Third Committee, 26th plenary meeting - General Assembly, 81st session

Colleagues, we'll resume in just a moment, but we're just fixing up a little technical issue at the desk here. Colleagues, we do have a technical issue. I'm sorry, we're just working it through and we'll start as soon as we can. Colleagues, I'm so sorry about that. We do have a technical problem, but I think we've found a temporary fix and an engineer is on their way. So with that, the 26th meeting of the Third Committee at the 81st session of the General Assembly is called to order. I now invite the Committee to continue its consideration of agenda item 70, promotion and protection of human rights. And this morning we will hear the first here a combined briefing by the Chair of the Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and the Special Rapporteur on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, followed by a combined interactive dialogue with both presenters. The Committee will then hear a briefing by the Special Rapporteur on Minority Issues, also followed by an interactive dialogue. I very much welcome our presenters this morning. Thank you very much for joining us. I'd like to welcome the chair of the Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, Ms. Myun Kim-Julio, and the Special Rapporteur on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, Ms. Heba Hagrass. Participants wishing to make comments or questions are invited to do so in the usual way. That will require, over the next three minutes, simply pressing your microphone button, in which case we will record those wishing to speak, and we will determine the time limit applicable based on the number of intended speakers. It's now my pleasure to invite the Chair of the Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities to make an introductory statement. Ms. Kim, you have the floor.

Thank you so much, Mr. Chair. Excellencies, distinguished delegates, I have the honor to address you as the Chair of the Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. and as a woman with disability whose life has been shaped by the struggle for equality and dignity. First and foremost, I warmly welcome Tonga's ratification of the Convention and Tajikistan's recent decision to ratify it. I congratulate both countries on these important steps towards universal ratification. 20 years ago, the General Assembly adopted the Convention, affirming that persons with disabilities are right holders, entitled to autonomy, participation and full inclusion. This 20th anniversary asks a fundamental question: has that promise changed the persons with disabilities' lives? The Convention's third decade must deliver practical change, inclusive education, decent work, independent living and equal access to justice. Persons with disabilities must shape these changes through their representative organizations as leaders, experts and co-creators. The Committee continued to support this work. In August, the Committee adopted three General Comments Number nine and number 10 on situation of risk and humanitarian emergency under Article 11, and number 11 on participation in political and public life under Article 29. We also adapted to guidelines. Timely international review turns commitment into practical changes. 52 reports await consideration. 29 initial reports and 23 peer review reports. I request the 30th annual session of the at least three weeks with adequate secretarial staffing and conference services. Accessibility must be guaranteed under the United Nations Disability Inclusion Strategy 2.0, including sign language interpretation, captioning, accessible documents, and reasonable accommodation. Reform must Preserve the members' independence, 3D mandates, communication and inquiry and functions, and meaningful preparation by persons with disabilities, national human rights institution and civil society. These tools have state translated convention obligation into action. Political participation required to assess elections, opportunity to hold public office and separate to exercise choice. This must never be treated as a reason to deny someone a voice. This is why we published the guidelines and for next open dialogue with all the state parties. Mr. Chair, artificial intelligence is already reshaping education, employment, healthcare, and public services. It can expand the communication, accessibility, and independent living. Yet system designed without us can reproduce the discrimination, deny opportunities, and undermine privacy and autonomy. States should require accessible design, assess the impact on disability rights, and ensure human oversight and effective remedies. Persons with disabilities must participate in AI development and governance from the outset. Their experience must inform decisions about the technologies that will shape our shared future. International cooperation must also make inclusive technologies available and affordable in developing countries. Persons with disabilities must have a shape safeguard against discrimination and technology-facilitated violence. Innovation should expand people's choices and strengthening their control over their own lives. These responsibilities extend to AI used in warfare. Human control and accountability must be maintained, and the protection of civil rights, including persons with disabilities, must guide decisions. Peace is essential to protecting dignity and subsistence rights. In uncompleted and humanitarian emergencies around the world, persons with disabilities face grave risk. Women and girls with disability and children with disability require particularly attention in protection and assistance. Accessible warnings, evacuation, shelters and continuous support must be ensured now. At the same time, persons with disability must participate in conflict prevention, peace process and reconstructions. Their knowledge can help build the community communities where everyone can return, recover and participate. I urge Member States to pursue diplomacy, dialogue and cooperation to end arm conflict and build a lasting peace. Climate action and disaster preparedness must likewise include persons with disabilities from the beginning. At home, implementation requires clear responsibilities national budgets and measurable goals developed with persons with disabilities. Governments should demonstrate the process, including for women, children and persons with disabilities facing multiple forms of discrimination. As we mark 20 years, our responsibility is to turn rights on paper into lived justice. Let the next decade be remembered for persons with disabilities exercising leadership, shaping technology, and building peace with equality, dignity, and hope. I thank you so much.

Thank you very much indeed, Chair. It's now my pleasure to pass the floor to the Special Rapporteur on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities to make your introductory statement. Ms. Haggars, you have the floor.

Chairperson, Excellencies, Distinguished Delegates, I am honored to present my report on inclusive humanitarian assistance and safeguards for the rights of persons with disabilities in the context of the current humanitarian reform processes. This year marks the 20th anniversary of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. The Convention has transformed how disability is understood and established a clear obligation on states to ensure the protection and safety of persons with disabilities in situations of risk, including armed conflict, humanitarian emergencies, and natural disasters. Yet, we meet at a time when humanitarian needs are increasing worldwide. and conflict, climate-related disasters, forced displacement, and other emergencies continues to affect millions of people. Persons with disabilities are often among the most disproportionately affected, but remain among the least visible in humanitarian planning and response. Excellencies, I am deeply concerned that despite important progress in policies, standards and commitments, persons with disabilities continue to face significant barriers in accessing humanitarian assistance and protection. My report highlights persistent gaps in accessibility, participation, disability disaggregated data, funding and accountability. Across many humanitarian contexts, information is not available in accessible formats. Evacuation procedures disregard disability, and shelters, health services and other humanitarian programs remain inaccessible. These barriers can have life-threatening consequences during emergencies and increase risks of exclusion, poverty and harm. Another recurring concern is the limited availability and use of disability disaggregated data. Without adequate data, humanitarian actors cannot identify who is being left behind or effectively target assistance. Distinguished delegates, a key finding of my report is the continuing lack of meaningful participation of persons with disabilities and their representative organizations in humanitarian decision-making. Organizations of persons with disabilities possess critical expertise and first-hand knowledge of the barriers faced by their communities. Yet, They remain underrepresented in coordination mechanisms and are consulted only after major decisions have already been taken. The principle of nothing about us without us must apply in humanitarian settings. Responses are more relevant, accessible, effective and sustainable when persons with disabilities participate in their design, implementation and monitoring. Excellencies, persons with disabilities face heightened protection risks in emergencies, including increased exposure to violence, abuse, exploitation, and neglect, particularly in situations of displacement. Women and girls with disabilities often experience multiple disabilities, may face interruption in education and support services. services, while older persons with disabilities are frequently overlooked in preparedness, response, and recovery efforts. These realities demonstrate the importance of integrating disability inclusion throughout humanitarian action, rather than treating it as a separate or secondary issue. Distinguished delegates, a central focus of my report is the impact of the ongoing humanitarian reform processes in the context of growing needs and shrinking resources. While efforts to improve efficiency are important, many stakeholders experience concern that disability inclusion commitments could be weakened if they are not explicitly safeguarded. Recent funding reductions have already affected disability inclusive programming, accessibility initiative and support for organizations of persons with disabilities. At a time when humanitarian needs continues to rise, there is a real risk of backsliding on progress achieved over recent years. Disability inclusion cannot be viewed as an optional component of humanitarian action or a luxury when resources permit. It is a human right obligation and a prerequisite for effective humanitarian response. Excellencies, my report also identifies promising practices from different regions and humanitarian context. where accessibility is incorporated from the outset, where organizations of persons with disabilities are treated as genuine partners, and where disability data informs decision-making, humanitarian assistance becomes more inclusive and more effective for everyone. These examples show that inclusion is achievable. The challenge is ensuring that commitments are matched by resources and accountability. I therefore call on Member States, United Nations entities, humanitarian organizations, and donors to ensure that humanitarian reform efforts strengthen rather than weaken disability inclusion. This includes safeguarding existing commitment, supporting organizations of persons with disability, investing in accessible and disability disaggregated data, and embedding accountability for inclusion across humanitarian systems. Distinguished delegates, humanitarian crisis tests whether our commitment to equality and human right is translated into action. 20 years after the adoption of the Convention, we have both the framework and the knowledge needed to make humanitarian action truly inclusive. I urge Member States to take forward the recommendations contained in my report and to work in partnership with persons with disabilities and their representative organizations to ensure that no one is left behind in times of crisis. I thank you all.

Thank you, Special Rapporteur, and I thank both the Chair and the Special Rapporteur for those important presentations. I'm required to attend another forum for a brief moment. I'll pass to the Vice Chair before we move to individual member state floor delegation interventions. Thank you. Excuse me?

I will now open the floor for questions or comments to both presenters. As per past practice, I ask delegations to limit their comments to one and a half minutes. I thank you for your kind cooperation. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Poland, to be followed by El Salvador and Namibia.

Thank you, Madam Chair. But as special rapporteurs, Poland noted the launch of the implementation of the reform on the humanitarian reset announced in March 2025 by the Emergency Relief Coordinator. We particularly appreciate its emphasis on streamlining humanitarian structures, prioritizing life-saving assistance, and strengthening local ownership through greater decision-making authority and access to funding. At the same time, we share the concerns raised by the Special Rapporteur's report that current framework and strategic documents, including the roadmap, give insufficient consideration to the persons with disabilities. Although the reform properly identifies other vulnerable groups, the rights and special needs of the persons with disabilities have not been taken into account. Humanitarian reform must leave no one behind. Disability inclusion must be an integral part of the humanitarian planning, decision-making and response from the outset. We believe that the reform framework should explicitly address the rights and needs of persons with disabilities also in the context of the conflict situations. Failure to do so risks continuation of existing physical, informational and financial barriers, further limiting their access to humanitarian assistance and meaningful humanitarian action. So now comes the question in this context, what concrete steps should be taken to include persons with disabilities in the implementation of the humanitarian reset roadmap in the same way as the other groups and to prevent their marginalization? Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Poland. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of El Salvador.

Thank you very much, Madam Chair. El Salvador is grateful for the presentation by the Special Rapporteur and the Chair of the Committee. We recognize the importance of their respective mandates in terms of promoting, protecting the rights of persons with disabilities, especially in case of risk and humanitarian emergencies. For El Salvador, in order to guarantee the participation of persons with disabilities represents a priority. Recognizing their needs and specific circumstances, this must be done in the terms of public policy and emergency responses. In this regard, we highlight the outcome of our housing census 2024 carried out with the technical support of the UNFPA. This has allowed us to have data available about persons with disabilities as a fundamental tool for guiding and planification and the adoption of more inclusive measures. We have also encouraged efforts to improve accessibility to temporary shelters, recognizing the importance of having secure and adequate spaces that allow us to address the needs of persons with disabilities in emergency situations. Similarly, El Salvador will continue to promote initiatives aimed at broadening access to essential services, including technological tools in the areas of health and education as part of our national efforts to reduce barriers and to strengthen inclusion. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of El Salvador. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Namibia, followed by India and Cuba.

Thank you, Chair. I deliver this statement on behalf of the African group. The African group thanks the Chair of the Committee and the Special Rapporteur for their reports in the year in which the Convention turns 20. Every member of this group is a party to it, and the continent has added its own instrument. the protocol to the African Charter on the rights of persons with disabilities in Africa, which is enforced since 2024. The group welcomes the report on humanitarian assistance. At the moment, the humanitarian system is being cut and rebuilt at once. The continent hosts the largest share of the world's displaced, and an estimated one person in six lives with a disability. The group would welcome the special repertoire answer on what safeguards she proposes so that the humanitarian reset keeps disability inclusion as a condition of funding rather than a program to be cut, and how organizations of persons with disability on the continent are to be brought into the pooled funds and country plans that now decides where money goes. To the Chair, the group welcomes General Comments 9 and 10 on Article 11, adopted in August, and the guidelines on the intersectional discrimination against women and girls with disabilities. The group asks how will the Committee read Article 11 together with the Kampala Convention and African Protocol, both of which bind states on the same ground, and whether the Committee's reviews of African states, two of which it held this year, can be brought closer to the continents through the dialogues.

I thank the distinguished representative of Namibia on behalf of the African group. I now give the floor to the distinguished member of parliament from India. Could you turn the microphone on, please? Microphone for India.

Chair, I thank the Sr. for her report.

We welcome the report's central message that disability inclusion is a legal obligation of the Convention and a core component of the life-saving.

Assistance.

India's experience reflects this approach. Section 8 of our Right of Person with Disability Act requires the government to take measures.

To ensure the protection and safety of persons with disability in situation of risk. The National Disaster Management Authority's guidelines on persons with disabilities in disaster management translate this into practice.

This covers accessible early warning, evacuation, shelters and relief. Several states, notably Odisha with its cyclone preparedness.

Have shown that inclusive early warning and evacuation measures save lives.

Our courts have reinforced these obligations. In a 2024 ruling, the court directed the government to establish mandatory accessibility standards, thereby making accessibility a constitutional imperative.

It ruled that accessibility is not merely a convenience, but a fundamental requirement for enabling individuals, particularly those with disabilities.

To exercise their rights fully and equally. India is committed to a future where every person with disability can move towards autonomy, dignity, and finance.

I thank the distinguished representative of the Member of Parliament of India. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Cuba, followed by Egypt and Cyprus.

