensional poverty in the last decade, and our social protection system now reaches over 1 billion people, as recognized by the ILO. Free food grains for 800 million citizens, free health cover for 600 million citizens, and 320 million bank accounts for women reflect our people-centric development model. India will continue to work with the High Commissioner and OHCHR in a spirit of trust and partnership, as we remain committed to advancing human rights for all without selectivity and double standards. We hope that the UN human rights mechanisms will rise above politicization and selectivity, respecting cultural and historical context, so that these bodies remain an impartial moral compass for the world. India remains committed to promotion and protection of human rights for all, and working with all members to make the Council an effective, objective, and credible body. I thank you. 3rd Committee · Chair [2:54:12]: Thank you, India. I give the floor to Jordan, to be followed by Ukraine. Jordan, you have the floor. Jordan [2:54:23]: Mr. Chair, at the outset, I would like to extend my thanks to the esteemed President of the Human Rights Council for efforts to present the annual report, and I would also like to thank the High Commissioner for efforts to promote and protect human rights, including the launching of the International Coalition for Human Rights. We also thank him for the latest visit to Jordan, aiming to increase bilateral cooperation with the Commission. We would also like to emphasize the following points as the key priorities of Jordan. This is particularly in terms of the subject under consideration in the committee. Firstly, we emphasize our full commitment to the universality of human rights and our support for the Council and its mechanisms, including the Universal Periodic Review. We emphasize the importance of the implementation of its recommendations, along with technical support and capacity building, with collaboration and consultations with the consent of concerned states. it's important to provide the necessary resources in light of the current liquidity crisis for this to be possible. Second, we emphasize the importance of the seventh item on the agenda of HRC concerned with Palestine and other occupied Arab territory. This has included decisions that emphasize the inalienable right of the Palestinian people, including the right to self-determination, as well as the illegality of Israeli settler occupation. And this also emphasized the importance of human rights in the occupied Syrian Golan. It has also emphasized the importance of a ceasefire in Gaza and the full implementation of Security Council Resolution 2803, as well as the importance of providing sufficient humanitarian assistance. It is important to allow reconstruction in Gaza and open a new political horizon, which allows for the establishment of the sovereign, independent state of Palestine with the borders of 1967. It is also important to adopt the International Declaration on the Protection of Humanitarian Personnel and the International initiative to mobilize political commitment to international humanitarian law, which Jordan has contributed to launching. We will also host a high-level conference on preserving humanity in war, which we will host this year. In conclusion, we look forward to support for our candidacy for membership of the Human Rights Council for the period 2027 to 2029 in the elections to be held tomorrow in New York. We submit this candidacy in affirmation for our commitment to promoting and protecting human rights. We look forward to contributing in the Council through enhancing dialogue and consensus. 3rd Committee · Chair [2:57:24]: Thank you, Jordan. I give the floor to Ukraine, followed by Algeria. Ukraine, you have the floor. Ukraine [2:57:32]: Mr. Chair, Ukraine welcomes the report of the Human Rights Council and commends its continued effort to promote and protect human rights worldwide. For Ukraine, the importance of the Council's work is not theoretical. We see its impact in documenting violations, amplifying victims' voices, and laying the foundations for accountability. We particularly welcome the extension of the mandate of the Independent International Commission of Inquiry on Ukraine. Its findings, alongside those of other UN mechanisms, have exposed Russia's widespread and systematic violations committed as part of its war of aggression against Ukraine. This includes torture, conflict-related sexual violence, enforced disappearances, arbitrary detention, and the unlawful deportations of Ukrainian children. These mechanisms have made Russia's war against Ukraine one of the most extensively documented armed conflicts in history. Mr Chair, Ukraine also welcomes the consensus adoption of the Human Rights Council resolution on disinformation and human rights, initiated by Ukraine and advanced together with other partners. Our experience demonstrates that disinformation is not merely about competing narratives. It can facilitate violations, conceal atrocities, and undermine democratic institutions. Addressing these threats while safeguarding freedom of expression must remain an important priority. Mr. Chair, despite the enormous challenges of defending our country against Russia's aggression, we remain committed to promoting human rights both nationally and internationally. It is with this approach that Ukraine is seeking election to the Human Rights Council for 2027-2029. If elected, we will prioritize strengthening of accountability mechanisms, combating torture and conflict-related sexual violence, protecting children and vulnerable groups, and addressing unlawful deportations and forced displacement. We will also address emerging challenges, including disinformation, the human rights consequences