Third Committee, 4th plenary meeting - General Assembly, 81st session

Colleagues, thank you very much for being here on time. I really appreciate it. This is now the fourth meeting of the Third Committee at the 81st session of the General Assembly, and it's called to order. On my speakers list, I have the Permanent Representative of Norway first, followed by the representative of Armenia. Permanent Representative of Norway, you have the floor.

Thank you very much, Chair, and congratulations also on your election to this chair. The technical revolution is hitting us like a thunderstorm. The UN Secretary General has said runaway artificial intelligence represents one of three existential threats to humanity, alongside the climate crisis and increasing inequality. International law and human rights are under mounting pressure. Across the world, crises and armed conflicts are causing immense human suffering and loss of life. Yet, violations of international human rights law and international humanitarian law too often go unpunished. Civic space is shrinking and democratic institutions are being eroded. The challenges to human rights are many. This pressure is also normative. Established international standards and agreed human rights language are increasingly being questioned, reopened or diluted. We must resist attempts to weaken universal commitments or replace clear obligations with selective or ambiguous formulations. Upholding the rules-based international order, defending the integrity of established norms and assuring accountability are essential, not only in times of peace but especially in times of crisis and conflict. To put our words into action, we must also ensure the safety of and create an enabling environment for those who stand up for the rights of others. Human rights defenders, journalists and media workers play a key role in holding those in power accountable and defending human rights. The participation of civil society actors and human rights defenders is integral to advancing the work of the United Nations. Norway condemns all forms of reprisals against human rights defenders and others for cooperating with the UN. Rapid technological change is reshaping our societies. The point of departure is clear. Human rights are the same and apply in the same manner online or offline. Human rights must therefore be protected by design and throughout the entire life cycle of new technologies, from development and testing to deployment and use. The President of Finland and the Prime Minister of Norway have launched an international call for governance and control of development of frontier AI models. The call underscores that AI must be developed and used in line with international law. Chair, after years of progress, we are seeing backsliding of women's and girls' rights, sexual and reproductive health and rights, and gender equality. This is part of a broader pushback against human rights and inclusive participation. Institutions promoting gender equality are weakened. Funding is declining. Civic space is shrinking. Women in political and public life face more threats and violence, including coordinated online campaigns of sexist or misogynistic content. and direct or indirect threats of physical or sexual violence. The human rights of LGBTI+ persons are also under increasing threat. In some countries, new laws criminalise people simply for being who they are, or for being vocal about the fact that we all are entitled to the same rights and opportunities. Attacks on LGBTI+ rights cannot be seen in isolation. They are often part of a broader challenge to civic space, pluralism and democratic participation. For Norway, women's and girls' rights and rights of LGBTI+ persons are at the very heart of our foreign and development policy. We are certain a just world is an equal world, a world where everyone has the same rights and opportunities. Every person deserves to be treated with dignity and respect, and no one should have to hide their identity or live in fear of discrimination. We must stand firm in protecting human rights of everyone, everywhere, always. Chair, human rights defenders around the world are under increasing pressure. Demands and needs for their important work are growing, even as funding declines, and they face new and evolving challenges. Artificial intelligence and other new technologies have created new platforms for human rights defenders to express their views and reach wider audiences. At the same time, these technologies expose defenders to new risks, including: online violence and harassment, including sexual and gender-based violence, surveillance, transnational repression. The role of tech companies, in addition to states, in addressing these challenges is crucial. This autumn, Norway will again facilitate the omnibus resolution on human rights defenders to the Committee. In the context of the UN80 reform agenda and efforts to improve efficiency, the resolution will now be presented every three years and in line with resolution 8251, it will be presented with a concept note and a review clause. The resolution will address artificial intelligence and other new and emerging technologies and their important implications for the work and protection of human rights defenders. We look forward to active and constructive engagement in the negotiations so that we can once again unite around a strong text protecting those at the forefront of defending the rights of others. Norway continues our fight for human rights and will work with all member states to protect the dignity and freedom of every human being. We will support the work of this committee and we are ready to assume more responsibility as we are a candidate for the Human Rights Council for the term 2028 to 2030. And I thank you.

I thank the Permanent Representative of Norway and I now give the floor to the Permanent Representative of Armenia, followed by the Permanent Representative of Luxembourg, followed by the Permanent Representative of Eritrea. The Permanent Representative of Armenia, you have the floor.

Thank you, Mr. Chair, Excellencies. Congratulations first to Ambassador Larsen and other members of Bureau on assuming the leadership of the Committee and confirm Armenia's full support for the work of the Committee. Armenia remains steadfast in its support for a strong, effective, and adequately resourced United Nations human rights system, capable of preventing human rights violations and ensuring accountability. We regard the ongoing UN initiative as a timely opportunity to take stock of existing challenges, identify areas for improvement, and translate our shared commitments into concrete measures that further enhance the UN human rights architecture. At the national level, Armenia continues to pursue reforms aimed at strengthening institutions, judicial independence, Transparency and accountability while combating corruption, political pluralism, an active civil society, and a free and diverse media environment remain essential elements of Armenia's democratic development. We remain closely engaged with the international human rights mechanism, including UN treaty bodies, following all the implementations, particularly following fourth universal periodic review, we have focused on translating those recommendation into concrete action, the establishment of national mechanism together with its digital platform, Armenia's institutional network for monitoring and reporting. Our NEMRA is intended to ensure more systematic coordination, implementation and follow-up of all those recommendations. Mr. Chair, advancing the right of women and girls remain high in our agenda. Gender Equality Strategy and Action Plan for 25-28 addresses present inequalities and gender-based violation, promoting same time women's economic empowerment, meaningful participation in public life and equal opportunities in digital sphere. Armenia's Third National Action Plan further advances women's participation in peace and security processes. Gender equality also remains an important priority on our multilateral agenda, recognizing both the transformative potential of digital technologies and particular challenge they may pose for women and girls. Armenia has tabled a resolution in the Human Rights Council aimed at promoting human rights-based, inclusive, and gender-sensitive approaches to digital transformation. Protecting the rights and wellbeing of children is equal priority. Armenia continues to strengthen its child protection framework in close cooperation with UNICEF. Armenia also recognizes education as a powerful mean of advancing human rights and empowering individuals. to exercise their fundamental freedoms. In this period, Armenia initiated GA resolution Education for Peace, adopted unanimously in June, which is grounded in the understanding that education is fundamental to building more peaceful, inclusive, and resilient societies. The incoming presidency of the COP 17 on biodiversity will recognize that conserving biodiversity and ensuring The sustainable use of nature are closely connected to the enjoyment of the right to a clean, healthy, and sustainable environment. In this regard, Armenia seeks to promote approaches that place people and human well-being at the center of biodiversity action while ensuring the full and effective participation of women and groups particularly affected by biodiversity loss and environmental degradation. Mr. Chair, preventing the gravest human rights violation remain a long-standing priority over Armenia's foreign policy. This commitment has guided Armenia's initiatives across the UN, including the establishment by the General Assembly at Armenia's initiative of the International Day of Commemoration and Dignity of the Victims of the Crime of Genocide. and of the prevention of this crime. Its 10th anniversary, marked by a high-level meeting of the GA in 2005 at Armenia's initiative, provided an important opportunity to reaffirm the shared commitment of member states to prevention, accountability, and effective multilateral action. Armenia also continues to advance the biennial Human Rights Council resolution on the prevention of genocide, most recently adopted by consensus in March. With its emphasis on early warning, the resolution underscores the importance of safeguarding and strengthening the UN genocide prevention mandate, including in the context of the UN80 initiative, and ensuring that prevention remains a system-wide and cross-pillar priority. Mr. Chair, as efforts to consolidate peace in our region continue, a number of outstanding humanitarian issues remain to be addressed. This includes the continued detention of 19 Armenians, the fate and whereabouts of missing persons, and cases of enforced disappearance. Addressing these issues in accordance with international humanitarian law and international human rights law will contribute to strengthening peace, building trust, and supporting reconciliation in our region. Mr. Chair, at the time of converging crisis and growing pressure on the international human rights system, the principles of universality, impartiality, objectivity and non-selectivity remain indispensable to its credibility and effectiveness. Armenia remains committed to constructive engagement in the work of the Third Committee and to cooperation with all member states and partners to enhance our collective capacity to uphold human rights, promote accountability and respond effectively to emerging challenges. I thank you.

I thank the Permanent Representative of Armenia and I give the floor to the Permanent Representative of Luxembourg to be followed by Eritrea. Luxembourg, you have the floor.

Thank you, Chair, Monsieur President.

