Third Committee, 5th plenary meeting - General Assembly, 81st session

Good morning, colleagues. Please take a seat. The fifth meeting of the Third Committee of the General Assembly at its 81st session is called to order. I now invite the committee to continue its general debate. I wish to remind delegations to strictly adhere to the time limits of 10 minutes for interventions by individual delegations. To assist speakers in managing their time, a timer is visible on the screen. The microphones will be automatically switched off when the time is up. I thank you for your cooperation. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Sri Lanka.

Thank you, Madam Chair. Good morning. At the outset, allow me to congratulate Ambassador Larsen on his election as the Chair of the Third Committee and to extend my congratulations to the other members of the Bureau. Sri Lanka extends its fullest support and cooperation to you all. Sri Lanka aligns itself with the statement delivered by the distinguished representative of Uruguay on behalf of the Group of 77 and China. Madam Chair, this committee focuses on important aspects and factors impacting people's lives. Its agenda reaches into the lives of children and women, older persons and persons with disabilities, refugees and migrants, and communities living with the consequences of discrimination and exclusion. This December marks 60 years since the adoption of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, and the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights. Together, they remind us of the breadth of the rights we have undertaken to protect. They also remind us that commitments must translate into improving people's everyday lives. Madam Chair, last November in Doha, the international community renewed its commitment to place people at the center of social progress. Sri Lanka welcomed the Doha Political Declaration. The task before us now is to translate those commitments into action. Recent years have demonstrated Sri Lanka, the vulnerability of ordinary families to crisis. Our people carried the burden of a severe economic crisis. Soon after, Cyclone Dikta brought further losses to communities across our island. These experiences have reinforced our belief that social progress must be felt in people's lives. Poverty has many dimensions. It can affect a child's education and a family's health, and as a result, cause an adverse impact on a whole community. That understanding is at the heart of our Praja Shakti national initiative. Nearly 14,000 community development councils have been established across Sri Lanka, giving communities a direct role in identifying local priorities and helping shape the projects intended to improve their lives. People themselves understand the needs of their communities, and a government works best when it listens to them. This year also marks 20 years since the adoption of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. Sri Lanka has the honour of presiding over the 19th session of its Conference of State Parties. That experience reinforced our conviction that inclusion should be part of how policies and public services are crafted from the beginning. Madam Chair, Sri Lanka has a proud history of women in national leadership. We gave the world its first woman prime minister, and today a woman again holds that office. Our Parliament also has more women members than at any point in our history. The Women's Empowerment Act and the establishment of our National Commission on Women have strengthened our national framework. Madam Chair, we have an enormous responsibility to our children. For most, the first source of care and security is the family, supported by the community around it. Sri Lanka has offered free education for generations. alongside universal healthcare, and we are now reforming our schools so that children are prepared for a rapidly changing world, including changes in the way people work. Our aim is that no child leaves school before completing 13 years of education, and that every child can find the path suited to its academic or vocational abilities. As a State Party to the Convention on the Rights of the Child and its first two Optional Protocols, as well as the key International Labour Organization Conventions concerning child labour, Sri Lanka remains firmly committed to upholding its international obligations and standards relating to the protection and promotion of the rights and well-being of children. Child protection remains a key priority of the government of Sri Lanka, which maintains a policy of zero tolerance towards sexual and gender-based violence. As a member of the Pathfinding Global Alliance to End Violence Against Children, Sri Lanka continues to advance legal, policy, and institutional reforms to strengthen the protection of children from all forms of violence, abuse, and exploitation. We pay particular attention to children who start further behind. The recently launched Diviata Saviak program focuses on young people leaving child development centers. Sri Lanka is working on opening savings accounts for children growing up in child development centres, helping ensure that they enter adulthood with something of their own. The circumstances of a person's childhood should not set the limits of their future. Madam Chair, to live well, people must also feel that they belong. Sri Lanka is a tapestry of different religions, languages, ethnic communities, and cultural traditions. Our history has shown us the cost of division and the importance of rebuilding social cohesion. Our constitution guarantees equality before the law and prohibits discrimination on grounds including race, religion, language, caste, and sex. Sri Lanka remains committed to safeguarding the rights and dignity of every community and to build a society founded on equality, non-discrimination and mutual respect for all. As this year marks 25 years since the adoption of the Durban Declaration and Programme of Action, we reaffirm our commitment to the principles enshrined in the DDPA and to strengthening our collective resolve to build societies where diversity is respected, equality is advanced, and every human being can live with dignity and hope. Madam Chair, as a State Party to all nine core human rights conventions, Sri Lanka has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to protecting and promoting human rights through decades of consistent, transparent and meaningful engagement with the United Nations human rights regular mechanisms. Sri Lanka constructively engaged with the delegation of the UN Sub-Committee on Prevention of Torture during its second visit to Sri Lanka from 15 to 24 June 2026. On 14 August 2026, Sri Lanka engaged in an interactive dialogue during its initial review by the UN Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. In conclusion, the work of this Committee will be judged far from this room, in homes and communities around the world. Sri Lanka reiterates its firm belief that the work of this Committee will be vital to shaping a future that is more just, equitable and inclusive. Therefore, let us recommit to the vision of the Charter and work collectively towards building a United Nations that delivers meaningful results and positively impacts the lives of people around the world. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Sri Lanka. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Belarus.

Thank you, Madam Chairperson. The third committee is a platform where we should find common responses to common challenges. Yet over the last few years, we've seen a different picture. The committee's work is being polarized. This is not an isolated phenomenon. It's the direct consequence of global politics going down a negative spiral. The deeper contradictions between states, the more difficult it is for us to come to an agreement here within these walls. Confrontation is replacing cooperation. Politicized resolutions are replacing genuine dialogue. This is particularly obvious in the human rights sphere. Double standards, selective approaches, branding certain countries this, that, or the other. This does not strengthen, but undermines trust in the UN human rights system. We stand convinced this cannot go on. We speak three specific problems in this sphere. First, confrontational country resolutions and mandates, which duplicate one another, hijack the agenda. promote false narratives and have nothing to do with objective reality. They, in fact, facilitate the liquidity crisis getting worse and blocking opportunities for affected states to cooperate with the UN human rights system. A shining example of this is the politicized resolution of the Human Rights Council 61/26 on Belarus, which not only extended the country mandates which duplicate each other, on which millions of US dollars are spent every year, but also pave the way for additional reporting and interactive dialogues. These mandates are based on politicized narratives, not an objective assessment. They are a tool of political pressure, not objective monitoring. Such approaches are being used not just against Belarus, they're also used to exert pressure on many other states, including Venezuela, Iran, DPRK, Myanmar, Nicaragua, Russia, and Eritrea. The second problem is double standards. The joint report by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Belarus and Russia on the human rights situation in Western countries, published in June, clearly shows that those who portray themselves as defenders and, in fact, leaders in the human rights sphere themselves contravene these rights. This document reports serious systemic violations of human rights in specific countries, which, unfortunately, has elicited no response from the Human Rights Council. The third problem is ignoring the priorities of developing countries, ensuring the economic, social, and cultural rights, including the right to development, rooting out racism, xenophobia, protecting families, and countering illegal UCMs. We stand convinced. We need to do away with politicized country resolutions. We need not vilify countries. We need genuine dialogue because there are no countries that are perfect in terms of human rights. That's why Belarus reasserts its openness to dialogue with all human rights mechanisms which respect the sovereign equality of states and the principle of non-interference in internal affairs. The main intergovernmental mechanism for considering human rights issues across all countries without exception has always been and remains the Universal Periodic Review, something Belarus regularly undertakes. Madam Chairperson, the second host of problems is migration and refugees. Here we see those very same double standards and two specific problems, first, distorting the root causes. Wars and conflicts waged by Western countries in developing states are giving rise to new waves of migrants and refugees. Those who started these conflicts should shoulder responsibility for their consequences, instead of laying the blame at the door of others, as some of our neighbors are trying to do. accusing us of instrumentalising migration for political purposes. The second problem is double standards in terms of actions that are taken. On one side, Western countries are calling on everyone to uphold IHL and other international standards as regards refugees and migrants. On the other hand, there are some EU countries which are erecting physical barriers. They are forcing refugees and migrants out of their borders. This is something we're seeing on our own Western border. By contrast, Belarus is providing full access to our border for specialized bodies such as the International Organization for Migration, the UNHCR, the WHO, and the ICRC. Belarusian customs officials, together with medics, are proactively providing assistance to migrants who need such medical assistance. Having said that, the Republic of Belarus is not only open, we are ourselves taking active steps to control migration flows. Over the last five years, we've cracked down on 130 international illegal migration channels. We've detained 300 organizers and facilitators and roughly 1,500 illegal migrants. This work would be even more effective if not the inaction, the absence of answers to our requests and, in some instances, the direct obstruction of some European countries. And this despite the fact that migrants crossing the EU border from Belarus stands at less than half a percent from the overall quantity of illegal migrants entering the EU. That's very telling. We call on states politicizing the suffering and pain of refugees and migrants to revert to upholding international law, civilized professional work, and in good faith cooperation. Madam Chairperson, the third topic, which touches upon many issues falling within the purview of the third committee, is misuse of technologies. New challenges thrown up by digitalization are disquieting, in particular, human smuggling so as to force these people to partake in crimes. The mechanism is very easy. Technologies are used to enlist victims, to force them to commit crimes. This type of human trafficking is on the rise exponentially. So it's already taken over Asia and is now shifting to Latin America and other continents. Belarus and Kazakhstan. working at the 35th session of the UN Commission on Crime Prevention in Vienna in June of this year, Kazakhstan and Belarus put forward a joint resolution. The problem was and remains very pertinent to the International Day for Combating Human Trafficking. And it was also front and center of the work of the Working Group on Countering Human Trafficking, which took place in June in Vienna. We need to implement the provisions of the resolution and the recommendations of the Working Group, so as to ensure we effectively counter this new threat. Belarus will continue placing priority attention to the issue of human trafficking, including through coordinating the work of the Group of Friends, which are combating human trafficking. Madam Chairperson, last but not least, some are politicizing human rights. Meanwhile, Belarus is genuinely defending them through social policies. We're supporting older persons, persons with disabilities, veterans, large families, and other vulnerable groups who are an important segment of the Belarusian development model. We are particularly attentive to providing tailored assistance to those who find themselves in a difficult situation. For us, strong families is the pillar of our society and demographic safety. That's why our policy, in deed and not just in word, creates the conditions for having and rearing children, supporting parents, and protecting mothers. 2026 has been proclaimed the Year of the Belarusian Woman in Belarus. When we discuss the status of women, families and children, we need to factor in the cultural and spiritual traditions of specific States and respect their right to independently set their social policies. That's why we've taken this as the foundation for our work in the Third Committee. We've said that the work of the Third Committee is being politicized, but this is not a life sentence. Belarus stands ready to work constructively with all delegations on the basis of equal rights, mutual respect and no double standards. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Belarus. And now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Bangladesh.

Thank you, Madam Chair. I congratulate you and the members of the Bureau on your election and assure you of Bangladesh's full support and cooperation. Bangladesh aligns itself with the statement delivered by Uruguay on behalf of the Group of 77 and China. Madam Chair, we meet at a time when the very principles on which this committee work are under severe strain. We are witnessing a frontal attack on established rules of international law alongside an acute funding shortfall. Fundamental human rights and humanitarian norms are being violated with impunity or applied selectively. The human cost is high. Public trust in the United Nations and confidence in international law is at an all-time low. But all is not lost yet. We have been encouraged by the many voices in this session's general debate that have stood firmly for multilateralism, respect for international law, and the principles of the UN Charter. We share their commitments. Drawing strength from the general debate, we call for a stronger focus on the implementation of commitments and an honest assessment of the results. Our work should be measured by one question: does it improve the lives and protect the rights of people? Madam Chair, civil, political, economic and social rights are universal, indivisible and interdependent. That is not a trite statement, but a tried and tested formula for effective social development. Bangladesh has significantly increased its investment in women and girls' education, health and livelihood skills, and youth development as concrete means of empowering women and young people to exercise their rights fully and participate equally in economic, social, and public life. We acknowledge that sexual and gender-based violence, discrimination, and unequal access to economic opportunities remain key barriers to gender equality in Bangladesh and globally. More efforts must be made to implement the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, the obligations under CEDAW and the commitments of SDG 5. The rights, safety and dignity of women migrant workers must be protected throughout the migration cycle. More must also be done to advance women's meaningful participation in conflict prevention, peacebuilding, and peace processes. Madam Chair, Bangladesh was born from a struggle for equality, dignity, and social justice. These principles are integral to our national life and constitutional values. We reaffirm the rights of people to self-determination and support the Palestinian people's right to self-determination and an independent, viable, and sovereign state of Palestine. As we mark the 40th anniversary of the Declaration on the Right to Development, Bangladesh reaffirms its support towards the legally binding International Covenant on the Right to Development. Bangladesh is a party to the nine core international human rights instruments, We remain committed to fulfilling our obligations under these instruments and strengthening our national institutions and legal framework. Bangladesh has recently enacted legislation to improve its national human rights institution and strengthen protection against enforced disappearances. We believe strong national institutions, the rule of law, and accountability are essential for the protection of human rights. and must be carried out in consultation with citizens, civil society, and other key stakeholders. Madam Chair, racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia, and related intolerance remain serious challenges. We oppose all forms of racial discrimination and must ensure equality and dignity for all. The 25th anniversary of the Durban Declaration and Programme of Action provides an opportunity to renew this commitment, Bangladesh supports its full and effective implementation. Madam Chair, rapid advances in artificial intelligence and other technologies are changing our societies, creating both opportunities and risks. AI can enhance research and access to education, healthcare, and other services. But without equitable access and responsible governance, it can also deepen existing inequalities and create new risks. The Third Committee should contribute to the debate on these issues across the full spectrum of human rights, social development, and humanitarian concerns. Technological progress must remain human-centered and must not come at the expense of human dignity, equality, and fundamental freedoms. Madam Chair, Bangladesh is deeply concerned about the underfunding of human rights, humanitarian, and development programs. Diverting funds from development to defense weakens both security and human rights, as the root causes of conflict are often to be found in economic, social, and political grievances. Peace and security, sustainable development, and human rights are mutually reinforcing pillars of the United Nations. Can a house stand when two out of three pillars are weakened? While conflicts are proliferating, humanitarian needs are rising, but humanitarian assistance is shrinking. Madam Chair, we must insist on full respect for the protection of civilians, for adequate humanitarian assistance, and for safe, timely, and unhindered humanitarian access. As new crises emerge, the world must not forget the plight of those who languish in refugee camps for years, such as the Rohingya in Bangladesh. The social, economic, and environmental costs have been high. But the human costs for the displaced and their host communities are even higher. We call for sustained international support for the Rohingya and a predictable action plan towards their safe, voluntary, and dignified return to Myanmar. Finally, Madam Chair, allow me to reiterate that this committee must not simply adopt resolutions or reaffirm commitments. It is our shared responsibility to ensure that commitments are implemented. We must close the gap between rhetoric and reality, between promise and delivery. Thank you, Madam Chair.

