40th Meeting - 60th Session of Human Rights Council

Excellencies, distinguished friends, ladies and gentlemen, I call to order the 42nd meeting of the 60th session of the Human Rights Council. We will resume the interactive dialogue on the High Commissioner's oral update on Ukraine. We'll continue with the list of speakers. As you know, speaking time is one minute, 30 seconds for all. Next speaker on my list, Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela.

Thank you, Vice President. Item 10 of the agenda of the Council was there to address issue of capacity building, technical assistance to improve human rights situations in countries concerned, always with consent and through dialogue and cooperation. We regret that under item 10, we're seeing the promotion of initiatives that stray from those clear parameters, those actions that led to the demise the defunct Commission on Human Rights, we reiterate that politicized initiatives, selectivity and double standards in no way contribute to promoting or protecting human rights and provide no benefit to persons, to vulnerable persons or groups. Vice President, we regret that Ukraine has been an instrument for the expansion of NATO, jeopardizing the human rights of all its people by promoting an aggression against Russia. This is reflected in today by growing Russophobia in Ukraine. Venezuela affirmed champion of the precepts of the UN Charter, will always advocate for dialogue in order to guarantee peace in any part of the world. Thank you.

Thank you. I give the floor to China.

Vice President, on the issue of Ukraine, China has always held an objective and impartial stance. calling for a ceasefire, pursuing peace and peace talks for a political solution. We have all along been guided by the four should proposed by President Xi and have maintained close contact with parties concerned, sent envoy for shuttle diplomacy, and launched with the global south the Friends for Peace group at the UN, thus gathering voices for peace, advancing consensus and efforts for peace. This has been widely recognized by the international community. China has always encouraged and supported all efforts conducive to a peaceful solution. We stand ready, in our own way, to constructively contribute to a political settlement of the crisis. The Council's discussions and actions on the Ukraine issue should help the escalation on the ground so as to form synergy with efforts for peace talks of the international community, thereby avoid further complicating the issue. Thank you, Vice President. Thank.

You. Continue with Eritrea.

Thank you, Madam Vice President. Eritrea is firmly opposed to war. We believe that war and the loss of human life should be avoided at all costs by all. As a young nation that fought for its sovereignty and independence, we also fully understand the high price that comes with defending one's national security. The trilateral West-Ukraine-UN mechanism is fundamentally flawed, lacking any semblance of balance in its activities, reports, or statements. It has repeatedly shown a glaring bias, relying on unverified, one-sided information to promote the narrative of a select few nations while disregarding alternative perspectives and the broader truth. The international community must focus on addressing the root causes of this conflict rather than continuing to reiterate the same narrative, one that has led to no positive outcomes. We have come to realize that references to international law and the United Nations Charter are applied selectively, benefiting only a few. This growing practice of selective enforcement is a dangerous and warrants reassessment by some nations. We call for constructive dialogue and genuine cooperation as the foundation for resolving global conflicts. I thank you.

Thank you. That was the last speaker on the list. We'll now turn to our list of speakers, national human rights institutions and nongovernmental organizations. We'll begin with Ukraine, Ukrainian Parliamentary Commissioner for Human Rights.

Commissioner Volker Turk. This is English participants.

First of all, I would like to thank the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights for the comprehensive report on Ukraine. This proves that the Russian Federation has committed mass violations against illegally detained Ukrainian civilians. I am pleased to note that the report includes information that I previously provided. The report establishes that Russia is violating international humanitarian law and international human rights law. The aggressor state not only unlawfully detains Ukrainian civilians, but also systematically subjects them to torture, cruel and inhuman treatment. I must emphasize that these violations in Russia are systemic in nature. and are reinforced through legislative immunities granted to Russian military personnel. Torture is a policy of the aggressor, endorsed at the highest levels. Therefore, I call to investigate these crimes and support efforts to hold perpetrators accountable, to demand immediate, full, and unimpeded access for the ICRC and other relevant organizations to places where civilians are unlawfully detained to facilitate the release of all civilians currently held by the Russian Federation. Thank you for your attention.

Thank you very much. Next is conscious and... Next is War Resisters International.

Together with its partner Connection EV, express its solidarity with the people of Ukraine suffering from the military aggression of the Russian Federation and calls for an immediate ceasefire and just peace negotiation. We are concerned by the ongoing force mobilization in the Russian-occupied territories. There are reports of 600 conscripted people in coercion to sign contracts during raids in Berdyansk. We urge the full implementation of the human right to conscientious objection to military service, which applies.

Also in times of war. We recall the High Commissioner and the Council of Europe's Commissioner for Human Rights reporting forced mobilization in Ukraine. We look forward to the fulfillment of the rule of law roadmap adopted in May 25 for accession to the EU.

There are still no effective procedure for conscientious objection claims and exemption from military duty in the country.

Hundreds of religious conscientious objectors are forcibly conscripted and detained.

In May-September 2025, there were at least 16 judgments in criminal cases and 63 judgments in administrative cases, stating that no religious beliefs could justify draft evasion. We recall Venice Commission opinion and wait for a positive outcome of constitutional complaints by Vitaly Alexeyenko, Sery Ivanushchenko and Dmytro Zelensky and call for acquittal in the case of Vitaly Khrushchenko. We call also for the protection of the human rights defender Yuriy Shvydchenko.

We urge Russia.

To cease its war of aggression and forced mobilization, and the member states to fully implement the human.

Right to refuse to participate in war according to one's own conscience.

Muchísimas gracias.

Thank you. Next is Physicians for Human Rights.

Commissioner, in Ukrainian territories under Russian occupation, access to medical care is conditioned on obtaining Russian passports, acting as a tool of coercion and control of the civilian population. A few weeks ago, Russia further tightened this regulation to effectively require Ukrainians in occupied areas to accept Russian citizenship or face deportation. Beyond these coercive measures, civilians in occupied territories are subjected to persecution, Forensic evaluations of civilians detained by Russian forces, conducted by physicians on human rights, corroborate patterns of torture, ill-treatment, and denial of medical care in detention. In most reviewed cases, electrocution was used as a method of torture, and electric shocks applied to the genitals in several of these. These practices constitute clear violations of international law. We urge your office to ensure that both the coercive denial of healthcare and the broader persecution of civilians remain central to investigation, accountability, and reparation. Thank you.