Mr. Chairman, I wish to congratulate you upon your election to the chairmanship of the Third Committee. You can count upon the full support of our delegation. Luxembourg fully aligns itself with the statement of the European Union, and I wish to deliver some comments in our national capacity. Luxembourg is gravely alarmed by the grave and systematic backsliding in the area of human rights at the global scale. This is fueled by armed conflict and an increasingly egregious disdain humanitarian law, including international humanitarian law, in far too many countries throughout the world. Conflict, inequality, discrimination, shriveling of the civic space, and limitations on basic freedoms continue to generate nefarious consequences when it comes to the lives of millions of people. Humanitarian needs, at the same time, are continuing to grow. And the multilateral system itself is being subjected to growing financial and political pressure at a time when respect for human rights is being subjected to growing tensions and pressures, we have an obligation to resist the temptation of considering human rights as being negotiable. Protection of civilians and defense of human rights cannot be viewed as secondary considerations. Human rights are neither a privilege of certain individuals nor an expression of a cultural political system. They are the very bedrock of human dignity. For this reason, Luxembourg continues to remain steadfastly committed to universality, indivisibility, interdependence of all human rights. Furthermore, we reaffirm that the three pillars of the United Nations Sustainable development, peace and security, and human rights are of equal importance. They are inextricably linked, and they are mutually reinforcing. Gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls remains at the heart of our priorities. There can be no meaningful progress towards sustainable development, peace, and human rights so long as women and girls continue to endure discrimination, violence, and unequal access to opportunities. We will continue to accelerate the attainment of our commitments in gender equality, and the full, equal, meaningful participation of women in public and political life, as well as their full participation in peace and security processes. To that end, we have adopted a national plan on women, peace and security. Sexual and reproductive rights and health are essential to peace and equality, and yet they are continuing to be undermined. Behind these setbacks, women Girls and other people are losing access to health care and information, and we need to step up efforts to prevent and combat all forms of violence against women and girls, including sexual and gender-based violence. In Luxembourg, we are continuing to make headway. The freedom of having the choice to terminate pregnancy is now guaranteed under our constitutional law, and all four methods of contraception are now provided free of charge. Protection of children also must remain at the heart of our agenda. Children are among those who are most vulnerable in conflict. most vulnerable to poverty, displacements of populations, climate change, and humanitarian crises, their rights need to be protected regardless of where they live or what situations they find themselves. There's an urgent need to address these issues given the conflict. Education is a fundamental right and a potent tool to break cycles of poverty and exclusion. As co-chair of the Group of Friends of Children and the Sustainable Development Goals, Alongside Bulgaria, Jamaica and UNICEF, Luxembourg remains profoundly committed to the protection of children, and particularly children in armed conflict. Protection of children affected by conflict and fighting against impunity for the perpetrators of related crimes must remain a priority for the international community. We continue to steadfastly support mechanisms to combat impunity. Specifically, we are continuing to deliver support to the ICC and the Special Tribunal for the Crime of Aggression against Ukraine. We take pride in the fact that we are the first member of the ICC to have paid a contribution to the 2027 budget. Mr. Chairman, the rights of persons with disabilities must not be overlooked. Full inclusion is more than formal equality. Full inclusion requires the elimination of systematic and systemic barriers and guarantees for meaningful participation in all areas of public life. In accordance with the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, accessibility, autonomy, participation and adapted support systems must remain at the heart of our joint efforts. We are committed to combating racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia, and all forms of intolerance. Furthermore, we are determined to combat violence, stigma, and discrimination. There is no place for discrimination in our societies. We must combat this scourge, both vis-a-vis the structural dimensions thereof and vis-a-vis online manifestations. We profoundly regret the setbacks against the rights of LGBTIQ+ persons. Today, 65 Member States of the United Nations continue to criminalize relations between persons of the same sex. Some hand down the death penalty for that. The fact that the letters LGBTIQ+ are so sensitive in negotiations and are gradually disappearing from texts is an alarming indication. We remain committed through the implementation of our national action plan at the international level as well through our commitment as part of the group LGBTI and the Coalition for Equality of Rights. We condemn attacks, persecution, and disinformation campaigns which target human rights defenders. In far too many states throughout the world, lawyers, journalists, activists today are paying far too high a price for their courage, and civil society is being forcibly silenced. Supporting protecting human rights defenders reflects a protection of the system of human rights itself. For this reason, we reaffirm our support for the special rapporteurs and demand the release of persons arbitrarily detained. In this vein, we support Lighthouse, the global protection fund to protect human rights defenders throughout the world. as the main drafter of the resolution of the General Assembly, which established in 2023 the independent institution responsible for the question of the disappeared persons in Syrian Arab Republic. As the principal author of this draft, Luxembourg continues to support this mechanism and we continue to encourage it and the National Commission for Displaced and Missing Persons to strengthen cooperation in order to facilitate national reconciliation. It is vital that light be shed on the plight and the fate of all disappeared persons in Syria, regardless of where they may be, and to deliver appropriate support for victims, survivors, and families. UN mechanisms for human rights continue to enjoy our full support, and they need to have sufficient means to operate. And we need to work closely with them in order to protect and promote the rights of all persons. through also reforms linked to the UN 80 initiative. We support the UN 80 initiatives, which are geared towards strengthening effectiveness and efficiency of UN operations despite limited means. Through this process, we are committed to ensuring that human rights remains a real pillar of the international order for this pillar not to be weakened. We applaud, we continue to support the strengthening of the bodies set out under UN treaties in order to ensure effectiveness and efficiency of the international human rights architecture. We reaffirm our unstinting commitment to the Human Rights Council, whose 20th anniversary we are commemorating this year. We support its special commissions, special procedures, the UPR, as well as the work of the Third Committee, and we encourage and support your efforts to strengthen cooperation between us here in New York and our Geneva-based colleagues in the same We have a shared responsibility as an international community to see to it that digital technologies, including AI, are developed and used in a manner that respects the human person without ever undermining human rights and basic freedoms. And we are committed to engagement of young people in the work of the UN, including the Third Committee, and we welcome the event you will organize for young people on 9 October. We are working for a fairer, more sustainable, more equitable world with and for young people and succeeding generations. In the same vein, we support participation, engagement of civil society and NGOs in multilateral fora. I wish to assure you that Luxembourg firmly believes that the strength and the human rights will prevail over law of the jungle, and we are committed to protecting human rights throughout and at all times. Thank you.

Of Luxembourg, and I pass the floor to the permanent representative of Eritrea, followed by the representative of Japan. Eritrea, you have the floor.

I thank you, Mr. President. Let me join others in congratulating you and the members of your bureau On your election, we assure you of Eritrea's full support and cooperation during the committee's deliberations. Eritrea aligns itself with their statement delivered on behalf of the Group of 77 and China, and I wish to make the following statements in my national capacity. Mr. Chair, as we reflect on our collective commitments to human rights and social development, our deliberations must remain firmly anchored in the principles of the UN Charter, sovereign equality, political independence, noninterference in the internal affairs, and constructive international cooperation. The realization of full spectrum of human rights, including civil, political, economic, social, and cultural rights, as well as the right to development, requires genuine international solidarity, mutual respect, and an end to politicization, selectivity, and double standards. Human rights are universal, indivisible, interdependent, and interrelated. They must not be instrumentalized as political leverage, nor used as instruments of coercion against sovereign states. Yet regrettably, we continue to witness the pursuit of political objectives under the guise of human rights, including through punitive measures and intrusive country-specific mechanisms directed disproportionately at developing countries of the Global South. Such approaches undermine trust, deepen divisions, and divert attention from the genuine work of promoting and protecting human rights. Eritrea therefore reiterates its principled rejection of politically driven country-specific mandates and calls for a human rights architecture grounded in universality, impartiality, objectivity, dialogue, and cooperation and respect for national sovereignty. Mr. Chair, over the past 14 years, notwithstanding its non-recognition of the mandate, Eritrea has consistently participated in interactive dialogues with the Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Eritrea and has responded to the issues raised. Yet the mandate has continued for more than a decade without providing a constructive framework for genuine cooperation. Its perpetuation has instead contributed to the recycling of politicized narratives concerning Eritrea. As Eritrea informed Member States during the 62nd regular session of the Human Rights Council, Eritrea has therefore decided that from this session onwards, it will no longer participate in the interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur in the Third Committee. This decision should not be misconstrued as disengagement from the international human rights system. Eritrea will continue to engage with the human rights treaty bodies, the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, and the Universal Periodic Review in accordance with its international obligations and commitments. Eritrea is also concerned by the increasing resort to block voting in the Human Rights Council, where political alignments can at times appear to precede objective consideration of the issues before the Council. A Council established to promote universality and objectivity and non-selectivity should not become an arena of political arithmetic. Eritrea has endured years of listening to statements by member states with no presence in Eritrea, repeating allegations and narratives apparently prepared elsewhere, rather than engaging with the realities of the country. The Council consists of 47 member states, elected by the wider membership of the United Nations. Once elected, members assume a responsibility that extends beyond particular regional groupings and political affiliations. As the membership of the Council is renewed this month, Eritrea urges those entrusted with this responsibility to exercise judicious independence and institutional restraint. They sit not merely as representatives of particular blocs, but as members of a Council acting on behalf of the wider UN membership. Voting should therefore be guided by the merits of the matter before the Council, not predetermined alignments. The same standards should be applied consistently to all member states. The credibility of the Council will ultimately depend not on how effectively blocks can marshal votes, but on how faithfully its members uphold the principles and purposes entrusted to them by the United Nations membership. Mr. Chair, for Eritrea, human rights are not abstract ideals or externally imposed directives. They are rooted in human dignity, equality, and social justice, and are deeply embedded in our history and struggle for independence. Guided by self-reliance, social justice, and national ownership, Eritrea's development strategy seeks to create opportunities, improve livelihoods, and enable citizens to participate in, contribute to, and benefit from national development. Let me highlight four areas. First, gender equality and health. Gender equality remains an integral part of Eritrea's development. Legislative and institutional frameworks concerning labor, nationality, citizenship, and land have been strengthened to advance equal rights and opportunities. Eritrea has also maintained a comprehensive legal framework prohibiting and criminalizing female genital mutilation, complemented by sustained community-based efforts to promote its abandonment. In health, Eritrea has recorded important gains in reducing child and maternal mortality, expanding maternal and child health services and skilled birth attendance, and sustaining high childhood immunization coverage. Public health interventions have also contributed to a substantial reduction in malaria-related mortality. The strengthening of health information systems, disease surveillance, and national genomic sequencing capacity is further enhancing Eritrea's ability to detect and respond to health threats and to make evidence-based decisions. On education, Eritrea Education remains a central pillar to Eritrea's human capital development. Investment in educational infrastructure has expanded access to schooling, including to rural and underserved communities, while the expansion of early childhood education has created greater opportunities for foundational learning. Eritrea continues to invest in teachers, learning materials, monitoring systems, and educational infrastructure with particular attention to improving quality, equity, and participation by girls and women. Social protection, social justice has been a core principle since the liberation struggle. Eritrea has continued to expand social welfare programs and community-based support mechanisms, particularly for vulnerable and disadvantaged communities. Guided by the National Social Protection Policy and Strategic Plan, the government has substantially expanded social protection coverage with more than 90% of expenditure financed domestically. Programs support orphans and the vulnerable children, persons with disabilities, older persons, persons living with HIV and martyrs' families. Community-based rehabilitation now reaches the vast majority of the country, providing access to healthcare, rehabilitation, inclusive education, and assisted technologies. On agriculture and resilience, recognizing the vulnerability of agriculture to climate variability and recurrent drought, Eritrea has prioritized climate-smart agriculture, integrated water resource management, afforestation, watershed rehabilitation, and soil and water conservation. Over the past decade, the government has implemented a major water and soil conservation program, including the construction of more than 800 dams of various sizes, substantially enhancing national water storage and distribution capacity. The five-year strategic plan for 2024 to 2028 seeks to further transform agriculture into a more productive, sustainable, and climate-resilient driver of national development. Initiatives such as the minimum integrated household agricultural package and small and productive farm plot models are contributing to household food security and greater resilience in rural communities. Mr. Chair, despite limited resources and a challenging external environment, Eritrea continues to invest in the well-being and livelihood of its citizens. Such national efforts, however, can be significantly constrained when the international environment limits a country's access to the resources and opportunities necessary for development. Unilateral coercive measures can impede access to finance, development cooperation, essential goods and services, and the implementation of national development priorities. Eritrea therefore reiterates its call for the immediate and unconditional lifting of such measures. In conclusion, Mr. Chair, Eritrea reaffirms its commitment to constructive engagement, genuine dialogue, and the universal promotion and protection of human rights. Such engagement, however, can be meaningful when grounded in sovereign equality, political independence, non-interference in internal affairs, and mutual respect. Human dignity, social justice, and development are inseparable. The realization of human rights requires not only dialogue and international cooperation, but also an enabling international environment in which nations and peoples are able to determine their own priorities and translate them into tangible improvements in the lives of their citizens. Eritrea will continue to engage constructively with the international human rights system through the mechanisms and processes it recognizes. I thank you, Mr. Chair.