Thank you very much, Madam Chair. We are grateful for the presentations of the speakers and we take note of their report. Cuba is committed to fulfilling the Convention. on the rights of persons with disability, we have a human rights approach in the protection and treatment of these people in order to leave no one behind. While we have made progress, we still face challenges. We will continue to perfect our system of political and public institutions and to ensure the essential resources for the full inclusion, dignity and participation in society of all persons in situations of disability with an approach to ensure everybody's inclusion. We are having shortfalls of important materials as a result of the economic and secondary sanctions of the United States against Cuba. In Cuba, persons with disabilities are not just beneficiaries of social programs, they are above all agents of change and progress. We are pleased to have promoted a number of technical cooperation actions in this area with the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights. and UN agencies that are accredited in Cuba, we will continue to work to ensure the autonomy and dignity of persons with disabilities and we will continue to protect their human rights and make progress towards more just and inclusive societies. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Cuba. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Egypt.

Thank you, Madam Chair. Egypt would like to deeply thank the panelists for their insightful presentations and wishes to align itself with the statement delivered on behalf of the African Group and also to commend the excellent work of the Special Rapporteur on human rights of persons with disabilities and to reiterate its pertinence, particularly in a world grappling with protracted conflicts. Egypt enacted the law of 2018 in this regard and aligned all its provisions with those of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and established a comprehensive and robust governance framework such as the National Council for Persons with Disabilities and the Differently Abled Fund. Egypt also endorses the Amman-Berlin Declaration, committing to allocate 15% of international development programmes toward disability inclusion. In this view, How can member states move beyond and establish concrete accountability mechanisms that ensure persons with disabilities, particularly women, children, and persons with intellectual psychosocial disabilities, actively participate in humanitarian decision making and have equitable access to life-saving assistance, even in contexts where resources are severely limited?

Thank you so much.

I thank the distinguished representative of Egypt. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Cyprus, followed by Chile and Georgia.

Thank you, Madam Chair.

We thank both briefers for their reports and their presentation before us today.

Cyprus reaffirms its steadfast commitment to the full and equal enjoyment of human rights by persons with disabilities, in line with the UN CRPD, including as a member of the Human Rights Council for 2025-2027. Cyprus is implementing its National Strategy on Disability 2024-2028, and this year, we also advanced a significant reform of our national framework through the adoption of the Law on Social Participation, Inclusion and Independent Living of Persons with Disabilities. This legislation establishes a comprehensive framework for services and benefits, while strengthening independent living, personalized support, and access to personal assistance and employment. At the same time, Cyprus continues to foster dialogue with organizations of persons with disabilities. Madam Chair, Cyprus is honored to serve as Vice President of the Bureau of the 20th and 21st sessions of COSP CRPD, representing Asia-Pacific group. Madam Special Rapporteur, To what extent do existing international frameworks ensure the meaningful participation of persons with disabilities and their representative organizations in decision-making processes, and what further measures are needed?

To strengthen their participation and advance the effective implementation of disability-inclusive humanitarian action.

I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Cyprus. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Chile.

Madam Chair, Chile is grateful to Madam Heba Hagras, the Special Rapporteur, for the presentation of her report on inclusion of persons with disabilities in humanitarian action. We share the importance of responses to emergencies and natural disasters to be inclusive that allows us to protect the rights of persons with disabilities. In August of this year, Chile came before the Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, a body where we highlight national progress and we've also shared the challenges that still persist in terms of full implementation of the Convention, including persons with disabilities in emergency situations. In this context, we reaffirm our commitment to the promotion of inclusive and accessible responses that take into consideration the needs and rights of all persons. Madam Chair, we value the call in your report to guarantee that humanitarian reform does not weaken the progress that has been made in the areas of inclusion and accessibility. In this regard, we'd like to ask you, what measures do you believe are a priority to ensure that humanitarian approaches strengthen the effective participation and inclusion of persons with disabilities, especially in contexts of limited resources? I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Chile. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Georgia, followed by Brazil and Montenegro.

Thank you, Madam Chair. We thank the briefers for their presentations. Improving social conditions and ensuring equal opportunities for persons with disabilities, PWDs, remains a national priority in Georgia. In the last decade, significant progress has been made in this regard. The law of the rights of persons with disabilities and ratification of optional protocol to the CRPD convention strengthened Georgia's legal framework in this regard. This year's legislative amendments allow initial or repeat disability assessments to be conducted remotely for individuals residing abroad. Georgia is shifting from a medical to a bi-physio-social model of disability assessment. The indexation rule of the social package is increasing annually to prevent the institutional For socialization, we are developing personal assistant and home care services, and the State Employment Support Agency promotes PwDs' vocational training and employment opportunities. Madam Special Rapporteur, in your recent report, you examine inter alia the protection of the rights of PwDs in situations of risk, which includes armed conflict and foreign occupation. Due to Russia's continued occupation of the Abkhazian regions of Georgia, the government of Georgia is unable to ensure the full enjoyment of rights in these regions for the persons living in these regions. In this regard, how can a state fulfill its obligations towards PWDs living in the occupied regions while also taking into account.

I thank the distinguished representative of Georgia. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Brazil.

Thank you, Chair. Brazil thanks the Chair of the Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and the Special Rapporteur for their reports. We thank the Special Rapporteur for highlighting the importance of advancing inclusive humanitarian assistance within ongoing humanitarian reform processes. As the report observes, progress towards meaningful participation continues to rely to heavily on individual initiatives rather than institutional mechanisms. We emphasize the need to embed disability inclusion as a central element of principled, effective, and rights-based humanitarian action. Brazil's broader experience encompasses accessibility requirements in low-income housing programs, disability inclusion training, sign language access in justice services.

And a national digital inclusion survey conducted in 2025.

These are examples of the type of institutional foundations that can contribute to more inclusive and accessible humanitarian responses in times of crisis. Madam Special Rapporteur, in a context of severe funding constraints, what practical changes and arrangements would you recommend so that entities of persons with disabilities can participate in the mechanisms of international humanitarian responses, including small community-based organizations with limited capacity to meet donor due diligence requirements?

In United Nations partnership standards.

I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Brazil. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Montenegro, followed by Malaysia and Nigeria.

Thank you, Madam Chair. We also thank briefers for the insightful reports. Madam Special Rapporteur, your report highlights a critical concern. Persons with disabilities continue to face disproportionate risks in armed conflicts, natural disasters, and humanitarian emergencies. Disability inclusion must not be treated as an optional, but a fundamental human rights obligation. Montenegro firmly believes that ongoing humanitarian reforms must strengthen existing protections. Accessibility, meaningful participation, and adequate funding must remain central to humanitarian preparedness and response, particularly at a time of financial constraints. Montenegro remains committed to advancing the rights of full protection of disabilities. Our action plan for 20630 aimed at implementing the recommendation of CRPD committee, prioritizing independent living, accessibility, inclusive education and community-based support. Dedicated parliamentary session on disability rights have also provided an important platform for direct dialogue between persons with disabilities and decision makers. Guided by the principle of "nothing about us without us", Montenegro believes that persons with disabilities must be recognized as active partners in shaping decisions that affect their lives. Madam Special Rapporteur, how can existing national mechanisms for the participation of persons with disabilities be better adapted to humanitarian preparedness and response? Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Montenegro. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Malaysia.

Thank you, Madam Chair. Malaysia thanks the distinguished briefers for their presentation and reports. Malaysia reaffirms its commitment to the promotion and protection of the rights of persons with disabilities in accordance with our obligation under the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. Guided by a whole of society approach, Malaysia is pursuing amendments to the person with disabilities act 2008 to sanction protection accessibility and meaningful participation against this backdrop Malaysia recognizes the concern raised in the special rapporteur report regarding the risk that ongoing humanitarian reform May pose to disability inclusion while efforts to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of humanitarian assistance are necessary This must not come at the expense of those who are already greater at risk. Madam Special Rapporteur, as the United Nations undertakes reform to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of humanitarian assistance, how can we ensure that disability inclusion is not deprioritized in the face of competing humanitarian needs and limited resources? what practical safeguard would be the most effective, particularly in developing countries. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Malaysia. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Nigeria, followed by the Russian Federation and Portugal.

Chair. Nigeria Alliance with Africa's group statement and thanks our briefers. We take note of the special rapporteur's report on inclusive humanitarian assistance. We underscore the implementation of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, especially Article 11. Disability inclusion must be integrated into national preparedness, humanitarian response, and recovery with due regard for national circumstances and priorities. Meaningful consultation with persons with disabilities and their representative organizations is essential. Their participation supported by disability disaggregated data, accessible services and adequate resources must inform decisions that affect them. Madam Special Rapporteur, what practical safeguard will you recommend to ensure that humanitarian research strengthens the meaningful participation of persons with disabilities and their representative organizations in local decision making and resource allocation rather than deepening their exclusion. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Nigeria. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of the Russian Federation.

Thank you, Chair. We'd like to thank the rapporteurs for their contribution to discussion. I'd like to briefly comment the following. We noted that the Committee's three general comments on persons with disabilities' participation in political and public life and situations of risk. The work on this is outside of their mandate and should not be done to the detriment of the committee's main work, given its serious backlog in national periodic report review. Our joint second, third and fourth periodic reports were submitted in October 2022 and they are only planned to be considered in March 2031, which is nine years after they were sent. The information will obviously not be relevant anymore. Chair, we read very closely Ms Hargis's report and we share the concern regarding potential negative impacts of the humanitarian reset of the system. Moving authority to a local level should not have an impact on the quality and nature of support provided, and also accountability and responsibility of those involved. We are concerned also that the assistance to persons with disabilities is not in the roadmap for humanitarian reform. In terms of the idea of the need to pay particular attention to persons with disabilities in armed conflict in line with international humanitarian law, and with disabilities and civilians, they are covered and protected from any form of discrimination, violence and ill treatment. Without a doubt, persons with disabilities, because of their physical specificities and limitations, have more difficulty in evacuating and moving, and because they are part of socially vulnerable groups. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of the Russian Federation. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Portugal, followed by the Republic of Korea and Ukraine.

Thank you, Chair. Portugal thanks the briefers for their important work. Madam Special Rapporteur, a human rights-based approach to persons with disabilities in situations of crisis is essential to ensure their protection, autonomy, and meaningful participation in all stages of emergency preparedness and response. Portugal has adopted a multi-annual strategy, which includes a cross-cutting pillar on governance, data and social participation, and seeks to strengthen the collection and use of public data, supports evidence-based policy making, and ensure that the rights of persons with disabilities remain an integral part of public policies. Additionally, Portugal continues to strengthen accessibility, including in public spaces, transports and digital services, with the aim of ensuring equal access to essential services and information. We are committed to combating disability-based discrimination and promoting the autonomy and legal capacity of persons with disabilities, in line with the principles of the CRPD. Ultimately, effective inclusion requires sustained institutional commitment, accessible environments and services, and the meaningful participation of persons with disabilities in decisions affecting their lives. These efforts are particularly important in humanitarian emergencies, where existing barriers can have particularly severe consequences. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Portugal. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of the Republic of Korea.

Thank you, Madam Chair. We appreciate the Special Rapporteur's comprehensive report. Our special gratitude also goes to Committee Chair Ms. Kim for her statement. As we celebrate the 20 years of the CRPD, we reflect on the hard-won progress. During the Convention's negotiations, we had advocated Article 6 on women with disabilities. That commitment remains central to addressing intersecting forms of discrimination under the Convention, now ratified by more than 190 countries. However, serious gaps in practice still remain. My delegation strongly echoes the Special Rapporteur's concern that persons with disabilities continue to face disproportionate risks and barriers, especially in conflict-affected settings. While placing the most priority on establishing domestic frameworks for disability inclusion, my government has recently announced a comprehensive plan to establish state responsibility for the care of persons with developmental disabilities. Furthermore, my delegation would also like to underscore the importance of ensuring the meaningful participation of persons with disabilities in the development of AI and digital technologies. In closing, we reaffirm our unwavering support for the principles of the Convention and will continue to contribute to the work of the Treaty Body. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of the Republic of Korea. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Ukraine, followed by Israel and Italy.

Madam Chair, Ukraine thanks both mandate holders. Russia's war of aggression continues to cause injuries, trauma, and disabilities on a massive scale. The number of persons with disabilities in Ukraine now exceeds 3.6 million. Persons with disabilities face particular barriers to evacuation, shelter, and essential services. In the temporarily occupied territories, denial of medical care, forcible transfers, torture, and sexual violence further compound this vulnerability. Ukrainian prisoners of war returning from Russian captivity often require extensive rehabilitation and long-term support. Disability inclusion cannot wait until a conflict ends. It must be integrated into humanitarian response and reconstruction with meaningful participation of persons with disabilities. Despite the war, Ukraine continues implementing the national barrier-free strategy and the institutionalization strategy. We are expanding community-based services, rehabilitation, access to prosthetics, and opportunities for independent living. International support remains essential, as does accountability for violations committed against persons with disabilities. We would welcome the briefer's views on how their mandates can strengthen protection and access to essential services for persons with disabilities affected by armed conflict, particularly those under occupation. Thank you.

Thank you, Ukraine. I pass the floor to Israel, to be followed by Italy and Papua New Guinea. Israel, you have the floor.

Thank you, Chair.

Israel notes the Committee's finding regarding the unlawful captivity of Avera Mengistu and Hisham El-Sayed, While both are now home, their case serves a clear reminder: the protections of this Convention are universal. As a State Party, Israel takes its obligation to this Convention very seriously. For us, Article 11 is not a theoretical principle. Since October 7, 2023, we have implemented it daily under complex security conditions. To meet these challenges, we have made disability inclusion a core component of our emergency infrastructure. Since 2024, we have established a legal framework and a central database connecting local authority focal points with emergency response systems. We enforce standards for accessible shelters, real-time alert for the deaf and hard of hearing, and the continuity of essential care. In 2025, Israel's Commission for Equal Rights of Persons with Disabilities handled nearly 8,000 public inquiries and complaints. At the same time, our courts strictly enforce these rights and mandate increased remedies. During COSP 19, we highlighted the principle that inclusive

emergency measures must be integrated into primary national systems, always ensuring the dignity of every individual.