Thank you. Next is World Federation of Ukrainian Women's Organizations.

The World Federation of Ukrainian Women's Organizations thanks the High Commissioner for the report. Two decades ago, the UN Security Council identified six grave violations against children during times of war: the killing and maiming of children, the recruitment and use of children in the armed forces, attacks on schools and hospitals, rape or other sexual violence, child abduction, denial of humanitarian aid. Russia, a permanent member of the Security Council, agreed that, indeed, these are horrific violations against the well-being of any child. But now... On an almost daily basis, Russia commits all six of these violations in Ukraine and against the Ukrainian children that were abducted and transported to Russia. Russia continues to try to convince the world with shameless lies that these children were not abducted but rescued. Yet when parents, families, governments try to get information about these children, no data from Russia is forthcoming. The Yale Humanitarian Research Lab recently releases a report that Russia operates a program that involves the forced transfer, re-education, and militarization of Ukrainian and identified at least 210 facilities holding these children. The report concludes that this system of re-education is intended to erase Ukrainian identity and Russify 10s of thousands of children. The crime of child abduction and forced Russification must end. Those responsible for stealing the bodies and souls of Ukraine's children must be held accountable, and all Ukrainian children must be brought home.

Thank you.

Muchísimas gracias.

Thank you. X is public organization Public Advocacy.

Participants of the meeting. I, Metropolitan of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church, inform you that the process of forced mobilization and sending clergy of our denomination to the front has begun in Ukraine.

These clergymen are being sent to the front.

As ordinary soldiers with weapons in their hands, despite the fundamental impossibility for priests to use weapons.

Based on their religious convictions and church canons.

At the same time, the state authorities have prohibited the clergy of our church from serving in the army as military chaplains. Meanwhile, priests of other religious denominations in Ukraine are officially completely exempt from mobilization. Thus, the current situation in Ukraine is as follows: if a clergyman of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church converts to another denomination, privileged by the authorities, he immediately receives a deferment from If not, he is sent to war as a regular soldier to kill or be killed. This is nothing short of a deliberate religious discrimination against the clergy of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church and the mockery of their conscience. I believe it is long overdue for the UN bodies to give a firm legal assessment of the cruel and multifaceted repressions against the Ukrainian Orthodox Church in contemporary Ukraine, especially considering that human rights organizations have been regularly reporting violations.

Of our right to you for several years.

Thank you for your attention.

Muchas gracias.

Thank you. Next is International Bar Association.

International Bar Association and Ukrainian Bar Association thank the High Commissioner for his update. We remain concerned that in Ukraine, the massive disruption caused by the Russian full-scale invasion and war of aggression has severely impacted multiple sectors, including the justice system. Since February 2022, at least 157 judicial institutions sustained damages of varying degrees up to the complete destruction and looting of property. Despite these challenges, the Ukrainian justice system has demonstrated remarkable resilience, continuing to function despite funding shortages and disruptions to regular proceedings. Meanwhile, violations of social and economic rights due to the Russian war considerably affect any transitional justice effort. Destruction of infrastructures, forced displacement, unemployment, and economic instability, limited access to basic needs, as well as the deterioration of mental health conditions of many people in Ukraine exacerbate inequalities, hinder economic recovery, and complicate efforts to achieve comprehensive justice and reconciliation. We call on this Council, through international cooperation, to announce support for Ukraine's justice reform and accountability efforts, consider technical assistance and capacity building initiatives, as well as financial resources to ensure sustainability and independence of Ukraine's judicial institutions, and strengthen prosecutorial and investigative capacities, particularly in documenting and adjudicating war crime cases. Thank you.

Next is Human Rights Research League.

President, over the past weeks and months, Russia has escalated its use of drones against Ukrainian civilians to unprecedented levels. In July 2025 alone, more than 6,000 long-range attack drones and decoy UAVs were launched into Ukraine, the highest monthly.

Total since the full-scale invasion began.

Between February 2022 and April 2025, short-range drone attacks have killed at least 395 civilians and injured 2,635, attacks targeting people walking, riding public transport, even evacuating. The Commission of Inquiry has found that Russian drone strikes have systematically targeted civilian infrastructure and homes along more than 300 kilometers of frontline territory, rendering large localities increasingly unlivable. These numbers are not just statistics. They tell of children who no longer remember what it is to feel safe in their own homes. They tell of death and terror on innocent people. We call on this Council to condemn Russia's use of drone warfare targeting civilian populations in the strongest possible terms; demand accountability, including prosecution for war crimes; provide immediate support to Ukraine's mental health infrastructure; strengthen civilian protection measures and international assistance to rebuild what Russia is tearing down. Ukraine and its people deserve nothing less.

I thank you.

Thank you.

Next speaker is Human Rights House Foundation.

Thank you. We welcome the High Commissioner's continued reporting on the grave situation across Ukraine, including in occupied Crimea. Over a decade of occupation has produced a total eradication of civic space, what our partner, the Crimean Human Rights Group, rightly calls a prison for the peninsula's residents. Recent documentation confirms at least 284 Ukrainian civilians from Crimea remain in detention or prison on politically motivated charges, among them at least 25 women, including 19-year-old Yulia Sokolova, sentenced to nine years in prison on fabricated charges of espionage and treason. Dozens more Crimean Tatars are persecuted in so-called case of Crimean Muslims, with 109 people currently imprisoned, almost always on the basis of forced confessions and unfair trials. Journalists remain particular targets. At least 17 Crimean journalists are in detention, including Servet Mustafayev and Irina Danilovich, who continue to be denied urgent medical treatment. Meanwhile, Russia systematically uses Crimea as a platform for war crimes, forcible transfers of detainees into Russia, unlawful conscription, with at least 613 cases recorded since 2014, and mass drone and missile strikes launched from the peninsula against civilian targets across Ukraine. Vice President, We ask the High Commissioner's Office whether they receive any updates on any of the Crimean journalists in detention or prison. I thank you.

Muchas gracias.

Thank you. Next is the Next Century Foundation.