I thank the Permanent Representative of Eritrea. And I pass the floor to Japan, followed by Turkey. Japan, you have the floor.

Mr. Chair, distinguished delegates, in the face of today's complex global challenges, it is imperative to reaffirm and uphold universal values, such as human rights and the fundamental freedoms. While approaches may differ, the promotion and the protection of human rights is a fundamental obligation of all nations. Japan is steadfastly committed to the promotion and protection of human rights. and will continue to work in close cooperation with member states, the UN system, and civil society. In this regard, Japan remains deeply concerned about the serious human rights and humanitarian situations continuing in various parts of the world. We continue to urge the DPRK to address the longstanding violations documented by the United Nations, including the issue of abductions of Japanese students. which is a matter of great concern not only for Japan, but for the international community. The issue of abductions by North Korea relates to the sanctity of human life and must be resolved immediately, as the abductees and their families are aging. Japan is committed to working closely alongside the international community in addressing the human rights situation in the DPRK, including the abduction issue. Japan remains seriously concerned about the human rights situation in China, particularly the recent trend of tightening restrictions on human rights defenders, intellectuals, and other individuals. Freedom, respect for fundamental human rights, and the rule of law must be ensured in China, including Hong Kong, Xinjiang, and Tibet. We strongly urge China to take further constructive and concrete actions, including enhancing transparency. With regard to Russia's aggression against Ukraine, we are seriously concerned about the reports indicating that civilian casualties are on the rise. Japan reiterates its call on the Russian Federation to fully comply with all of its obligations under international humanitarian law and international human rights law. We also call upon Russia to immediately return all abducted children and reunite them with their beloved ones. Japan remains deeply concerned about the worsening situation in the Middle East, including the ongoing settlement activities and the rising settler violence against Palestinian civilians in the West Bank, as well as the humanitarian situation in Gaza. All parties to the conflict must fully uphold the obligations under international humanitarian law and international human rights law, and ensure the protection of civilians. Japan will continue to contribute to international efforts aimed at improving the humanitarian situation and advancing peace and stability in the Middle East. With regard to Syria, we welcome the progress achieved thus far, including steps taken toward the development of a transitional justice law, while emphasizing the urgent need to further advance accountability and safeguard the rights of detainees. With regard to Afghanistan, we are particularly concerned by the institutionalized discrimination against women and girls. Japan reiterates its call on the Taliban to uphold Afghanistan's international human rights obligations and lift the restrictions they have imposed on women and girls. Japan also calls on the Taliban to ensure that women and girls can enjoy their human rights fully and equally. To this end, Japan will leverage its presence in Kabul to engage directly with the Taliban while coordinating with the international community. Regarding Myanmar, Japan remains deeply concerned about the continued deterioration of humanitarian situation and human rights, including the grave situation of the Rohingya and other minorities. We are deeply troubled by the reports of deliberate aerial attacks against civilians, arbitrary detention, torture, and sexual violence committed by the Myanmar military. Japan reiterates its call for an immediate cessation of violence and tangible progress, including the release of all those detained and sincere dialogue among the parties concerned. Japan is also deeply concerned by the reports of the severe violations of international humanitarian law and international human rights law in Sudan, across the Kordofan and the Darfur regions, as well as Brunei. Civilians and civilian Civilians and civilian infrastructure have been impacted, with the most vulnerable individuals, including women and children, disproportionately affected. Japan calls on all parties to guarantee safe voluntary passage and to facilitate rapid and unimpeded humanitarian access throughout the country. Grave violations against children under conflict continue to be reported and documented in disturbingly high numbers. Japan is steadfast in its commitment to the children and armed conflict agenda and strongly advocates for enhanced accountability mechanism and the protection of education under international law. Japan is also dedicated to advancing the rights and well-being of children Uh, through implementing the CRC and collaborating with global partners, including the special representative of Secretariat of Violence Against Children, Japan will continue to engage with the SRSG's office as a pathfinding nation of the Global Alliance. Japan places the utmost priority on advancing gender equality and promoting and protecting the human rights of women and girls. We therefore remain committed to supporting the effective implementation of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women. Conflict-related sexual violence continues to receive insufficient attention and disproportionately affects women and girls. Japan remains committed to international efforts to support survivors, advance their empowerment, and ensure access to justice. Furthermore, Japan remains firmly dedicated to advancing the women, peace, and security agenda to further increase awareness of the WPS agenda and the women's meaningful participation in decision-making levels across all fields, the engagement and development of young people who will lead the future and the urgent tasks. From this perspective, Japan started the next generation network program for gender equality last year to foster young people who will lead the gender field, including the WPS agenda. This year marks the 20th anniversary of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, providing an important opportunity to reflect on progress made. Japan welcomes the contribution of Mr. Tamon Hiroshi as a member of the CRPD and requests the Secretary-General to continue guaranteeing necessary support and access to information for the Committee members in line with the Convention and paragraph 42 of last year's relevant GA resolution. Japan also continues to advance the rights of persons with disabilities domestically, including through recent legal reforms to enhance support for persons requiring assistance and to strengthen municipal consultation services. International cooperation is essential to address transnational organized crime, including fraud, trafficking in persons, cybercrime, and drug trafficking, as well as terrorism and violent extremism. Japan continues to promote capacity building that upholds human rights and the rule of law while advancing rehabilitation and reintegration to prevent reoffending. Japan also attaches particular importance to global efforts to address scam centers in Southeast Asia as they pose a threat to regional and international peace and security. In this regard, Japan, together with the United States and the United Kingdom, facilitated a resolution on strengthening crime prevention and criminal justice responses to fraud adopted by the CCPCJ last June. Aiming at more effectively promoting respect for human rights in the context of business activities, Japan revised its National Action Plan on Business and Human Rights last December, which was first launched in 2020. Through the revised NAP, Japan is advancing efforts to promote responsible business conduct across society as a whole, cooperating with various stakeholders, including industry associations. Mr. Chair, guided by the principles of dialogue and cooperation, and as a candidate for a second consecutive term of Human Rights Council, Japan will continue to actively engage with the international community to promote and protect human rights, including through the Third Committee, while contributing to its effective functioning and enhancing synergy between New York and Geneva. the Bureau can count on Japan's full support as we collectively address human rights issues to leave no one behind. Thank you.

I thank the representative of Japan, and I pass the floor to the representative of Turkey, followed by the representative of Iran. Turkey, you have the floor.

Mr. Chair. Turkey resolutely upholds democratic values and standards and remains committed to further promote human rights. Over the past several years, various action plans and strategy documents on women's empowerment, as well as on the rights of children, persons with disabilities and older persons have been prepared and are now under implementation. The latest judicial reform strategy for the period 2025-29 sets out a roadmap to build on previous reforms and address emerging needs with a view to enhancing a justice system based on the rule of law and respect for human rights. Work on the new human rights action plan has begun. Together, these initiatives aim to strengthen Turkey's institutional framework for human rights protection and ensure a more effective implementation of our commitments. It is of crucial importance for us to also advance cooperation with all human rights mechanisms, including treaty-based UN special procedures mechanisms. Mr. Chair, Turkey is firmly committed to improving women's rights, ensuring their full and equal participation in all spheres of life. In line with this approach, we introduced women-led sustainable development vision, focusing on innovation, competitiveness and productivity. Meanwhile, the strategy document and action plan for the empowerment of women consists of various objectives, strategies and activities under education, health, economy, leadership and participation in decision-making processes, environment and climate change. Mr. Chair, Cybercrime is growing in scale and speed. Ransomware, online fraud, and the sexual exploitation of children online affect all our societies, and no country can address them alone. Turkey, therefore, welcomed the adoption of the United Nations Convention against Cybercrime as the first global instrument in this field and signed the convention in 2025. We are also a party to the Budapest Convention. We believe these two instruments should reinforce each other in facilitating effective cooperation among law enforcement and judicial authorities. Alongside cybercrime threats, the digital information environment is increasingly challenged by deliberate dissemination of disinformation. We've seen some of the worst examples of dehumanizing language in the case of Gaza by Israeli politicians. Mr. Chair. Core themes of social development, namely poverty eradication, social integration, promotion of full and productive employment and decent work for all, have long been accepted as the backbone of Turkey's social policies. We have integrated SDGs into our 12th National Development Plan. With its dynamic and active young population, Turkey stands ready to contribute to global sustainable development efforts. Family is also of crucial importance for social development. In this context, we have declared comprehensive decade of family and population between 2026 and 2035. Mr. Chair, we remain deeply concerned by rising hate crimes, xenophobia, racism, discrimination, and religious hatred, particularly Islamophobia and anti-Semitism. Together with Spain, we launched the Alliance of Civilizations in 2005 to promote our shared humanity and mutual understanding among cultures and faiths. The Alliance has since become a leading UN platform for dialogue and for combating discrimination and hate speech. We commend the dedicated efforts of its High Representative, Mr. Moratinos, in expanding the Alliance's activities, support base, and outreach. As Chair of the OIC Council of Foreign Ministers, Turkey also supports UN Special Envoy to combat Islamophobia. We commend the preparation of the UN Action Plan to combat Islamophobia as a coordinated system-wide roadmap to address this challenge. We look forward to its finalization and publication at the earliest opportunity. Mr. Chair, for over 15 years, Turkey has hosted one of the world's largest refugee populations. Today, we host almost 2.2 million Syrians under temporary protection and more than 130,000 international protection applicants. We remain firmly committed to safeguarding their fundamental rights and ensuring access to essential services. Through temporary accommodation centers and comprehensive policies on health, education, and harmonization, we have worked to provide safe and dignified living conditions. Our experience underscores that refugee protection is a shared international responsibility. Host countries cannot bear the burden of large-scale protracted displacement alone. We therefore emphasize the urgent need for adequate and sustainable financing for UNHCR. Protection must also go hand in hand with durable solutions. Turkey supports the voluntary, safe, dignified and orderly return of Syrians under temporary protection in line with UN parameters. Since 8 December 2014, more than 737,000 Syrians have returned to Syria on this basis, in line with UN parameters and as witnessed by UNHCR. Mr. Chair. On Syria, we are pleased to see that Syria is advancing on the path towards increased stability while taking important steps to ensure that the basic rights of all Syrians are protected on the basis of equal citizenship. People's Assembly, which was integrated last summer, could play an important role in advancing inclusive governance and responding to the aspirations of all segments of Syrian society. The Syrian government's continued efforts to ensure justice and accountability should also be noted. Standing firmly alongside Syrian people throughout the 14-year-long conflict, Turkey also continues its support for reconstruction of Syria in order to create conditions for a stable life for women, children, and families in Syria. Mr. Chair. I would like to shortly bring to your attention that the dissolution process of the PKK terrorist organization is continuing. In this context, the dissolution of the so-called SDF is a promising development. With the PKK laying down its arms, we expect an improved security environment within the region. Mr. Chair, On the Turkish minority in Western Thrace, we would like to remind that the European Court of Human Rights has convicted Greece in four separate legal cases for the violation of the principle of freedom of association in relation to their ethnic identity. Although 18 years have passed since these judgments, Greek authorities systematically refrain from their implementation and persistently refuse to register minority associations bearing the words "Turkish" and "minority" in their names. We expect the Greek authorities to implement the aforementioned verdicts and act in line with them. Mr. Chair, turning to Gaza, the sufferings of the Palestinian people, including women and children, are still ongoing despite the ceasefire agreement reached last year. It is imperative that humanitarian aid be delivered to Gaza and efforts for the reconstruction of Gaza be launched without delay. Just, fair, and lasting peace in the Middle East can only be achieved with the implementation of a two-state solution. Turkey reaffirms its commitment to actively contribute in this regard. Mr. Chair, on Ukraine, Turkey remains committed to diplomacy as the only viable path to peace. Our support to Ukraine's independence, sovereignty, territorial integrity, and the safety of civilian populations is unwavering. We also continue to closely observe the situation of the Crimean Tatar Turks. A just, lasting peace is one that Crimean Tatar people have long-awaited. They have the right to live freely, securely, peacefully in their ancestral lands. On Afghanistan, we remain concerned about the continued restrictions on the rights and fundamental freedoms of women and girls in Afghanistan. The limitations placed on access to education, employment and freedom of movement are dramatically narrowing women's participation in public life. In line with our pragmatic and constructive engagement, Turkey will continue to emphasize our expectations to the de facto authorities regarding fundamental human rights, including women's and girls' education, as well as political inclusivity, which is deemed necessary for the long-term stability of Afghanistan. Mr. Chair, Turkey remains deeply concerned by the prolonged plight of the Rohingya community, who have been enduring years of displacement, deprivation, and grave violations of their fundamental rights. Protecting Rohingya's rights, ensuring accountability for the violations of their rights, and creating conditions conducive to their safe, voluntary, and dignified return to their homeland must remain at the heart of our collective efforts. Turkey will continue to stand in solidarity with the Rohingyas and humanitarian assistance both in and out of Myanmar. Mr. Chair, it is only by respecting and promoting human rights that we can build sustainable, diverse, and peaceful societies. I thank you.