I thank you.

Thank you, Israel. I pass the floor to Italy and then Papua New Guinea. Italy, you have the floor.

Mr. Chair, Italy aligns itself with the statement to be delivered by the European Union and thanks the Special Rapporteur, Ms. Sagrass, for a valuable report. We believe that the inclusion of persons with disabilities is essential to ensuring effective, equitable and rights-based humanitarian assistance in accordance with the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. At the national level, our commitment is reflected in the Third National Action Plan for the Rights and Inclusion of Persons with Disabilities, which promotes greater autonomy and self-determination. This is complemented by Italy's pledge made on the 75th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights to fully implement the national regulations. In this regard, we established a national guarantor authority for the rights of persons with disability and introducing the LIFE project aimed at overcoming fragmentation between healthcare and social services and ensuring a more coordinated, personal-centered approach. At the international level, through the adoption of the Solfagnano Charter during our G7 presidency, we reaffirmed our commitment to the full and effective participation of persons with disabilities in all aspects of society and decision-making process. Building on these efforts, on the 34th International Conference of the Red Cross and Red Crescent, Italy adopted an open pledge on the protection and inclusion of persons with disabilities in armed conflicts. Madam Special Rapporteur, what concrete measures should States adopt to ensure that emergency plans and humanitarian operations include accessible early warnings and evaluation systems? I thank you.

Thank you. Papua New Guinea, you have the floor, to be followed by Ireland and Japan. Papua New Guinea.

Distinguished Chair, on my delegation's behalf, let me firstly recognize and thank CRPD Chair, Ms. Miyoung Kim, and Special Rapporteur, Agnes Haggis, for their work and leadership and for their informative presentations today.

We also thank the Secretary

General for the useful report A/81/303 and wish to make some brief comments and pose a related question.

Mr. Chair, a recent milestone for Pappanini was the

adoption of the Disability Services Act 2025, strengthening the legal and institutional

framework for the protection and inclusion of persons with disabilities. Mr. Chair, the Secretary General's emphasis on high-quality disaggregated data for effective and meaningful support resonates with us. In March this year, we commenced work to strengthen disability governance, data and monitoring.

This will assist us to identify where support is needed and ensure services reach persons with disabilities.

We therefore recognize that inclusive development is about translating national and global commitments into practical day lived reality,

while empowering persons with disabilities to participate fully in their communities, reach their potential and be nation builders. Let me close with a question to our briefers.

Should there be a global minimum standard for disaggregated high-quality data on persons with disabilities to support evidence-based improved services?

What could this constitute?

Thank you.

Thank you, Papua New Guinea. I pass to Ireland and then Japan. Ireland, you have the floor.

Thank you, Chair.

Ireland aligns itself with the statement of the EU and thanks both briefers for their reports. As we mark the 20th anniversary of the Convention, Ireland reaffirms its support for the Committee's work. We welcome its valuable guidance to State parties in the implementation of their obligations under the Convention. As the Special Rapporteur notes, persons with disabilities are disproportionately affected by situations of risk, including in the context of armed conflict, disasters and humanitarian emergencies. We welcome the report's recognition of the humanitarian reset as an opportunity to strengthen disability-inclusive humanitarian action and ensure that persons with disabilities are not left behind as it is implemented. The rights of persons with disabilities in conflict will continue to be a priority for Ireland as we take our seat on the Human Rights Council in 2027. Chair, how can States best apply the new general comments in their emergency response planning? How can the UN Disability inclusion strategy 2.0 help protect disability for the committee's work accessibility for the committee's work special rapporteur how can the humanitarian resets focus on women and girls also reach women and girls with disabilities how could Security Council resolution 2475 be used more effectively to protect persons with disabilities in conflict thank you

thank you Ireland I passed in Japan followed by Malta Finland Australia and European Union Japan you have the floor

Thank you, Mr. Chair. I would like to thank Ms. Kim and the Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities for their invaluable work, as well as Special Rapporteur Ms. Hagel-As for her report. As Sor mentioned, humanitarian emergencies, natural disasters, and other situations of risk disproportionately affect persons with disabilities, and inclusive and accessible measures are key to ensuring their full enjoyment of human rights and fundamental freedoms in such severe

situations.

Every March, As Japan approaches the anniversary of the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake, we are reminded that in times of emergency, appropriate assistance can only be provided when adequate preparations have been made. As a disaster-prone country, Japan has taken proactive steps to develop more inclusive disaster risk management measures. Furthermore, Japan is pleased that Mr. Tamon Hiroshi, a Japanese member of the CRPD, has contributed to the work of the Committee, including through drafting the recently published General Comments on Article 11 of the Convention. Japan requests that the Secretary General continue guaranteeing necessary support and access to information for Committee members.

Thank you.

Thank you, Japan. I pass the floor to Malta. You have the floor.

Thank you, Chair. Malta aligns itself with the statement by the EU and thanks the briefers for their presentations. Madam Special Rapporteur, Malta stresses that inclusivity must remain at the heart of humanitarian action, not as an afterthought. As the humanitarian system undergoes reform, disability inclusion must be anchored in all our efforts. We underline that efforts to improve efficiency, effectiveness and localization must not come at the expense of the rights and needs of persons with disabilities. Molta is particularly concerned that persons with disabilities continue to face exclusion from humanitarian decision-making, while disability-inclusive assistance remains hindered by shortfalls in data, meaningful participation and insufficient funding. We emphasize that disability inclusion must be recognized as an integral component of life-saving humanitarian assistance through inclusive humanitarian planning, accessible service delivery and the meaningful participation of persons with disabilities in decision-making at every stage of the humanitarian response. At the national level, Malta is implementing its Freedom to Live 2021-2030 National Strategy on the Rights of Disabled Persons. Guided by the principle of "nothing about us without us", the strategy mainstreams accessibility, participation and rights across sectors and strengthens consultation with disability organisations. Before concluding, we would like to ask the Special Rapporteur if she could share some examples of good practices in ensuring the meaningful participation of persons with disabilities in humanitarian decision-making. Thank you.

Thank you, Malta. I pass the floor to Finland, followed by Australia. Finland.

Chair, I have the honour to speak on behalf of Nordic and Baltic States. Madam Chair of the Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, we thank you for your crucial work. Madam Special Rapporteur, we commend you for your valuable work. Principled humanitarian aid is impartial and it should be given based on need and be non-discriminatory. We need to institutionalize disability inclusion as a cross-cutting priority across humanitarian coordination, planning, financing and accountability frameworks. We must ensure sufficient funding and the full and meaningful participation of persons with disabilities and their organizations throughout humanitarian preparedness, response and recovery efforts. We need reliable data on the situation for persons with disability, including disaggregated data by disability. Particular attention should be given to women and children with disabilities. We must ensure that disability inclusion remains a core part of humanitarian action.

By continuing to focus on ensuring

humanitarian access and inclusivity, we underpin our ability to uphold humanitarian principles and deliver on the humanitarian imperative. I thank you.

Thank you, Finland, for the Nordic and Baltic countries. I pass to Australia, then European Union. Australia, you have the floor.

Thank you, Chair. I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the MICTR group, Mexico, Indonesia, the Republic of Korea, Turkey, and my own country, Australia. Special Rapporteur, we welcome the report's focus on inclusive humanitarian assistance, and we echo its warning that hard-won gains risk being reversed unless the rights, perspectives, and needs of persons with disabilities are systematically embedded across humanitarian reform efforts. When conflict and crises emerge, persons with disabilities face persistent and disproportionate structural barriers to accessing humanitarian assistance. We emphasize the importance of addressing discrimination for all persons with disabilities, and humanitarian reform efforts progress, disability, equality, and human rights must be front of mind. It is imperative that reform efforts recognize persons with disabilities as right holders. leaders and partners in preparedness, response and recovery efforts. We highlight the critical need to integrate disability inclusion into disaster risk reduction, climate adaptation and resilience building strategies, recognising that persons with disabilities are disproportionately affected by environmental emergencies and are also essential agents of change. Special Rapporteur, what are some critical safeguards to ensure the humanitarian reset delivers greater equality, agency, and accountability for persons with disabilities? I thank you.

Thank you, Australia. I pass the European, followed by Austria, Sri Lanka, China, and Slovenia. European Union, you have the floor.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. I have the honor to speak on behalf of the European Union and its member states.

We reaffirm our obligations under Article 11 of the UN CRPD to ensure the protection and safety of persons with disabilities in situations of risk.

We thank Ms. Ofir Ewer, Fefu Ame and Ms. Hageras for their work to protect and promote the rights of persons with disabilities worldwide, including in situations of risk, armed conflict, humanitarian emergencies and disasters.

Disability inclusion is not an optional add-on, but an indispensable and core component of principled, effective, and life-saving humanitarian assistance.

It requires a twin-track approach, mainstreaming disability across all humanitarian sectors, combined with targeted interventions to address specific barriers and support empowerment. As part of ongoing humanitarian reforms and localisation.

Efforts, our priority is to provide direct, flexible and predictable funding for organisations of persons with disabilities, thereby fostering their full and meaningful participation and leadership in decision-making processes.

Madam Special Rapporteur, Madam Chair, considering these reforms.

What safeguards do you consider critical to ensure that disability inclusion remains fully integrated into humanitarian coordination, funding?

And accountability mechanisms and that progress is not.

Thank you, European Union. I pass to Austria, followed by Sri Lanka. Austria, you have the floor.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. Austria thanks the briefers for their comprehensive presentations and aligns itself with the statement delivered by the EU. Special rapporteur, too often persons with disabilities face additional barriers to accessing humanitarian assistance, essential services and protection. Austria's humanitarian aid strategy explicitly recognizes persons with disabilities as a group requiring particular attention and calls for their active participation throughout all stages of humanitarian assistance. We also systematically incorporate disability inclusion into our development cooperation. In 2025, 16 projects of the Austrian Development Agency, totalling approximately 27 million euros, benefited people with disabilities. We remain firmly committed to the effective implementation of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and have recently commissioned a scientific evaluation of our current national action plan. Special Rapporteur, which practical measures would you recommend to ensure that disability inclusion is systematically integrated into humanitarian funding, coordination and response plans, particularly in the context of current humanitarian efforts? I thank you.

I thank Austria. I pass to Sri Lanka and then China. Sri Lanka, you have the floor.

Thank you, Chair. Sri Lanka thanks the Special Rapporteur for her report. We value your work, particularly in this 20th anniversary year of the Convention. Sri Lanka had the honour to chair the 19th Conference of States Parties to the Convention. In Sri Lanka, our national disaster management plan recognizes persons with disabilities as a priority group. We are working to improve accessibility, early warnings, and emergency shelters while training officials in disability-inclusive response. Disability-inclusive budget allocations have been increased by nearly 70% since 2022. Yet, Cyclone Ditwah last year showed us the challenges in turning commitments into action. However, through the community rapid assessments and partner-led relief response, we were able to reach out to the affected persons of disabilities under the UN-backed humanitarian priority plan to provide them with relief response. Special Rapporteur, in your view, what practical measures have proven most effective in ensuring that early warning and emergency response reach persons with disabilities, particularly in rural communities and areas with limited?

Access? Thank you.

Thank you, Sri Lanka. I pass to China, followed by Slovenia, Islamic Republic of Iran, Hungary, Mexico, and Bangladesh. China, you have the floor.

China thanks the Chair and the Special Rapporteur for their briefings. The current international landscape is marked by turbulence and uncertainty. The international community should pay special attention to the needs of persons with disability and accelerate the implementation of the CRPD and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. China has more than 85 million persons with disabilities, accounting for 6.34% of its population, who respect protecting their rights, encourage their participation, and pay great importance on their social security, education, employment, and access to public services. China has enacted more than 90 laws directly related to the protection of the rights of persons with disabilities. The Accessibility Environment Construction Law provides a legal foundation for improving accessible social services. China promotes inclusive education, introduces systematic measures to support employment of persons with disabilities and strive to foster society characterized by understanding, respect, care and support for persons with disabilities. China has submitted its fourth and fifth periodic reports under the Convention and stands ready to strengthen cooperation with all parties in the world. and work together to ensure that persons with disabilities around the world enjoy happy lives with dignity. Thank you.

Thank you, China. I pass to Slovenia, then Islamic Republic of Iran. Slovenia.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. Slovenia aligns with the EU statement. We thank the briefers for their presentation and agree that persons with disabilities are the most at risk in armed conflicts, humanitarian emergencies, and natural disasters. They are faced with systematic challenges in accessing basic services on an equal basis, such as proper access to water, food, sanitation, access to education, healthcare, and support services. They may not be able to leave their homes during evacuation. They may not hear, see, understand, or comprehend the warnings and commands. Madam Special Rapporteur, we welcome your recommendations. on adopting disability-inclusive measures and ensure better protection of persons with disabilities in situation of risks through humanitarian assistance. Full, safe, rapid, and unhindered humanitarian access to all persons in need of special assistance must be ensured. Persons with disabilities and their representative organizations must be able to meaningfully participate in humanitarian action, conflict prevention, resolution, reconciliation, reconstruction, and peace building. Madam Special Rapporteur, In your report, you mentioned international humanitarian law requires that special respect and protection be given to persons with disabilities, particularly in relation to their evacuation. How can we improve humanitarian response, especially in humanitarian crisis where humanitarian actors on the ground are facing dangerous conditions of armed conflict or natural disasters? In closing, let me reiterate Slovenia's strong support for your mandate. I thank you.