The Next Century Foundation are gravely concerned by the escalating humanitarian crisis in Ukraine in view of the increase in reliance on drone warfare by both parties. These attacks have caused the largest number of civilian deaths in a single month since the current conflict began. They have also caused widespread destruction of vital infrastructure. Recent discussions to suspend aerial warfare have yet to yield agreement, even though such a measure remains a crucial objective in reducing civilian suffering. While immediate suspension of drone use may be unattainable, it is imperative to address the longer-term humanitarian risks posed by the use of drones. This Council must continue its engagement with the International Committee of the Red Cross under the Global Initiative to Galvanize Political Commitment to International Humanitarian Law. This initiative seeks to produce concrete, actionable recommendations. The weaponization of drones must not erode the core principles that protect human life and dignity. As the Next Century Foundation's Honored War Report warns, technology must serve moral frameworks, not undermine them. We urge all members to support meaningful limitations on drone warfare by actively participating in the ICRC's global initiative and prepare to uphold a binding humanitarian framework for drone use by the ICRC's 2026 target. Respect for international humanitarian law reduces the human toll of conflict, mitigates cycles of violence and fosters conditions for lasting peace. Thank you, members.

Muchas gracias.

Thank you. Shanxi Patriotic Volunteer Association has the floor.

Thank you, Mr. President. I am the representative of the International Patriot Organization. I represent more than 160 organizations. At this moment, our hearts are closely connected with the Ukrainian people. The current situation in Ukraine is heartbreaking. The war is mercilessly destroying life and hope. Countless families are displaced, children have lost their childhood, and the people are struggling in fear and hunger.

Countless families have been displaced, children have lost their stable childhoods, and their fundamental rights have been violated. As to the flames of war, the international community must seek to extinguish the fires and reduce the tensions rather than fueling the conflict for its own interests by providing weapons, using Ukraine as a pawn in geopolitical games. These acts severely violate international law and the norms of international relations. War has no winners. Peace is the only way forward. All parties to the conflict should immediately lay down their arms. Western countries and the United States must immediately cease their arms supplies to Ukraine. The international community should also establish a fair mediation platform. We call on all parties to respect international law and humanitarian principles, protect civilians, and to restore a peaceful and stable life for the people. Let us join hands to strive for peace for the people of all war-torn countries. Thank you.

Thank you.

That was the last speaker on my list. I give the floor now to the Deputy Director of the Global Operations Division, Abdul Aziz Tioy, for concluding remarks.

Gracias, senora presidente. I thank all delegations for their interventions and questions. Let me highlight key concerns raised. OSCE has interviewed over 1,000 Ukrainian, released Ukrainian prisoners of war and civilian detained by Russian authorities. We documented widespread and systematic torture and ill-treatment, including sexual violence. Russian prisoners of war also faced abuses, particularly during transit. We monitor the detention of journalists and media workers in occupied territories, including Crimea, and remain in contact with families and lawyers. Despite lacking access to detainees, held by the Russian Federation, we continue documenting their situation to the extent possible and advocating for their release. Russian decision to withdraw from the European Convention for the Prevention of Torture removes a vital safeguard, increasing risk of abuse and reducing transparency. Nonetheless, Russia remains bound by international humanitarian and human rights law. Prolonged detention and lack of communication cause severe psychological and economic harm to families, especially women. We urge the creation of an information bureau to centralize data on detainees and facilitate family contact. Support services for survivors of torture and sexual violence must be strengthened. Justice and accountability are essential for lasting peace. We call for meaningful access to legal representation for Ukrainian detainees, protection of defense lawyers, and restoration of judicial safeguards. The exemption of Russian military personnel from liability fosters impunity and should be reversed. Continuing support for national and international accountability mechanism is crucial. Any release of or exchange of prisoners of war or civilian must respect applicable international law. OCHA stands ready to provide technical assistance to ensure compliance. Madam President, OCHA remain committed to monitoring and reporting on detainees' treatment throughout the conflict. We will continue advocating for an end to all practices of torture and ill treatment, access for independent monitors, prioritization of civilian releases, and more generally, full compliance with the Geneva Convention and international humanitarian law. I thank you.

Thank you for that statement. That brings us to the end of this interactive dialogue. I wish to thank the High Commissioner's Office for their participation. Distinguished colleagues, We will immediately proceed with the presentation of the report of the Secretary-General 's report on Cambodia, as well as the reports of the High Commissioner on Yemen and on the work of the Human Rights Advisor Programme. It's a pleasure for me to give the floor to Deputy Director of the Global Operations Division to present the reports. Go ahead, please.