I thank the representative of Turkey, and I pass the floor to the Islamic Republic of Iran, followed by Slovakia. Iran, you have the floor.

In the name of God, the most compassionate, the most merciful, thank you very much, Mr. Chair. The third committee exists to defend the inherent dignity of the human person. It does not exist to launder the crimes of the hegemonic powers, nor to convert human rights into an instrument of coercion against those who refuse subordination. If this debate is to retain any credibility, it must begin with the fact that certain delegations have spent months trying not to name. On February 28, the first day of the unlawful aggression launched by the United States and the Israeli regimes against the Islamic Republic of Iran, missiles struck the Shajari Tayeb Elementary School in Minab. 168 students were killed. They were children between the ages of 7 and 12. Their teachers were killed beside them. This was not an abstraction. It was a school in session in a residential area struck in the opening hours an unlawful act of aggression. International humanitarian law does not become optional because the perpetrator sits on the Security Council. A school is a protected object and a child is a protected person. What followed in this organization was more revealing than the strike itself. The same delegations that can recite with forensic enthusiasm every unsubstantiated allegations manufactured against my country fell into a studied and durable silence. No emergency debate proportionate to the crime, no country-specific mechanism, no parade of special procedures, and no moral theater. 168 students and the self-appointed custodians of the international human rights system discovered suddenly the virtues of caution, context and ongoing investigation. Silence, Mr. Chair, is a position. Selective outrage is not principle, it is complicity dressed as diplomacy. This is not an isolated lapse. It is a method. In Gaza, the same alliance has produced what Palestinian education authorities and independent documentation have described as scholasticide. Tens of thousands of students and educators killed, universities erased, schools reduced to rubble or to shelters for the displaced. The pattern is consistent. When the victim is inconvenient, the vocabulary of human rights is withdrawn. When the target is a state that will not submit, the vocabulary returns sharpened, financed and tabled as a resolution. The double standard is no longer implicit, while it seems to be the operating system of this committee. We reject in their entirety and without qualification the politically motivated allegations leveled against Islamic Republic of Iran under the guise of human rights. Country-specific mandates, sponsored, driven and shielded by the very same parties to an unlawful act of aggression, have no credibility. They are neither impartial nor born of genuine concern. They are the civilian arm of a coercive policy that has already expressed itself in missiles, in unilateral coercive measures, and in the collective punishment of an entire nation. The Islamic Republic of Iran does not recognize the authority of mechanisms designed to indict it for refusing to be weak. We will not apologize for the defense of our sovereignty, our people, and our territorial integrity. Iranian women, meanwhile, require no certification from this committee. They are not the invention of a resolution, nor the property of a foreign narrative. Women constitute the majority of university students in the Islamic Republic of Iran. They form the backbone of our health system, our scientific community, our judiciary, our education sector, and our knowledge economy. Female literacy has been transformed within a generation. Women serve as physicians, engineers, jurists, entrepreneurs. academics, and parliamentarians, and they do so as Iranians within an Iranian constitutional and cultural order, not as exhibits in someone else's campaign. Their advancement is a national fact. It will not be confiscated to furnish the pretext for hostility, and it will not be measured by the political preferences of capitals that armed the aircraft over Minab. Mr. Chair, Human rights, if the term is to mean anything, are either universal or they are nothing. They cannot be suspended for the children of Minab and restored on demand for the adversaries of my country. They cannot be invoked by the aggressor and denied to the aggressed. This committee has a choice. It may continue as a theater of selective indignation in which the hegemonic powers are exempt and the independent are indicted, or it may recover from it may recover the minimum condition of its mandate, that the life of an Iranian schoolchild weighs the same as any other life, and that those who extinguish it do not preside in the same breath over the judgment of their victims. The Islamic Republic of Iran will continue to engage this committee on the basis of dialogue, non-selectivity, and respect for sovereignty, not based on hypocrisy. Thank you.

I thank the representative of the Islamic Republic of Iran, and I pass the floor to the representative of Slovakia, followed by the representative of Libya. Slovakia, you have the floor.

Mr. Chair, I would like to congratulate you and the members of the Bureau on your election. Slovakia aligns itself with the statement delivered on behalf of the European Union. We gather for this 84th session under a guiding principle that demands our urgent attention: Restoring Trust, Managing Transformation. This theme couldn't be more timely. Today, the fabric of our international community is being stretched by profound geopolitical divisions and persistent violations of human rights. In these turbulent times, restoring trust in multilateralism is not an option; it is a necessity. Respect for human rights, international law, and the principles of the UN Charter must remain at the center of our collective efforts. Mr. Chair, human rights cannot be fully enjoyed without peace and security. As a candidate for a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council for the 2028-2029 term, Slovakia is committed to being an open and constructive partner in addressing the challenges before us. Slovakia remains steadfast in condemning the prolonged war in Ukraine, in particular the recent escalation of Russian strikes against civilians and civilian infrastructure. We reiterate our unwavering support for Ukraine's sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders. A just and lasting peace, in line with the UN Charter and relevant UNGA resolutions, must remain our common objective. We also call for the return of all Ukrainian children who have been forcibly transferred or deported, as well as the return of Ukrainian civilians and prisoners of war. Mr. Chair, we cannot discuss human rights without addressing the situation in the Middle East. Slovakia stresses that international law, including international human rights and humanitarian law, must be respected. Civilians must be protected and humanitarian assistance must reach those who need it. Both Israelis and Palestinians deserve to live safe and dignified lives, free from violence, fear and hatred. Mr. Chair. Slovakia remains firmly committed to the elimination of all forms of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance. The rapid development of artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies is transforming our societies, creating both opportunities and challenges for human rights. It contributes to innovation and sustainable development, but its negative effects are increasingly visible in societies, including in education, affecting youth in particular. Slovakia remains committed to championing a safe and accessible digital environment, fully respecting human rights standards, one that actively protects individuals, particularly children and youth, from online violence, harassment and discrimination. Mr. Chair, Slovakia remains resolute in its opposition to all forms of violence against women and girls. Combating gender-based violence requires sustained efforts, effective prevention and policies that address its root causes. We will continue to support global initiatives aimed at empowering women and ensuring their full participation in all spheres of public and political life. Mr. Chair, the United Nations that truly delivers for all can only be achieved when we translate our shared values into predictable and meaningful action. Slovakia stands ready to engage constructively, to promote dialogue, and ensure that human rights remain at the very core of our collective efforts. Let me conclude with fundamental principles. Respect for human rights is more necessary today than ever. Human rights cannot be treated as an a la carte menu. We must honor and fulfill our obligations and commitments. Thank you for your attention.

I thank the distinguished representative of Slovakia. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Libya.

Mr.