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

Thank you, Madam Chair. Poland aligns itself with the statement delivered by the European Union. This year we mark the 60th anniversary of the adoption of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights. Twenty years ago, the General Assembly established the Human Rights Council and other milestone human rights conventions. These anniversaries remind us that the human rights architecture we rely on today was built by States that chose cooperation over confrontation, and universal standards over the convenience of exceptions. Today, that architecture is under strain, including from deliberate attempts to weaken the very mechanisms designed to hold violators to account. Poland considers human rights to be inherent, universal, indivisible, inviolable, and inalienable. Poland's own history taught us that the lasting peace and security cannot be built without democracy, the rule of law, and good governance. That is why Poland consistently promotes democratic values and the principles of good governance as a foundation of sustainable peace and security in the United Nations and beyond. This is also why, at the Human Rights Council, Poland, together with its core group partners, continues to lead the work on good governance, this year with a focus on the use of new technologies, including artificial intelligence, in public administration. Madam Chair. Poland remains a firm supporter of a strong, independent and effective UN human rights system. We stand by the independence of the Human Rights Council, its special procedures and the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights. We remain committed to strengthening the treaty body system. Our engagement is long-term. Poland, for the fourth time now, has presented its candidature to the Human Rights Council for the term 2029-2031. We seek membership in order to contribute actively to shaping international standards and the Council's response to human rights situations, in a spirit of dialogue, but without compromising on principles. Madam Chair, the human rights situation in Ukraine, the Russian Federation and Belarus remains a particular focus for Poland. More than four and a half years into Russia's full-scale war of aggression against Ukraine, civilians continue to bear the gravest consequences. We will continue to draw the attention of the international community to the crimes and violations of international human rights law and international humanitarian law committed by the Russian armed forces and armed groups under their control. These include torture, sexual violence, arbitrary detention and enforced disappearance in the temporarily occupied territories, as well as the ill-treatment of prisoners of war. Ukrainian children forcibly transferred or deported to Russia must be returned to their families without delay. Any just and lasting peace must be grounded in international law, the UN Charter and accountability. The violations committed abroad are inseparable from repression at home. In the Russian Federation, dissent is criminalised, while human rights defenders and independent journalists are imprisoned or forced into exile. In Belarus, the authorities continue to persecute political opponents, civil society and independent media, as well as members of national minorities. We call on Belarus to release all political prisoners and to cease the instrumentalisation of migrants. The UN mechanisms monitoring these situations, the Independent International Commission of Inquiry on Ukraine, the Special Rapporteurs on the Russian Federation and on Belarus, and the Group of Independent Experts on Belarus, play a replaceable role in documenting violations and preserving evidence for future justice. Ensuring their adequate and stable funding is a priority. Poland pays particular attention to those most exposed to exclusion and violence, including children and persons with disabilities. Poland was proud to lead the work on Security Council Resolution 2475, dedicated to the protection of persons with disabilities in armed conflict. On the 20th anniversary of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, we call for its full implementation, including in humanitarian action and post-conflict recovery. Madam Chair, Poland remains committed to promoting freedom of religion or belief and to countering all related forms of intolerance, hatred and discrimination, including against religious minorities. It was in this spirit that we initiated the General Assembly resolution, adopted by consensus, establishing the International Day commemorating the victims of acts of violence based on religion or belief. We are increasingly concerned about the negative impact of disinformation on the enjoyment of human rights. Information manipulation fuels hatred, undermines trust in democratic institutions, and is used as a tool of hostile interference. Countering it effectively must go hand in hand with full respect for freedom of expression. Poland remains deeply concerned about the humanitarian situation in Gaza, as well as about the violence in the West Bank. We call for the protection of civilians at all times and for safe and unhindered humanitarian access. We are equally alarmed by the atrocities against civilians in Sudan, including widespread conflict-related sexual violence, and by the continued persecution of the Rohingya and other minorities in Myanmar. Madam Chair, Poland supports the UN80 initiative and efforts to make our organization more efficient and effective. Reform, however, must strengthen, not weaken, the ability of the United Nations to deliver on its mandates. The human rights pillar, which receives less than 1% of the UN regular budget, has already been disproportionately affected by this year's cuts. The continuity, independence, transparency, effectiveness, and stable and sustainable funding for the human rights pillar must be preserved. And yet a strong, sustainably funded human rights system is a condition of the credibility of the entire United Nations. Madam Chair, 60 years ago, states from all regions recognized in the covenants that the ideal of free human beings enjoying freedom from fear and want can only be achieved if everyone can enjoy all their rights. Our task in this committee is not to renegotiate that promise, but to keep it. Poland stands ready to work constructively with all delegations to this end. With this, I have the honor of passing the floor to Poland's youth delegates who will deliver the remainder of the statement.

Madam Chair, Excellencies, I have the honor to speak to you on behalf of Poland as a youth delegate. More than 80 years ago, in the aftermath of two world wars, member states built something extraordinary. A system in which international law, rather than force, would govern relations between states. Today, that foundation is under strain. Wars continue to destroy lives and communities. At the end of 2025, almost 118 million people were forcibly displaced worldwide. The reality of global crisis remind us of one uncomfortable truth. Having rights today does not guarantee that we will have them tomorrow. As privileged as I feel standing before you today, I cannot stop thinking about young people around the world who have more ambition, talent, and dreams, yet far fewer opportunities simply because of where they were born. They may be a girl in Afghanistan, denied access to education and public life, a child in South Sudan, forced into a conflict they never chose, or a young Ukrainian refugee in Poland, trying to rebuild her life. The circumstances are different, but the principle is the same. Human rights cannot depend on geography. Excellencies, Polish youth call for a future where every young person can realize their potential, no matter where they are born. And we call on this committee to remember the lesson that gave rise to the UN Charter. When power prevails over rules, human lives pay the price. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Poland. Sorry.

Mr. Distinguished delegates, in the 20th century we witnessed the tragedy of the two world wars and the emergence of terrifying new technologies. The international community responded with a clear promise, never again. Yet today, that promise has been once again broken by the Russian Federation. Since 2022, Russia has systematically deported thousands of Ukrainian children from occupied territories, placing them in Russian homes, stripping them of their names, language, and identity. The risk of Russian aggression is, however, but one existential risk facing our generation. We are on the cusp of artificial intelligence improving itself autonomously with years worth of progress squeezed into weeks. We have already seen AI agents carry out cyber attacks. Humankind is at risk of losing control over this technology and the ongoing arms race. At the same time, artificial intelligence holds enormous potential to accelerate scientific discovery, a foundation built by Polish scientists who led the development of the pioneering transformer architecture and ChatGPT. Because no single national or regional framework can govern such a revolutionary technology which will define our generation's future. This is precisely where multilateralism must prove its value. Therefore, as a youth delegate, I call for stronger international cooperation to ensure that AI is developed and used safely, respects human rights, and benefits young people. Second, intensified efforts to locate Ukrainian children, deported or forcibly transferred by Russia, secure their return, and reunite them with their families. Thank you.

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

Thank you, Chair. Ireland aligns with the EU statement. The multilateral system, anchored in the United Nations Charter, is at the core of Ireland's foreign policy. Fundamental to that multilateral order is the international human rights system, based on the concept of indivisible and universal human rights. Together, the UN Charter and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights have laid the foundation for an international order which, however imperfect and challenged, provide the basis for individuals to live their lives freely and without discrimination, for peaceful settlement of disputes and non-aggression, and for a fairer, more equal world. Millions of lives have improved through the promotion of all human rights, including civil and political and economic, social and cultural rights. In the 40 years since the adoption of the Declaration on the Right to Development, we have made remarkable progress. The number of people living in extreme poverty has fallen from 2.6 billion to 826 million. To achieve further progress, including in development, we must remain committed to progressing all human rights. That is why, in the context of UN80, our work must be not just more efficient, but also more effective and human-centred. To achieve this, the UN's human rights pillar must be protected and strengthened, including by providing OHCHR with the necessary political and financial support. Ireland was pleased to play its part this year, working with Senegal as co-facilitators on the review, which resulted in consensus reaffirmation of the status of the Human Rights Council, welcomed ongoing coordination between the General Assembly and the Human Rights Council, and recalled the importance of its adequate and sustainable financing. Chair, I will focus on five areas which are priorities for Ireland in our work at the United Nations, including in seeking election to the Human Rights Council. First, the protection of civil society and human rights defenders, including their safe and meaningful participation in the work of the UN, where they bring expertise, transparency, accountability and lived experience to our work. As Member States, we share a responsibility to protect and promote civil society's participation as an essential element of our work on human rights and prevent and address reprisals. Today's context of ever more frequent violations of international law requires accountability. Recent sanctions and the diplomatic campaign against the International Criminal Court represent an unacceptable interference with the sovereign decision of States parties to put an end to impunity for the most serious international crimes and an unprecedented attack on independent legal officers simply for carrying out professional responsibilities that we have entrusted to them. We call for all measures that harm the Court and those that work for it to be withdrawn and for all States to respect the Court's independence and integrity. Second, Ireland will continue to champion women's rights and gender equality. Protection of the rights of all women and girls is fundamental for sustainable social and economic growth and development. Gender equality remains a core tenet of Ireland's work on human rights, peacebuilding, development and cooperation. Ireland is also fully committed to sexual and reproductive rights, including maternal health, and to reaching the furthest behind first. Nowhere are the rights of women and girls more abjectly denied than in Afghanistan, where women and girls are systematically excluded from society, denied basic rights to education, employment, freedom of movement and access to services. The Taliban's horrific oppression of women and girls is an affront to basic freedoms and human dignity. Third, the right of LGBTIQ+ persons globally. From our experience in recent decades, we know that society is richer when the human rights of all are respected. We will advocate for decriminalisation of same-sex relations and repeal of discriminatory legal provisions. as we did domestically in Ireland. We will also continue to support the rights of LGBTIQ+ persons to development cooperation funding. Fourth, the fundamental right to adequate food. The fight for food security is being lost, with humanitarian crises fuelled by conflict, climate change, and geopolitical and economic dynamics. We see the right to food and the fundamental right to be free from hunger being denied around the world. In Gaza and in Sudan, famine is being created and inflected on fellow humans. In Yemen, hunger has been used as a weapon of war. In the Black Sea, grain exports have been intentionally imperiled by Russia, with devastating consequences for global food supplies. We also see the effects climate change is wreaking on food security. Fifth, the right of persons with disabilities in conflict. A human rights-based approach across the fields of humanitarian assistance, disarmament, conflict resolution, and peacebuilding is needed to address the disproportionate impact of conflict on persons with disabilities. Ireland continues to highlight this issue, including by advocating for implementation of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and effective implementation of the OEWPA declaration. Chair, 25 years after the Durban Declaration, the scourge of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance remains a lived reality for far too many. Ireland condemns all forms and manifestations of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance, including anti-Semitism, anti-Muslim hatred and hatred of Christians, Ireland will work with all partners to build societies founded on equality, non-discrimination, respect, inclusion and human dignity for all. We must also seek action on and accountability for egregious denials of human rights in the world today. Russia's illegal war of aggression against Ukraine has been accompanied by widespread, well-documented human rights violations. These include arbitrary detention, torture and sexual violence against civilians, including children, indoctrination, sham elections, as well as the forcible transfer and deportation of children. Russia continues its indiscriminate attacks, killing civilians daily, while systematically targeting Ukraine's critical infrastructure. Ireland calls on the authorities in Iran to halt all violence against the Iranian people, suspend executions and release those detained during and following the January protests. Ireland is firmly opposed to the death penalty in all circumstances as an affront to human dignity and condemns Iran's extensive use of capital punishment. Ireland joins partners in condemning attempts by Iranian security forces and associated actors to intimidate, threaten or attack individuals abroad, including Iranian dissidents, journalists and Jewish and Israeli communities. I remain concerned by the repression of civil society in China, including the treatment of human rights defenders. These include restrictions on freedom of association and freedom of religion or belief in Xinjiang and Tibet following the introduction of the new law on promoting ethnic unity and progress, and restrictions on freedom of expression in Hong Kong, including the repressive use of the national security law. Ireland condemns the grave abuses and violations of international human rights law in Sudan, particularly the systematic perpetration of conflict-related sexual and gender-based violence against women and girls. We strongly support international accountability efforts towards justice for victims and accountability for perpetrators. The culture of impunity in Sudan must end. The human rights situation in Palestine is unconscionable. In the West Bank, settler violence has reached unprecedented levels, often with the acquiescence of Israeli forces. The E1 settlement poses a fundamental threat to the prospect of a viable and contiguous Palestinian state. Ireland reiterates our call on Israel to immediately cease all settlement activity in the occupied Palestinian territories, including the recently published E1 tender. Chair, during this session, Ireland holds the presidency of the Council of the European Union. One of our core priorities are our values, including protection and promotion of human rights as the bedrock of our societies. and the foundation of fulfilling, dignified lives. Our presidency motto is the Irish phrase, "Nein ardh, ne cur le cheile", which translates as "There is no strength without unity". We look forward to working with you and all delegations in that spirit. It may not always be easy, but we will play our part to find common cause, to resist backsliding and to make positive progress in the interests of the people we serve, in particular those left furthest behind. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Ireland. Now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Belgium.