Thank you, Madam President. Madam President, Excellencies, distinguished delegates, I have the honor to present the country reports of the High Commissioner and Secretary General on Cambodia and Yemen, as well as the report on the Human Rights Advisors Program. I begin with the Secretary General's report on Cambodia, covering the period from 1st June 2024 to 31st May 2025. Pursuant to HR/C/RES/54/36, the report reflects both progress and persistent challenges. OHCHR continues to cooperate with various ministries, providing technical assistance on legislative initiatives, including the draft law on the rights of persons with disabilities and the law on domestic violence. We welcome the launch of the National Social Protection Policy Framework 2024-2035 and encourage efforts to expand coverage. However, concerns persist regarding shrinking civic space and restrictions on public participation, freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, and associations. OCHA monitors cases involving the detention and trial of human rights defenders and political opponents. We urge the government to uphold international human rights protections and ensure that recent amendments to the nationality law do not further restrict these rights. The Office continues regular prison visits and acknowledges efforts to address overcrowding. We encourage further measures to improve detention conditions and promote alternative to detention. Cambodia's acceptance of 232 recommendations during its fourth universal periodic review reflects a compliment to human rights. We urge the government to implement these recommendations through inclusive processes and to strengthen judicial independence and fair trial standards. We also call for progress on the draft disability law and continued effort to advance LGBTQ+ rights. OSCE shall remain committed to supporting Cambodia in aligning its efforts with international human rights obligations. We are saddened by the loss of life during armed clashes along the Cambodia-Thailand border and welcome the ceasefire agreement of 28 July 2025. We hope this framework will support de-escalation and peacebuilding. OHCHR continues to monitor the human rights impact and stands ready to support both Governments. Madam President, I now present the High Commissioner's report on technical assistance to the National Commission of Inquiry in Yemen, pursuant to resolution 57/37, overing September 2024 to August 2025. The human rights situation in Yemen remain critical, particularly in areas under de facto authority control. Severe restriction of civic space and humanitarian operations persist. In August 2025, the de facto authorities carried out the largest arbitrary arrest campaign targeting UN personnel, eight OCHA staff remain detained. We reiterate our call for their immediate and unconditional release. Despite challenges, the National Commission of Inquiry continues to address impunity through its fact-finding work, contributing to peace efforts. However, the UN's liquidity crisis has endured view full implementation and mandated activities and affected OHCHR operation in Yemen. Nevertheless, OHCHR provided technical support through five trainings focusing on strengthening engagement between the commission and civil society to promote human rights. The report recommends that the commission continue building its capacity to investigate violations by all parties and deepen its engagement with civil society, particularly in transitional justice and accountability. OSCE remains committed to supporting the commission with technical assistance and advice in line with international standards to contribute to a human rights-based transition to peace and reconciliation. Madam President, finally, I have the honor to present the report of the High Commissioner for Human Rights on the Human Rights Advisors Program, pursuant to Resolution 56/115. Since 2003, the United Nations has worked to integrate human rights into development and peacebuilding, beginning with the human rights-based approach to development cooperation. Key milestones including the Action 2 program, the 2005 World Summit outcome, and OCHA's 2006 policy on deploying human rights advisors to resident coordinators' offices. The Human Rights Mainstreaming Fund, established in 2009, and the 2012 deployment strategy provided coherence and funding. The 2018 UN reforms and the 2030 agenda further strengthened system-wide ownership of human rights. Driven by the Secretary-General 2020 call to action, deployment rose from 20 in 2027 to 53 in 2022. However, funding constraints, including the closure of the funding, 2024 have reduced capacity. As of now, 32 human rights advisors are deployed with 12 pending requests and eight presences closed in 2025. Despite these challenges, human rights advisors remain central to embedding human rights in UN country work. In some cases, their presence has evolved into full OCHA offices, underscoring their strategic value. In February 2025, OCHA issued a call for input on the program's achievement. We received 48 submissions from states, UN entities, civil society, and other stakeholders. The report highlights how human rights advisors have contributed to ratification and implementation of human rights treaties, integration of human rights into laws, policies, and SDG plans, development of national program addressing inequalities and vulnerable groups, establishment of national institutions and protection mechanism under the leadership of resident coordinators, Human Rights Advisers have strengthened coordination among Member States, development partners, and the UN, enhancing engagement with national stakeholders. For two decades, the program has relied on voluntary contributions. However, current funding is insufficient to meet growing demand. Securing predictable long-term investment is essential to sustain and expand the program's impact. The Office remains committed to supporting human rights advisors. Throughout our organizational effectiveness 2.0 process, we aim to enhance thematic and operational support via strengthened regional hubs, enabling more timely and cost-effective assistance. At a time when the UN seeks deeper collaboration across its three pillars to address complex global challenges, the Human Rights Advisers Programme stands as a model of integrated cross-pillar engagement, delivering tangible results at the country level and advancing the promotion and protection of human rights. I thank you, Madame.

Muchas gracias.

Thank you very much for the presentation of the reports. Pursuant to our practice, we will also hear the delegations of the countries concerned. I therefore give the floor to the distinguished representative of Cambodia. You have 5 minutes available. Please go ahead.

Madame Vice-President, distinguished delegate. Cambodia thanks the OHR for the report. We welcome this exchange, not as routine, but as a solemn exercise in accountability.

Could Cambodia speak into the microphone, please?

Hosted an OHR field office and successive Special Rapporteurs. One of few nations to open itself to such sustained scrutiny. This was not imposed upon us. It was a sovereign choice rooted in our conviction.

That in part, in part, in part-

Can you speak closer to the microphone? I'm so sorry to interrupt you, but the interpreters don't hear you well. You can start again if you wish.

Yes.

Madam Vice President, distinguished delegate, Cambodia, thank OCHR for the report. We welcome the change not as routine, but as a solemn exercise in accountability and dialogue. was the worst-riddicated commodity has hosted OCHR field surveys and successive special reporters. One of the two nations to open itself to such sustained scrutiny. This was not imposed upon us. It was a sovereign choice rooted in our convictions that impartial engagement, extension, institution, and dignify the rule of law. Cambodians appreciate OSCHR calls to uphold the ceasefire along our border, but Cambodian peace is not strong, but the daily struggles to seal communities from forced displacement, in the cycle of villages, seizures of property, threats of evictions, and captured soldiers. So, it's violations on human rights and human international law, imperial reconciliations to uphold ceasefire is not to defend the first. condition of human dignity, for human rights cannot exist apart from peace. When a peace shatters, some rights extinguish. The report lively recognize Cambodian progress and we replace the transformation from fragility to resilience. Our economy's growth continue to grow with a 5.8% projected for 2025 and in place and among the lowest in region. But beyond the figures, human story. livelihoods, sexual families, uplifted poverty rate cut by more than half in just two decades. Stability has been by more reforms. Social protection policy has covered the problem in France to all age. The disability strategic plans embed rise across sectors and indigenous communities enjoy stronger recognition. In the fourth UPR cycle, Cambodia has accepted 85% of our recommendation, whereas about global average. Madam Vice President, Cambodia's commitments are not confined to word. We are parties to nearly all core human rights treaty. We continue to align the national law with international standard, with OHR assistance on domestic violence, disability rights, and alternative dispute resolution. This is not a rhetoric, it's a partnership translate into practice. This report, however, devotes much space to civil and political space, and here clarity is needed. Cambodia's acknowledged shortcomings, all societies must we do, but do. But to depress civic life, a repression is to deny reality. The facts stand firm. Over 6,000 NGO registers and actors, more than 2,000 media outlets, many openly critical, biannuals, forum between governments and civil societies, and election in 2024 and 2023 monitored by thousands of independent observers with millions voting peacefully. These are not symbol or decay. They are evident of democratic vitality. Equality is vital is the principles that freedom, career, responsibilities, Article 19 of the ICCPR permits restrictions to protect the national securities, public orders, and rights or other. This limit are not Cambodian invention, but universal civil guard. When expression process into in Simon, and deliberate this information the state has not only to rise, but to teach to act. The working to license our media outlet, the bill's falsehood is not silencing the press, it is defending the integrity of those who report freely and responsibly. No is with like statement. It dynamics and involving digital platform implies debate, youth-led campaigns, and women. Women now hold leadership up to the presidency of the National Assembly. So with space in Cambodia is not thinking, but it's a size daily, vigorously within the law to say otherwise not to grip the government, it to sell in the life. realities of Cambodian. The report and great concerns on detention, traffickings, and the national human rights institution, Cambodia recognized the chilling and is acting. Prison reform is overcrowding a new action plan, tackles traffickings and cyber scams through national, through regional cooperation and consultation with OSHRs and civil society at one. and is always consistent with Paris Principles. Madam Vice President, Cambodia does not claim perfection, but we do claim progress, and we claim it with authorities of lives and information. We rebuild institutions of the world, restore stabilities, clear millions of landmines, and house poverty, and expand education and health. They are not inspiration, they are realities and truth foundation upon which a rise can flourish. We therefore urge the Council to approach the Secretary-General's report with openness, recognize achievements as well as challenges, resist selectivities and politicizations, and affirms that cooperation must rest on impartiality, respect, and balance. Namibia continues to engage openly with the OHCHR, with this Council, and with all partners in the spirit of genuine dialogue and cooperation. We remain unwavering. in our commitment to peace and the foundation of rights, to development and the diverse identities, and to the indivisible realization of human rights for all our people. I thank you.