of armed conflicts, and the environmental and food security. Ukraine stands ready to share its experience and work constructively with all Member States, civil society, and UN human rights mechanisms. The Council's strength lies not in avoiding difficult questions, but in confronting them consistently and impartially. Ukraine is committed to contributing to that effort. I thank you. 3rd Committee · Chair [3:00:03]: Thank you, Ukraine. I pass now to Algeria, to be followed by the Permanent Representative of Myanmar. Algeria, you have the floor. Algeria [3:00:11]: Mr. Chair. My delegation aligns itself with the statement delivered by Namibia on behalf of the African Group. Algeria attaches particular importance to the work of the Human Rights Council and to its contribution to advancing the pillar of human rights. We welcome the adoption of the GA resolution 18/87 that decided to maintain the status of the HRC as a subsidiary body of the General Assembly. We believe that the Council can fulfill its mandate most effectively when it works is guided by the principles of universality, objectivity, impartiality, and genuine cooperation. The protection of human rights cannot be separated from the broader conditions that enables societies to achieve dignity, stability, and prosperity. In this regard, Algeria reiterates the centrality of the right to development and the need to give equal consideration to civil and political rights. as well as economic, social and cultural rights. Human rights must be promoted in their entirety, without hierarchy or selectivity. We further stress that the credibility of the human rights system depends on consistency and equal treatment. Selective approaches, double standards, and politically motivated consideration of the country situations undermine confidence in multilateral mechanisms and ultimately weaken the collective capacity of the international community to advance human rights. Algeria, therefore, encourages an approach centered on dialogue, cooperation, and the exchange of good practices, while fully respecting the sovereignty, independence, and national ownership of states. International cooperation and capacity building should respond to nationality and identify needs and prioritize and contribute to strengthening national institutions and capabilities. At a time when the world faces multiple crises, the promotion of human rights should remain an area of convergence rather than confrontation. We should preserve the Human Rights Council as a forum for constructive engagement based on mutual respect and a shared commitment to the purposes and principles of the Charter of the United Nations. Algeria stands ready to continue contributing constructively to these efforts and to advancing a human rights agenda that is universal, balanced and genuinely inclusive. I thank you. 3rd Committee · Chair [3:02:39]: Thank you, Algeria. Permanent representative of Myanmar, you have the floor. Myanmar · Permanent Representative [3:02:46]: Thank you, Mr. Chair. Mr. Chair, I thank the Human Rights Council for its report and welcome the consensus adoptions of resolution 61/30 and 62/3 this year. The Council's resolutions on Myanmar come at a pivotal moment when the international attention had receded. and action has been delayed. We support the Council's comprehensive condemnation of the military and its outline of our humanitarian crisis, viewing them as an essential reference for immediate international accountability. The military continues to commit horrific abuses with absolute impunity, indiscriminate airstrikes, village burnings, arbitrary detention, and the unlawful use of schools and hospitals. The conflict is only deepening with escalating violence, massive displacement, and collapsing infrastructure. The NUG remains steadfast in its commitment to justice and accountability, including its acceptance of the ICC jurisdiction. We look forward to the ICJ's forthcoming judgment on the case of Gambia versus Myanmar as a step towards curing justice for Rangers and the people at large of Myanmar and dismantling the military's entrenched impunity. Mr. Chair, we recognize ASEAN ongoing diplomatic efforts at the regional level. However, the military junta continues to flagrantly disregard the five-point consensus Therefore, we request ASEAN for further reassessment with engaging with the perpetrators of war crimes and crimes against humanity, be it for protection of civilians and saving their lives, not for rewarding the military junta or its international crimes, and not for encouraging the military junta to further commit crimes against humanity and war crimes. Moreover, the UN must be more active, coherent, and effective. The Security Council must follow Resolution 2669 with a new resolution implementing meaningful and forcible measures to hold perpetrators accountable. In the same way, the General Assembly must utilize Human Rights Council resolutions as a foundation for further actions, ensuring stronger synergy across the UN systems. States must immediately cease the transfer of arms, jet fuel, dual-use items, and financial support to the military hunter. We ask the United Nations and the international community to strongly support the people of Myanmar in their efforts to end the military dictatorship and impunity, and build a Federal Democratic Union, and accordingly take the effective actions to this end. I thank you, Mr Chair. 