Thank you, Slovenia. I pass to Islamic Republic of Iran, followed by Hungary, Mexico, Bangladesh, and Democratic People's Republic of Korea. Islamic Republic of Iran, you have the floor.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. The Islamic Republic of Iran thanks the Special Rapporteur for her report on inclusive humanitarian assistance and the protection of persons with disabilities, in particular in situations of risk, including armed conflicts. We are deeply concerned that the recent war of aggression against Iran, coupled with the humanitarian consequences of unilateral coercive measures and sanctions, has further endangered persons with disabilities. Damage to civilian infrastructure and disruptions in access to medicines, rehabilitation services, assistive devices, and essential healthcare services disproportionately affect those who depend on continuous support. Persons with disabilities are entitled to effective protection under international humanitarian law and international human rights law. We further stress that unilateral coercive measures are unlawful and incompatible with international law, and call for accountability for the devastating humanitarian impacts on persons with disabilities. Iran reaffirms that the rights, dignity and protection of persons with disabilities must never be treated as optional. We call for equal application of international law, effective accountability and concrete action to ensure that no person with a disability is left behind. Thank you.

Thank you, Iran. I pass to Hungary, Mexico, then Bangladesh. Hungary, you have the floor.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. Hungary aligns itself with the statement delivered on behalf of the European Union, and we would like to add the following in our national capacity. We would like to express our sincere appreciation to both of you for your dedicated work and valuable contributions. We also welcome the Special Rapporteur's report and the important issues it brings to our attention. Hungary remains firmly committed to the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and to ensuring the full and equal enjoyment of human rights by them. It is essential that humanitarian assistance always remains inclusive, responsive to individual needs, and accessible to those who need it most. Hungary has contributed to many projects to translate this commitment into concrete actions. As the international humanitarian system undergoes reform, we believe that greater inclusivity and more effective assistance must go hand in hand, or shared efforts should ultimately be measured by the difference they make in the lives of those affected. Hungary also looks forward to the negotiations on a legally binding instrument on the protection of persons in the event of disasters. We see this as a valuable opportunity to further strengthen the protection of human rights, including those persons with disabilities. Madam Special Rapporteur, how can we best ensure that ongoing humanitarian reforms translate into meaningful improvements for persons with disabilities, particularly in situations where resources are limited? Thank you very much.

Thank you, Hungary. I pass to Mexico, then Bangladesh. Mexico, you have the floor.

Thank you very much, Chair. Mexico is grateful to the Chair of the Committee and to the Special Rapporteur for presenting their reports. As a promoter of the Convention and co-chair with New Zealand of the Group of Friends of Persons with Disabilities, we, Mexico, have a firm commitment to the promotion and protection of the rights of persons with disabilities. As part of the efficiency measures, we should preserve progress that has been made in terms of the rights of persons with disabilities, and this becomes even more pressing given the proliferation of armed conflicts that are disproportionately impacting persons with disabilities. We should also address the specific needs of people who are facing multiple intersecting forms of discrimination, especially women, girls and indigenous persons with disabilities. We reiterate our support to the UN Disability Inclusion Strategy, and we invite Member States to consider making contributions to this fund. Special Rapporteur, what measures can States drive to ensure that humanitarian reform fully integrates the rights and needs of persons with disabilities? Thank you.

Thank you, Mexico. I pass to Bangladesh, to be followed by Democratic People's Republic of Korea, then Guatemala and New Zealand. Bangladesh, you have the floor.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. Bangladesh thanks the briefers for their insightful presentations and important work. We recognize the concerns regarding the disproportionate impacts on persons with disabilities during armed conflicts, humanitarian emergencies, and natural disasters. We also recognize the challenges relating to accessibility, reliable data, and adequate funding. The Constitution of Bangladesh guarantees equal rights and dignity for all, including persons with disabilities. Our national initiatives, including the Family Card Initiative and Disability Allowance Program, aim to strengthen social protection and economic security. We have also included disability in our national education and skill development policies to ensure that no one is left behind. We are also conducting awareness programs for the parents and caregivers. Bangladesh believes that disability inclusion must remain a key priority in humanitarian reforms. We We recognize that the humanitarian reset offers opportunities to strengthen local leadership. However, efforts to improve efficiency must also include necessary safeguards to protect the rights of persons with disabilities. We also emphasize disability-inclusive disaster preparedness and accessible early warning systems. We would welcome the briefers' views on how countries with limited resources can ensure predictable, dedicated and sustainable funding for disability-inclusive humanitarian assistance, particularly when humanitarian needs are growing and available funding.

Is declining.

And same question about collection of data to ensure that assistance goes to those most in need. I thank you.

Thank you, Bangladesh. I pass to the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, followed by Guatemala. DPRK, you have the floor.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. Since the establishment of International Day of Persons with Disabilities in 1981, the international community has made strenuous efforts to secure equal rights and opportunities for them. However, crises such as armed conflict, economic decline, and natural disasters, compounded by persistent public misconception, remain major obstacles to our collective endeavor. Mr. Chair, in line with people first policy, the DPRK has made every effort to ensure respect for the dignity of persons with disabilities while supporting their active participation in state affairs and social activities. The continuous reinforcement of the domestic legal and institutional mechanisms, alongside expanded social services, had enabled persons with disabilities to fully enjoy their rights, free from worries regarding medical service, education and employment. As a State Party to the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, the DPRK is fulfilling its treaty obligations, including constructive engagement in consideration of its initial implementation report in 2025. The DPRK will remain faithful to its mission and further enhance cooperation with the international community in promoting the rights of persons with disabilities. Thank you.

Thank you, DPRK. I pass to Guatemala, followed by New Zealand, Azerbaijan, Canada, Panama, Morocco, and Qatar. Guatemala, you have the floor.

Chair, we are grateful for the presentations delivered by the Chair of the Committee and the Special Rapporteur. Guatemala especially takes note of the recommendations of the Special Rapporteur. We share her call to overcome the gaps in the areas of accessibility, meaningful participation, and funding. disaggregated data and the inclusion of persons with disabilities should not be considered something extra, but an essential dimension of every effective rights-based humanitarian response, guided by the principle to leave no one behind. At the national level, Guatemala is making progress in updating its national disability policy through a process of consultations and inter-institutional coordination aimed at monitoring this instrument. together with the standards of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities in order to respond to the needs of this population. We also recognize the importance of continuing to strengthen collection and use of disaggregated data as a basis for informing public policy and for promoting inclusive, accessible humanitarian action that is responsive to different territorial contexts. Given this backdrop, Guatemala wishes to ask the Special Rapporteur, what measures would you recommend to align national disability policies with disaster risk management systems and to ensure that humanitarian responses are accessible and inclusive and adapted to different territorial contexts. I thank you.

Thank you, Guatemala. I pass to New Zealand, followed by Azerbaijan. New Zealand, you have the floor.

Thank you, Chair. New Zealand thanks the Special Rapporteur and the Chair of the Committee for their ongoing work to advance the rights of persons with disabilities. We welcome this report's focus on concrete measures that support inclusive humanitarian responses, including funding, data collection, accessibility, and meaningful participation. For New Zealand and our Pacific region, Article 11 has become increasingly relevant in light of the impact of severe weather events and natural disasters. One important implementation initiative has been the promotion of New Zealand's person-centered emergency preparedness approach. The Ministry of Disabled People, Fikaha, working with the National Emergency Management Agency, is supporting the Regional Emergency Management Office to deliver emergency preparedness workshops for disabled people and their families. New Zealand also places strong emphasis on implementing the committee's concluding observations. The government is currently progressing action on 46 of the 63 recommendations received from the committee. Beyond domestic efforts, New Zealand regularly advocates for disability inclusion in international humanitarian policy platforms and when engaging with multilateral humanitarian organizations. We have also funded a range of international initiatives to strengthen disability inclusive humanitarian action. We also welcome the Committee's recent work in providing practical guidance on intersectional discrimination and gender-based violence. Special Rapporteur, how can State parties ensure that the implementation of the Convention continues to be prioritized in the face of growing pressures on the international system? Thank you.

Thank you, New Zealand. I pass to Azerbaijan, then Canada. Azerbaijan.

Mr. Chair.

Ensuring full and effective participation of persons with disabilities in society on an equal basis with others should be an overarching objective for states and the international community. In Azerbaijan, state policy on persons with disabilities is guided by the principles of inclusivity, integration, equality, non-discrimination and respect for the characteristics of persons with disabilities. As a result of the reforms undertaken in recent years, negative connotations have been removed from the legislative acts Disability governance has been modernized through digital transformation, and Azerbaijani sign language has been officially recognized. Mr. Chair, while addressing human rights challenges related to disability, it should be noted that prevalence of newly acquired disabilities is increasing as a result of landmines, explosive remnants of war, and improvised explosive devices, including in post-conflict settings. More than 13% of Azerbaijan's territory is contaminated by unexploded ordnance left during the occupation, posing a serious threat to the returning population. Since 2020, the number of mine victims has reached 443, underscoring the need for international solidarity and support to prevent disability, particularly by strengthening national mine action efforts. In conclusion, Azerbaijan will continue to take measures to prevent disabilities, provide habilitation and rehabilitation, and ensure equal opportunities for persons with disabilities. Thank you.

Thank you, Azerbaijan. I pass to Canada, Panama, Morocco, Qatar, Pakistan, Luxembourg, and Myanmar. Canada, you have the floor.

Thank you, Chair. Canada thanks the Special Rapporteur for her report. Her findings and the Committee's guidance are particularly timely as crises and emergencies continue to have disproportionate consequences for persons with disabilities and generate disability on a significant scale. Canada welcomes a clear focus on the gap between existing commitments and their implementation, particularly regarding accessibility, meaningful participation, protection, disability disaggregated data, funding, and accountability. We share the Special Rapporteur's concern that persons with disabilities continue to face barriers. We also appreciate the consideration of how ongoing humanitarian reforms can preserve and strengthen disability inclusion. Canada supports embedding disability inclusion throughout the humanitarian cycle, and we uphold that persons with disabilities must meaningfully shape humanitarian action, disaster risk reduction, recovery, and peacebuilding. We appreciate the committee's guidelines and identifying on identifying and addressing intersectional discrimination against girls, adolescents, women, and older women with disabilities, and the guidelines on disability-based violence. These help highlight otherwise overlooked discrimination and violence. Canada also welcomes the inclusive and participatory process in developing these guidelines. Special Rapporteur, with what practical measures should donors incorporate into insistence to ensure that people with disabilities meaningfully influence the design implementation monitoring of.

Thank you, Canada. I pass to Panama to be followed by Morocco. Panama, you have the floor.

Thank you, Chair. The promotion and protection of the rights of persons with disabilities continues to be a major challenge for the international community. While significant progress has been made, there are still barriers that limit their full participation in society and the exercise of their rights on an equal footing. We are grateful to the Special Rapporteur and the chair of the committee for their efforts to keep this issue at the top of the international agenda. Panama, as one of the first countries to sign and ratify the CRPD, has a firm commitment to inclusion, equality of opportunity and respect for the dignity of all persons. At a national level, we have been driving actions aimed at strengthening inclusion and equality of opportunity. In this regard, we welcome the SG's report as it highlights Panama's efforts to protect persons with disabilities from violence. Similarly, we are grateful for the support from the WHO and other agencies in preparing our national disability survey that allows us to better understand the needs of our population and to continue to move towards a more inclusive society. rapporteur, we would like to ask you how can we take advantage of new communication technologies to promote the inclusion of persons with disabilities to avoid and avoid these tools from generating greater inequalities? I thank you.

Thank you, Panama. I pass to Morocco to be followed by Qatar. Morocco, you have the floor.

Chair, my delegation would like to thank the Special Rapporteur for her report on inclusive humanitarian assistance. Morocco welcomes the progress made since 2019. UN entities are now meeting half of the indicators. We highlighted with interest that the most significant progress concerned Arab and African regions. The 2.0 strategy for 2026-2030 is a new section and we're looking forward to moving from commitments to measurable results. The special rapporteur's report reminds us of something worrying. Persons with disabilities are almost four times at greater risk of dying during a disaster. The humanitarian system is experiencing financial constraints and reform. We think that inclusion should increase nevertheless. We believe that the dignity of people, of persons with disabilities is a society choice Our constitution from 2011 reflects our commitments to that category of the population, and we have a rights-based approach. Morocco will continue to work alongside all partners so that no one is left behind.

I pass to Qatar, Pakistan, Luxembourg and Myanmar. Qatar, you have the floor.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. We would like to express our appreciation to the Chair of the Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and the Special Rapporteur on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. We thank you for attending, and we thank them for the briefings. The State of Qatar appreciates their efforts. We welcome the report of the Special Rapporteur on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, and document A/81/270, and we appreciate that it shed light on the efforts that have been made and the progress achieved and the challenges that remain. The State of Qatar is one of the leading countries, one of the first countries that ratified the CRPD agreement in 2008, and we just completed our omnibus report from the second to the fourth report on the implementation of the agreements during the interactive dialogue that was held with the United Nations Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. This meeting was held in Geneva in August last. The interactive dialogue at the time was a valuable opportunity to exchange experiences and best practices, and the State of Qatar has stated that it will benefit from the results of the dialogue and the final comments, as well as the recommendations to be made by the Committee, as it continues to develop its national policies and programmes on the rights of persons with disabilities. The State of Qatar has adopted an integrated system of legislative and executive processes to offer a good education, an equitable one, and a comprehensive one to those with disabilities. The mic has been cut off.

Thank you, Qatar. I pass to Pakistan, followed by Luxembourg, and then Myanmar. Pakistan, you have the floor.

Thank you, Chair. We thank the Special Rapporteur for her insightful report, underscoring the importance of disability-inclusive humanitarian assistance. Pakistan firmly believes that disability inclusion is not merely a humanitarian consideration, but a fundamental human rights obligation. Humanitarian responses must therefore prioritize accessibility, meaningful participation, and equitable access to assistance, particularly for those most vulnerable. In this context, we wish to highlight the adoption by consensus of the first ever landmark General Assembly resolution 80/305 on access to assistive technology presented by Pakistan. The resolution underscores the importance of access to assistive technology, including during humanitarian emergencies and national disasters, when such access becomes even more critical for the safety, mobility, communication, and independence of persons with disabilities. We would like to seek the views of Special Rapporteur on how access to essential assistive technology can be systematically integrated into humanitarian preparedness, emergency response and recovery, particularly in situations of armed conflict and foreign occupation. I thank you.