Thank you so much. Muchas gracias.

Thank you very much. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Yemen for five minutes.

Madam President, my country expresses its deep appreciation for efforts deployed by the OHCHR in preparing its report on technical assessment to the National Commission of Inquiry in alleged violations of human rights, and express our appreciation for the update. We value the role of the commission in allegations of violations, and we support it as an independent mechanism that is neutral and efficient and has all necessary facilitations provided by the government to carry out its mandate in monitoring violations. The positive outcome outlined in the report is a testament to the success of the committee. We support it so that it continue its important work in line with the Council's resolution without allowing any justification which aim to impede the implementation of this resolution. Our government launched an inclusive reform process which aims to achieve peace and stability while centering on human rights in our national agenda. This epitomized a reality in our financial administrative reform package, which has a positive impact on the living conditions of people and building state institutions and alleviating the humanitarian burden, while providing our periodic national reports and implementing relevant recommendations together with the extending the mandate of the National Commission of Inquiry for three more years. All these reflect our will to ensure justice. Justice and development are interdependent and are key for our people's aspiration to peace and dignified living. President, in line of government's commitment to the ceasefire agreement and its provisions, The Houthi militia refuse it and impose illegal fines and pass death sentences to its political opponents while committing violations against civilians, together with its ongoing military surge. This reflects its refusal of the ceasefire and its impeding of efforts to achieve a permanent political settlement. The Houthi continues abducting humanitarian actors, threatening their families, raiding international organizations' offices, and arresting former staff at embassy, using its repressions against civilians and denying children their rights through enforced recruitment, while clamping down on the media and prosecuting human defenders and practicing discrimination against women. Ladies and gentlemen, my government calls upon the international community and this Council to take firm position to support its reforms, its economic reforms, and put an end to violations by the Houthi militia, including arbitrary arrests, and called for an immediate release for all abductees and detainees, particularly those in the humanitarian field, while protecting critical facilities and allowing the government to export oil to meet needs and reinforce stability nationwide. In closing, we stress the need to provide technical support and technical assistance and building capacity so that we can live up to our human rights commitment. We call for reinforcing the work of the Commission of Inquiry so that it conducts its mandate in the service of justice in line with Arab Group-sponsored draft resolution under this item. The Government of Yemen underscores its interest in reinforcing cooperation with the OHCHR and with the Council's members in order to protect human rights and enforce them in Yemen and achieve a future that is peaceful and in line with the aspirations of our people. And thank you.

Ms.

Thank you very much for your statement. Distinguished colleagues, Your Excellencies, We will now begin the general debate under agenda item 10. Let me remind you that speaking time is one minute and 30 seconds for all. The list of speakers will close in 15 minutes. And let me start by giving the floor to the distinguished representative of Kuwait on behalf of the GCC. You have the floor, Ambassador.

Thank you very much, Madam Vice-President. The GCC states have taken good note of the High Commissioner's report on technical assistance and capacity building for Yemen. And we are very happy to see the publication of the report of the Yemenite Commission and support the legitimate institutions there. We hope the international community will assist the Commission in completing its works. We welcome the sincere efforts made by the Sultanate of Oman and Saudi Arabia to reach a lasting political solution as a result of the Gulf Initiative, and we hope that these mechanisms and the national dialogue and the 2216 resolution of the Security Council, we are looking forward to the October 2025 conference on food security. Efforts made by Libya and Somalia and the initiatives of these countries are commended, and we would urge additional technical assistance to these two countries so that they can continue to honour their commitments in the human rights sector. Thank you, Madam President.

Thank you, Ambassador. The European Union now has the floor.

Thank you, Madam Vice President. I speak on behalf of the European Union. North Macedonia, Montenegro, Albania, and Republic of Moldova align themselves with this statement. We thank OHCHR for the reports and emphasize the critical importance of technical assistance and capacity building for strengthening human rights implementation. The EU and member states support multiple projects and programs in this regard, including some implemented by the OHCHR. As for countries that recently benefited from assistance, we welcome the decision to establish an OHCHR office in Bangladesh, which will help to ensure that all citizens enjoy all human rights. We follow closely the ongoing legal processes on criminal acts and human rights violations during last year's uprising. We welcome Georgia's ongoing cooperation with the OHCHR. The EU reiterates its support to Georgia's territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders. We remain seriously concerned about the deteriorating human rights and humanitarian situation in the occupied breakaway regions of Abkhazia and South Ossetia. We strongly condemn human rights violations in Yemen, particularly in Houthi-controlled areas. The EU continues to support capacity building of the National Commission of Inquiry, but the current mandate is not sufficient. This Council should discuss the deteriorating situation based on an independent OHCHR report. We refer to our statements.

The debates and respective dialogues.