Chair, Libya extends to you and the distinguished members of the Bureau its warmest congratulations on your election to steer the work of the Third Committee at its 81st session and is fully confident that you will lead the work of the Committee towards positive outcomes and to strengthen respect for human rights and human dignity everywhere. Libya expresses its full support for the statement delivered by the distinguished representative of Uruguay on behalf of G77 and China, and the statement delivered by Egypt on behalf of the OIC. Libya reiterates its full commitment to the purpose and the principles of the Charter of the United Nations and to the international human rights systems in all its pillars, civil, political, economic, social, and cultural alike, foremost among them, the right to development. In affirmation of its commitment to inclusive social development, Libya wishes to present to the Committee some of its national efforts in this regard. In the area of youth, Libya is implementing its national youth strategy in cooperation with the UN system so as to enhance the participation of young people in public life, build their institutional and professional capacities, and enable them to contribute effectively to the process of reconstruction and development underway in the country. In the area of advancement of women, Libya is cooperating with the UNDP and continues to develop national mechanisms aimed at strengthening the participation of women in political, economic, and social life and in decision-making in the conviction that empowerment of women is an indispensable pillar for achieving inclusive sustainable development that leaves no one behind. Libya also wishes to highlight the attainment the attention it accords to the situation of older persons and persons with disabilities, and the need to include them in social protection programs and basic services on an equal basis with all other members of society. In the same vein, Libya draws attention to its particular interest in combating trafficking in persons and the smuggling of migrants and renews its call for strengthened international and regional cooperation in the exchange of information, the building of national capacities, and the combating of transnational organized crime networks that exploit the fragile situation for gain at the expense of the lives and dignity of victims, most of whom are women and children. Mr. Chair, turning to an issue of no less urgency, Libya expresses its deep concern at the continuing impact of armed conflict on children, including the risks posed by landmines and explosive remnants of war, and stresses the need to accord particular attention to the protection, rehabilitation, and reintegration of children affected by conflict, including missing children, whose tracing and reunification with their families remain an urgent humanitarian priority. At the national level, Libya has signed a joint action plan with the UNICEF to strengthen child protection systems and support legislative reforms that are responsive to the rights of the child and has begun preparing the second generation of its national plan to combat child labor in affirmation of its commitment to providing a safe and dignified environment for all children. On the broader human rights front, Libya renews its commitment to full cooperation with the UN human rights mechanisms, including the Universal Periodic Review, as a constructive tool for dialogue based on respect for national sovereignty, non-selectivity, and objectivity, free from double standards. Libya also affirms its support for trans transitional justice and national reconciliation efforts as fundamental pillar for building sustainable peace and highlights its efforts to develop its national legislative and institutional framework so as to strengthen the rule of law, the independence of the judiciary, and the protection of fundamental rights and freedoms for all without discrimination. In this regard, Libya wishes to draw the attention of the Committee to the continued rise of hate speech and incitement around the world and expresses its categorical condemnation of all forms of hate speech, incitement to violence, and discrimination based on race, color, or national or ethnic origin. Libya stresses the need to effect international measures to counter this growing phenomenon, including the digital space and on social media, and calls for strengthening awareness raising and education programs on the value of tolerance and respect for diversity as the first line of defense against this dangerous phenomena. Consistent with its steadfast position on this matter, Libya renews its condemnation of all forms of intolerance and discrimination and incitement to violence. And Libya takes this opportunity to renew on a matter that's very hard to just cause. It's a steadfast and principled support for the inalienable right of the Palestinian people to self-determination and to the establishment of their independent state, with East Jerusalem as its capital. Libya also affirms its historic stance in support of the right of all peoples under occupation or colonial domination to attain their independence in accordance with the UN Charter. Libya renews its support for UNRWA. In concluding this statement, Libya cannot but reaffirm its full commitment to constructive engagement with all brotherly and friendly delegations and its full readiness to participate actively in all the deliberations of the Committee on all items on its agenda with a view to achieving outcomes that strengthen respect for human rights and human dignity everywhere. Libya wishes the work of this session every success. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Libya, and now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Uganda.

Thank you, Madam Vice Chair, members of the Bureau, Excellencies, distinguished delegates. On behalf of the delegation of Uganda, I congratulate you and members of the Bureau on your election. We assure you of our full cooperation and support during the work of the Committee. We align ourselves with statements delivered on behalf of the G77 and China, the African group, and the statement by Cuba on behalf of a group of countries. This session convenes under the theme, "Restoring Trust, Managing Transformation: A United Nations that Delivers for All." The theme is well suited to the work of the committee, which deals every day with matters that touch the lives of ordinary people. In Uganda, we've long held that development, peace, and human rights go hand in hand. This thinking guides our fourth national development plan NDP 4 2025 to 2030 which puts human capital development, household incomes, jobs and social protection at the centre of our national agenda. We met the criteria for graduation from least developed countries category for the first time and we will be considered again at the 2027 tri-annual review. This is the result of many years of investment in our people and our economy. We are however conscious that this progress must be felt in households through better incomes, better services and more opportunities for Ugandans. Since the adoption of the Doha political declaration by consensus at the second world summit for social development. It remains to be seen how it will be implemented. The commitments made in Doha on poverty eradication, decent work, social protection and social inclusion will need adequate means of implementation, especially for developing countries. At home, we continue to build our national social protection system for older persons vulnerable households, children, and persons with disabilities. In the 2026-2027 budget, government allocated 15.6 billion to the new National Child Disability Assistance Program, which will give regular support for families caring for children with severe disabilities. We want economic growth in Uganda to be matched by social progress and to reach those who are further behind. We remain committed to the empowerment of all women and girls and to their full and equal participation in public life. laws and policies continue to address discrimination and violence against women and girls, and our national programs support women's access to finance, education, employment, and leadership. Targeted social protection has shown better results. Between 2019 and 2026, the Girls Empowering Girls program run by Kampala City Authority with UNICEF reached more than 4,000 vulnerable adults and girls in Kampala with mentorship, cash transfers, and life skills that link them to essential services. Challenges remain, among them gender-based violence, poverty, unequal access to economic opportunities, and the digital divide. My delegation therefore calls for stronger international cooperation and financing to help developing countries to meet their commitments to women and girls. Uganda has one of the youngest populations in the world, and we regard our young people as our greatest resource. investment in them is now focused on skills, science, technology, innovation and jobs. Through vocational training, the presidential industrial hubs and other skilling programs, we are preparing young people to take active part in the transformation of our economy. For children, we continue to strengthen education, health, nutrition, social protection and child protection systems. We give particular attention to children who face more than one disadvantage, including children with disabilities, children in poor households, adolescents and girls, and children in refugee-hosting and climate-affected communities. Every child in Uganda should be able to go to school, grow up healthy, and take part fully in society. For persons with disabilities, our starting point is the Persons with Disabilities Act and our national disability policies, which guide the mainstreaming of disabilities across the government programs. The new National Child Disability Assistance Program, which I mentioned earlier, is a further step in tying these commitments into practical support for families. Next year marks 25 years since the second World Assembly on Aging in Madrid, and Uganda reaffirms its commitment to the Madrid International Plan of Action on Aging. Our experience with the social assistance grants for empowerment has shown how much a regular predictable income means for the dignity and security of older persons. Madam Vice Chair, Uganda continues to host one of the largest refugee populations in the world. As of 31st August 2026, we host more than 2 million refugees and asylum seekers, most of them from neighboring countries. For decades, our policy has given refugees access to land, freedom of movement, and national education, health, and livelihood services. This responsibility, however, must be shared. The refugee population continues to grow while humanitarian funding declines, and this is putting heavy pressure on our national services, on host communities, and on our own development budget. Countries that protect displaced people on behalf of the international community should not carry a disproportionate share of the cost. Uganda, therefore, calls for predictable and equitable burden and responsibility sharing under the Global Compact on Refugees, together with strong efforts to address the root causes of displacement. Uganda remains committed to fighting trafficking in persons, transnational organized crime and other forms of exploitation, which fall most heavily on women, children and other vulnerable groups. Our Prevention of Trafficking in Persons Act provides a national framework for prevention, prosecution and protection of victims. This is supported by specialized training for law enforcement officers. better coordination among agencies and cooperation with communities and neighbors. We will continue to strengthen international cooperation against trafficking networks with victims and survivors at the center of our response. We also underline the importance of strengthening African institutions in this field, including the United Nations African Institute for Prevention of Crime and the Treatment of Offenders, UNAFRI, which is hosted in Kampala. We reaffirm that all human rights are universal, indivisible, interdependent, and interrelated, and that they are best promoted through dialogue and cooperation in an objective and unselective manner in line with the principles of the Charter. This year marks the 40th anniversary since the adoption of the Declaration on the Right to Development. The high-level meeting, which was convened by the General Assembly on 23 September, reminded us all that every person and all peoples are entitled to participate in, contribute to, and enjoy economic, social, cultural, and political development. As the chair of the Non-Aligned Movement, we attach great importance to giving practical effect to this right. We support advancing the draft International Covenant on the Right to Development, and we call on Member States to engage constructively towards its adoption. Human rights cannot be fully realized without the conditions for development, including access to finance, technology, education, health, and decent work, and a fair international economic environment. Madam Chair, 25 years after the Durban Declaration and Programme of Action were adopted, much of their promise is yet to be fulfilled. We must continue to confront the lasting consequences of slavery, transatlantic trade in enslaved Africans, colonialism, apartheid and racial discrimination. We stand with the African Union in advancing the agenda on reparatory justice and welcome the growing recognition that historical injustices call for acknowledgement, accountability and repair. The fight against racism must remain at the heart of the UN human rights agenda. The work of this committee is about people, their rights, and their chance to live better lives. Uganda's own experience has taught us that social progress and economic transformation must go together. At a time of declining trust, rising inequality, and serious humanitarian crisis, the answer lies in more cooperation, not less, and in a United Nations that delivers for all. My delegation stands ready to work constructively with the Bureau and all delegations on the issues before this committee. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Uganda. I now give the floor to the representative of International Committee of the Red Cross.