Thank you, Pakistan. I pass to Luxembourg, to be followed by the Permanent Representative of Myanmar, then Spain and the United Kingdom. Luxembourg, you have the floor.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. I have the honour to deliver the statement on behalf of the Benelux countries, Belgium, the Netherlands and my own country, Luxembourg. We align ourselves with the statement delivered by the European Union. Madam Special Rapporteur, We commend you for this comprehensive report, which highlights the disproportionate risks persons with disabilities continue to face during crises. We cannot turn a blind eye to the fact that persons with disabilities are four times more likely to die during a disaster and experience higher rates of abuse during armed conflict and humanitarian emergencies. We are particularly concerned that women and children with disabilities remain insufficiently protected. Lastly, we are concerned about the potential impact of the ongoing humanitarian reset process on disability inclusion, as outlined in your report. Madam Special Rapporteur, your report highlights several persistent challenges and contains important policy recommendations to address structural inequalities. The lack of reliable and high-quality disability disaggregated data, the need for meaningful participation and representation, enhanced accountability and predictable, robust funding for disability inclusion are among the main issues identified by your report. In relation to this, which best practices can you share to promote inclusive participation, accessibility, protection, funding, accountability and data collection? Could you further expand on how organisations can better include and protect women and children with disabilities? Which safeguards can be put in place and ensure the meaningful inclusion of persons with disabilities in the humanitarian reset. Thank you very much.

Thank you, Luxembourg, on behalf of Benelux. I pass to the Permanent Representative of Myanmar, to be followed by Spain. Myanmar, you have the floor.

Thank you, Chair. I thank the Chair of the Committee and Special Rapporteur for their report and presentations today. For a person with disability in Myanmar, making a living has now become extremely challenging. The hardships they face worsened dramatically in the illegal post-coup era. They are enduring horrific atrocities directly engineered by the military junta. And even to flee at rootless military offensives, persons with disability have been systematically trapped, getting killed or burned alive in their own homes. Furthermore, persons with disability have been disproportionately impacted by the economic collapse, losing employment opportunities and struggling to survive amid skyrocketing commodity prices. Nevertheless, a remarkable network of civil society organizations, driven largely by persons with disabilities, courageously defied the military's oppressive barriers. Risking their own safety, they served as a critical lifeline to distribute life-saving food, medicine, and cash, deliver crucial assistive devices, and provide the education and advocacy necessary to empower and defend a community under siege. International community must therefore recognize that guaranteeing human rights for all is impossible under the military junta and its dictatorship. I ask the member state to take decisive action to help end the military dictatorship and hold the perpetrators of international crime.

I thank the Permanent Representative of Myanmar. I pass to Spain, followed by United Kingdom, United Arab Emirates, Costa Rica, and the Sovereign Order of Malta. Spain, you have the floor.

Thank you, Chair. Spain aligns with the statement of the EU. We commend the Committee and the Special Rapporteur for their indispensable work. We agree with the concerns expressed as regards the persistence of structural barriers, institutionalization, the gender gap, and the shortcomings in inclusive education or emergency situations. At this 20th anniversary of the Convention, Spain reaffirms its commitment to translating the recommendations into effective rights. We have consolidated historic transformations, reforming Article 49 of our Constitution, guaranteeing the right to vote for all persons with disabilities, reform of civil code to ensure that they also have the necessary support to guarantee their legal capacity and We have spearheaded a strategy of deinstitutionalization, a universal cognitive accessibility and a 65 million euro plan for women and girls with disabilities. We're integrating this into our international cooperation in partnership with civil society as the special rapporteur was able to see for herself during a recent visit to Spain. We know that challenges remain but the credibility of our speeches is measured by the facts on the ground. Persons with disabilities need strong responses, effective support and commitments that are delivered. We should make inclusion the norm and never the exception. Chair, what recommendations does the Committee prioritise to accelerate the transition from institutionalisation to independent living in contexts of crisis or limited resources? Thank you.

Thank you. Spain, I pass to the United Kingdom, followed by United Arab Emirates. United Kingdom, you have the floor.

Thank you, Chair.

The UK is committed to implementing the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. The Convention, adopted 20 years ago this December, followed decades of work to change attitudes and approaches to persons with disabilities. Considerable progress has been made towards full inclusion, but significant challenges remain. The continued focus of the Committee is imperative for ensuring that disability inclusion is afforded the attention of State parties and the whole UN system, and that this is maintained throughout a time of transformation and reform. The UK acknowledges and commends the work of the Committee.

And of the Special Rapporteur, and welcomes the report on inclusive humanitarian assistance and safeguards.

For the rights of persons with disabilities.

The UK supports principled humanitarian action guided by humanity, impartiality and independence. Humanitarian actors should identify and address the barriers that prevent persons with disabilities from accessing support, recognizing that crisis often exacerbates pre-existing discrimination and disadvantage. Special rapporteur, what are your views on how state parties can best ensure that persons with disabilities can participate meaningfully in planning for the humanitarian responses?

I thank you.

Thank you, United Kingdom. I pass to the United Arab Emirates, followed by Costa Rica. United Arab Emirates, you have the floor.

I thank you, Mr. Chair. At the outset, I'd like to express our appreciation to the special rapporteur, Madame Hiba Haj-Rassal, for her statement, and we have two questions. How are we to improve effective and meaningful participation of persons with disabilities and organizations representing them in designing response plans and implementing them and monitoring? And what does she recommend to guarantee that they are safely evacuated and arrive at shelters that are equipped to meet with their needs during conflicts and emergencies and disasters. And here we affirm that we in the United Arab Emirates use the expression, persons with willpower to refer to persons with disabilities in order to maintain equitable opportunities for them. The United Arab Emirates in 2021 has adopted a policy to response to empower persons with willpower in states of emergencies and disasters that would make basic information accessible and would provide well-trained personnel. We also have the Step of Hope program, which guarantees the people with the powers participation in the manufacturing of artificial limbs and sending them to Palestinian children in Gaza to allow them to have more mobility and to guarantee that they are rehabilitated and are able to regain their independence and autonomy. In closing, the UAE reaffirms the importance of the meaningful participation of persons with disabilities and their organizations in planning humanitarian work and its implementation and monitoring.

Thank you, UAE. I pass to Costa Rica before our final intervention from Sovereign Order of Malta. Costa Rica, you have the floor.

Thank you very much, Chair. Costa Rica is grateful to the Special Rapporteur and to the Committee, and we thank them for the presentation of their reports. At the same time, we reiterate our support for their mandates. We recognize the progress that has been made in the area of inclusive humanitarian assistance. However, we are concerned that persons with disabilities have four times greater possibilities of dying during a conflict. Progress has been made, needs to be made in terms of the protection promotion of persons with disabilities during emergencies and disasters based on the NEPA agreements and we're working on incorporating the recommendations of the Committee. We also want to highlight the observations of the Committee in the area of risk situations and political participation. On this, we highlight the situation of persons with autism. They represent approximately 0.8% of the global population. We would encourage data on barriers faced by them in future reports, as well as measures to guarantee their rights. Lastly, Costa Rica is proud to be up to date in terms of its reports on the full implementation of the Convention. We reiterate our full support to the Committee, to the Special Rapporteur and for the rights of persons with disabilities.

Thank you, Costa Rica. Our final intervention from the floor this morning is, or in this session, is the Sovereign Order of Malta. You have the floor.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. Despite international commitments, persons with disabilities continue to face barriers to essential services and full participation in society. For the Sovereign Order of Malta, upholding their dignity lies at the heart of its humanitarian mission. In Rome, the Order's St. John Baptist Hospital provides specialized rehabilitation, while the Maltese Special Kindergarten in Romania supports children with special educational needs. The Order also promotes independence and social inclusion. Project Gioia in Rome supports young people with disabilities through independent living opportunities and vocational training. Its Italian summer camp brings together more than 150 young people with disabilities and volunteers, while the Order's National Relief Corps undertake wider inclusion initiatives, including supporting participation in sport. Internationally, the Order's pilgrimage to Lourdes enables people with disabilities to participate with the assistance of thousands of volunteers. Its international summer camp in Spain brought together more than 550 young people with disabilities and volunteers from over 25 countries. For the Sovereign Order of Malta, safeguarding the rights of persons with disabilities is inseparable from upholding human dignity and ensuring that no one is left behind. I thank you.

Thank you, Sovereign Order of Malta. It's now my pleasure to return the floor to our presenters. And our first speaker will be the Chair of the Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, Ms. Kim, you have the floor.

Thank you so much. Thank you for all of the State Parties' first statements and constructive dialogue today. I appreciate your effort to implement the Convention and recognize the practical challenges you face. Our committee remained open to dialogue and to finding ways to power together. About the question from Ireland and Russia, on general comments and stated report reviews, general comments clearly find recurring issues, identify the serious constructive dialogue and support the national implementation. States should translate them into the action plan with responsibilities, budget and timeline. Time near reviews are equally essential. We are improving our working method towards sufficient meeting time and secretarial capacity remain necessary for functions. About the question from the Namibia Africa group. Article 11 and the African instrument are mutually reinforcing within their respective scopes. State parties should reflect these obligations in current laws and emergency plans. I welcome exploring closer regional engagement with OHCHR and African human rights mechanisms. New review arrangements would require committee consideration and adequate resources, say regarding independence and accessible participation. About the question from the island. The United Nations disabled inclusion strategy to inform the committee's operation and budget. Sign language interpretation, captioning, accessible document, and reasonable accommodation require predictable funding and clear institutional responsibility. Implementation must be assessed by other or member and participation can take part equally. The question from the EU. Humanitarian reform needs safeguarded participation in decision, accessible funding, and accountability when it's closed courses. Funding should support accessibility across the sectors alongside individual support needs. Organization of persons with disability should have assessed the reforms impact with clear responsibility for correcting any regulation. From the question from the Ukraine, third reviews and recommendations under Article 11, the committee can identify gap in evacuation, healthcare, rehabilitation, and daily support. Personally, this is a bit in area of restricted access needed safe channels to share information. Cooperation with relevant United Nations mechanism can support concrete protection measure and power. The question from the Bangladeshi to reply, assess both and support cost should be included from the outset in these disaster management and social protection project and humanitarian response plan. International donors should provide predictable multi-year support and flexible emergency funding with accessible funding opportunities for local organization of persons with disability. The question from the Bangladeshi related to data. Data quality and comparability can build on existing international tool and national survey. Organizations of persons with disabilities should help identify support needs and barriers with privacy protected. I cannot fully elaborate on the estimates today. Integrating appropriate tools into the existing survey and costing additional training, accessibility, and analysis nationally is a practical starting point. Mr. Chair and distinguished delegation, thank you for your order, statement, and constructive question. I want to satisfy my answer to all who have participated in this, but because of the limited time, I'm very limited to answer all your wonderful questions. As I highlighted today, persons with disabilities must participate in humanitarian priority and resource allocation, disaster recovery and peacebuilding. The voice of the, especially women and children with disability and underrepresented persons with disabilities must inform these decisions. Thank you so much. You are wonderful question and to intervene in general debate. Thank you so much.

Thank you, Chair, very much indeed. I now have the pleasure of passing to the Special Rapporteur on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, Ms. Hragras, you have the floor. Ms. Hragras will just... Great, thanks so much.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. First of all, I would like to thank all the States for their warm welcome for my report and their incessant support for my mandate. I will start answering the questions in a combined form for the sake of time and to be able to answer a large number of questions. Many states asked about the safeguards and how can we do it and all this, and I think that safeguarding in humanitarian reform should be done through embedding disability inclusion and non-negotiable requirement in all humanitarian reforms, processes consistent with the CRPD and the Security Council Resolution 2475. Also, maintaining a dedicated disability expertise for focal points within coordination structures. ensuring OPDs are systematically involved in decision-making and localization efforts. I think these are very important three points to really be sure and safeguard the humanitarian reform and inclusion from the onset. Second, there was a real concern about the participation of persons with disabilities in the processes. Meaningful participation of persons with disability is done by giving OPDs a formal role in humanitarian coordination and planning mechanisms, providing direct flexible funding to support their sustained engagement, and ensuring consultations and information are fully accessible and support co-designing for programmes. This is how we expect the participation of persons with disabilities in the processes. Also, some countries were really concerned about accessibility and the disaggregation of data, and we believe that it could easily be done by making all life-saving information and services accessible through multiple formats and communication channels. Connecting disability disaggregated data systematically, including through recognized methodology, such as the Washington Group Questions. Integrating disability data into needs assessment, planning, and monitoring, with OPD's involvement throughout the processes. Also, some countries asked about funding and accountability. I believe that establishing a dedicated budget line and disability inclusion markers in humanitarian funding is important. increasing the direct funding of OPDs, particularly in conflict and emergency settings. Also, it has to be present during humanitarian aid. Tracking progress through disability-specific indicators, accessible accountability mechanisms and public reporting. requiring evidence of disability inclusion and consultations with OPDs as a condition for donor funding. This is really one of the very important points that we should make sure that it is there so that we can provide the funding in proper places. Also, some countries asked about the models and the countries that have succeeded in doing the inclusion of humanitarian aid in their policies and in their strategies. To give a few model, because I'm not sure I remember all of the countries that participated in the call for input for this report, I remember that Australia, Finland and Italy were among the countries that had this onset of preparedness and inclusion of persons with disabilities and being ready to help persons with disabilities from the onset of their humanitarian need. Thank you so much.