Our full statement is available online. Thank you. Thank you, Madam Ambassador. I now give the floor to Ghana on behalf of the Group of African States.

I have the honor to deliver this statement on behalf of the African Group. The African Group reaffirms that technical assistance and capacity building remain essential pillars in the implementation of human rights obligations and commitments. Their relevance is further understood in the light of growing and context-specific needs expressed by many countries where challenges related to development, governance, and institutional resilience persist. When provided at the request of states and in full alignment with their national priorities and sovereign choices, the offer of technical assistance contributes meaningfully to supporting reform processes, strengthening institutions and advancing the rule of law through constructive, inclusive and tailored approaches. The African group commends the efforts of the Office of the High Commissioner, notably its support to national human rights institutions, regional cooperation initiatives, and partnerships with local actors. We encourage the continuation and expansion of their engagement, including true South-South cooperation. and stronger synergies with relevant African regional mechanisms. Lastly, we emphasize the importance of ensuring predictable, equitable, and sustainable resources for technical assistance, as well as the full and effective participation of African states, including least developing countries and small island developing states, in the work of the Council. These elements are fundamental to upholding the universality and effectiveness of our collective effort in the promotion and protection of human rights. Thank you, Madam Vice President.

Thank you very much. And I'll give the floor to the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela on behalf of a group of countries.

Thank you, Madam Vice President. It is an honor for Venezuela to take the floor on behalf of the group of friends to defend the UN Charter. We reaffirm that the UN continues to be a key, essential forum to tackle and seek progress in matters relating to international international cooperation, and economic and social progress. And this should be on the basis of dialogue, cooperation, and seeking of consensus between states. We are fully committed to revitalizing its role. We believe that the promotion and protection of all rights are based on the principles of impartiality, objectivity, transparency, non-selectivity, non-politicization, and non-confrontation, and all in a framework of equality and mutual respect between states. Our group restates that technical assistance and capacity building should only be provided in line with the UN Charter principles, particularly the principles of respect for sovereignty and non-intervention. They should be in agreement with the will and the real needs of the states. The states proposing technical assistance on behalf of other states should only do this with the consent of the states concerned, and they must do this in full respect of the rights of the state requesting such assistance. Thank you.

Thank you. The next speaker will be the distinguished representative of Malaysia on behalf of ASEAN.

Madam President, I am honored to deliver this statement on behalf of ASEAN and Timor-Leste. Technical assistance and capacity building is one of the most important tools to help states fulfill their human rights obligations. We firmly believe that technical cooperation must be tailored to each country's national context, needs and priorities, and must be based on consultations and the consent of the country's concern. This would enhance national ownership and lead to impactful and sustainable improvements of human rights on the ground. ASEAN, along with Timor-Leste, reaffirms our commitment to the promotion and protection of human rights in our region, based on cooperation and genuine dialogue. We recognize ASEAN Intergovernmental Commission on Human Rights, AICHR, as the overarching institution responsible for these efforts. We will continue to strengthen human rights cooperation in the region, including through implementing the ASEAN Human Rights Declaration. We also recognize that human rights cannot be fully realized without peace. In this regard, this year, AICHR convened a series of workshops under the theme intersection between conflict and human rights pathways and approaches to peace in ASEAN, with the latest one held in Jakarta on 13 to 15 August to strengthen cross-pillar cooperation and ensure that peace and human rights are pursued hand in hand. In closing, ASEAN reaffirms its commitment to working with other states and partners to advance technical cooperation for the full enjoyment of human rights to all. Thank you. Muchas gracias.

Thank you, Madam Ambassador. The next speaker will be the Maldives on behalf of a group of countries.

Madam Vice-President, I have the honour to speak on behalf of an informal group of SIDS as listed on the extranet. SIDS face unique challenges due to our size, geographical isolation, and heightened vulnerability to environmental and economic shocks, which has been exacerbated by climate change. Yet the current international financial architecture remains insufficiently responsive to our realities. Over a year ago, Our leaders adopted the Antigua and Barbuda Agenda for SIDS to address these challenges, reaffirming the link between sustainable development and human rights. But we need concrete action and support from the international community to deliver on these commitments. In this regard, technical assistance under Item 10 has been invaluable. We commend the OHCHR and donors to the LDCs SIDS Trust Fund for enabling our meaningful participation in the work of the Council. Yet the scale of our challenges require a step forward. We therefore appeal for predictable and sustained resources for the LDCs SIDS Trust Fund, international cooperation to promote human rights for peaceful, prosperous, inclusive societies. and partnerships driven by national priorities. As the UN advances the UN80 reform initiative, we look forward to a system that is not only more efficient, but also more inclusive. I thank you.

Thank you, Ambassador. The next speaker is Algeria on behalf of the Group of Arab States. Thank you, Madam Vice-President. It's an honour for me to make the statement on behalf of the Arab Group that has taken good note of the oral update of the High Commissioner for Human Rights on efforts made to boost technical assistance and capacity building under agenda item 10, looking at achievements and progress. We commend the efforts made by OHCHR and UN bodies. We have taken good note of the report that's been submitted under this agenda item. Somalia, Libya, Yemen are facing colossal challenges that are a burden at very many different levels. This commands the attention of this Council and of OHCHR, and this over and beyond the liquidity The quest for creative solutions to abide by this issue is a key question. To conclude, we believe the respect for national sovereignty and a participative approach allow for implementation of the mandate under agenda item 10, and it allows states to honor their commitments to protect human rights while involving all national stakeholders. Thank you, Madam Vice President.

Muchas gracias.

Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Brazil on behalf of a group of countries. Ambassador.

Thank you very much, Madam Vice President. I deliver this joint statement on behalf of a group of 68 states. The complete list will be published on the extranet. We express our deep concern regarding the interception by the Israeli forces of vessels belonging to the Global Sumud Flotilla. a peaceful convoy carrying most needed humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip. We recall the principle of freedom of navigation in international waters as enshrined in international law. We deplore this military action, which violates fundamental rights and endangers the physical integrity of humanitarian activists. In this regard, Israel bears full responsibility for the safety and well-being of those detained. We reiterate our call for the immediate and unconditional lifting of all restrictions imposed by Israel on the entry and distribution of humanitarian assistance in the Gaza Strip, in line with its obligation as an occupying power under the Fourth Geneva Convention. Madam Vice President, looking ahead, technical cooperation along with international solidarity will be indispensable for the strengthening of local capacities and the future reconstruction of Gaza. once a lasting ceasefire is achieved. I thank you.