Madam Chairperson, Belgium aligns itself with the EU statement. We would now like to make the following remarks in a national capacity. As we look at the world, we see a disquieting trend. Human dignity and human rights are being viewed as optional or at least secondary to the sovereignty of states. Belgium is participating in this third committee session with a deep conviction. This state of affairs is unacceptable. Ever since they were created, human rights have been a key pillar of the multilateral system, with at its heart the United Nations and its charter. This system is confronting crises requiring our immediate and undivided attention. First, the alarming and unprecedented restriction of civic space. all over the world. This is of concern to us. Independent organizations, civil society, journalists and human rights defenders are the lifeblood of any resilient democracy. Nonetheless, they are facing growing hostility, characterized by restrictive legislation and harsh reprisals. What's even more concerning is transnational repression. Authoritarian actors are no longer maintaining their oppression within their national borders. They're targeting, harassing, and pursuing dissidents in diaspora communities, human rights defenders living abroad. This territorial expansion is a direct violation of international law. Second, Belgium is deeply disquieted by the coordinated offensive and well-funded between gender equality and women and girls in all of their diversity. We're seeing deliberate attempts to undermine sexual and reproductive rights and health. We're seeing education restricted, including sex education. to be replaced with discrimination on the basis of gender, on the pretext of traditional values being defended. At the same time, there is a genuine pandemic of violence, all kinds of violence, including gender-based violence that is facilitated by technology. Let's be clear, women's and girls' rights are human rights. We cannot have genuine peace nor sustainable development when half of our planet's population is marginalized, intimidated, excluded and/or oppressed. Third, the proliferation of conflicts, armed conflicts that are escalating is a factor that is devastating international law, in particular the UN Charter and international humanitarian law as well as international human rights law. We are witnessing attacks targeting civilians and civilian infrastructure. Obstacles to humanitarian access. We're seeing deaths of humanitarian workers. They're becoming shockingly regular, whereas accountability is hard to come by. Fourth, we must tackle the challenges thrown up by technological development. These developments do bring with them a lot of potential in terms of human progress. However, unless there are clear-cut human rights guardrails, these technologies can be used as tools of oppression. Technology should serve humanity, it should not enslave it. We urgently need global frameworks that are human-centered and underpinned by human rights. Madam Chairperson, in order to stop this dangerous trajectory in its tracks, Belgium underscores its unwavering commitment to the UN human rights architecture. This year, we marked the 60th anniversary of the International Covenant on Human Rights. And we continue to promote the ratification thereof and the implementation of these rights. The Human Rights Council, the OHCHR, and treaty-based bodies are absolutely vital. They provide expertise, analysis, early warning, and meticulous assessments which states need in order to uphold their human rights obligations. These vital mechanisms are the human rights pillars of the UN as a whole. They should be endowed with adequate, predictable and sustainable funding. This also applies to the special representatives of the Secretary-General, especially as regards the children and armed conflict mandate. the fruit of the work of this committee and this year it will be celebrating the 30th anniversary. Furthermore, we need to bridge the accountability gap. Lack of accountability is a driver of violations. We are unstintingly committed to the international criminal justice system at the heart of which lies the International Criminal Court, the ICC. The ICC is a necessary bulwark against injustice. It works as a tribunal of last resort when national systems fail or refuse to take action. By way of conclusion, Madam Chairperson, Belgium is very much looking forward to the work of this committee. We will work together with other delegations, UN representatives and civil society actors in the spirit of the United Nations Charter with a view to reaffirming our shared belief in human rights and fundamental freedoms as well as dignity and the value of all human persons.

I thank you.

We will now give the floor to two youth representatives from Belgium.

Honourable Chairs, colleagues and fellow youth delegates, we are grateful for the opportunity to bring youth perspectives into this discussion. In Belgium, our generation is directly impacted by the choices made today. from extreme heat waves and devastating fires affecting our environment to the rising cost of living and a negative polarization fueled by global armed conflicts and disinformation. As we stand here today, our goal is not only to reflect on the challenges that we face. We want to shed light on the power and resilience of young people in this fast-changing world. Throughout history, young people have always been at the forefront of social and political change, challenging injustices in diverse and creative ways. Yet, we continue to face significant barriers in doing so. Civic spaces are shrinking. The freedom of expression and other liberties are increasingly under pressure, and young people remain underrepresented or excluded from formal and informal decision-making processes. No country is free from challenges in this regard, with young people often finding their views dismissed as too idealistic or inexperienced to be taken seriously.

We want to be involved, not merely consulted after a decision has already been made. We want to participate meaningfully and equally in decision-making processes that impact our lives. Therefore, youth participation should be made possible in every setting, in person or online, and on all levels. Global citizenship education is essential to this effort. It fosters civic awareness, civic participation, and a culture of peace while equipping young people with critical skills to navigate disinformation and rapidly changing technologies like artificial intelligence. Youth organizations play a crucial role in this regard. They create space where young people can express themselves and contribute to their communities. They therefore need recognition and protection. Education and youth participation are also central to the youth, peace and security agenda, empowering young people to build social cohesion, restore trust and prevent conflicts. The commitment made through the Youth 2030 strategy and the Pact for the Future must therefore lead to meaningful opportunities for young people to do so. Let's translate this commitment into action. If we are to build a United Nation that truly delivers for all, young people must not only be heard, we must have our rights upheld and our civic spaces protected to shape our future together. Thank you.

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

Madam Chair. allow me to congratulate you on your election to the helm of the Third Committee and extend our congratulations to the other members of the Bureau. You can count on El Salvador to lead your work for this session. My delegation would like to support the statement made by the G77 and China. Chair, we are meeting in a context where the work of this committee directly affects the lives of people, the possibility of going up without violence, access to health, education and other basic services. to provide and receive care, to find job opportunities, economic development, to live with dignity. That responsibility demands that our debates keep a permanent connection to the realities of the different peoples that we represent. El Salvador participates in this debate from our experience of transformation. We have shown that a country can transform its reality when there is political will, a long-term vision, and determination to put people at the center of public policies. This transformation also leads us to continue strengthening public policies that broaden opportunities, promote social inclusion, and also ensure the well-being and the rights of all people, while paying special attention to the specific needs of children and adolescents, as well as women, older adults, people living with disabilities, migrants, and other population groups, including those that are in a situation of vulnerability. Recovering public and community spaces that used to be affected by violence has allowed us to improve our capacity to live together and broaden opportunities for economic, social, and cultural participation, and giving communities greater access to education, sports, culture, free healthcare, and high-quality healthcare, as well as other basic services. Our experience has taught us that security and human development go hand in hand so that the rescue or recovery of these spaces becomes long-term well-being, social inclusion, and better living conditions for everyone. And with this vision, we have been championing initiatives such as our urban well-being centers and opportunities in integrative schools. What does this provide? Services and attention for communities. This ensures that progress becomes a stronger social fabric that provides real possibilities for future generations. We have also been committed to actively participating in international human rights mechanisms. In 2025, we participated in our most recent periodic universal review. Our universal periodic review, and we also participate in regional mechanisms. We consider that these spaces are an opportunity for dialogue, exchanging experiences and strengthening capacities. Madam Chair. The promotion and protection of the rights of all children and adolescents is a priority for El Salvador. We consider that transforming our society begins by providing comprehensive care in early childhood. This is why we reaffirm the importance and relevance of the Convention on the Rights of the Child and its effective implementation. In El Salvador, the political law Growing Together articulates actions in the areas of health, education, care, protection and family support. Family circles and community services for early childhood strengthen those efforts. At the same time, our protection and participation mechanisms respond to any breaches of their rights, and we recognize children as active participants of our society. The international community should ensure that a person's birthplace, economic situation, or lack of connectivity do not determine educational opportunities for children and youth. Our country is moving forward to improve its education infrastructure and has assigned $1.6 million in computers and tech devices to students in our public education system. And this year we announced 50,000 scholarships for university studies as well as vocational training. Those initiatives Our proof of our conviction that youth need opportunities to develop in the multilateral space, we support significant youth participation and cooperation that broadens access to training, formal employment, and the necessary skills in order to operate in a work that is constantly evolving and changing. Access to opportunity should also translate into full and effective participation of all women in the economic, social, political, and community life of our country. El Salvador reaffirms its commitment to their rights and we promote actions that strengthen our institutions, give them economic empowerment as well as leadership opportunities and access to services. We are championing entrepreneurship and access to resources and mechanisms to participate in commerce and ensure that they participate in science, innovation and digital transformations. This also requires ensuring that economic growth comes along with decent work and the protection of their labor rights. Increasing these opportunities also demands that we recognize the domestic and unpaid care work that they perform, which sustains the well-being of families and has an influence in their possibilities to participate in the workforce, as well as education and social activities. This is why the state encourages activities throughout the life cycle with support from different actors in order to respond to the needs of children, people with disabilities, older adults, and that also favors the full and effective participation of women in society. The promotion and protection of the rights of older adults has an important place in our social policies. We have strengthened our national institutions and we continue to follow up on the Madrid Plan on Aging. We also support the work of the Intergovernmental Working Group established by the Human Rights Council in order to create a legally binding international instrument on the protection and promotion of the human rights of older adults. The right to health is equally critical in order to ensure a life lived with dignity throughout the life cycle. This is why improving cooperation to move towards timely and equitable access to health care services that are high in quality, as well as reinforcing prevention and making the most out of technology in order to offer services for all people is very, very important. And under the umbrella of this vision, we have provided new modalities for services and projects such as the new well as hospital, a new maternity ward, as well as other projects and platforms. Specifically, we have a platform that uses technology tools to broaden access to healthcare services in order to cover all of our population. Chair, Madam Chair, human dignity should support people throughout all stages of migration as a country that has championed the Global Pact for Safe, Regular, and Orderly Migration, we promote its implementation through national coordination, the protection of the rights, and solutions that address the different parts of the migration cycle. Between 2022 and 2025, we provided services to over 37,000 returnees through projects to stimulate employment and entrepreneurship, as well as other forms of support. On a regional scale, in 2026, we will chair in a pro-tempore fashion the Regional Integrated Framework for Migration and Solutions. The gains made throughout recent decades recall the value of the consensus that we seek and can find in the United Nations to recognize and promote the specific needs of different population groups in our countries. These international frameworks have been a reference in order to craft legislation as well as public policies and national institutions that are geared towards protecting children and adolescents, women, older adults, people living with disabilities, indigenous peoples, migrants, among other population groups. Our responsibility is to continue moving forward in their effective implementation, preserving consensus achieved, and making sure that we can strengthen cooperation so that commitments made at the multilateral level are tangibly expressed in people's lives. At the same time, we should maintain our capacity to respond to new challenges and realities. on the basis of respect for different national priorities and context and with human dignity as a fundamental principle for our efforts. And with this goal, we'll continue working so that the decisions of this committee strengthen trust in our countries and contribute to a future of greater dignity for all peoples. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of El Salvador. And now I give the floor to the permanent representative of Tajikistan.