3rd Committee · Chair [3:05:27]: Thank you, Myanmar. The last speaker for this particular meeting on my list is Zambia. Zambia, you have the floor. Zambia [3:05:37]: Mr. Chair, Zambia aligns itself with the statement delivered on behalf of the African Group. Allow me to make the following remarks in our national capacity. Zambia reaffirms its commitment to the promotion and protection of all human rights and fundamental freedoms, consistent with the United Nations Charter, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, and relevant international human rights instruments. We recognize that respect for human dignity, equality, and the rule of law is fundamental to inclusive development and sustainable peace. Mr. Chair, Zambia takes note of the Secretary General's report on the enhancement of the international cooperation in the field of human rights. We underscore the importance of constructive dialogue, technical assistance, and capacity building in supporting member states to fulfill their human rights obligations. International cooperation guided by universality universality, impartiality, objectivity and non-selectivity remains essential to addressing implementation challenges and advancing human rights for all. Zambia attaches great importance to the effective implementation of international human rights instruments and the strengthening of national institutions. We remain committed to constructive engagement with treaty bodies, fulfilling reported obligations and implementing relevant recommendations taking into account national priorities and capacities. In this regard, Zambia continues consultations with relevant stakeholders on possible occasions to the International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of their Families. Mr. Chair, turning to the important role of special procedures of the Human Rights Council, Zambia remains committed to constructive engagement with mandate holders. We underscore the importance of independence, impartiality, objectivity, and adherence to the established code of conduct in supporting national implementation of human rights obligation. Mr. Chair, Zambia's commitment to the promotion and protection of human rights is further demonstrated by its candidature for election to the United Nations Human Rights Council for the term 2027 to 2029. Zambia seeks to contribute to the strengthening the Council's effectiveness by promoting constructive dialogue, international cooperation, and the universal enjoyment of all human rights. In conclusion, Zambia reaffirms its commitment to working with Member States and United Nations human rights mechanisms to strengthen international cooperation and translate human rights commitments into tangible progress, particularly for developing countries. I thank you. 3rd Committee · Chair [3:08:21]: Thank you, Zambia. We've now heard the last people on my list for this meeting. There is, however, a small number of States. There is, however, a small number of states who have not yet been heard. Sorry, just getting instructions from the Secretariat. Okay. There is a small number of speakers who haven't had the opportunity to intervene this afternoon. Accordingly, the general discussion on item 65 will resume and it will resume on Thursday 15 October in the morning, following the interactive dialogues under item 70. But before we conclude here for this evening, one delegation has requested a right of reply. I won't repeat the principles concerning the right of reply that I articulated a short while ago. I will pass straight to the delegation seeking the right of reply, which is the Democratic People's Republic of Korea. You have the floor. Democratic People's Republic of Korea [3:09:44]: Thank you, Mr. Chair. I am compelled to take the floor to exercise the right of reply in response to the provocative remarks made by France against my country. In his statement, he pointed fingers at several countries, including the DPRK, with baseless accusations. My delegation categorically rejects such accusations, which is a typical example of politicization and selectivity of human rights. Selective approach of singling out specific countries is a hostile act that runs counter to UN Charter that clearly enshrined the principle of sovereign equality and non-interference. The United Nations Human Rights Forum is platform for dialogue and cooperation based on respect for sovereignty, not a venue of confrontation where countries like France make accusations against selected sovereign states in pursuit of this graceful political purpose to interfere in internal affairs of other countries. No country can impose its value or its human rights standard on other countries. None of the international laws has ever endowed countries like France with the authority to make assessment on situation of other countries with their own value as yardstick. France has to stand in front of the mirror and reflect on its human rights situation, which is far from perfect. Thank you. 3rd Committee · Chair [3:11:17]: Thank you, DPRK. I hear no other delegation. I see no other delegation. Accordingly, in terms of our next steps, this item will be resumed in our general discussion on Thursday. Before that, however, the committee will reconvene Wednesday morning at 10 am to hear an address by the President of the General Assembly. The committee will then begin its consideration of agenda item 70, Promotion and protection of human rights, and its sub-items A to D, and hold an interactive dialogue with the High Commissioner for Human Rights, Mr Volker Turk. There will be no formal meeting tomorrow, Tuesday. However, I would like to remind delegations that the committee will hold an informal meeting on program planning at 3pm tomorrow in this conference room. Before adjourning, I wish also to remind delegations that the deadline for submission of draft proposals under item 24, social development, and its sub-items A to C, as well as items 110, crime prevention and criminal justice, and 111, international drug control, is 1pm tomorrow, 13 October. With that, the meeting is adjourned and thank you very much for your collaboration and cooperation.