Thank you, Ambassador. I give the floor to Pakistan on behalf of the OIC.

Thank you, Madam Vice President. The OIC group reaffirms its support to the Council's technical assistance mandate. We believe that the mandate, conceived as a constructive, cooperative, and non-politicized instrument, remains the preferred means to promote universal respect of basic human rights and fundamental freedoms by enhancing national capacities. This mandate is vital in helping states strengthen their institutions through training and capacity building support, which is a prerequisite for the promotion of all human rights. We commend the OCR for its role in this respect. However, the growing tendency to use technical assistance as a means of interference in domestic affairs is deeply concerning. The integrity of this mandate rests on the principle of assistance with the consent of the state. Ground realities, sensitivities, cultural norms, and different legal systems of the recipient states must be taken into account. Moreover, we also express our concern on inequitable resource allocation that has constrained OICR's ability to focus on the most vulnerable. on all human rights equally. Madam Vice President, lastly, we echo widespread concern and condemnation at the interception of the flotilla bringing desperately needed humanitarian relief to Gaza in the OPT. We expect the resulting violations of international maritime law, international humanitarian law, and international human rights law to be addressed by this Council. I thank you. Ms.

Muchisimas gracias.

Thank you. Next speaker is the Maldives. Maldives again, Ambassador.

Thank you, Madam Vice President. I have the honor to deliver this statement on behalf of the beneficiary delegates of the LDC SEEDS Trust Fund participating in the 60th session of the Human Rights Council, the full list of which will be available in the HRC extranet. LDCs and SIDS are well known as most of, as the most vulnerable countries, communities of the world. Our modest size, finite resources, and dispersed locations pose as major threats to our livelihoods. Our countries continue to face the compounded challenges of structural economic fragility, climate vulnerability, and limited capacity to consistently engage in the multilateral fora. We deeply value the support of the LDC-SIDS Trust Fund, established in 2012, which has dedicated its work to ensure the involvement of SIDS and LDCs in the work of the Council. Over the years, it has allowed countries, especially ones that do not have a diplomatic presence in Geneva, to actively participate in the Council's work. In this regard, we thank all donor states for their continued contributions that have ensured that our voices are present and active in this Council. Yet, critical gaps remain. As per the international community's pledge to leave no one behind, we strongly encourage member states and stakeholders to continue their support for this initiative, and we rely on this Council's continued resolve to ensure human rights are not just ideals, but lived realities for all. I thank you. Muchísimas gracias.

Thank you. I give the floor to Thailand.

Thank you, Madam Vice President. Thailand allies itself with the ASEAN statement delivered by Malaysia. We believe that technical cooperation and capacity building, when grounded in the needs and consent of states, are among the most constructive and effective tools available to the HRC. they can bring positive change on the ground. Beyond promotion and protection, they also play a key role in preventing human rights violations. Thailand recently organized a side event to showcase success stories under Agenda Item 10. At a time of crisis and multiple challenges, we need to ensure that the Council continues to provide a platform for dialogue, where practical tools such as technical assistance can contribute to meaningful solution and impact. At this session, Thailand is presenting the resolution on the enhancement of technical cooperation and capacity building in the field of human rights, with a particular focus on the right to health. We feel that strengthening health systems is an investment in As the COVID-19 pandemic reminded us, health is not only a matter of national concern, but a global one. International cooperation is therefore indispensable. We therefore count on the continued support of all delegations for this resolution.

I thank you.

Thank you, Ambassador. Give the floor to Kuwait.

Madam Vice-President, we align with the statements delivered by the groups we belong to. We set particular store by technical cooperation and capacity building in the sphere of human rights. These are important tools to allow states to meet their commitments and for developing countries to consolidate national capacities and ensure justice and development. in spite of the complex international situation. Item 10 embodies the spirit of international cooperation. It should be maintained free from any politicization or selectivity. We welcome the successful integration of human rights international policies and the capacity building of institutions. We call for the financing gap to be addressed since it could threaten the sustainability of these programs. We call for constructive cooperation to be continued with the partners to amplify the scientific impact of technical cooperation programs and develop relevant mechanisms to achieve tangible, sustainable results. Thank you.

Thank you. I give the floor to Switzerland.

Madame Vice-President, Switzerland thanks the High Commissioner for the report on technical assistance provided. to the National Investigative Commission to Yemen and calls on all stakeholders to implement the recommendations. The humanitarian situation and human rights have further deteriorated over the reporting period with arbitrary arrests, restrictions on freedom of expression. and abuse of rights of women and children. It's imperative for humanitarian aid to be given to people in need, and Switzerland calls on all parties to guarantee swift, safe, unhindered access. Switzerland firmly condemns the arrests and arbitrary detentions of UN workers, of NGOs, and civil society actors in Sana'a. It calls for the immediate release, unconditional release of those persons. And we also condemn the forced entry into UN premises in line with Resolution 2730 of the Security Council, as UN staff and their personnel should be protected at all times. Only a political solution to the conflict and respect for human rights and IHL can pave the way for a future prosperous speech for the country. Switzerland calls for further efforts to be carried out under the aegis of the UN to reach a sustainable agreement. We support, we reiterate our full support for the special envoy. I thank you.

Thank you very much. I give the floor to Ethiopia.

Thank you, Mr. President.

Ethiopia is committed to promoting and protecting human rights at the national, regional, and global levels.

We recognize that technical cooperation and capacity building play a critical role in supporting states' efforts to meet their human rights obligations, implement accepted recommendations from the Universal Periodic Review.

And address challenges in their pursuit of human rights advancement. We support the role of the Office of the High Commissioner for Human.

Rights in providing advisory service, technical assistance, and financial support to states based on their specific request and needs.

TEPA has consistently engaged with the OHCHR to enhance our national capacity to uphold human rights, and we view this partnership as an essential tool for fostering national ownership of human rights frameworks. We believe that technical assistance should remain flexible and tailored to the specific needs of the requesting countries, ensuring.

That it is both effective and relevant. Furthermore, we emphasize the need for sufficient and predictable resource support to these initiatives.