Thank you. Thank you, Madam Chair. At the outset, allow me to congratulate you and the Bureau on your election. I wish you every success in guiding the work of the Third Committee. Tajikistan believes that the Committee's work should help every person live with dignity, exercise their rights, and participate in society. Human rights, peace and sustainable development reinforce one another. Our efforts must be guided by the Charter of the UN and advanced through dialogue and cooperation. Allow me to focus on three priorities: protecting rights, enabling participation and building peace. First, protecting rights and strengthening access to justice. Tajikistan national strategy in the field of human rights protection until 2038 guides the implementation of our international obligations. Following implementation of the 2023-2025 action plan, a new plan for 2026-2028, which will be-- which being developed. Since 2005, Tajikistan has received 13 official country visits by UN human rights special procedures mandate holders. We value this engagement and remain committed to constructive cooperation with the UN human rights mechanism. Tajikistan is proud to have initiated the proclamation of 2027 as an international year of legal literacy. Building on our national experience in 2024, we will work with member states, UN entities, academic institutions, and civil society to promote legal awareness and access to justice. The GA consensus adoption of Resolution 80/115 affirmed the universal importance of this effort. Second, Madam Chair, enabling inclusion and meaningful participation. Every person should be able to participate fully in society. We are glad to inform you that the Parliament of Tajikistan ratified the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. Tajikistan's 2026-2030 program for the protection of rights of the child also provides a framework for advancing children's rights. In 2024, We also legally prohibited corporal punishment for children. Women and girls are essential partners in sustainable development and peace building. Our national policies support their protection, empowerment, and leadership. Tajikistan is pleased to have been elected to the Commission on the Status of Women for 2027-2031. and stands ready to work with all member states to advance gender equality. Young people, too, must have the education, skills, employment opportunities, and voice to shape their future. Their meaningful participation strengthens society and peace. Third, building peace and protecting people from violence and exploitation. Peace is indispensable to the enjoyment of human rights and sustainable development. On Tajikistan initiative, the GA proclaimed 2027-2036, the International Decade of Strengthening Peace for Future Generations through Resolution 80/269. The decade calls us to cultivate peace across generations through dialogue, tolerance, mutual understanding and respect for diversity. In 2027, Tajikistan intends to convene a high-level international conference in Dushanbe with the United Nations and international partners to launch its implementation. Tajikistan remains committed to cooperation against terrorism, violent extremism, and human trafficking, and illicit drug trafficking. Prevention must address factors that leave people vulnerable. Responses must protect victims, prevent further exploitation, and support rehabilitation and reintegration. Our commitment to peace and human dignity also requires respect for the rights of peoples and the peaceful settlement of conflicts. Tajikistan, therefore, supports the alienable rights of the Palestinian people, including the rights to self-determination. We support an independent and sovereign state of Palestine based on 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital, in accordance with the relevant UN resolution and the two-state solution in which Palestine and Israel live side by side in peace and security. Madam Chair, to conclude, Tajikistan stands ready to work with all Member States to protect rights, enable participation and real peace for every person and for future generations. I thank you.

I thank the Permanent Representative of Tajikistan. I now give the floor to the Permanent Representative of Malta.

Thank you, Chair. Malta aligns itself with the statement delivered by the European Union. Chair, at the outset, allow me to join others in congratulating you and the rest of the Bureau on your election and to thank you for guiding the work of the Third Committee. At a time when confidence in multilateral institutions is being tested, and as conflicts, humanitarian crises, inequality and discrimination continue to affect millions around the world, the need for a stronger and more effective international human rights system has become more imperative than ever. The universality of human rights must remain at the heart of our collective efforts. We must ensure that international human rights standards are translated into meaningful protection for all, while strengthening accountability and addressing violations wherever they occur. Malta welcomes the progress made under the UNAT initiative and looks forward to continued efforts to strengthen the organization. However, reform must advance holistically across the three pillars. Adequate and predictable resources remain essential to ensuring that the United Nations can effectively deliver on its human rights commitments. Chair, Malta remains deeply concerned by the grave human rights violations in conflicts worldwide, including in Gaza, Ukraine, Sudan, Myanmar and Afghanistan. We are particularly alarmed by the widespread use of conflict-related sexual violence, gender-based violence, and trafficking as tactics of war, which inflict devastating and disproportionate harm, especially on women and girls. We also remain concerned by growing challenges to established human rights norms and by efforts to weaken the protections and institutions that underpin their effective implementation. It is against this backdrop that Malta will remain steadfast in our efforts to protect and promote the rights of LGBTIQ+ persons, advance the women, peace and security agenda, which remains a key priority, advocate for children affected by armed conflict, and combat racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia, and related intolerance in all their forms. Malta will also continue to support strengthened international accountability and continued efforts to prevent impunity for the gravest violations under international law. We therefore reaffirm our unwavering support for the international criminal justice system, particularly the International Criminal Court, and its independence and integrity. I thank you, Chair, and I would like now to give the floor to our UNU delegate, Samuel Camilleri Brancaleone, to share his perspective.

Thank you, Chair. Young people are not a homogenous group. We come from different contexts, realities, and geographies, be it large nations or a small island nation like my own. Our daily experiences and localized challenges vary. Yet, beneath these different realities, we share common concerns. As armed conflicts multiply, whether close to home in Ukraine and the Middle East, or farther afield in Myanmar, international peace and security are coming under increased strain. We can only watch as our peers are robbed of their futures, their classrooms, and their safety. Despite this, distance does not dilute our empathy, and we recognize that a threat to peace anywhere is a threat to human dignity everywhere. When international human rights law is disregarded, it is younger generations who inherit the consequences of instability. Diverse societies are strongest when every individual has equal opportunity to participate, contribute, and feel a sense of belonging. In this regard, Malta has strived to foster an inclusive society in which everyone is valued as an integral part of our social fabric. We have learned that true integration requires active listening, socio-economic inclusion, and trust. As we look at the 11th year of the Youth, Peace and Security Agenda, we cannot champion peace abroad while ignoring social cohesion at home. Peace is built when we reject discrimination and ensure that every young person, regardless of their background, feels like they belong and have the opportunity to meaningfully contribute to society. While the international community has made remarkable strides in giving young people a seat at the table, we must move far beyond tokenism. Meaningful youth representation requires more than our presence at the table. It requires effective and institutionalized consultation, ensuring that decisions affecting our lives are taken with young people, not simply for them. Chair, during this past General Assembly, we have heard calls for peace and renewed commitments to multilateralism. These commitments must now be matched by meaningful action. As the Third Committee advances its work, let us ensure that young people are not only heard, but are meaningfully involved in shaping the decision that will define our shared future. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Malta. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Sierra Leone.

Thank you, Madam Chair. Sierra Leone aligns itself with the statement delivered by the Arab Republic of Egypt on behalf of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, and Uruguay on behalf of the Group of 77 and China. At a time when the world is confronted by conflict, inequality, and deepening uncertainty, this committee must remain anchored in the dignity and rights of every person. For Sierra Leone, those rights are measured in everyday lives, whether a girl can stay in school or a woman can help shape decisions that affect her life, or whether a child is safe from exploitation and or whether a young person can see a future beyond drugs and despair. Sierra Leone is working to turn these commitments into action. Our Gender Equality and Women's Empowerment Act strengthens women's participation and equal and economic opportunities. The Free Quality School Education Program One national policy or radical inclusion seeks to ensure that poverty, disability, gender or geography does not deny a child the chance to quality education. Madam Chair, protecting children is also equally important. the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act 2024 was a significant national step. Sierra Leone then brought that commitment to the global stage, leading the initiative through which the General Assembly proclaimed 27th November as the International Day for the Elimination of Child, Early and Forced Marriage. Madam Chair, An international day must be more than a date on the calendar. It must help girls to remain in classrooms, not be forced into marriages that take away their choices and futures. We call on member states, the United Nations, civil society, and development partners to use this day to strengthen national implementation, invest in prevention and protection, and measure progress in the lives of children. That same resolve must guide our wider work. Sierra Leone calls for stronger international cooperation to address poverty, and inequality through predictable financing, capacity building, and investment in people. We reject racial discrimination, xenophobia, and related intolerance. Our history, including Bonds Island's connection to the transatlantic slave trade, gives this commitment particular meaning. We reaffirm the right of people to self-determination, consistent with the Charter and international law. We are also confronting the harm caused by drug and substance abuse, particularly among young people. Our experience with Kush reminds us that enforcement alone is not enough. Prevention, treatment, rehabilitation, and genuine opportunities must be part of the response. Madam Chair, political commitment must become national action and national action must become progress that people can feel. Let the promises in this chamber reach our schools, communities, and families. Let them reach every girl whose future depends on the choices we make today. Sierra Leone stands ready to work with all partners to turn these promises into lasting change. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Sierra Leone. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Morocco.

Madam Chair, ladies and gentlemen, Vice-Presidents, Excellencies, first, allow me to address on behalf of the delegation of Morocco, congratulations to the members of the Bureau for their election and to wish them all the very best in the work of the Third Committee. President, the Kingdom of Morocco addresses this General Debate with the profound conviction supported by the clairvoyant vision of his highness Mohammed the sixth made God protect him that human rights in all of their dimensions are the basis of any stable prosperous and dignified Society this commitment anchored in our constitution is translating constant institutional and legislative reforms supported with determination when it comes to civil and political rights as well as economic social and cultural rights it is supported on solid-state by solid-state structures and institutions of good governance that all protect our fundamental rights and freedoms on the basis of our constitution. Morocco, at all levels, strengthens its legal framework and its determined international cooperation on the basis of sharing best practices. This dynamic translates into a constant dialogue with treaty bodies, the UPR, as well as our dialogue with OHCHR. I would like to illustrate this commitment through specific recent gains. When it comes to the rights of women, Morocco, under high royal instructions, has reformed its family code. Now several provisions have entered into force. When it comes to the rights of children, Morocco has strengthened legal guarantees for children that are orphans in terms of the families that are hosting them. When it comes to people living with disabilities, we have a national map for people with disabilities in order to facilitate access to social services, and we are implementing an ambitious national plan when it comes to the period 2025-2026 in order to insert them when it comes to professional and educational activities. When it comes to social and economic rights, the Kingdom has generalized the mandate mandatory health care coverage, which has now given millions of our citizens health care coverage in the framework of generalizing social protection. This major piece of legislation was consolidated in Tokyo when we presented the National Pact for Health, which reaffirms Morocco's ambition to ensure equitable and quality access to health care for all of our population. Morocco also considers that empowering women is a lever for peace and security. We have implemented a national action plan on women, peace, and security. It was prolonged until 2026. Without women's rights, peace and inclusive development are not sustainable. When it comes to protecting children, Morocco hosted in Marrakech from the 11th to the 13th of February 2026 under the patronage of His Majesty the King, the sixth global conference on eliminating forced work for children. And this resulted in the adoption of the Global Framework of Marrakesh against child labor, which calls for the ratification of ILO conventions 138 and 182, effective access to quality, free education and strengthening social protection. Because right now, 138 million children are forced to work throughout the world. And when it comes to this commitment to children, Morocco welcomes the signature of the African Convention on Disarmament, Demobilization and Reintegration of Child Soldiers. The Kingdom is proud to have upheld in Rabat, during a ministerial conference held on the 20th of November 2025, an African dynamic to protect children affected by armed conflicts. And we thank all African states that participated in this process, Chair. We are convinced that fighting against hate speech is an imperative for peace and social cohesion. Therefore, Morocco organized, along with the Special Advisor of the United Nations to Prevention Side and the Alliance of Civilizations, the International Conference to commemorate this day. The Secretary General of the UN and the President of the General Assembly participated in this commemoration. Morocco Advocated for a response based on prevention, state cooperation, as well as cooperation with digital platforms and civil society, and for educating people in civic values and intercultural dialogue. We are convinced that hate speech, when it is not nipped in the bud, opens the way to other more serious kind of phenomena. Madam Chair, the regional and international context is characterized by persistent instability and by the proliferation of challenges which make multilateralism fragile in a moment when it is most necessary. And in the face of this, Morocco calls for strengthening the human rights pillar, which is the custodian of our common values. We also call for protecting the work of this committee against any attempt when it comes to politicization or polarization. This does not support human rights. Human rights and specifically protecting fundamental rights and liberties should not be discussed in any controversial way among States. It is our common legacy. Only an approach based on sincere dialogue and mutual respect between States will allow for the sustainable advancement of this common cause. Madam Chair, Morocco has continued to develop all regions of our kingdom, including our southern provinces that are expanding without precedent. The new port in Dakhla which is almost finished this year up to 70% as well as the gas pipeline between Nigeria and Morocco whose plans have been finalized and is currently being constructed to show that Morocco wants to make its provinces in the Sahara a hub for economic and energy integration in order to benefit local populations and the region as well as the continent and this also goes along with the broadening of health care services offered region through modern hospitals. This development has also seen an expansion when it comes to the civil and political rights of people living in our southern provinces through their full and active participation in national democratic life. Their participation rate in the legislative elections of the 23rd of September 2026 was the highest on a national level and this shows that they want to build peace and stability in the kingdom when it comes to humanitarian issues my delegation reaffirms the principles of the 1951 convention on refugees on the basis of the doctrine of the High Commissioner of the human rights for refugees when it comes to returnees with dignity resettlement in third countries or local integration Morocco calls upon the Commissioner, as well as all humanitarian partners, to gear their efforts to seeking long-term solutions rather than simply institutionalizing the status quo. Madam Chair, to conclude, I would like to reaffirm the importance that Morocco gives to the work of the Third Committee. It is a hub for multilateral dialogue when it comes to social, humanitarian, and cultural issues, and it is the forum par excellence to find consensus in order to support human dignity. Morocco will once again have the honor of introducing an update of its draft resolution when it comes to the role of the ombudsman and mediation institutions in the promotion and protection of human rights, as well as good governance and the rule of law. Like in the past, we will count on the active support, constructive participation, and spirit of consensus from all delegations in order to adopt this text. Animated by an ambitious and continuous vision and the constant support of His Majesty the King, the Kingdom of Morocco reaffirms its willingness to work along with all member states in order to promote and protect all universal human rights in a spirit of dialogue, solidarity, and shared responsibility. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Morocco. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Laos, the People's Democratic Republic.