Thank you so much indeed, Special Rapporteur. That concludes this particular segment, and so I thank both the Chair and the Special Rapporteur for your contributions and for the interventions by all member state delegations. It's now my particular pleasure to welcome the Special Rapporteur on Minority Issues, Mr. Nicolas Levrin. You are very welcome. We will follow the usual procedure in relation to interventions from the floor. You now have three minutes to indicate an interest in speaking. We will collate a list of member states who wish to do so, and the number of member states which introduce so will determine the time allocated for each intervention. So please proceed on that basis from now. Mr. Novak, you have the floor.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. Excellencies, distinguished representatives, the 1992 Declaration on the Rights of Persons Belonging to National or Ethnic, Religious and Linguistic Minorities is rather concise: nine articles, 23 paragraphs. Astoundingly, four paragraphs out of 23 are dedicated to inter-state relations, almost 20% of the declaration. This is quite unusual for a human rights instrument. By contrast, the UDHR only contains one provision that refers to international relations. This difference is due to the fact that for many minority issues, the transnational dimension is structural. This is why my report examines the role of minority issues in contemporary international relations. Let me start by underlining that the declaration makes a clear distinction between minorities present on a member state's territory for which member states committed through Article 1 of the 1992 declaration to, I quote, "protect the existence and the national or ethnic, cultural, religious, and linguistic identity of minorities within their respective territories and shall encourage condition for the promotion of that identity." End of quote. And minorities living in another country. Article 8, paragraph 4 of the declaration, on the contrary, put strict limitations to state individual initiative. I quote, "Nothing in the present declaration may be construed as permitting any activity contrary to the purposes and principles of the United Nations, including sovereign equality, territorial integrity, and political independence of states." End of quote. As explained in my report, this provision does not at all address persons belonging to minority, but is addressed to states and more specifically, kin states. Historically, the minority protection regime within the League of Nations was precisely set up to substitute an international collective regime to the danger of unilateral attempts by some state to protect a minority group abroad. Article 8, paragraph 4, reiterates this principle at the foundation of international minority protection. Article 8, paragraph 4, does not impose any new obligation upon States. It only restates fundamental principles directly stemming from the UN Charter. For minorities located outside the state territory, Article 7 of the Declaration is very clear. "States should cooperate in order to promote respect for the rights set forth in the present Declaration." Cooperate and not act unilaterally beyond their borders. The practice of passportization, whereby a state grants its citizenship on persons living abroad with whom its dominant population shares ethnicity, language, or religion, with a view to justify later intervention on behalf of the citizen being mistreated abroad, constitutes a very borderline behavior in the light of Article 8, paragraph 4. Even the responsibility to protect does not allow unilateral intervention in violation of international law even in the case of alleged extreme violation, even for the protection by a state of its own dual national citizens abroad. This was made very clear by the International Court of Justice in its order of 16 March 2022, stating, I quote, "It is doubtful that the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide, in light of its object and purpose, authorize a contracting party unilateral use of force in the territory of another state for the purpose of preventing or punishing an alleged genocide." The strict interdiction of unilateral intervention to protect a minority carries with it a corresponding responsibility for collective action by the UN. The Security Council must assume the duty to protect minorities when their fate becomes a threat to peace and security. And naturally, the Security Council is equally bound to act if a state intervenes in a neighboring country under the guise of protecting a minority, in violation of fundamental principles of international law enshrined in the Charter. Given that the Security Council acts on behalf of states members of the United Nations, according to Article 27 of the Charter, when a permanent member's veto prevents the Security Council from discharging its duty, all other member states should hold members of the Security Council accountable. This could, for example, be done through a General Assembly request for an advisory opinion to the International Court of Justice on the matter. Excellencies, distinguished representatives, Let me now turn to another provision of the 1992 declaration, Article 5, paragraph 2, which reads, I quote, "Programs of cooperation and assistance among states "should be planned and implemented with due regard "for the legitimate interests of persons "belonging to minorities." This provision recognized the right of persons belonging to minorities to benefit fully from development and economic progress, including through state cooperation and assistance program between state. How is it then possible that collectively states have been failing to live up to this commitment for more than 25 years? The complete omission of minorities' legitimate interest in the Sustainable Development Goals, despite repeated requests of previous mandate holders and civil society organizations, is incomprehensible and a blatant failure to uphold the commitment taken under Article 5, paragraph 2 of the Declaration. I strongly request putting an end to this shameful disregard and call upon States to honour their commitment by including the legitimate interests of persons belonging to minorities in the implementation and possible rewarding of the UN 2030 Sustainable Agenda and beyond. For this reason, and also taking into account the specific role that persons belonging to minorities play in guaranteeing diversity in society, which is threatened by some recent governmental legislation and policies, and by the latest AI development, I reiterate my call for a summit on diversity in society and minorities to be held before 2030, with a view to complete the UN Sustainable Development Agenda. In conclusion, I would like to draw your attention to the fact that the two provisions of the 1992 Declaration discussed today deal respectively with peace and security as regards Article 8, paragraph 4, and with development as regards Article 5, paragraph 2, issues that are discussed in New York, not in Geneva. This is why, even under the pretext of rationalization, the idea of confining minority issues to Geneva as a solely human rights matter is ill-founded and counterproductive. I thank you for your attention.

I thank the Special Rapporteur, and I will now open the floor to interventions from Member State delegations. We will have a time limit of 2.5 minutes for each intervention, after which the microphone will shut off in the usual way. I have 16 interventions, so Romania is the first, followed by Ukraine, Austria, Islamic Republic of Iran, Italy, and European Union. Romania, you have the floor.

Thank you, Chair.

Protecting the rights of persons belonging to minorities is about building stronger, more inclusive and peaceful societies for all. I would like to express appreciation for the valuable work of the Special Rapporteur on minorities. issues and his comprehensive report. It highlights the importance of fostering inclusive societies where all individuals can participate fully and meaningfully, particularly in the context of today's complex international landscape. Romania reaffirms its strong commitment to the protection and promotion of the rights of persons belonging to national minorities as an integral part of the universal human rights framework. We believe that diversity is an essential component of inclusive and resilient societies. Romania has a well-established legislative and institutional framework for protecting the rights of persons belonging to national minorities, and we attach particular importance to dialogue and bilateral mechanisms in this regard. We strongly support cooperative solutions among states rather than unilateral initiatives. while fully respecting the limits established by the Venice Commission in its report on the preferential treatment of national minorities by their kin state, adopted in October 2001, which is mentioned in the special rapporteur's report and was notably prepared at Romania's initiative. This framework remains an important reference for ensuring respect for sovereignty, territorial integrity, good neighborly relations, and non-discrimination. Chair, Romania supports the continued mainstreaming of minority issues within the UN system and encourages constructive dialogue among states, international organizations, and minority representatives. We remain committed to ensuring that the protection of the rights of persons belonging to minorities goes hand in hand with equality, inclusion, and respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of states. We have a question as well for the Special Rapporteur. We would welcome his views on the opportunities for strengthening international cooperation and minority issues. Thank you very much.

Thank you, Romania. Ukraine to be followed by Austria. Ukraine, you have the floor.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. Ukraine thanks the Special Rapporteur. For almost four years, we have been resisting Russia's full-scale invasion. which threatens not only individual lives, but the survival of entire communities. International monitoring mechanisms have documented killings and displacement among the Azov Greeks and the fragmentation of Meshkete and Turkish communities. For the Azov Greeks, the dispersal of speakers compounds the threat to their endangered Rume and Rumica languages. Destroyed schools, displaced teachers, repeated power outages undermine minority language education, Roma families face additional barriers to evacuation, housing, and essential services. Protecting these communities means protecting both people and their ability to sustain their language, identities, and community life. Despite these hardships, national minorities stand united with all Ukrainians. They serve in our armed forces, support displaced families, sustain local economies, and contribute to public life. Despite the war, Ukraine continues advancing minority rights. Following legislative reforms developed in consultation with human rights institutions, we adopted an action plan for the protection of minority rights in May 2025. It addresses participation, language, educational rights, cultural preservation, Roma inclusion, and protection against discrimination. We would welcome the Special Rapporteur's views on how His mandate can help protect minority communities affected by armed conflict, particularly where occupation and displacement threaten the survival of their languages and cultural heritage. Thank you.

Thank you, Ukraine. Austria, to be followed by Islamic Republic of Iran. Austria, you have the floor.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. Austria aligns itself with the statement to be delivered by the European Union. Special Rapporteur, thank you for your comprehensive presentation and your continued commitment to the promotion of the rights of persons belonging to minorities. Austria remains a strong supporter of your mandate and of the landmark UN Declaration of Persons Belonging to National or Ethnic, Religious or Linguistic Minorities. Austria welcomes your recent report, which examines the rights and duties of states in their international relations under the declaration. Minority rights must not be instrumentalized for political purposes or abused to undermine the sovereignty and territorial integrity of other states. For Austria, the protection of the rights of persons belonging to minorities remains both a national and foreign policy priority. In June 2026, Austria advanced a reform package aimed at strengthening the position of its six recognized autochthonous national minorities, including through enhanced constitutional recognition, improved parliamentary oversight, and a dedicated forum for dialogue with minority communities. At the United Nations, Austria will continue to work on the improvement of the international human rights framework regarding persons belonging to minorities, including through the facilitation of resolutions on minority rights in both the Human Rights Council and the General Assembly. Special Rapporteur, in your report, you note the omission of minority rights in the Millennium Development Goals and the SDGs. And we strongly request that the legitimate interests of persons belonging to minorities be referred to and taken into account in the post-2030 United Nations development agenda, a request that Austria shares. Could you further elaborate on this request and how we could take the legitimate interests of minorities in a future post-2030 development agenda into account? I thank you.

Thank you, Austria. Islamic Republic of Iran, to be followed by Italy and then the European Union. Iran, you have the floor.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. The Islamic Republic of Iran welcomes the emphasis in the report of the Special Rapporteur on minority issues on the need to respect the national sovereignty, political independence, and territorial integrity of the states. and to refrain from instrumentalizing minority issues to justify interference in their internal affairs. The protection of minority rights should be pursued within the framework of international law on the basis of dialogue, international cooperation, and mutual respect, and should not be used as a tool for exerting political pressure, interfering in the internal affairs of a state, so undermining their stability and national cohesion. We also welcome the reference in the Secretary-General's report to the measures taken by the Islamic Republic of Iran to strengthen the participation of minorities. As a multi-ethnic and multi-religious society, Iran recognizes and protects the rights of all citizens, irrespective of ethnicity, religion, race or language, within the framework of its Constitution and domestic laws, and remains committed to its international obligations to promote and protect human rights for all. With regard to the references to the Baha'i community in the Secretary-General's report, we emphasize that the examination of matters pertaining to citizens' rights should be based on accurate and verifiable information and impartial assessment, and should avoid the generalizing allegations or politicizing such matters. Effective protection of minority rights requires simultaneous respect for human rights, national sovereignty and the principle of non-interference. We emphasize the importance of constructive and non-politicized cooperation in advancing the rights of all individuals and in strengthening the peaceful coexistence among communities. Thank you.

I thank the Islamic Republic of Iran. I pass to Italy, to be followed by the European Union, Rwanda, Russian Federation, and Hungary. Italy, you have the floor.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. Mr. Chair, Italy aligns itself with the statement to be delivered now by the European Union and wishes to add the following remarks also in its national capacity. We thank the Special Rapporteur for his report and for his continued commitment to the promotion and protection of the rights of persons belonging to minorities. Italy firmly believes that the protection of persons belonging to national or ethnic, religious and linguistic minorities is an integral part of the universal protection of human rights and a cornerstone of inclusive, cohesive and peaceful societies. Respect for diversity and the principle of equality, as enshrined in our Constitution, are essential to ensuring that all individuals can fully and effectively participate in public life. Yet, persons belonging to minorities continue to face discrimination, hate speech, violence and persistent barriers to their full participation in society. These challenges underscore the need for sustained efforts to ensure that their rights are effectively protected and no one is left behind. In this regard, Italy considers inclusive policies, constructive dialogue and international cooperation essential to tackling the root causes of discrimination, advancing equal opportunities and fostering societies in which diversity is fully respected and valued. Mr. Special Rapporteur, how can States and international partners strengthen cooperation to ensure that persons belonging to minorities can participate meaningfully in development processes and benefit equitably from economic growth and progress? I thank you.

Thank you, Italy. European Union to be followed by Rwanda. EU, you have the floor.

Thank you, Chair.

I have the honor to speak on behalf of the EU and its member states.

Mr. Special Rapporteur, we thank you for your report and your continued dedication to the rights of persons belonging to national or ethnic, religious, and linguistic minorities. We also commend your engagement with regional organizations and mechanisms across all continents. We share the view that minority protection is vital to social cohesion, democratic values and the prevention of conflict. The EU shares the best experience and practices in this regard. Yet, persons belonging to minorities continue to face discrimination, often on multiple and intersecting grounds. We share your concern that the protection of minorities abroad continues to be invoked as a pretext for unilateral action against neighbouring states, up to and including the use of force. This has most notably been done by the Russian Federation as a way to justify its illegal armed aggression against Ukraine. As your report rightly recalls, no alleged violation of minority rights can justify conduct contrary to the purpose and principles of the Charter. in particular the territorial integrity and political independence of states. We concur that bilateral, regional or multilateral cooperation in full conformity with the Charter remains the appropriate avenue for addressing minority issues. We also take note of your call for the legitimate interests of persons belonging to minorities to be reflected in the post-2030 development agenda. In this regard, you call for minority issues to be mainstreamed across the United Nations system as a development, security and human rights matter alike. Which entities do you consider best placed to lead this effort within existing resources? I thank you.

Thank you, European Union. I pass to Rwanda, then the Russian Federation, then Hungary, Israel, Liechtenstein and Greece. Rwanda, you have the floor.

Thank you, Mr. Chair.

Rwanda thanks the Special Rapporteur for his presentation. We take note of the report's emphasis on international cooperation in protecting the rights of persons belonging to minorities, including their full participation in economic and social development. We also see merit in the recommendation that the post-2030 development agenda explicitly address minority rights to ensure that no community is left behind. However, my delegation wishes to express serious reservations regarding the characterization of Rwanda in paragraph 44 of the report. Rwanda

recognizes the persecution and discrimination faced by minority communities in the DRC, particularly Congolese Tutsi, Banyamulenge, and other Kinyarwanda-speaking communities.