Madam Vice-Chair, distinguished delegates, colleagues, 77 years ago, having witnessed the devastation of the Second World War, states came together and adopted the Geneva Conventions. Today, we see that respect for these rules is eroding. In over 130 armed conflicts, The consequences fall hardest on those already most at risk. Sexual violence remains a pervasive feature of armed conflict. Thousands of people go missing, leaving families without answers. Children are recruited, increasingly through online means, and used to participate in hostilities, while attacks on schools deprive them of safe access to education. Persons with disabilities face barriers and heightened risks. Conflict is driving food insecurity to alarming levels. And medical personnel continue to be attacked, threatened, detained, or killed while carrying out the very duties that international humanitarian law, or IHL, protects. As the Third Committee begins its work during this 81st session of the General Assembly, the ICRC wishes to provide the following regarding agenda items now before the Committee. First, In 2025 alone, sexual violence perpetrated by armed actors was publicly reported in more than 30 conflict-affected countries, affecting millions of women, men, boys, and girls, including persons deprived of their liberty. In more remote frontline areas, where the ICRC is often one of the only few actors left, it's not uncommon for our teams to be approached by more than 50 victim survivors in one day. Risks of sexual violence are rising, in large part due to the expansion and fragmentation of armed conflict, the proliferation of small arms and light weapons, trust and training gaps among armed actors, and the growing use of information and communications technologies, or ICT, by weapon bearers to facilitate or perpetrate acts of sexual violence. Recent funding decreases across the humanitarian sector have also further compounded the consequences of sexual violence, with numerous frontline service providers forced to suspend their activities from one day to the next. This has left many victim survivors both with few options to safely seek help and at further risk of additional violence, reprisals, or needing to rely on unsafe coping mechanisms. The ICRC works to prevent, mitigate, and respond to sexual violence during armed conflict and other situations of violence. by engaging directly with weapon bearers on the front lines, including by reducing stigma through community outreach, together with its Red Cross Red Crescent movement partners. The number of people going missing in today's conflicts is unacceptably high. Too many families are being left in the agony of not knowing the fate of their loved ones and are often not supported. This is not inevitable. So much more can be done to prevent people from going missing. IHL obliges all parties to armed conflicts to prevent disappearances, to search for, collect and evacuate the dead without distinction, to account for the missing, and to share any information with families. In situations of international armed conflict, states parties to the Geneva Conventions must establish national information bureaus to account for protected persons in their hands and transmit this information through the ICRC's Central Tracing Agency. This has an important protective function. Parties must treat the deceased with dignity, must identify, and where possible, must return mortal remains to families. Concrete suggestions in this regard are offered in the recently published outcome documents of the Global ICL Initiative, as well as in a recent ICRC report on how non-state armed groups can prevent people from going missing. The digitalization of armed conflict is transforming the ways in which children can be recruited, and used in hostilities. Physical proximity to armed actors is no longer always necessary. Through social media, messaging applications, and online gaming platforms, children are recruited or tasked remotely. Given their age and evolving capacities, children are particularly vulnerable to manipulation. Digital technologies may offer new pathways into armed conflict, but the resulting harm to children is no less real. The law is clear. The prohibition against the recruitment and use of children in hostilities does not stop at the digital frontier. All states have obligations to take measures to prevent the recruitment and use of children in hostilities, including when related acts are facilitated by ICT. The Global IHL Initiative's Workstream 6 outcome document sets out recommendations as to how governments can improve compliance with these rules in the online sphere. The principle underpinning these efforts is simple: children must be protected from being drawn into the fight online as well as offline. In armed conflicts today, millions of children are denied safe access to education, a trend that continues to rise at alarming rates. Disruptions to education can entrench cycles of poverty, weaken social cohesion, and increase the risk of future conflict. The protection of education during armed conflict is firmly established in IHL and international human rights law. We encourage States to develop doctrine and codes of conduct to avoid, to the maximum extent feasible, the use of educational facilities for military purposes. Persons with disabilities face specific barriers and risks in armed conflict, from inaccessible warnings, shelters, evacuations and humanitarian assistance, to the risk of being attacked because they are erroneously perceived as a military threat. The Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, or CRPD, which was adopted 20 years ago, specifically requires in its Article 11 that states parties protect persons with disabilities in armed conflict in line with their obligations under IHL and international human rights law. For the ICRC, this complementarity between IHL and the CRPD means taking the specific barriers and risks faced by persons with disabilities into account not only in humanitarian responses but also in military policies, training, planning, and conduct. With Switzerland, we organized a state expert meeting on IHL precautions this year, which also encouraged states to share their good practices in implementing disability-inclusive precautions, the results of which will be shared publicly shortly. Hunger in armed conflict is often the cumulative consequence of actions taken over time. Insecurity prevents farmers from reaching their fields. Markets are disrupted. Water and electricity systems deteriorate, affecting production and storage. Even disruptions to digital connectivity can deepen food insecurity, impacting supply chains and payment systems. In short, food systems depend upon interconnected infrastructure and services. Damage and disruption across these systems affect food availability and access far beyond the immediate area of hostilities. We cannot count on humanitarian relief alone to mitigate these impacts. Parties must comply with the absolute prohibition of starvation of civilians as a method of warfare. They must also respect and protect civilians and civilian objects and uphold the special protection of objects indispensable to the survival of the civilian population. In armed conflict, medical personnel enjoy specific protection under IHL. They must be respected and protected in all circumstances. Yet they're too frequently harmed, threatened, detained, or killed while performing duties the law explicitly safeguards. A wounded person's right to medical care and a doctor's duty to treat them, whether friend or foe, must be recognized, always and everywhere. Inseparable from the life-saving functions of medical personnel are also those of medical facilities. They, too, must be respected and protected under IHL to safeguard access by patients to care and to maintain health systems during armed conflict. However, today, we see a deeply troubling pattern of attacks, misuse, and impediments to the functioning of medical facilities. The outcome document of work stream 5 of the Global IHL Initiative underlines the specific protection of medical facilities under IHL and proposes practical measures based on state practice. Protecting civilians means upholding the promises states made when they acceded to the 1949 Geneva Conventions. The Global IHL Initiative provides every state with an opportunity to send a powerful signal that wars must have limits. We call on all states to make IHL a political priority, including by joining the initiative. And we encourage the highest level of participation on December 7th in Jordan at the Humanity in War conference. I thank you very much, Madam Vice-Chair.

I thank the distinguished representative of the International Committee of the Red Cross. I now give the floor to the permanent representative of Nepal.

Madam Chair, at the outset, I congratulate you and the distinguished members of the Bureau on your elections. My delegation assures you of Nepal's full support and cooperation in discharging important responsibility entrusted to you. Madam Chair, at a time when we face widening inequalities, protracted conflicts, climate change and its impact, technological disruptions and persistent discriminations, the promise of the United Nations Charter and Universal Declaration of Human Rights remains as relevant as ever. Nepal firmly believes in the universality, individuality, interdependence and mutually reinforcing nature of all human rights, including the right to development. Our constitution guarantees civil, political, economic, social and cultural rights, safeguarding the rights of children, women and girls, indigenous peoples, Dalit persons, with disabilities, minorities, and marginalized communities. We continue to translate these commitments into actions through legislative and administrative reforms, targeted development programs, and good governance. Nepal has placed utmost importance on inclusivity and meaningful participation of all, ensuring that every individual and community is able to contribute to and benefit from our national progress. The successful adoption of Nepal's fourth cycle universal periodic review in June 2026 further reaffirms our dedication to constructive engagement, transparency, and the steady consolidation of our democratic and human rights achievements. For Nepal, the dignity, security, protection and empowerment of women and girls, children, senior citizens, indigenous peoples and all ethnic communities are not peripheral commitments. They are fundamental to our values and foundational to our national progress. We are working toward a future where every woman and girl can exercise their rights free from violence and discrimination, where every child grows in safety and opportunity, where every young person can realize their full potential, where every elder lives with dignity and care, and every indigenous ethnic community shapes national development through voices, through cultures, and leadership. Our state structure reflects Nepal's rich diversity and promotes representations of all through reserve quotas and proportional representations. We have been promoting multilingual policy and community-led development through active local Nepal is a party to 24 international conventions, including seven core human rights treaties. We have advanced gender equality, strengthened maternal and reproductive health services, and reinforced laws and measures to combat human trafficking and domestic violence. We are committed to protecting children's rights through a rights-based approach, eliminating child labour and expanding access to quality education, healthcare, and protections so every child can grow and thrive with dignity. We are also investing in young people, it's driver of sustained economic growth, innovations and social transformations. Nepal reaffirms the rights and dignity of indigenous people as a party to ILO conventions number 169, we emphasize the protections of indigenous languages and culture, including those at risk of disappearance. We uphold the rights of persons with disabilities and remain committed to advancing accessibility, inclusive education, employment opportunities, and comprehensive social protection. Similarly, we attach high importance to the care, welfare, and protection of senior citizens. As a party to the International Convention on the Elimination of all forms of racial discrimination. Nepal remains firmly committed to combating racism, intolerance and discrimination in all their forms. Nepal Constitution guarantees substantive social justice and eliminating caste-based discrimination and untouchability, a commitment underscores by the current government's historic apology to the Dalit community and reinforced by our international human rights obligations. In Nepal, discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity is punishable. To empower and protect women, children, marginalized and vulnerable communities, Nepal has introduced about 87 social protection schemes that expand opportunity, reduce poverty and strengthen resilience across society. Furthermore, Nepal recognized that the valuable contributions of civil society, human rights defenders, media and human rights institutions. Madam Chair, Nepal's experience demonstrates that constitutional guarantees, affirmative action, social investment and inclusive policies can translate national commitments into meaningful progress for people. in health and well-being, life expectancy has reached approximately 72 years. Maternal mortality has declined considerably. Child mortality has declined to 23 per 1,000 live births, undernourishment to 5.4%, and stunting among children under five to 24.8%. Women's leadership, their participation in decision-making and governance continues to grow. Women's representation in the Parliament has reached to historic 34.9%. Similarly, women constitute almost 42% of the elected representative in local government bodies. We continue to prioritize quality education, skill development, productive employment, innovations, and entrepreneurship for our youth. Following the Gen. Z movement last year and general elections this March, Nepal now has the youngest prime minister in its history, and youth representations in parliament has grown significantly. Our progress is further evident in strengthened representations, agency, and voice for every segment of the nations, alongside improved access to essential services and opportunities that enable to participate fully and meaningfully in national development. Madam Chair, while these achievements are encouraging, we recognize that gaps and challenges remain. Social development and human rights are inseparable. As the least developed, landlocked, and mountainous country, Nepal continues to confront persistent challenges related to poverty, employment, and structural vulnerabilities. Resource constraints, climate-induced disasters, economic shocks, and external excesses have had profound impacts on communities, particularly those already facing structural vulnerabilities. Disruption in energy and supply flows have driven up food and fuel prices, limited employment opportunities, reduced remittances, and increased global market volatility. These pressures have disproportionately affected women, children, persons with disabilities, indigenous people, Dalits, migrant workers, and those living in remote mountain and rural areas, deepening inequalities and slowing recovery. AI and digitalization have created new opportunities for innovation and inclusion, but they have also introduced risks such as digital harassment, discrimination, misinformation, and widening digital divide. Strengthening international cooperation, mobilizing resources, sharing technology and knowledge, and supporting inclusive policies and institutions are fundamental to building inclusive, peaceful, stable, and resilient society. On this, we must deliver on the international commitments, including the Sabiha commitment and the Doha political declaration. Mobilizing financial resources, expanding access to technology, and supporting capacity building at scale are essential to advancing sustainable and strengthening the resilience of communities around the world. We must also invest in the potential of young people by providing them with quality education and skill, decent employment opportunities, and meaningful participation in decision-making process. In conclusion, Madam Chair, we must place human dignity, inclusion, resilience, and human agency at the heart of our collective endeavor. Nepal remains committed to to working constructively with member states, the United Nations systems, human rights mechanisms, civil society, women, youth, local communities and other stakeholders to deliver on our collective global commitments and frameworks. Through stronger global solidarity and renewed multilateralism, let us build a sustainable future where development leaves no one behind. Technology serves humanity, and every person can live with dignity, equality, security, and hope. I thank you.