Madam Chair, allow me to extend our congratulations to you and the members of the Bureau on your election to the Third Committee. The Lao PDR assures you of our full support and cooperation. My delegation aligns itself with the statements delivered by the People's Republic of China on behalf of the group of 28 Member States and by Uruguay on behalf of the G77 and China. Madam Chair, And the global environment is facing multifaceted and complex challenges, including geopolitical tensions, economic and financial vulnerabilities, climate change and natural disasters, food and energy insecurity, among others. These challenges have impeded socioeconomic development in many countries, particularly the least developed and developing countries, and widened inequalities, causing hardship for vulnerable groups of people, especially women, children and persons with disabilities. In this challenging time, the Lao PDR believes that it is more critical than ever for the international community to intensify international cooperation in the spirit of inclusiveness, partnership and mutual support to ensure that all vulnerable groups play an important role in recovery and sustainable development. It is also of particular importance to build resilience to climate change and to strengthen social protection and healthcare and education services with the ultimate goal of empowering women and girls and protecting children in all spheres. For the La PDR, we attach great importance to social development, advancement of women, protection of children and protection of human rights. The year 2026 is is an important year for our country as the government adopted the 10th National Social Economic Development Plan for 2026-2030. The plan serves as important direction to intensify our efforts to reduce poverty, promote inclusive and quality education and universal healthcare, protect vulnerable groups, particularly women, children, and persons with disabilities, and build a long-term resilience against social, economic, and climate-induced challenges, aiming to achieve sustainable and inclusive development for all. The Lao PDR also adopted the Fifth National Plan of Action for Gender Equality, the Third National Plan of Action on the Prevention and Elimination of Violence Against Women and Children, and the Fourth National Plan of Action for Mothers and Children for 2026-2030. These plans have become a strategic roadmap to advance women and children's rights and integrate gender priorities across all government sectors and build a highly comprehensive legal and social safety net for families. Madam Chair, this year also marks another important development milestone for the Lao PDR as we are advancing towards graduation from the least developed country category in November. By implementing our LDC smooth transition strategy and the 10th National Socio-Economic Development Plan 2026-2030, we aim to be a sovereign and self-reliant economy, develop high-quality human resources, alleviate poverty and raise living standards with the balanced urban-rural progress, safeguard the environment and climate resilience, strengthen connectivity and integration, and improve governance and justice for all, while requiring also continued international partnership and support. In closing, the LAAPDR reaffirms its commitment to the global efforts for the advancement of women, the protection of gender equality, and the protection of the rights of all vulnerable groups. stands ready to work closely with the UN agencies and all other partners to build a more equitable, inclusive, peaceful, sustainable, and prosperous world for all. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of the Lao Democratic People's Republic. And now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Denmark.

Denmark aligns itself with the statement made by the European Union. In a world where human rights continue to be violated and fundamental freedoms are under threat, their protection remains a cornerstone of Denmark's foreign policy and international engagement. We continue to be seriously concerned with human rights violations in many corners of the world. Unfortunately, the list of places where human rights are being suppressed is still too long. Persistent wars, conflicts and instability around the world are stark reminders that we must listen to those whose human rights are being violated. Their voices must be heard, and their rights and dignity must remain at the centre of our collective response. Denmark will continue to engage wholeheartedly and constructively in all aspects of this Committee's work. Allow me, therefore, to highlight a number of areas of particular concern to us. It is a sad reality that, despite the clear and universal prohibition under international law, torture and other forms of ill-treatment continue to occur in all parts of the world. This is a reminder that our commitment must remain firm and our efforts sustained. The absolute prohibition of torture, other cruel, inhuman, and degrading treatment or punishment remains a fundamental priority for Denmark, and we will actively engage in debates specifically concerning torture and other cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment or punishment. During the coming spring session of the Human Rights Council in 2027, Denmark will present the thematic resolution on torture as we do every three years. Let us continue to hold each other to account, reaffirm the absolute prohibition of torture and ill-treatment, and strengthen our collective efforts to prevent and ultimately eradicate these abhorrent practices. Chair, nearly 20 years after the adoption of the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, the gap between recognition and implementation remains far too wide. As indigenous peoples' rights face mounting pushback, we must resist attempts to weaken agreed standards or dilute their distinct status as peoples and right holders and continue to support and protect indigenous human rights defenders. Denmark, together with Greenland, works actively in this committee and across the United Nations to advance the full, effective and meaningful participation of indigenous peoples and their representatives and institutions and respect for the principle of free, prior and informed consent. We reaffirm the right to self-determination, which is fundamental to the realization of Indigenous Peoples' individual and collective rights, including their rights to lands, territories and natural resources. Looking ahead to the 20th anniversary of UNDRIP next year, we will continue to defend their distinct status and rights, and work to close the gap between commitments and implementation. Despite progress made in recent decades, the rights of women and girls and of LGBT+ persons continue to face significant challenges globally. Promoting equality and non-discrimination, advancing gender equality, protecting the rights of women and girls in all their diversity, and ensuring sexual and reproductive health and rights remain key priorities for Denmark. Denmark is equally committed to advancing the full, equal, meaningful, and secure participation of women in political and peacebuilding processes, as well as in peacekeeping. Women's participation strengthens inclusive governance, contributes to the protection of human rights, and supports sustainable and lasting peace. Furthermore, protecting and promoting freedom of religion or belief remains another core priority for Denmark. Sadly, restrictions on freedom of religion or belief and discrimination against persons belonging to religious minorities, as well as converts, apostates and non-believers, continue at large scale and must end. In sum, Denmark remains committed to upholding the right of every individual to freely choose, practice, change or express their religion or belief, or to have none. which is an essential foundation for an open, inclusive and peaceful society. Chair, Denmark remains deeply concerned about the continuous shrinking civic space. Both online and offline, human rights defenders, journalists and non-governmental organizations are harassed and prosecuted for conducting their work. Securing a safe and enabling environment for civil society and human rights defenders is a priority for Denmark. Active and meaningful participation of civil society is vital for a more peaceful, just and sustainable world. Denmark therefore commits to the inclusion of civil society to ensuring genuine opportunities for influence and action. Chair, in an increasingly unstable international environment, this year's UNGA 81 serves as a steadfast and important global gathering at a time when multilateralism is under pressure. This reality places new demands on international cooperation, while at the same time underscoring why the UN remains as important as ever. For Denmark, it's essential that we both uphold the principles and values underpinning the UN system and work towards tangible results and greater efficiency wherever possible. Denmark fully supports the UN80 initiative by the Secretary General, and we look forward to seeing the human rights group being further operationalized. We urge the UN to continue promoting the aims and principles of the Secretary-General's call for action for human rights through an era of reform and the transition to a new Secretary-General. Chair, in closing, we stress the importance of a human rights-based approach to sustainable development as well as to peace and security. Denmark believes that the full realization of human rights is essential to achieving the universal goals of the UN And we must all take action to uphold these goals. Thank you.

I thank distinguished representative of Denmark. And now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Spain.

Madam Chair, allow me to begin by congratulating you for your election and ensuring that you can count on Spain's full cooperation for the work of this 81st session of the Third Committee. Spain, among other things, joins the statement delivered by the EU on behalf of the EU and its member states and the statement on reprisals. Madam Chair, Spain believes in an effective kind of multilateralism and an international rules-based order, and in this sense, we are fully committed to the promotion and protection of human rights. This includes our membership in the Human Rights Council for this period 2025-2027 and our defense of the universality, indivisibility, interdependence and interrelationship of all human rights. Spain supports the UN reform efforts currently underway and in the framework of UN80. We have the will to ensure that these reforms preserve and reinforce the human rights pillar and ensure the capacity for action of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, the Human Rights Council, special procedures, and treaty bodies. We will also continue championing an open and I want to specifically refer to the protection of human rights defenders, who are fundamental agents of change. And in this sense, we are concerned about the multiple strategies deployed by state and non-state actors to obstruct, repress and sanction peaceful climate activism, which, among other things, include defamation, threats, attacks against activists and defenders, and their criminalization, in fact. Madam Chair, Armed conflicts continue to cause some of the most serious violations of human rights. Spain reiterates its condemnation of Russia's aggression against Ukraine, and we demand respect for international law. We demand that the civilian population be protected, and we demand accountability for all violations in this context. We reaffirm our commitment to the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine and to a just and lasting peace. In the Middle East, Spain demands full respect of international law. This includes international humanitarian law, the effective protection of the civilian population, and sufficient, sustained, and unrestricted humanitarian access in Gaza, as well as Israel's withdrawal from the Strip. We also reiterate our rejection of expanding settlements and settler violence in the West Bank. Settlements in occupied territories violate international law and they erode the viability of the two-state solution. Spain will continue working for a just and lasting peace, with Israel and Palestine living side by side in peace and security. Israel must comply with its obligations pursuant to international law. We are also deeply concerned by the situation in Sudan and the grave violations of the human rights of the civilian population. All parties should respect IHL and ensure a humanitarian access that is safe, rapid, and unrestricted. In Afghanistan, we will continue calling out the systematic exclusion of women and girls from education, work, and public life. Spain also reaffirms its commitment to accountability and international justice. The International Court of Justice, the International Criminal Court, and various UN mechanisms are critical instruments to fight against impunity and ensure justice and reparation for victims. equality between women and men is a cross-cutting and priority access of work for our feminist foreign policy. We will continue to work to eradicate all forms of discrimination and violence against women and girls and we will ensure their full and substantive participation in public life and we will seek to ensure all of their human rights including their sexual and reproductive rights. This policy has a transformative focus whereby We integrate intersectionality in order to include the multiple and interrelated forms of discrimination faced by women and girls. The right against discrimination on the basis of sexual identity and sexual orientation is another priority for Spain. Spain will continue to support the mandate of the Independent Expert of the United Nations on the issue, and we will participate in the LGBTQI group and the coalition for equal rights whose co-presidency we have held. Unfortunately, abuses and violations of the rights of LGBTI people are increasing in many places, including by passing laws against LGBTI people and even in some countries where same-sex relationships are punished by the death penalty. On the 20th anniversary of the Commission on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, we have renewed our commitment to their empowerment, autonomy, inclusion, and full and effective participation. Madam Chair, we oppose capital punishment under all circumstances. We consider that it is a cruel, inhuman, and degrading punishment. In this session, where the biennial resolution on a moratorium on the use of the death penalty, we will work to broaden support for this draft resolution. We also continue to support the International Coalition Against the death penalty, which has its offices in Madrid. We will also fight against all forms of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and intolerance. The 25th anniversary of the Durban Programme and Plan of Action, whose implementation we fully support, offers us an opportunity to renew our commitment to it. And we will also continue championing the rights of indigenous peoples and their full, effective and meaningful participation in decisions that affect them. Madam Chair, the digital transformation and specifically AI is one of the major contemporary challenges in the area of human rights. In this context, Spain has led efforts to put into practice an AI governance that is human-centered and based on human rights, with transparency, human oversight, and accountability. Spain has championed, with the support of France, Kenya, and Australia, the International Coalition for the Rights and Protection of Children in the Age of Artificial Intelligence. And other countries have joined this initiative, as well as other international organizations. The goal is to promote AI systems that are safe from their design, that they are trustworthy, that they respect the rights of children, and that they are human-centered. Madam Chair, in the 40th anniversary of the Declaration on the Right to Development, Spain reaffirms that sustainable development and human rights are mutually reinforcing things. People should be the protagonists and main beneficiaries of development, and States have the primary responsibility for respecting, protecting and ensuring that their rights can be exercised. Finally, I would like to highlight that Spain, along with Guatemala, co-facilitates for this session the resolution entitled Strengthening and Promoting Effective Measures and International Cooperation for Organ Donation and Transplants in Order to Prevent and Combat Human Trafficking to Extract Organs. We invite all delegations to constructively participate in negotiations and to support its adoption. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Spain. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Bahrain.