These are serious human rights concerns that deserve international attention. What we reject is the report's

assertion that Rwanda has justified alleged support for the military activities of M23 on the basis of protecting these communities.

This characterization is inaccurate and does not reflect Rwanda's stated position. The report cites several group of experts' reports submitted to the Security Council and an academic article. However, these references do not establish the specific justification attributed to Rwanda in the report. In this regard, we would welcome hearing whether the Special Rapporteur has had the opportunity to engage directly with affected minority communities in the DRC to understand their experiences and protection needs. We would also encourage a more balanced and objective consideration

of the situation, including underlying security concerns and the persecution faced by these communities.

I thank you, Mr. Chair.

Thank you, Rwanda. I pass to the Russian Federation, to be followed by Hungary. Russian Federation, you have the floor.

Chair, we very closely read the study from the Special Rapporteur on minority issues. As we expected, the document is blatantly politicised. The free-handed interpretation of Russian policy vis-a-vis Russian and Russian-speaking people abroad is at odds with reality. The current situation is by and large down to years of human rights structures not taking proper measures in response to human rights violations in the Baltics, the EU as a whole, and in Ukraine. And in the report, rather than serious analysis, we just see copy and paste of Western narratives and fully ignoring the neo-nazi heart of the Kyiv regime, which itself was the root cause of the conflict. The document is overflowing with both unstated accusations and hypothetical nuances. For example, the Special Rapporteur refers to the Ukraine's referral to the ICJ of the question of Russian intervention on the grounds of genocide, but it does not mention that Kyiv's claim was rejected and what is currently being considered is only whether genocide was carried out by Ukraine against its own people. The question then is that the Special Rapporteur is making recommendations beyond his mandate regarding seizing the ICJ. In conclusion, I'd like to highlight once again that this document ignores the real state of affairs in Ukraine. Its content deliberately diverts attention from the key changes to language policy in Ukraine. i.e. laws being adopted removing protections for Russian language, which is something spoken by more than 80% of the population, but at the same time aiding the use of official languages of the European Union. Thank you very much.

Thank you, Russian Federation. I pass to Hungary, then Israel, Liechtenstein, Greece, Slovenia and Pakistan. Hungary, you have the floor.

Thank you, Chair. Hungary aligns with the statement delivered by the European Union. We thank Professor Nicolas Levrain for the presentation of his report that brings forth important deliberations in connection with the realization of the rights of persons belonging to national or ethnic, religious and linguistic minorities. Mr. Special Rapporteur, Hungary welcomes your call to reflect on the legitimate interests of persons belonging to minorities in the post-2030 development agenda. We place special emphasis on the promotion and protection of the rights and obligations enshrined in the Declaration on the Rights of Persons Belonging to National or Ethnic, Religious and Linguistic Minorities. Strengthening an inclusive society requires treating the implementation of national minority rights, the prevention of discrimination, the reduction of poverty, the expansion of genuine opportunities as complementary priorities. Social inclusion and the creation of opportunities are addressed under the framework provided by the Hungarian National Social Inclusion Strategy 2030, which has the objective of mitigating poverty and social exclusion and encourages a whole of society approach to ensure social integration. Achieving these goals requires coordinated measures across education, social affairs, healthcare, employment, and housing through early intervention, improving access to essential services, alleviating direct deprivation, and expanding opportunities for learning, employment, and social mobility. Hungary places special emphasis on the situation of children and families living in disadvantaged areas. Targeted government support is also fundamental. Further policy development must apply an evidence-based approach. Planning based on reliable data, the evaluation of program outcomes, and the maintenance of dialogue are foundational for creating responsive and action-oriented policies. Inclusive legislation and policy making matters in the effective promotion, protection and implementation of the rights of persons belonging to minorities. In Hungary, concrete practice prevails. A legal act recognises Hungarian sign language as an independent national language. Hungary is dedicated to realising the commitments already made. We remain steadfast in our engagement towards effective implementation and we stay vigilant in finding effective pathways to improve the situation of affected communities.

Thank you, Hungary. I pass the floor to Israel, to be followed by Liechtenstein. Israel, you have the floor.

Thank you, Chair.

Israel thanks the Special Rapporteur for his report

and reaffirms its strong commitment to promoting and protecting the rights of persons belonging to national, ethnic and religious minorities. I will continue now in my mother tongue. From the perspective of democracy and pluralism, the Israeli society includes Jews and Muslims.

In terms of principles of plurality, we recognize Druze, Muslims and Christians, Bedouins and others. Our commitment is reflected in our will to actively participate in the freedom of religion and equality before the law, as well as targeted investments to protect minority rights. My family and friends. We were going to vote next week at legislative elections. I was lucky enough to vote in New York. In this connection, we are convinced that minorities should work with partnerships to build diverse societies that are resilient, where peace reigns. Minorities must be able to actively participate in development processes of their countries. As a woman who is Druze, I have been affected by aggressions that targeted Druze people in Syria. These attacks reaffirm the need to protect minorities from discrimination and attacks Minority protection is not only a responsibility, it is a basis to build societies where peace and mutual respect can reign. Thank you.

Thank you, Israel. I pass to Lithuania, followed by Greece, Slovenia, Pakistan, and China. Lithuania, you have the floor.

Thank you, Special Rapporteur, for your report.

Of particular note for us was your discussion on the relationship between article 8.4 of the Declaration on the Rights of Persons Belonging to National or Ethnic, Religious and Linguistic Minorities and the right to self-determination. Of course, many calls for self-determination are external, including those raised by minorities in relation to kin states. But the self-determination you cite in UNDRIP, as well as the range of options listed in the Friendly Relations Declaration, do not limit self-determination to secession. Elsewhere in your report, you highlight the work of the OSCE High Commissioner for National Minorities, who set out in the Lund Recommendations modalities for potential forms of internal self-determination through self-governance.

Would you be able

to

expand on the relevance of autonomy, self-governance and self-administration as relevant modalities for self-determination for national minorities within and across

states.

I thank you.

Thank you, Liechtenstein. I pass to Greece, followed by Slovenia. Greece, you have the floor.

Thank you, Mr. Chair.

Mr. Special Rapporteur, we would like to thank you for your comprehensive report on minority issues.

While aligning itself with a statement delivered by the EU, Greece shares your view that persons belonging to minorities play a specific role in guaranteeing diversity in society, while states shall abstain from any acts or activities contrary to the purposes and principles of the UN Charter regarding minorities living outside their territory, and of course, respect and promote any bilateral agreements that may exist in this regard. In this context, the Council of Europe Venice Commission's following observation becomes indeed more pertinent, and I quote: "The potentialities of bilateral treaties in respect of reducing tensions between kin states and home states appear to be significant to the extent that they can procure specified commitments on sensitive issues, while multilateral agreements can only provide for an indirect approach to those issues." In view of the foregoing, as well as of the need, as you rightly state, that agreements relating to minority issues cannot be negotiated under a threat or a situation implying the use of force, in what way do you envisage the states could fulfill in practice their primary duty to implement in good faith their obligations stemming from international human rights commitments towards persons belonging to minorities within their respective territories? I thank you.

Thank you, Greece. I pass to Slovenia, then Pakistan.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. Slovenia aligns with the EU statement. We thank the Special Rapporteur for his report and continued commitment to promoting the advancement of the rights of persons belonging to national or ethnic, religious, and linguistic minorities. For Slovenia, the protection and the advancement of the rights of minorities have long been a priority. Our efforts include activities in the regional human rights organizations, as well as our commitment as a member of the core group on minorities at the Human Rights Council. Slovenia is also a supporter of regional minority forums, which shed a light on the particular minority issues in specific regional contexts. Minorities contribute significantly to their local societies and represent a bridge of cooperation and closer ties between neighboring countries. Mr. Special Rapporteur, we therefore welcome your report on interstate cooperation in relation to the rights of persons belonging to minorities. Bilateral dialogue and multilateral mechanisms offer important opportunities to address issues, exchange good practices, and strengthen the implementation of international standards. By fostering an environment of mutual respect and understanding, we can ensure that the rights of all individuals, including those belonging to minorities, are upheld and prioritized. Slovenia can attest to that through its own experience. We remain concerned that protection of minorities continues to be used as a pretext for unilateral action. As your report rightly underlines, states need to prioritize cooperative solutions and must abstain from any acts contrary to the purposes and principles of the UN Charter. Slovenia remains committed to safeguarding minority identities, languages, and cultures through effective representation, education in minority languages, and access to minority language media. Mr. Special Rapporteur, in conclusion, I would like to ask what measures can states take to ensure stronger commitments for preserving minority languages in the post-2030 agenda? recognizing the role of linguistic diversity can have in contributing to inclusive societies and conflict prevention. I thank you.

Thank you, Slovenia. I pass to Pakistan, followed by China, India, and a final intervention from Democratic Republic of the Congo. Pakistan, you have the floor.

We thank the Special Rapporteur for his report and its emphasis on international cooperation, respect for diversity, and the protection of rights of persons belonging to minorities. Pakistan remains firmly committed to safeguarding the rights of religious, ethnic, national, and linguistic minorities consistent with its constitutional and international human rights obligations. We remain deeply concerned about the growing discrimination, intolerance, hate speech, and violence targeting minorities across the world, including Muslim minorities. The rise of Islamophobia, religious profiling, restrictions on religious freedoms, incitement to hatred demands greater international cooperation and concerted action. the protection of minority rights must be pursued universally consistently and without selectivity we appreciate the report's recognition of the distinction between minority rights and the right of people to self-determination as well as its reference to security Council resolution 47 concerning Jammu and Kashmir Pakistan reiterates that Jammu and Kashmir remains an internationally recognized disputed territory on the agenda of Security Council the final disposition must be determined by in accordance with relevant Security Council resolutions, which provide for the exercise of Kashmiri people's inalienable right to self-determination, one of the key Charter purposes, through a free and impartial plebiscite under the United Nations' auspices. I thank you.

Thank you, Pakistan. I pass to China, to be followed by India. China, you have the floor.

China Chair, Turning the promise of the declaration on the rights of persons belonging to national, ethnic, religious and linguistic minorities into a reality is an uphill effort and much remains to be done. Countries must redouble their efforts tirelessly to protect the rights of minorities, resolutely eradicate the scourge of racism. and eliminate the breeding ground of discrimination and hatred. The equal development of minorities must be woven into overall national development processes and linked to SDGs with targeted action on the concrete problems minorities face, poverty, education, healthcare, and so on. Countries must ground their conduct in the principles and norms of the UN Charter and international law, including mutual respect for sovereignty and non-interference. They must pursue dialogue and cooperation and oppose exploiting human rights issues to sow division and confrontation in pursuit of selfish political ends. Only then can we truly create a peaceful and just environment in which minorities can survive and thrive. China has taken note of the Special Rapporteur's report and must make clear China's objection to the SR's participation in events organized by separatist organizations and anti-China institutions. The so-called Tibetan government in exile is a separatist political group, pure and simple. It has no right whatsoever to represent the people of Xizang, and it is not recognized by any country in the world. China is a unitary, unified, multi-ethnic country. Today, Xizang and Xinjiang both thriving economies, harmony, and stability. Their cultural traditions are protected and promoted, and the people of all ethnic groups there fully enjoy their rights and freedoms, including freedom of religious belief and the freedom to use and develop their own languages, both written and spoken. The Special Rapporteur should strictly abide by the code of conduct for special procedures, discharge his mandate objectively and impartially, and guard against being instrumentalized by anti-China separatist forces. China has also noted what the report says. about seeking an advisory opinion from ICJ. We stress that the Security Council, the ICJ, the Human Rights Council, and the special procedures have distinct mandates. Each has its own role to play and its own functions to perform. Thank you, Chair.

Thank you, China. I pass to India, then Democratic Republic of the Congo. And indeed, there were two additional speakers who I have added to this, Madagascar and Nepal. India, you have the floor.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. My delegation takes note of the report by the Special Rapporteur. We agree with the premise of the Sr. that protection and promotion of the rights of minorities is primarily the sovereign duty of a country. We consider that following the principle of sovereign equality, issues internal to a country should be handled as per the rules and regulations that govern it. We stand ready to have an open and candid conversation in multilateral forums to address these complex challenges. India is the world's most multi-religious, multi-ethnic, and multilingual society. Diversity has been a central ethos of our civilization, and we are proud of it. This has translated into concrete provisions in our constitution on linguistic and religious minorities. Our National Commission for Minorities, a body independent of the Ministry of Minority Affairs, monitors developments in this regard. We are also proud to note that from heads of state and government to heads of vital institutions, including our armed forces and law enforcement agencies, from Bollywood to CEOs of Indian multinationals, India's minorities have immensely contributed to our economic, social, and cultural development. Mr. Chair, I'm hard-pressed to find any such example from Pakistan, whose delegate predictably misused this platform to paint a propagandist picture of my country, but of course, The interest of the forge, the Pakistani army, who are the real rulers of the country, is supreme. And we fully understand the predicament of the Pakistani representative. What better way to deflect attention from a flailing economy, general lawlessness, and rampant human rights violations from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa to Balochistan? It is well documented that Pakistan's minorities have shrunk dramatically since its independence. As far as Jammu and Kashmir is concerned, it is an integral and inalienable part of India, and the only question that remains is the vacation of the region illegally occupied by Pakistan. We would urge the Pakistani delegate to heed to the counsel of her own countrymen, look inwards, and focus on the well-being of her own citizens first. But we do understand, unfortunately, that the Form 47 government dare not override instructions from the Pakistani military. I thank you, Chair.

Thank you, India. I pass to the Democratic Republic of the Congo, to be followed by Madagascar, and finally, Nepal. Democratic Republic of the Congo, you have the floor.