I thank the Permanent Representative of Nepal. We have heard the last speaker on my list for this meeting. The Committee will continue its general debate under any or all agenda items on Monday at 10:00 a.m. sharp. The forthcoming speakers are reflected in the live list circulated on the e-delegate portal. Colleagues, the exercise of the right of reply has been requested in accordance with rule 115 of the rules of procedure of the General Assembly. I should like to remind delegations that the number of interventions in exercise of the right of reply for any delegation at a given meeting should be limited to two per item. The first intervention should be limited to five minutes and the second to three minutes. I give the floor to the representative of Iran.

Much, Madam Vice Chair. I regret that Germany, Sweden, Iceland, the United Kingdom, the European Union, Australia, Estonia, Lithuania, and the Israeli regime have once again used this hall to question Iran and to absolve themselves. Iran rejects these unfounded accusations in full. Peaceful assembly is protected. Organized violence, sabotage, and foreign-directed riots are not. To recast the restoration of public order as crimes against humanity is a political act, not a legal one. Nobody is killed for holding an opinion. Courts do not execute dissidents. The death penalty is only imposed for the most serious crimes under Iranian law. The charge of systematic repression are equally false. Women in Iran vote, study, work, legislate, and practice their professions. Recognized ethnic and religious minorities have their worship, their languages, and their representation. The Israeli regime has the least standing of all. A regime of prolonged occupation, responsible for the killing of tens of thousands of Palestinians, cannot complain of the consequences of its own wars. Its account of missiles and shelters omits the aggression against Iran. Those who arm that regime, Germany and the United States foremost, and those who shelter it in every vote, do not acquire the right to lecture Iran and others on human rights. The European Union's list is the method let bear. Adversaries named, allies footnoted, and selectivity called principle. The United Kingdom, Australia, Sweden, Iceland, Slovenia, Lithuania repeat the same brief as if repetition were evidence. Selective outrage is not international law. Iran will not take instruction on human rights from those who bomb, occupy, or look away. Thank you.

Now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of India.

Thank you, Madam Vice Chair. India exercises its right of reply in response to the remarks by Pakistan, which we categorically reject. The Union Territories of Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh were, are and will always remain integral and inalienable parts of India. The only outstanding matter is a vacation of the territory Pakistan holds under illegal and forcible occupation. We heard Pakistani laments regarding the people of Jammu and Kashmir. This is a desperate attempt by Pakistan to mask the ongoing tragedy in Rawalpindi and its other cities. the killing of hundreds of civilians, and the brutal crackdown across Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir for merely demanding bread, electricity, and human dignity. This is, of course, unsurprising. It is a natural outcome of prolonged Pakistani military occupation of the region by force and its unending repression. When any free media is banned from covering such news in Pakistan, the evidence becomes undeniable for the global community. that only the writ of the Form 47 government and their masters in the army headquarters runs large. By contrast, Jammu and Kashmir held assembly elections in 2024 with a massive turnout, followed by a peaceful transfer of power to an elected government. The contrast could not have been starker. Madam Vice-Chair, we all know that the so-called civilian governments in Pakistan serve at the mercy of their army and rarely complete their terms. A former prime minister continues to remain in jail, even as his health is reported to be fast deteriorating. The erstwhile ruling party has not been allowed to contest elections. Instead of addressing domestic discontent, Pakistan seeks to distract by fomenting instability in India and sponsoring, inciting, abetting, and financing cross-border terrorism in my country for more than three decades. The only human rights violation taking place in Kashmir is perpetrated by the armed forces of Pakistan and their terrorist proxies. Madam Vice-Chair, propaganda does not become fact through repetition. Pakistan would serve its people better by confronting its own fault lines and building its economy than by coveting the territory of others. Thank you.

I give the floor to the representative of Serbia.

Can you hear me? Yes. Well, Madam Vice-Chair, first of all, to congratulate you on your election, and I wish you a successful TRC session. The Republic of Serbia wishes to exercise its right of reply in response to the statement made by the distinguished representative of the Republic of Albania regarding the Albanian ethnic minority in the Prizren Valley in the Republic of Serbia. Madam Chair, the Republic of Serbia guarantees and respects the full rights of all its citizens, including members of ethnical minorities, in line with its constitution, laws and international obligations. Suggestions to the contrary represent an attempt to create a false and misleading parallel with the situation in Kosovo and Metohija, where the rights of the Serb community have been systematically and brutally undermined by the ethnic Albanian leadership of the provisional institutions of self-government in Pristina. Thank you.

I give the floor to the representative of Israel.

Thank you, Madam Chair. I am taking the floor in exercise of my right of reply in response to the inflammatory and unfounded delegations made earlier by Iran. I will also use this opportunity to address some of the comments we have heard from certain delegations against my country over the past two days. Let me begin with Iran. A regime that has for decades financed, armed, trained, and fueled terrorist organizations across the Middle East and beyond has little credibility when it speaks about human rights and international security. Iran supports Hamas, Hezbollah, the Houthis, and other armed terror groups. The Iranian regime have also been involved in supporting terrorist activities across Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Americas. I challenge you colleagues to dig a bit deeper on terror activities in your region, and I promise you that with a bit of research, you will find traces to Iran involvement there. And let's not forget what this regime does to its own people. Iranian women have endured systematic discrimination and repression, while Iranian protesters have faced arbitrary detention, torture, and lethal violence. Israel stands with the Iranian people, who simply seeks to live in freedom, dignity, and security. Chair, it is deeply regrettable, though unfortunately not surprising, that Israel continues to be lectured on Gaza while Hamas is so often left out of the discussion. Those member states who speak about Gaza while ignoring Hamas are ignoring a central part of the reality on the ground. Hamas launched the October 7th, 2023 terrorist attack against Israel. Today, three years later, Hamas and other Palestinian armed groups still have not disarmed. And yet, in statements here, we repeatedly hear demands directed at Israel, with barely a word about the organization that launched this war, continues to maintain its military capabilities and continues to operate among Gaza's civilian population. We should also not ignore Hamas' exploitation of civilian infrastructure and the use of civilians, including children, in support of its military activities. Just days ago, Israel released additional evidence of exploitation of children in Gaza. In one particularly disturbing video released by the IDF on September 27, a child can be seen struggling to carry weapons toward a civilian home while being guided by an armed operative. Israel has presented evidence of Hamas and other armed groups' exploitation of civilian environments to the UN for years. We should be able to hold more than one truth at the same time, especially in the Third Committee. The humanitarian needs of Palestinians' activity is urgent, and the actions of Hamas and other armed groups cannot simply be erased from the discussion. Madam Chair, let me end on a positive note as we prepare for Shabbat. There is one point in which I believe we can agree, and was mentioned here by many member states. The people of our region, Israelis, Palestinians, and Iranians alike, deserve to live free from terror and violence and to build lives grounded in peace, stability, dignity, and opportunity. We ask Member States to consider whether they wish to contribute to these efforts or stand against them.

I thank you.

I give the floor to the representative of Ukraine.

Thank you, Madam Vice Chair. My delegation would like to exercise its request of reply to another wave of disinformation voiced yesterday by the Russian Federation in response to the statement of the European Union. The Russian delegate called on this committee not to politicize its discussion, but it was not Ukraine or the European Union that brought war into this room. It was Russia that launched a full-scale war of aggression against a sovereign country in violation of the Charter of the United Nations. Every word we say here about destroyed cities, about children, about women is not politics. It is documented by the United Nations, by the Human Rights Monitoring Mission, by the Independent International Commission of Inquiry, by the Secretary General himself, and much more. On Ukrainians abroad, Russian delegate claimed yesterday that EU is silent and attempts to send Ukrainian men back from Europe to Ukraine. This is simply false. Ukrainians in the European Union are not subject to any policy of collective forced return. Millions continue to benefit from temporary protection, and we are deeply grateful for the European countries that support and for hosting them. Ukraine supports voluntary, safe, dignified return so that people come back home by choice when conditions allow to. Compare this what Russia does in the temporarily occupied territories. It forces Ukrainians to take Russian passports, forcibly conscripts them into its army to fight against its own country in violation of the Fourth Geneva Convention. On weapons. the Russian delegate accused the European Union of hypocrisy for helping Ukraine with weapons used against Russian territory, Ukraine is exercising its inherent right of self-defense under Article 51 of the Charter, and our partners help us protect our cities from Russian missiles and drones that strike homes, hospitals, power plants, actually every night. If Russia stops attacking, there will be nothing to defend against. On children, Russian delegate dismissed the deportation of Ukrainian children as mere accusations. The independent International Commission of Inquiry on Ukraine has found that the unlawful transfer and deportation of Ukrainian children by Russian authorities constitutes a war crime. And the International Criminal Court has issued a warrant against Putin and his commissioner for children's rights for precisely this crime. That Commissioner herself publicly announced that she had taken in a boy from Mariupol. Children are taken from their families, given Russian citizenships, placed with Russian families, and subjected to re-education. And Russia systematically militarizes and indoctrinates Ukrainian children through schools, youth military movements, and weapons training, erasing that Ukrainian identity. The way to depoliticize this committee is simple: end the aggression, withdraw your troops from the territory of Ukraine, release all prisoners of war and civilian detainees, and return every Ukrainian child. Thank you.

I give the floor to the representative of Democratic People's Republic of Korea.

Thank you, Madam Chair. The DPRK delegation is exercising the right of reply in response to the allegation made by Japanese delegation. DPRK delegation resolutely rejects the groundless allegations made by the Japanese delegation concerning the abduction issue. The history has recorded many war criminal states, which have mercilessly destroyed the peace and civilization of mankind by resorting to aggression against other countries and nations. But it is only Japan which is subject to international criticism, strong international criticism, due to its persistent distortion of history and evasion of settlement of its past. The main reason Japan raises the abduction issue every year in international arena is to distract the international community from its past war crimes and unsettled reparation for its crimes against humanity. Japan, which occupied Korea in the last century, forcibly drafted more than 8.4 million young and middle-aged Korean people. Mercilessly, they killed more than one million and forced 200 Korean women into sexual slavery. They never apologized. Instead, they are now talking about abduction issues in this international arena, and human rights issues and concerns about the DPRK. This is the height of shamelessness and an insult to history and also to the international community. As for the abduction issue brought by the Japanese delegation, it has been completely and finally and irreversibly settled thanks to the sincere efforts that has been put by the DPRK government. Japan should honestly respond to our good faith and fully apologize for its crimes against humanity. Japan should honestly and truly apologize for its past war crimes before they seek for the permanent seat of the UN Security Council. Thank you, Madam Chair.