Madam Chair, at the outset, I wish to congratulate you on your election at the helm of the Third Committee. In this 81st session of the General Assembly, we wish you and the members of the Bureau every success in discharging your duties. Chair, the Kingdom of Bahrain attaches great importance to the protection and promotion of human rights and human dignity and safety. We firmly believe that respecting human rights and protecting civilians constitute a sine qua non for security, peace, and sustainable development. We cannot address human rights without tackling the dangerous humanitarian consequences of the unlawful and unjustified Iranian attacks against the Kingdom of Bahrain, which constitutes a blatant violation of our sovereignty and a direct threat to the lives of our civilians and their safety. These have impacted residential units. civilian facilities and vital infrastructure. They have also impacted the lives of citizens and residents and have disrupted basic services. The risks of these threats is compounded in view of our demographics. as we are one of the countries with the highest population density and residential areas are in a close proximity with industrial complexes and vital infrastructure. Despite these exceptional circumstances, we've undertaken necessary measures to protect our citizens, including to protect the education and healthcare sectors. In education, we've ensured the continuity of the right of children and students to education, prioritizing their safety. We moved to online or distance learning, which ensured the continuity of education services through our national education platform, which highlighted the importance of strategic investments in digital infrastructure to ensure our readiness to guarantee continuity of education under exceptional circumstances. These unlawful attacks have also impacted the healthcare sector, compounding pressure upon emergency medical services and vital healthcare infrastructure. We've implemented our emergency readiness plans in this regard to ensure coordination amongst our hospitals and healthcare sectors to provide medication and medical supplies continuously. This ensured the provision of necessary healthcare in a timely manner for those impacted by the attacks. As for women empowerment, 2026 is an important national milestone for us. The High Council for Women celebrated its silver jubilee, 25 years since its establishment, which represents an institutional milestone for Bahraini women and their active contribution in national development. We continue to ensure women's equitable access to opportunities as well as their just participation in decision-making and leadership positions. This extends to the international level, namely through our partnership with UN Women. Amongst the main outcomes of this initiative was the establishment of the Global Award for Women Empowerment by Her Royal Highness, Sabika **** Ibrahim Al Khalifa. 1,774 international participants partook in its third iteration. which highlights the international dimension of this important Bahraini initiative, which highlights important practices for the advancement of women. We continue to pursue our efforts to protect children from cyber threats and promote a safe digital environment for them. Our National Cybersecurity Center launched an awareness raising campaign for adolescents through an interactive video game to provide young people with necessary skills to ensure the protection of their personal information. The center also launched a guide for students to raise their awareness on cyber threats and ensure the protection of children from these cyber threats. We have pursued our efforts to ensure the quality of services provided to persons with disabilities. Our Ministry for Social Affairs adopted an electronic platform for the dispersal of benefits for persons with disabilities to ensure ease of access and the continuity of services for beneficiaries. We reiterate our readiness to uphold and protect human rights. Our approach is underpinned by the rule of law, the protection of civilians, human rights, and fundamental freedoms. This is reflected in our cooperation with the international human rights system, including the UNHCR, the UPR, as well as the Human Rights Council, and many other relevant international organizations and mechanisms. to promote the human rights culture through dialogue, cooperation, and mutual respect. I thank you, Chair.

I thank the distinguished representative of Bahrain. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Congo.

Thank you, Madam Chairperson. The delegation of the Republic of the Congo would like to extend to you Our heartfelt congratulations on your election to preside over the third committee. We align ourselves with the statement delivered by Uruguay on behalf of the G77 plus China, as well as that delivered on behalf of the African group. Today's debate takes place against the backdrop of a worrying myriad crises, public health, security, climate, inter alia. These challenges undermine the progress made on sustainable development. They are hitting disproportionately hard the most vulnerable populations, in particular families, women, girls, children, older persons, people living with a disability, indigenous peoples, as well as IDPs and refugees, confronted with these challenges. The Republic of the Congo stands convinced that social development, the promotion and protection of human rights, as well as the implementation of the 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda, are objectives that are inextricably linked and mutually reinforcing, in that for my country, human rights can only be fully achieved if there is development, nor can we have development unless it is underpinned by social justice, equality of opportunity, solidarity and inclusion. With this in mind, my government spearheaded by His Excellency Denis Sassou Nguesso, the President, is continuing to implement reforms and programs aimed at improving in a lasting fashion the living conditions of our people, reducing vulnerability, and building more inclusive societies. Madam President, Madam Chairperson, apologies, I'd like to tell you about some of the concrete actions my country is taking to translate our commitments into tangible results for our people. The Republic of the Congo continues to strengthen our social protection system, as well as our legal framework, which aims to protect the most vulnerable. A major milestone was hit in 2025 when we adopted new laws on the promotion and protection of the rights of older persons and persons with disabilities. These legal texts bolster their access to social protection, education, professional training, employment and economic integration, all the while enshrining non-discrimination and equality of opportunity as key principles. These reforms attest to our government's desire to place social protection at the heart of its social policies. As part of these social protection and inclusion policies, what's front and center is families. We need to ensure that there is education, that values are transmitted. Families are the bedrock of Congolese society. Thus, the Government is continuing its policies seeking to bolster the stability of families, protect the most vulnerable and create the conditions for families to thrive. Protecting families also means strengthening the rights and protecting all members of families, first and foremost women and girls. And on this particular topic, the Republic of the Congo remains unswervingly committed to equality between men and women and to combating all forms of violence and gender-based discrimination. On that note, the implementation of the so-called Mwebere Law of 2022, well, combating violence against women is now front and center of our legal protection system. Furthermore, the government is undertaking efforts to bolster women's economic empowerment, to promote women's access to education, health care, loans, and other economic opportunities. We're also seeking to bolster women's participation in decision making. On this note, it's worth underscoring that a forum on the social economy, standing in solidarity with others, will be held in the Republic of the Congo next year, Madam Chairperson. The efforts aimed at promoting equality and inclusion are also linked with the child protection policies. As regards children's rights, significant progress has been made. Primary schooling stands at 96%, that's 2024. This attests to the efforts made to guarantee universal access to education in my country. Significant headway was also made as regards vaccination, child health, and access to basic services in 2025. The implementation of the child protection law was bolstered as we adopted two regulatory tests covering early warning mechanisms for children at risk, as well as an observatory for children at risk. The government is also encouraging youth participation through the Children's Parliament. This is an important mechanism for children to learn about citizenship and to voice their concerns. Turning now to health. We have undertaken a new approach so as to improve the quality of healthcare provided to mothers, newborns and children. Madam Chairperson, moving beyond this, we're also paying particular attention to groups that require the undivided attention of the international community. and our government. It is in the spirit that protecting indigenous persons is something that remains atop the agenda. We have a specific legislative framework covering the promotion and protection of the rights of indigenous people. Efforts we've undertaken include bolstering indigenous people's rights, access to education, healthcare, social protection, economic opportunities, the list goes on. My government remains determined to promote the full participation of indigenous persons in national development. Madam Chairperson, this inclusive approach to protecting the most vulnerable also applies to displaced persons and refugees, which are facing the ramifications of the various crises and conflicts affecting different parts of our world. On humanitarian action, we remain loyal to our tradition of hosting various refugees and asylum seekers. We are working hand in hand with the High Commissioner for Refugees and humanitarian partners to ensure we afford protection and assistance to these people. Protecting the most vulnerable can only be achieved if we doggedly fight against all forms of discrimination, exclusion and intolerance. We remain unstintingly committed to protecting human dignity, equality and non-discrimination. 25 years after the Durban Declaration and Programme of Action, we reiterate our commitment to the implementation of these documents. These must be implemented in full. Equality and dignity are the bedrock of our view of human rights. That is why we are strengthening our legal institutional framework for promoting and protecting rights. Our approach is rooted in dialogue, international cooperation, technical assistance, and national capacity building. Therefore, fully implementing these is inextricably linked to making the right to development a reality. Madam Chairperson, at a time when our world is confronting unprecedented challenges, international solidarity, multilateralism, and cooperation are more needed than ever. The Republic of the Congo would therefore like to reiterate our commitment to the ideals of the United Nations. We stand determined to continue the reforms underway so as to uphold human dignity, social justice and sustainable development. We are convinced that the success of our collective efforts will hinge on our ability to place human beings at the heart of public policies, protect the most vulnerable and guarantee access to opportunities for all so that everyone can thrive. Let's work together to uphold our commitments, translating them into concrete deeds, achieving measurable results for current and future generations. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Congo. And now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Mauritania.

Sayyid al-Rais.

President, allow me to first congratulate you for your election to the presidency of this current session. I would also like to congratulate members of the Bureau and reaffirm my country's willingness to fully cooperate in order to ensure the success of this session. We would also like to congratulate your predecessor for skillfully leading the work of the prior session. We join the statement delivered by the G77 and China, as well as the Organization for Cooperation. Mauritania believes that promoting human rights is very important, as well as protecting women and other vulnerable groups. Mauritania is part of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, as well as the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women and the Convention on the Rights of the Child, as well as the Convention on the Rights of People with Disabilities. On a national level, we have established different mechanisms to promote human rights, such as the National Commission for Human Rights. who works to follow up on the human rights situations of our citizens and it also follows up on concerns or complaints filed with the organization. It also seeks to establish reports on these issues. We have a mechanism to prevent torture in order to ensure the dignity of our prisoners. The Human Rights Commission and our humanitarian work strategy. We have a joint mechanism to participate in the UPR and implement the recommendations of the Human Rights Council. And we work so that we can cooperate with different sectors of civil society as a government. We have a national commission to fight against human trafficking and the trafficking of migrants. This commission is in charge of implementing our national plan on the matter, and we actually have shelters to help victims. We have a national observatory on women's rights in order to observe and follow up on the rights of women and girls, and they're in charge of receiving complaints when it comes to this. We have a multi-sectorial commission to support people living with disabilities. It is an advisory body. that supports the right of people with disabilities. We have a national strategy in order to allow families to access different services. Mauritania has also adopted several social policies to promote the rights of children by increasing the level of training given to educators as well as ensuring that curricula are high quality. The goal is to ensure that children can fully reach their potential to fight against all forms of violence and exploitation against children. Chair. Human rights have contributed to developing the legal framework in our country. which is actually universal and non-selective. We must stay away from politicization and double standards and bear in mind the cultural and religious specificities of each situation. When we speak about human rights, we must speak about our brothers, the Palestinians, who are suffering due to the events of recent years. Over 74,000 innocent civilians have perished, mostly women and children. and tens of thousands of people have been injured. Most of these people will be permanently disabled because of this. We urge the international community to continue working to protect the rights of the Palestinian people and to preserve their dignity on the basis of international law. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Mauritania. And now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Angola.

Madam Chair, Excellencies, Distinguished Delegates, Allow me to congratulate you and the members of the Bureau on your election. You may count on Angola's full support in advancing the work of the Third Committee. Angola aligns itself with the statement delivered by Uruguay on behalf of Group 77 and China, and reaffirms its commitment to the purpose and the principles of the Charter of the United Nations, the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, and the promotion and protection of all human rights. Madam Chair, Angola's national experience has demonstrated that peace, human rights, and sustainable development are mutually reinforcing. Our history, from the struggle for national liberation and independence in 1975, through a prolonged armed conflict to the achievement of peace in 2002, has shaped our understanding that the dignity and well-being of people must remain at the center of the public policy. Since the end of the conflict, Angola has progressively strengthened national institutions and expanded social services with particular attention to health, education, social protection, and inclusion of vulnerable groups. At independence, Angola had only 19 doctors, an acute shortage of nurses, technicians, and adequate health infrastructure. The national health network comprises approximately 320 facilities. Today, the national health service consists of 3,355 health units and 44,222 hospital beds, including 1,609 intensive care beds. While important challenges remain, Angola is committed to strengthening primary health care, improving maternal and child health, expanding access to essential services, and ensuring that technological and medical advances contribute to more equitable health care. We encourage continued international cooperation, including capacity building, technology transfer, and sustainable financing, to assist developing countries in strengthening resilient and inclusive health systems. Education is equally fundamental to the realization of human rights and the achievement of sustainable development. For the 2026-2027 academic year, more than 9.6 million students are enrolled in Angola, supported by more than 126,000 classrooms and 280,000 teachers. As a country with a predominantly young population, Angola attached particular importance to reducing inequalities in access to education and facilitating the transition from education to decent employment. We are therefore expanding technical and vocational education, professional training, internship, entrepreneurship programs, and access to microcredit. Through the National Employment Fund and the Youth and Opportunities for Good Jobs in Angola program, JobAngola, thousands of Young citizens have already benefited from vocational training, employment initiatives, and professional support. Higher education has also expanded, with 106 institutions operating across 19 of Angola's 21 provinces. Scholarship programs continue to provide opportunities to students, including those from economically vulnerable backgrounds. Angola calls for stronger international partnership to address youth employment, the digital divide, and skills gap, particularly in developing countries. Madam Chair, social inclusion remains a central pillar of Angola's national development strategy. Following the end of the armed conflict, Angola implemented programs for the reintegration of former combatants, the resettlement of internal displaced persons, the voluntary repatriation of refugees, demining, and assistance to persons with disabilities. We acknowledge the important contribution of the United Nations, including the UN High Commissioner for Refugees, to family reunification and the return and reintegration of Angolan refugees. Today, our priorities include strengthening integrated social action centers, supporting vulnerable households and older persons, advancing inclusion of persons with disabilities, and responding to specific needs of communities in situation of vulnerability. objective is to move progressively from fragmented assistance toward comprehensive, inclusive, and sustainable social protection systems. In this context, we call for strong international partnership that move beyond emergency assistance towards resilient national social protection systems, capacity building, and sustainable financing. Madam Chair, I'm going to attach particular importance to the rights and empowerment of women and girls. Gender equality is not only a question of justice. It's essential to social cohesion, poverty reduction, economic development, and sustainable peace. Angola continues to strengthen measures to prevent and combat discrimination, domestic violence, and gender-based violence, while expanding women's access to education, employment, entrepreneurship, and decision-making. In July 2026, Angola hosts the second International Women's Forum for Peace and Democracy in partnership with the African Union under the theme, Transforming Africa, Empowering Women in Leadership for Peace and Inclusive Growth. This initiative reinforces our conviction that women must participate fully, equally, and meaningfully in conflict prevention, mediation, peace building, and governance. Angola therefore encourage member states to accelerate implementation of commitments on the empowerment of women and girls, including through adequate financing, stronger institution, and measurable national targets. Madam Chair, our national experience has taught us that sustainable peace requires more than the end of armed conflict. It requires reconciliation, social justice, equal opportunities, respect for human dignity, and institutions capable of responding to the needs of all the citizens. For this reason, Angola will continue to strengthen policies that place people at the center of development, with particular attention to children, young people, women, older persons, persons with disabilities, and other groups in vulnerable situations. We call upon the international community to strengthen solidarity and cooperation. respect national ownership, and support developing countries in building the institution and capacities necessary to realize economic, social, and cultural rights. As His Excellency Joao Manuel Goncalo Flores, President of Republic of Angola, emphasized during the high-level week of the 81st session of the General Assembly, diplomacy must serve to unite, repair, build, and save lives. That same principle should guide our work in this Committee: to translate commitments into implementation, rights into opportunities, and development into tangible improvement in the lives of our peoples. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Angola. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Syrian Arab Republic.