Thank you, Chair. Chairperson, my delegation has very closely followed the presentation of the Special Rapporteur on the question of minorities. We hail the neutrality of his report. Unfortunately, my delegation has the unhappy task of responding to the statements of the distinguished delegate of Rwanda, who is also the vice-chair of this commission. Chair, the DRC is made-up of an ethnic and linguistic mosaic. There are some 250 different ethnic groups and some 700 languages, all living in harmony since 1960. Some of these groups lived through the borders inherited from colonization, and so Of our nine neighbors, only Rwanda has taken the option of exporting its conflict into the DRC for some 30 years now. Rwanda is instrumentalizing a single ethnic group in order to loot strategic natural resources and to massacre local populations on the way. This is well known, well documented, and has been verified by the United Nations, notably through the latest resolution of the Security Council, 2773. of February 2025, together with other credible organizations. The ethnic group that the distinguished delegate of Rwanda has referred to includes members who are in the national and local government, and they are members of our armed forces and our security forces, and also parliamentarians. national and local level in the country. What is happening in the east of my country is nothing but a war of aggression orchestrated by a minority that has seized power in Kigali to the detriment of other ethnic groups. The DRC equitably protects all ethnic groups and allows them full participation in the political and social life of the country. I thank you.

Representative of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. I pass to Madagascar and then Nepal. Madagascar, you have the floor.

Chair, I would like just to thank the rapporteur for the document they have introduced. Madagascar has not encountered any problems with its minorities as covered in our constitution. There are no conflicts between groups belonging to minorities and the rights of all the 18, all 18 ethnic groups in the country are upheld by our government to live in harmony. Thank you.

Thank you, Madagascar. And I pass the floor finally to Nepal before reverting to the Special Rapporteur. Nepal, you have the floor.

Distinguished Chair, Nepal thanks the Special Rapporteur on Minority Issues, Mr. Nicolas Levratt, for his report and constructive engagement with Nepal during his country visit in December 2025. Nepal appreciates the recognition of its progressive constitutional and legal framework. Nepal's legal framework is exemplary in many respects, including constitutional guarantees of equality, Dalit rights, proportional inclusion, and social justice. Our constitution prohibits discrimination and provides safeguards for diverse ethnic, linguistic, religious, and social communities. Nepal remains firmly committed to equality, inclusion, and social justice. Nepal is continuing efforts to strengthen inclusion, combat caste-based discrimination and untouchability, improve access to education, justice, and public services, and enhance the participation of marginalized communities in governance and decision-making processes. Constitutional and legislative measures have strengthened the representation of women, Dalits, indigenous peoples, Muslims, and other marginalized groups in public institutions. We take note of the findings that stronger implementation of legal safeguards, meaningful participation, protection of civic space, and sustained efforts against discrimination are essential for the realization of human rights. As a multi-ethnic, multilingual, multi-religious and multicultural society, Nepal remains firmly committed to protecting the rights of all persons belonging to ethnic, linguistic and religious minorities. Nepal remains committed to constructive engagement with UN human rights mechanisms and implementation of recommendations through inclusive policies and institutional strengthening. I thank you, Mr. Chair.

Thank you, Nicole. I now have pleasure in returning the floor to Mr. Levrin, Special Rapporteur on minority rights. You have the floor. Minority issues, I beg your pardon?

Yes, minority issues, not minority rights. I did not write the resolution that created the mandate, and I deal with the resolution as it is. I thank you all for your interventions. It is very constructive, useful for me to pursue this, charging my mandate. I take note of India's openness to discuss minority issue in a multilateral forum. I will pursue on that path. I also take notes of the doubt expressed by China about the role of ICG. There may be a misunderstanding there. Very clearly, it is in the charter, article 96, that the bodies of the United Nation and also eventually specialized agency may ask for advisory opinion to the International Court of Justice. So it is Sure, a different role for Security Council, General Assembly, ECOSOC, and so on, and the International Court of Justice, but Article 96 allows for a link, and I think this is an important path that could be explored. Now to come to the more specific questions that were put to me. First, I would like to address the question that was raised by Greece. how to implement effectively minority treaties, somehow, treaties protecting minority. And I think we need to see kind of a hierarchy between, naturally, unilateral intervention is forbidden by the charter, by the declaration. Bilateral treaty may be a solution, but it is very clear that the implementation will be difficult and tense because except if it's a purely non-directly interested country that is a partner, we will have the temptation to instrumentalize a treaty. This is why multilateral solutions are better, even though I'm very aware that in 1948, the General Assembly meeting in Paris at that time, when they adopted the Universal Declaration on Human Rights, put minority issues aside, saying we cannot have one-size-fits-all solution. There is no globally multilateral solution. But this is why, for example, I'm working now on regional mechanisms to be mobilized to guarantee minority rights, because Even though bilateral treaty, once again, may make sense, and originally, minorities were protected by bilateral treaties, but it was peace treaty after the First World War. And as I said, treaties should not be negotiated under coercion. And naturally, peace treaty come after conflict, and there are winner and loser. So even this type of treaties are not what I'm looking at for improving protection of minority. So it's not only the implementation, but it's really the type of treaty, I think, that deserves to be dealt with. The question put forth by Liechtenstein on the type of realization of self-determination I think is very relevant and interesting and very clearly the outcome of self-determination is not necessary the multiplication of smaller and smaller and smaller state based on kind of let's say unity of the population I cannot on the one hand advocate for diversity in society, and on the other hand, consider that, yes, any group that is very tightly close together has a right to separate from a larger society. So, yes, I think there are an infinite number of possibilities for persons belonging to minority to be better taken into consideration within larger institutional frameworks. It can be existing states, it can be regional developments. For example, in Europe is the very interesting experiment of the European Union, where many European countries have pulled the sovereignty in a hard to define new polity, which is this EU, and which probably lower the threshold for finding forms of autonomy and participation to governance of minority groups within this regional and national frameworks so definitely the issue of minority can be solved through many factors and what is written in my report is only that actually the right to self-determination as guaranteed by the Charter is there and it's not my mandate to deal with that minority are to be protected in existing framework, and this does not interfere with the right to self-determination. This is all my report is saying. But certainly, there are smart ways to, I would say, diminish the temptation from groups to pursue separatist policies. Now, as regard the question put forward by Ukraine, How is it possible to better protect minorities during armed conflict? And interestingly, it resonates with what was discussed with the previous discussion on persons with disabilities. And yes, unfortunately, in case of armed conflict, but also in case of natural disaster, very often persons belonging to minority are more affected and less able to be protected and to enjoy measures. Actually, traditionally, period of conflict was covered by humanitarian law and human rights were developed in time of peace. And international humanitarian law is not specifically dealing with minorities. And I think, and I hope it comes through through my report, that yes, minority issues are closely linked to security issues. But it is in conflict prevention and in peacebuilding that it is extremely important that minorities are taken into account. Somehow, the peacebuilding process need from the start to build type of community that will not lead to tension which may on a more long time scale lead to another situation which may be a threat to peace. And that brings me back to the question that was put forward by the EU. If we want to mainstream minority issues or also deal with security issues, also deal with development issues, which entity should be in charge? Naturally, I don't have an easy answer, but I think there's an interesting example, which is the Peacebuilding Commission, which is a joint initiative from Security Council and General Assembly. And naturally, I'm not expecting in the current context that we could reproduce such creative and strong initiative. I think the Peace Building Commission should also work on minority issue. But I also think that it is time for the new Secretary General to take initiative to coordinate better those silo that do exist in the UN. I know it's not the job of a mandate holder to deal with these general questions. But minority issues do happen, and it shows in my report, to be concerned by all this silo. And my job is to try to be efficient in dealing with minority issues. So, yes, I advocate for a type of cooperation, not asking for additional institutional build-up or additional means, but a type of institution or coordination that would better mainstream minority issues and coordinate the different pillar in the UN. Lastly, there were a series of questions from Romania, Austria, Italy, Slovenia, how to better integrate minority issues in the post-2030 period. I think we cannot yet speak about the agenda. Personally, I hope we have an agenda, but it's not for me to discuss. But very clearly, I think that the current development of computing power and artificial intelligence, as I said in my report, may be a threat to diversity in human society and may deserve our attention. But this is also a fantastic opportunity for societies to reorganize, including complexity in what was seen as intractable issues because of the number of parameters that we had to deal with. And yes, minority issues is a complex issue. And I think that, and this is the purpose, my call, maybe for a summit, maybe just to ride the wave on all this concern about AI governance. I know there are several initiatives ongoing, summits which will be coming, so that also this fantastic development, despite the threat and the danger, this fantastic development is used in favor of enhancing the situation of minorities in society for the benefit of society as a whole. So I thank all the countries who express support to bringing minority issues more to the fore and helping, hopefully, the situation of persons belonging to minorities to improve for their benefit and for the benefit of societies as a whole. Thank you, Mr. Chair.

Special rapporteur, I thank you very much indeed for that response. That brings to a conclusion this morning's segment. And let me thank both the Chair, both our special rapporteurs for your insightful contributions and your substantive responses to the questions raised. But before we adjourn, I would like to remind delegations that the deadline for submissions of draft proposals under this item is Tuesday, 00 PM. And with that, let me advise that the committee will continue its consideration of agenda item 70, promotion and protection of human rights, excuse me, and sub items A to D on Monday at 10 a.m. sharp to hear statements by the special procedures mandate holders and other experts and engage with them in an interactive dialogue. Please note that there is no formal meeting this afternoon. as previously agreed. Thank you so much. The meeting is adjourned. Thank you.

Hello everyone, can you hear me? It's working, wonderful. Like this. Right, now it's good. Okay. So welcome everyone to the presentation of the resolution on extrajudicial, arbitrary or summary executions. My name is Matleena. I'm from Finland. I have Marcus from Sweden next to me. Adelina is also from Finland supporting us. This resolution is facilitated by Finland together with Sweden on behalf of the Nordic countries. For those who haven't been working with this resolution before, I will give a brief introduction. So the resolution is biannual. It's presented since '96, so we have some history already. And the aim is to reaffirm the duty of states to protect all individuals from extrajudicial, summary or arbitrary executions without any discrimination. as well as to investigate all potentially unlawful killings and bring the perpetrators to justice. So this is about illegal killings or murders, frankly, and about accountability and rule of law. And this year, as you have seen, we have circulated and we are proposing a technical rollover for the text. We have received before from different stakeholders a lot of good proposals to further develop the text. But we believe that this is not in the spirit of UNAD. This is not the year to sort of prolong the text a lot. However, the topic of the resolution is very important and it is crucial for the respect and protection of all other human rights. So we did want to table the text and present it this year. but we want to keep the process as easy and efficient as possible. And our approach would be to concentrate only on those paras where we have proposed technical updates. I will now go through all the technical updates that we proposed. And then after that, if you have any general comments at this stage, happy to hear them. But I will now go through the changes. So in PP paras, only change is in PP2 with the numbers of the resolution from Human Rights Council. And then I move to OPs. OP6, we are updating. There is a list of relevant legal instruments and reports by special rapporteur. So there was a new relevant report this summer, and this is included in the listing in the end. Then I move to OP 16 B Where we have a technical update which is based on the numbers by the UN treaty office As of now, I mean those numbers can of course change and then I go to OP 30 And here, the resolution is requesting reports from the Special Rapporteur. And actually, in the spirit of the UN 80, we have reduced the amount of the reports. So before the Special Rapporteur was submitting a report once a year, every year to General Assembly. But this summer, the Human Rights Council in Geneva adopted the mandate of the Special Rapporteur, and there the amount of the reports to GA was reduced. So we are doing the same here. And with the numbers, I tried to explain it as clearly as possible. So Special Rapporteur will submit a report next autumn, '27. in its UNGA 82, but not the following year, 28, which is UNGA 83. So this is the cut. And then the following years and the reports will be mandated in Human Rights Council in summer 29. So this is the normal written, how it usually goes. But just to explain sort of the changes here, because it's not necessarily obvious from the text. And then there is the last para, which is OP 31, where we propose to continue the biannual written sequencing of this resolution. So those were the changes in the text that we are proposing. They are all technical, as said. And We have booked a room for further discussion, but we can now hear your general comments, if anyone wants to make any. The mics should be working, you just press the microphone, but please ask for the floor with raising your hand. And please, before you speak, introduce yourself because we might have new colleagues, colleagues visiting from capitals and Geneva, and we don't necessarily know all each other. So please, please just say which delegation you are representing. So let's start. I think Estonia is first.

Thank you so much. Thanks for this presentation and for bringing us together here. We appreciate that you're opening the floor despite having decided to go for the technical rollover. And Estonia totally supports the approach and the decision you have taken. Sorry, I think I didn't say permanent mission of Estonia, Davi speaking. Nice to meet everyone also behind my back. Sorry, it's a very inconvenient format in this But I wanted to say as a general comment that Estonia's sign of our support can be reflected also with the early co-sponsorship. We're very proud to already have joined the co-sponsors. This is a very serious topic in hand and in light of UNAT, it's of course very difficult to go for biannualization, but this resolution already is biannualized, and we know the reporting decision as well, which, of course, it's always very tricky to decide to go for it since these topics are indeed very serious and important. But other than that, just wanted to express our support and say thank you again for this meeting today.

Thank you. Estonia? Slovenia, please.

Hi. Thank you. This is Blaz from the mission of Slovenia. I would also like to take this opportunity to thank the co-facilitators for your hard work on this important resolution and for the presentation today. I wish also as a general comment, express our full support for your approach. We believe the technical rollover is the right approach in this context as you have duly explained. So you have our full support. Thank you.

Thank you very much, Slovenia. And I think Japan was first.

Thank you, co-facilitators.

My name is Masato from Japan Mission, and my delegation would like to express our sincere appreciation to co-facilitators for facilitating this resolution, which is of paramount importance for the prevention of extrajudicial, summary, or arbitrary executions from the perspective of protecting human rights and human dignity. As you mentioned, at the UN initiative is underway, we fully welcome your approach.

To facilitating this resolution this year, particularly in proceeding with this year's negotiations on the basis of previously agreed language.