I give the floor to the representative of Greece.

Thank you, Chair. Greece is exercising the right of reply in response to baseless allegations regarding the Muslim minority in Thrace. The Muslim minority in Thrace consists of three distinct groups whose members are of Turkish, Pomak, and Roma origin. Each of these groups has its own spoken language and cultural traditions. Their common denominator is their Muslim faith. This is why the minority has been designated in the Lausanne Treaty of 1923 and is recognized by the Greek state as a religious one. Greece fully respects the principle of individual self-identification, but cannot accept attempts to assign to the religious minority a collective ethnic identity which is not their own. Persons belonging to the Muslim minority in Thrace fully participate in public, civic, and political life, including at the level of Parliament and as representatives in local authorities. There is also a special quota in civil service exams as well as in university admissions. Freedom of association is protected with numerous active associations. Greece is also engaging constructively with the Council of Europe to implement European Court judgments concerning associations in Thrace. On the other hand, The Greek Orthodox minority in Turkey has endured a long and painful history. Pogroms in 1955 and mass expulsions in the 1960s forced thousands from their homes. While the situation improved significantly over the decades, with fewer overt acts of violence, Long-pursued state practices of confiscations of properties, heavy taxation on assets, restrictions on access to certain professions, or using the Greek language have led to a dramatic shrinkage of the Greek Orthodox minority in Turkey. Following arbitrary confiscations, immovable properties belonging to Greek foundations have diminished from 8,000 in 1936 to approximately 500 properties today. Inheritance rights of Greek citizens of Turkish origin are curtailed, and minority schools survive only on private contributions, despite Lausanne guarantees. In view of the above, Greece would like to reiterate its commitment to fully protecting and respecting minority rights and calls on all UN member states to do the same. I thank you.

I give the floor to the representative of Pakistan.

Thank you, Madame. I have requested the floor to exercise my delegation's right of reply in response to the frivolous remarks made by the representative of India concerning Indian-occupied Jammu and Kashmir and my country. Pakistan categorically rejects India's futile attempts to dismiss the Jammu and Kashmir dispute as a so-called internal matter. Jammu and Kashmir is an internationally recognized disputed territory, and its final status remains to be determined in accordance with the wishes of Kashmiri people as enshrined in the numerous resolutions of the United Nations Security Council, which guarantee the Kashmiri people's right to self-determination. India is in gross violation of its international legal obligations by persistently failing and refusing to implement these immutable Security Council resolutions. Jammu and Kashmir never was, neither is, nor will ever be, a so-called inalienable part of India. India must comply with its international obligations to settle the dispute in accordance with the Security Council resolutions and stop suppressing the rights and freedoms of people in the occupied territory under its illegal control. Madam Chair, alongside Indian state terrorism in occupied Jammu and Kashmir under the BJP-led government, discrimination and violence against religious minorities including Muslims, Christians, Sikhs and other vulnerable communities have also become rampant and systematic. Incidents of religiously motivated violence, hate speech, discriminatory practice and attacks on places of worship are common occurrence in India today. Centuries old mosques are being razed to the ground under state patronage. No amount of obfuscation, denials or finger pointing can hide these facts. The world needs no lectures from such a serial violator of international law and a gross abuser of human rights. In Pakistan, a thriving democracy that embraces diversity and plurality, all our citizens, including minorities, enjoy all their constitutionally granted rights and freedoms. This is in stark contrast to the appalling situation in Indian state and society that has been consumed by Hindutva extremism, bigotry, hegemonic designs, and plain hubris. India's use of terrorism bogey and crying victim is fooling no one. India is a perpetrator of state terrorism in occupied Jammu and Kashmir. And India is a sponsor of terrorism that is taking the lives of Pakistani law enforcement personnel and citizens. India is actively aiding, abetting, and financing terrorist groups against Pakistan. Indian terrorism has even reached North American shores, Madam Chair. Pakistan remains firmly committed to dialogue, diplomacy, and peaceful settlement of disputes in accordance with the principles enshrined in the Charter of the United Nations. India would be well advised to also follow that path in the interest of regional peace, security, and stability, and prosperity and well-being of over 1.5 billion humanity that resides in South Asia. I thank you.

I give the floor to the representative of Iran on a second intervention.

Very much, Madam Vice Chair. The Islamic Republic of Iran is once again exercising its right of reply in response to the statement delivered by the Israeli regime. The Israeli regime is in no position to instruct this body on credibility, human rights or international security. A regime established through the disposition of entire people, sustained by decades of military occupation, blockade, and the systematic destruction of the Palestinian lives, does not acquire the moral authority by reciting a catalog of ridiculous accusations against others. The futile attempt to reduce every regional development to an Iranian hand is a familiar diversion. It is designed to shield the principal source of instability in our region, the Israeli occupation itself. Nor will the Islamic Republic of Iran accept lectures on the rights and dignity of its people from an entity whose forces have turned Gaza into a graveyard, whose policies of apartheid and collective punishment have been documented across the United Nations system, and whose record towards women and children under its control requires no elaboration. These allegations are rejected in full. The Iranian people require neither the patronage nor the cynical solidarity of a regime that has never extended freedom, dignity or security to the people living under its occupation. Thank you.

I give the floor to the representative of Japan.

Thank you, Madam President. It is unfortunate that I am compelled to exercise my right of reply in response to the statement by North Korea. The claims that North Korea mentioned regarding Japan are based on factual errors and are groundless. Regarding issues relating history, I must make it clear all nations must be humble about their history and Japan has squarely faced its history. As former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe clearly stated in his statement on 14th August 2015 that Japan has repeatedly expressed the feelings of deep remorse and heartfelt apology for its actions during the war and that such position articulated by previous cabinets will remain unshakable into the future. The current administration has upheld entirely the position of previous cabinets on history, including the Prime Minister's statement, and will continue to do so. Since the end of World War II, Japan has consistently followed the path of a peace-loving nation and made innumerable contributions to the peace and prosperity of the world, having served as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council for the 20 12 times until the end of 2024. Japan will continue such contributions as a responsible member state of the United Nations. I will briefly touch upon Japan's position on the abductions issues in response to the statement made by the representative of DPRK. Japan's policy on North Korea is seek to normalize its relationship with North Korea in accordance with the Japan-DPRK Pyongyang Declaration through its normalization, both Japan and the DPRK would mutually waive all their property and claims and those of their nationals that had arisen from causes occurring before August 15, 1945, decided that they would discuss the issue of property and claims during the normalization talks. Japan's intention remains to seek to normalize relations with North Korea in accordance with Japan's DPRK declaration. Yes. Yes, and Japan-DPRK, Pyongyang declaration through comprehensively resolving the outstanding issue concern, including the abduction issues, as well as the element of the unfortunate past. Among other issues, the abduction issue is a humanitarian and time-sensitive issue with no time to spare. The abductees and their family members are now well advanced in age. There is no time to be wasted. The abductions issues must be resolved immediately. Thank you.

I give the floor to the representative of Turkey.

Madam Chair, I take the floor to exercise the right of reply in response to the statement made by the distinguished representative of Greece regarding the Turkish minority in Western Thrace and Greek Orthodox minority in Turkey. The assertion that the Turkish minority faces no discrimination is regrettably inconsistent with the restrictions it continues to encounter in exercising its fundamental rights and freedoms. These concerns require concrete actions by the Greek authorities. The restrictions faced by the Turkish minority in Western Thrace in violation of bilateral and international agreements, particularly in the context of fundamental minority and human rights, such as education, freedom of religion and worship, are unfortunately on the rise. The rights of the Turkish minority in Western Thrace are guaranteed under the Lausanne Peace Treaty. Nevertheless, Greece continues to deny the Turkish minority's ethnic identity and its right to freedom of association. Its persistent refusal to register minority associations bearing the word Turkish in their names, despite the relevant judgments of the European Court of Human Rights, remains a matter of serious concern. These binding judgments must be implemented fully and without further delay. Many constructive steps towards the Greek Orthodox minority have been taken in Turkey in recent years in coordination with our Greek Orthodox citizens. Turkey has opened schools in Gokceada for only four students in response to demands of its Greek Orthodox citizens. Whereas Greece continues to shut down minority schools in Western Thrace and restrictions on the Turkish minority's educational rights also persists. Such actions are incompatible with Greece's treaty obligations and cannot be reconciled with assurances of equal treatment. Freedom of religion is another area of continuing concern. We would like to once again draw the attention of the international community to the fact that Greece does not recognize the elected religious leaders of an official minority in its territory. Respect for religious freedom requires due regard for the choices of the community concerned. We would like Greece to address these long-standing concerns, fulfill its obligations under the Lausanne Peace Treaty, implement the relevant judgments of the European Court of Human Rights, and engage in genuine dialogue with the Turkish minority. Thank you.

I give the floor to the Democratic People's Republic of Korea on a second intervention.

Thank you, Madam Chair. My second exercise right of reply will go to the Japan delegates. I want to remind the distinguished delegates of Japan that my country's official name is the Democratic People's Republic of Korea. Your deliberate and your government's deliberate refusal to recognize the official name of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, a sovereign state fully recognized under the international law, is more than just a diplomatic insult. It is a manifestation of an arrogant, militaristic mindset that utterly denies its past history of colonial occupation and aggression in Asia. I repeat once again, a war criminal state that refuses to acknowledge its bloodstained past has absolutely no right to occupy a permanent seat on the Security Council. a body that tasked with the heavy responsibility of maintaining global peace and security. As for the abduction issue, I clearly state once again that it has been completely, finally, and irreversibly settled thanks to our sincere efforts, the government of the DPRK. Japan should honestly respond to our good faith and fully apologize for its past war crimes, the crimes against humanity. Thank you.

I give the floor to the representative of Japan on a second intervention.

Thank you, Madam President. It is unfortunate that I am compelled to exercise my right of reply in response to the statement by North Korea a second time. I will not repeat here what I said. Japan has regarded the facts of history with humility and sincerely addressed various issues for over 80 years since the end of World War II. Having served as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council 12 times over the last 20 years since Japan joined the UN, Japan has actively contributed to international peace and security. Thank you, Madam President.

I see no further requests. The meeting is adjourned.