Thank you, Madam Chair. Allow me to begin by congratulating you on your election at the helm of our committee in this 81st session. We wish you every success. Madam Chair, the previous session was the first one that Syria returns to its people and to the international community. Then we came with vision and ambition. To this session, we come with the achievements. We come to the works of the third committee with national steps linking the protection of human rights, achieving social development, advancing the rule of law, and fighting transnational crime. In terms of combating racial discrimination and strengthening equal citizenship, the Syrian government took practical measures. most notably Presidential Decree No. 13, which affirmed that Kurdish Syrian citizens are an inherent part of the Syrian people. Their cultural and linguistic identity is an integral part of the diverse and unified Syrian national identity. Based on our commitment to protect and promote child's rights and our determination to delist Syria from the blacklist of the Secretary General's report on children and armed conflicts, the Syrian government, in cooperation with the Special Representative of the Secretary General on CAC, is developing a national action plan on preventive protection to ensure the protection and promotion of the child's rights and to overcome the grave violations committed by the previous against children in Syria? Chair, the Syrian government has placed women's empowerment and the essence and heart of our policies. We look to enhance their role and their representation in decision making. At parliament, for instance, a woman held the position of vice speaker. In the judiciary, women represent 33% of the members of the Supreme Constitutional Court, which is the highest court in the republic. In national commissions on transitional justice and the missing, women represent about 40 percent. In the police, several cohorts of female police officers graduated this year. The Ministry of Social Affairs and Labor, in cooperation with UN Women, is working to elaborate a national plan to advance the implementation of the WPS in line with Resolution 1325 of the Security Council and relevant resolutions. In terms of foreign policy, the Syrian Syrian government has made a sovereign decision that the first resolution we introduced before the General Assembly of the United Nations, not only since liberation but since decades, is a resolution on International Day to honor women searching for the missing. Before that, consultations with women from the Syrian civil society from various backgrounds were held in order to prepare the zero draft. We carried suffering, their hopes from Damascus to the international community so that they are translated into a text adopted by consensus on the 31st of August of this year. The Syrian government believes that the return of refugees and IDPs is a national priority. We have set out policies and necessary visions. About 4 million refugees and IDPs have returned since December 2024. Syria has presented its national vision entitled Syria without camps. We believe that camps as an administrative issue cannot be resolved by just closing the camps. The reasons forcing people to live in camps must be eliminated. This includes eliminating mines and unexploded ordnance. This includes rehabilitating homes and ensuring basic services. From this podium, we call on the international community to support this track by transitioning from managing this to financing permanent solutions and from temporary humanitarian response to early recovery, reconstruction and empowering host and returning communities. Chair? In terms of combating crime, Syria, during the 15th UN Conference on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice, affirmed that we are committed to a national strategy on crime prevention and criminal justice to develop legislation, strengthen law enforcement institutions. We also look to expand our cooperation with UNODC. And in this regard, we note that law enforcement in Syria has seized since December 2024 more than 700 million Captagon pills and dismantled 90 international networks. Now, on accountability and transitional justice, Syria witnesses public hearings not only for perpetrators of grave violations associated with the previous regime, but also perpetrators of violations against our people and the coastal area, the Sahel, and Swayda from all parts This consecrates the principle of accountability and ending impunity while safeguarding the right to defense, while safeguarding also the rights of victims and strengthening citizens' trust in justice institutions. The Syrian Arab Republic support and reiterates its support for UN agencies working in Syria. We also stress national ownership of the path of accountability and transitional justice, as well as revealing the fate of the missing. We call on these agencies to engage with the Syrian government in order to find a formula to amend their working methods in line with the new reality in Syria. One must not forget that when these mechanisms were established in Damascus, there was a criminal government that oppressed its people, that did not accept any communication channel with these mechanisms. Moreover, they did not give them and ability to access. Today, the situation is completely different. In Damascus, there is a responsible government looking to rebuild the state and its institutions in line with the rule of law and the protection of human rights. We call on the international community to support cooperation between the Syrian Government and these mechanisms in a manner that safeguards the Syrian ownership of these files and contributes to building the capacities of national institutions, most notably the National Commission on Transitional Justice and the National Commission on the Missing. In closing, we stress that Israel, the occupying power, must be held accountable for its violations of international law and human rights in Syria and in the region. This includes incursions in southern Syria, kidnapping Syrian citizens, and destroying their livelihoods. There are also their discriminatory practices and pressures against Syrians languishing under occupation in the occupied Syrian Golan. We stress yet again from this podium that the Golan will remain Syrian land and all measures of annexation are null and void in line with international law and resolution 497 of the Security Council. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Syrian Arab Republic. And now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Hungary.

Thank you. Madam Chair, first of all, let me just congratulate you and the Bureau on your appointment. We align ourselves with the statement delivered by the European Union. Hungary reiterates its unwavering commitment to the promotion and protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms. Hungary is committed to strengthening multilateralism And we support the UN80 initiative launched by the Secretary General, which aims to reform the entire UN institutional system and address the current liquidity crisis by promoting the organization's efficient operation, eliminating duplications, and improving its cost efficiency. Hungary will strive to play an active role within multilateral fora, in particular in the UN, which provides an invaluable framework to safeguard human rights. The promotion and protection of the rights of the child, the rights of persons with disabilities, the rights and empowerment of women and girls, freedom of religion and belief, as well as the rights of national or ethnic, religious and linguistic minorities remain the most important priorities for Hungary. Hungary considers national minorities as contributors to the strengthening of relations between countries and cultures. For this reason, it is with great concern that we observe global trends in which national minorities in many places are wrongly perceived as threats and their rights are increasingly curtailed. In today's constantly changing global environment and the concerning backlash against human rights, we must stand up for fundamental values with increasing determination and courage to give voice for those who need to be heard, while we must not compromise on fighting against discrimination. Therefore, it is more important than ever to ensure and promote equal treatment for all, as well as gender equality. Hungary condemns grave violations against children in situations of armed conflict, advocating for stronger prevention, protection and accountability, as well as digital safety and integrated child protection systems in the context of violence and sexual exploitation of children. We are committed to promoting the rights of persons with disabilities in all spheres of life, with particular attention to their social inclusion and their inclusive participation in education and the labour market. Hungary is dedicated to the promotion and protection of freedom of religion or belief and combating religious intolerance, incitement of hatred and violence against persons belonging to religious communities, including Christians, and remains firmly committed to combating antisemitism. Madam Chair, the erosion of human rights, the incremental decline in democratic principles, civic spaces, and the rule of law, arbitrary restrictions on freedom of expression and association, persecution of minorities, curtailing the independence of the judiciary are all ominous indicators of impending instability. Human rights and peace are inseparable concepts. Oftentimes, human rights are only an afterthought, a moral aspiration to be addressed only after security and stability are achieved after turbulent times. But incorporating them in every stage of conflict prevention and conflict resolution is essential and must be non-negotiable. In today's global environment, the international community is facing a growing number of crises, including threats to global security, geopolitical tensions, climate change, and humanitarian emergencies. Armed conflicts remains among the most pressing challenges to international peace and security, with Russia's war against Ukraine and the situation in the Middle East continuing to have far-reaching regional and global implications. Hungary emphasizes the importance of comprehensive, just, and lasting peace in Ukraine based on the principles of international law and supports all efforts aimed at initiatives towards that end. Hungary draws attention to the serious danger the people in Ukraine, including the Hungarian minority in Transcarpathia, are living in due to the conflict. We wish to express our solidarity with all those affected by the war and to reiterate Hungary's commitment to the promotion and protection of human rights for all as an indispensable foundation for sustainable peace. Hungary attaches particular importance to the broader stability of the Middle East and supports efforts to prevent further regional escalation and to improve the humanitarian situation. Hungary reaffirms its support to efforts aiming at achieving sustainable peace in the Middle East. Hungary is a committed supporter of constructive dialogue, which is indispensable for achieving peace. The protection of civilians, the improvement of the humanitarian situation in Gaza, and the recognition of the right of self-defense of Israel are prerequisites for the resolution of the conflict. Madam Chair, in conclusion, allow me to reaffirm Hungary's firm commitment to upholding human rights and fundamental freedoms and maintaining inclusive dialogues. We strongly believe that young people must be able to express their ideas, concerns, and priorities. Their participation is crucial to make our world a better place for all. Therefore, for our remaining time, I would like to give the floor to our youth delegate to share his insights.

Chair, Excellencies, distinguished delegates. Over the past two years, I spoke with more than 2,000 young Hungarians in the capital and in small towns across the country. What I heard most often was not anger, and it was not ambition. It was indifference. We grew up in a world that changed faster than ever before. Digital addiction, artificial intelligence, social isolation, a deepening mental health crisis. Every morning, the headlines bring war, climate disaster, and political conflict. It is hard to stay motivated in that environment. It is harder to believe that anything you do will matter. So many of them stopped taking part at all, not because they do not care, but because they were convinced their action would change nothing. That belief is the quietest threat to democratic society. A generation that feels powerless cannot be mobilized for peace, for climate action, or for the SDGs. This year, in my country, that began to shift. Participation has more than one door-- local action, entrepreneurship, research, speaking up in public, and the ballot box. This spring, young Hungarians went through that last door in numbers that could not be overlooked. new initiatives followed, and young people started looking for places where they could listen and speak up. And institutions answered. Over the summer, the newly established Ministry of Education and Children began creating a children and youth participation group after consulting more than 30 organizations and experts. The Student Voice Theme Day gives students a structured way to say what they think about the education system that shapes them. These are real steps. They are not yet a culture. Participation is still treated as an invitation, something that can be extended or withdrawn. It should be the baseline. So I ask three things of this committee: build permanent structures, not one of consultations; resource them locally so that minorities and young people far from the capital can reach them and participation does not become another privilege; and measure whether they change decisions, because a seat at the table that changes nothing teaches the same lesson as no seat at all. We want to understand the world before we inherit it, to learn from the problems of today and prepare for those of tomorrow. We would rather do that as partners than alone. I thank you.

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

Chair, I join other delegations in congratulating you and members of your Bureau upon your election to the 81st session of the General Assembly. You can count on Malaysia's full support and cooperation throughout the work of this committee. Malaysia aligns itself with the statements of the G77 and China, the OIC, the Group of Friends of the Family, and subsequent statements on specific agenda items by ASEAN. Madam Chair, We meet at a time when the promise of peace, development and human dignity is under mounting strain. Conflicts continue to inflict immense human suffering. Inequalities persist within and among countries. Climate change, demographic shifts and rapid technological transformation are reshaping our societies. At the same time, intolerance and discrimination continue to undermine social cohesion. These challenges remind us that social development and human rights cannot be pursued in isolation from peace and sustainable development, nor can they be advanced through fragmented responses. Malaysia therefore remains committed to a multilateral system anchored in the United Nations Charter, international law, dialogue and cooperation. Madam Chair, at the national level, Malaysia continues to translate the aspirations of the Madani Economy Framework into action through the 13th Malaysia Plan 2026-2030. The plan seeks to strengthen Malaysia's economic potential and competitiveness while ensuring that the benefits of growth are shared more broadly. It places particular emphasis on improving living standards, enhancing social mobility, and ensuring a decent quality of life for all. This efforts are underpinned by good governance, integrity and accountability. Together, they reflect our commitment to inclusive and sustainable development that delivers tangible improvements in the lives of our people. This commitment is being translated into action through the National Social Policy Action Plan 2026-2030, launched earlier this year. The plan brings together all ministries and agencies in implementing 102 initiatives centred on four prevention, empowerment, promotion, and protection. Together, these initiatives aim to strengthen social well-being and respond more effectively to the needs of vulnerable groups. Malaysia is also preparing for important demographic transitions. The National Action Plan for Older Persons 2026-2030 guides our efforts to strengthen long-term care and community-based support. At the same time, the National Action Plan on Children 2026-2030 to strengthen child protection and promote safe and inclusive environments, including in the digital sphere. These efforts reflect our conviction that development must respond to the needs of people throughout the life course. Madam Chair, Malaysia remains steadfast in advancing the empowerment of women and girls. The National Women's Policy and Women's Development Action Plan 2025-2030 continue to guide our efforts to enhance women's participation and leadership, strengthen economic opportunities, and address discrimination and violence against women and girls. Malaysia has also taken an important step towards greater equality in citizenship rights through amendments to our federal constitution. The reform provides for children born overseas to Malaysian mothers and non-citizen fathers to acquire citizenship by operation of law upon the relevant provisions coming into operation. Necessary legal and administrative preparations are being undertaken to give effect to the amended constitutional provisions. The reform reflects reflects Malaysia's continuing efforts to strengthen the protection and well-being of women, children and families. Madam Chair, Malaysia's diversity remains one of our greatest strength. As a multi-ethnic, multicultural, and multi-religious society, we know from experience that unity cannot be taken for granted. It must continually be nurtured through mutual respect, understanding, and dialogue. In this regard, Malaysia has introduced the National Unity Ministry Strategic Plan which places renewed emphasis on nation building, social integration, and strengthening national values. This commitment assumes even greater importance amid the persistence of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance worldwide. As we mark the 25th anniversary of the Durban Declaration and Programme of Action only days ago, Malaysia underscored that all forms of prejudice persist, even as new manifestations emerge, including through digital hate speech, religious profiling and Islamophobia. The international community must reject hatred and intolerance in all their forms and renew our collective commitment to equality Madam Chair, Malaysia remains deeply appalled by the atrocities committed across the occupied Palestinian territory. In Gaza, civilians continue to be killed and humanitarian needs remain immense. restrictions on humanitarian access continue to impede the delivery of life-saving assistance. In the occupied West Bank, including East Jerusalem, settlement expansion, settler violence, displacement, and movement restrictions continue to undermine the prospects for peace. The international community has the responsibility to ensure the full and unhindered delivery of humanitarian assistance, the protection of civilians and humanitarian personnel. Malaysia reaffirms the indispensable role of UNRWA and rejects any attempt to undermine its mandate or operations. International law and international humanitarian law must be upheld. Accountability for Israel's unlawful action against the Palestinian people must remain a priority. It is fundamental to justice, to preventing the recurrence of violations, and to achieving a just and lasting peace. Malaysia reiterates its unwavering support for the Palestinian people in the exercise of their inalienable rights, including their right to self-determination. the United Nations. Malaysia remains steadfast in its support for the establishment of an independent and sovereign state of Palestine based on the pre-1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital. A just and lasting peace can only be achieved through a comprehensive solution that upholds the rights, dignity, and legitimate aspirations of the Palestinian people. In conclusion, Malaysia will continue to engage constructively in this committee and across the United Nations system, guided by the principles of the UN Charter, we remain committed to advancing social progress, protecting human dignity, and strengthening international cooperation so that our collective efforts deliver meaningful improvements in the lives of all people. I thank you.

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

Thank you. Madam Chair, let me begin by extending our sincere congratulations to you and the Bureau members on your election. You can count on Latvia's full support throughout this session. Latvia aligns itself with the statement delivered by the European Union and would like to add following remarks in our national capacity. Latvia approaches the work of the CERT Committee with the understanding that all three pillars of the United Nations are equally important and mutually reinforcing. Human rights are not a separate agenda, but a necessity for peace, security, and sustainable development. Likewise, it is our firm conviction that human rights are universal, indivisible, interdependent, and interrelated. The proliferation of armed conflict, effects of climate change, emerging threats, and pushback against gender equality creates a world where hard-won progress on the rights of women and girls is slowly eroding. The situations in Afghanistan, Myanmar, Haiti, Sudan, Yemen, and elsewhere show that women's rights are never secondary or conditional. They are completely inseparable from global peace and stability. Taking into account these circumstances, Latvia will continue to advocate for the elimination of all forms of gender inequality, including through addressing discriminatory laws, combating gender stereotypes, and overcoming harmful social norms. Latvia will place particular emphasis on advancing efforts aimed at preventing and eliminating sexual and gender-based violence, including conflict-related sexual violence. Latvia will actively support initiatives that promote the effective implementation of UN Security Council resolutions on women, peace and security. Despite decades of evidence, women's participation in peace processes remains an exception rather than the norm. Latvia will continue to advocate for the full integration of the gender perspective across the work of the UN, as well as the full, equal and meaningful participation of women in peace and security efforts. Furthermore, Latvia will advocate for the economic empowerment of women and girls through quality, accessible, equal, affordable, and gender-responsive education. Starting from early childhood, such education should challenge gender stereotypes, discriminatory social norms, foster women's leadership skills and girls' and women's STEM competencies. Madam Chair, during this third committee session, accountability will remain one of the Latvia's key priorities. Latvia remains committed to ending impunity and ensuring accountability for all violations of international law, including international human rights law, international criminal law, and international humanitarian law. Latvia condemns in the strongest possible terms the atrocities committed in Ukraine by Russia. Russia's illegal war of aggression constitutes a serious breach of international law, including core provisions of the UN Charter. Latvia condemns in the strongest possible terms Russia's continued deliberate targeting of Ukrainian civilians and civilian infrastructure, including electricity and water facilities, as well as humanitarian and medical facilities. Such actions violate international humanitarian law and may constitute war crimes. Latvia also condemns in the strongest possible terms arbitrary detention, extrajudicial executions, enforced disappearances, widespread and systematic torture of civilian detainees and prisoners of war, sexual violence, unlawful deportation and forcible transfers of Ukrainian civilians, including children, as well as restrictions on religious freedom, culture, education, identity and cultural heritage imposed by Russia in the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine. Madam Chair, Latvia will continue to support relevant resolutions and initiatives aimed at ensuring accountability for violations committed in the context of Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine, and at maintaining international attention on the human rights situation in Ukraine stemming from Russia's war of aggression. More broadly, Latvia will actively support initiatives aimed at strengthening accountability for violations of international law and calls on all states to cooperate fully with UN human rights mechanisms, with a view to ensuring accountability and delivering justice for victims and survivors. Latvia is concerned by the use of hybrid tactics and threats to undermine democracies and obstruct the enjoyment of human rights. We see the increasing impact on human rights of the deliberate creation and dissemination of false and manipulated information intended to deceive and mislead audiences, either to cause harm or for political gain. Namely, Latvia opposes the use of the pretext of fighting Nazism by Russia, including through its annual resolution to both distort history, and conceal the real goal behind its unprovoked and unjustified war of aggression against Ukraine, aiming to justify it. These actions undermine the genuine fight against racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia, and all forms of racial intolerance, including Nazism and neo-Nazism. Latvia also condemns the deliberate exploitation of vulnerable people by Belarus to exert political and physical pressure on its neighboring states and the European Union. For more than five years, Latvia has been exposed to deliberate instrumentalization of migrants by Belarus in complicity with Russia to undermine our territorial integrity and national security. These actions openly disregard the international human rights order and facilitate that these people become victims of exploitation, trafficking and smuggling. We will continue to call on Belarus to end these practices and respect its obligations under international law. Madam Chair, we also see continued backlash and reprisals against civil society around the world. including repressions, intimidation, threats and arrests. Throughout this session, Latvia will continue to advocate for a safe and enabling environment for civil society and for the meaningful participation of human rights defenders in the work of the UN. Latvia will continue to condemn any form of intimidation and reprisals against those cooperating with the UN system. Latvia stresses the importance of ensuring that human rights defenders are able to promote and protect human rights without fear of reprisals or intimidation of any kind anywhere in the world. Latvia will also support efforts to enhance the full, effective and meaningful participation of Indigenous Peoples' representatives in relevant United Nations meetings and processes concerning issues affecting them. Madam Chair, delegates, in conclusion, allow me to emphasize that Latvia looks forward to working together with delegations during this session to advance these and all aims that are aimed at protecting human rights for all. I thank you.

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

Thank you, Madam Chair. Let me begin by congratulating you on your election as a chair of the Third Committee. I assure you and the members of the Bureau of my delegation full support. Madam Chair, protected conflicts in Ukraine, the Middle East, Sudan, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Myanmar, and beyond continue to take their heaviest toll on the most vulnerable, especially children. According to the Secretary-General's latest report on children and armed conflict, violations against children reached an unprecedented level in 2025, with more than 38,000 verified grave violations against over 24,000 children. Behind each of these figures is a child whose life has been forever changed. In the face of such suffering, the Republic of Korea remains resolute in its commitment to the principles at the heart of this organization: freedom, human rights, inclusiveness, and solidarity. As a member of the Human Rights Council, and drawing on our recent tenure on the Security Council, we will continue to play a leading role in defending and advancing these shared values. Today, My delegation wishes to focus on four priorities: the rights of women and children, and the empowerment of persons with disabilities, human rights in the age of new technologies, and pressing country situations. Protecting and promoting the rights of women and girls, particularly in conflict and crisis settings, remains a core priority for my government. During our Security Council term, we served as a WPS shared commitment holder, and we remain committed to carrying that work forward. Next month, Seoul will host the eighth International Conference on Action with Women and Peace, a dedicated platform for women from diverse backgrounds to shape the conversation on peace processes. Together with partners such as UNFPA and the Women's Peace Humanitarian Fund, we are also supporting the recovery and the integration of survivors of gender-based violence and conflict-related sexual violence in Myanmar, while strengthening women's meaningful participation in peacebuilding in the Philippines. Our own experience of war has taught us that safeguarding children is both a moral imperative and an investment in lasting peace. Beyond ensuring accountability for grave violations, we must help children affected by conflict recover and rebuild their lives through psychosocial support, education, and community-based reintegration. The Republic of Korea contributes to these efforts through humanitarian assistance for education, water, sanitation, and hygiene, and basic health services, including through the Resilience for Children+ initiative launched with UNICEF in 2025. This year marks 20 years since the adoption of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. Since becoming a state party in 2008, the Republic of Korea has continued to strengthen its legal and institutional frameworks to advance the full inclusion and participation of persons with disabilities. Last month, my government announced a comprehensive plan to establish state responsibility for the care of persons with developmental disabilities. supporting them across the life cycle and expanding opportunities for independent living in the community. We also take pride that Ms. Miyeon Kim, a Korean national, now chairs the CRPD Committee, and we remain committed to implementing its recommendations in good faith. UN emerging technologies. hold immense promise, yet they can be misused in ways that undermine human rights. Technology-facilitated violence disproportionately affects women and girls, and traffickers increasingly exploit digital platforms to recruit and control their victims. The Republic of Korea is confronting these risks both at home and with our partners. Domestically, we are tackling digital sex crimes by strengthening investigations, supporting victims, and promoting prevention through education. We also have put AI itself to work as a tool of protection, deploying AI-based systems to detect deepfake sexual imagery and swiftly remove it from online platforms. Internationally, we have recently launched a group of friends for combating technology-facilitated trafficking in persons with 28 member states to ensure that our collective response keeps pace with the evolving techniques of traffickers in the digital space. At the same time, new technologies can become powerful allies for human rights. We have long championed a human rights-based approach to new technologies, including by leading the relevant resolution in the Human Rights Council. The Republic of Korea envisions a global AI universal basic society in which no country and no person is left without access to the basic benefits of AI. and in which AI serves as a new engine to accelerate the realization of economic, social, and cultural rights. Turning to country situations, in his address to the General Assembly last month, President Lee Jae-myung presented three blueprints for inclusive, stable, and responsible peaceful coexistence on the Korean Peninsula. On the basis of the universal value of human rights, the Republic of Korea remains committed to achieving tangible improvements in the human rights of the people in the DPRK, and will continue to cooperate closely with the international community toward this goal. Humanitarian cooperation that reaches the people of the DPRK can make a meaningful contribution in this regard. and we hope that opportunities will emerge to work together with the international community in areas such as public health, disaster response, and the climate crisis. We also seek the resolution of the long-standing humanitarian issues of the abductees, detainees, and on repatriated prisoners of war and separated families through inter-Korean dialogue and cooperation. On Myanmar, we urge all parties to cease violence and protect civilians. We hope that recent developments, such as the meeting between Aung San Suu Kyi and the international Committee of the Red Cross in August will lead to further efforts toward peace and reconciliation. We firmly support ASEAN's continued effort to implement the five-point consensus and will continue to provide humanitarian assistance to the people of Myanmar. Five years after the Taliban seized power, Afghan women and girls continue to bear the brunt of the deteriorating human rights situation. Girls remain barred from education beyond the sixth grade, and the recent decrees further weaken protection against child and post-marriage and gender-based violence. We once again call on the Taliban to reverse all discriminatory policies and to uphold Afghanistan's international human rights obligations. In Syria, Countless families are still searching for their loved ones, lost to decades of enforced disappearance and arbitrary detention. We believe transitional justice must be Syrian-led and victim-centred, and encourage close coordination between national commissions and the relevant international mechanisms. Madam Chair and distinguished colleagues, I begin today by speaking of the children behind the figures. It is for them and for everyone whose rights are denied that the work of this committee matters. Our resolutions will ultimately be judged not by the words we adopt here, but by the difference they make in people's lives. The Republic of Korea will continue to honor human rights at home and champion them abroad, working with all partners to turn our shared commitment into concrete change. I thank you.

I thank the permanent representative of the Republic of Korea. Dear colleagues, we have heard the last speaker in the general debate for this morning. The committee will reconvene this afternoon promptly at 3:00 p.m. to continue the general debate. The first three speakers will be reflected in the live list. The meeting is adjourned.