As they are key to ensuring that technical cooperation and capacity building are.

In conclusion, we recognize that enhancing the capacity of states to promote and protect human rights.

Directly contributes to the achievement of sustainable development goals, particularly those related to peace, justice, and strong institutions. I thank you.

Thank you. I give the floor to Indonesia.

Madam Vice President, Indonesia reaffirms its strong support for the Council's mandate on technical assistance and capacity building. Capacity building remains a vital instrument for the promotion and protection of human rights. It represents a long-term investment to effectively integrate human rights obligations and human commitment into national law and policy. In this regard, Indonesia continues to insist in national human rights mechanism, including third, formalizing the sixth generation of national human rights action plan. revising the human rights law, development one data policy and human rights, and integrated data system to assess evidence-based human rights policy and monitoring and to ensure transparency and capacity building to embed human rights principle to local policy and legal framework. Indonesia underscored the importance of technical assistance in financing the council work to improve human particularly for development and less development countries. It is essential that such assistance remain demand-driven, national-owned, and tailored to the specific context, ensuring tangible benefit for people. To end, we encourage closer cooperation among state partners and relevant stakeholders to foster technical assessment and capacity building. Thank you.

Thank you. Next, the delegation of Costa Rica.

Thank you, Vice President. Strengthening partnerships and national capacities is crucial to advance an implementation of our treaty obligations, as well as in meeting the SDGs, especially those with respect to the environment, climate action, and preserving the oceans. The advisory opinion of the International Court of Justice of 23rd July 2025 creates a historic opportunity. The Court recognized that the right to a clean, healthy, sustainable environment was essential for the enjoyment of other human rights. This finding reaffirms the interdependence between human rights and environmental protection, including complying with climate commitments under the Paris Accords. Under item 10, OHCHR and human rights advisers have a strategic opportunity to convert this historic legal calling of the Court into tangible technical cooperation. It involves supporting states and building capacities to develop and implement nationally determined contributions that are more ambitious. foster resilience of coastal communities to rising sea levels, and guarantee that mitigation and adaptation measures are designed with a human rights-based approach. Costa Rica stresses that robust partnerships, international cooperation, and effective technical assistance are fundamental in living up to our international human rights obligations and the triple planetary crisis of loss of biodiversity, climate change, and pollution. Thank you.

Thank you.

I give the floor to Georgia.

Thank you, Madam Vice President. One cannot underestimate the critical importance of the OHCHR to provide expertise, monitoring, and impartial assessments in preventing violations and promoting accountability. Sadly, human rights continue to be gravely violated in many parts of the world. Russia's ongoing war of aggression against Ukraine stands as one of the most tragic examples. At the same time, we must not lose sight of Russia's decades-long occupation of Georgia's Abkhazia and Tskhinvali regions. The affected population continues to endure ethnic discrimination, arbitrary detentions, restrictions on movement, denial of property rights, prohibition of education in the native Georgian language, and other grave violations. These abuses persist under the conditions of occupation and effective control of the Russian Federation, as confirmed by the European Court of Human Rights and the International Criminal Court. Again, this backdrop... Georgia reiterates its call on the Russian Federation as the occupying power to fully comply with the obligations under the EU-mediated 12 August 2008 ceasefire agreement and ensure immediate and unhindered access of the OCHR and other international and regional human rights monitoring mechanisms to the occupied regions of Georgia. Thank you.

Thank you, Ambassador.

The floor to Qatar.

Thank you, Vice President. We cannot overcome current challenges individually, hence the importance of technical assistance and capacity building in the sphere of human rights as per the needs and priorities of states to enable them to overcome their challenges as how to get their commitment in this field. It's important to grant to human rights, especially the right to development, the importance it merits and for it to be treated on an equal footing. Thanks to objective dialogue and positive cooperation, taking into account the universality of human rights, their interdependence, and the fact that they're mutually reinforcing, we cooperate with the UN and its human rights mechanisms, including with the Human Rights Council and OHCHR, which reflects our interest in technical cooperation and capacity building, we have supported OHCHR in many programs in the context of the UN Training and Documentation Center in Doha. We've also hosted the UN House in Doha, as well as other UN offices and agencies, which allows us to contribute to international cooperation to build capacities and provide technical assistance in many spheres. Thank you.

Albania is next.

President, Albania thanks the High Commissioner for his report and underline the importance of technical assistance and capacity building as essential tool of this Council. We remain concerned by the human rights situation in several countries under consideration. In Libya, political fragmentation and insecurity continue to harm civilians, requiring strengthened rule of law and transitional justice. We urge the authorities to advance accountability and safeguard the rights of all, including immigrants. In Haiti, gang violence and the collapse of services demand urgent international and support to reinforce national institutions. In Cambodia, restriction of civil space highlights the needs for stronger protection of fundamental freedoms. In DRC, ongoing violence in eastern East province continues to generate grave abuse, particularly against women and children, making accountability and transnational justice priorities. In Yemen, the protracted conflict perpetuated one of the world's worst humanitarian crisis requiring institution building and protection of civilians. We welcome the work of the National Commission of Inquiry and encourage full cooperation with the Office of High Commissioner. Madam Vice President, Albania strongly support the efforts of OSCHR in this context. We believe technical assistance delivered in cooperation with the states concerned and with participation of civil society is vital for sustainable improvement in human rights and for building resilience institutions. Thank you.

Thank you. I gave you more time. Thank you, Madam Vice President.

Japan expresses its gratitude to the Secretary-General for his report on the role and achievements of OHCHR in assisting Cambodia in the promotion and protection of human rights. We appreciate the practical technical assistance that OHCHR provides by engaging with Cambodian government agencies and various stakeholders. Additionally, we commend Cambodia for its cooperation with UN human rights mechanisms to jointly improve the human rights situation in the country. Technical cooperation and capacity building support are powerful tools for bolstering government efforts to improve the human rights situation in Cambodia. A prime example of this is OHR support for Cambodia in implementing recommendations made during the UPR and received from the treaty bodies, which we highly commend. The report, however, highlights the ongoing challenge of a shrinking political and civic space in Cambodia. We urge the government to make efforts toward expanding political and civic space, ensuring an environment conducive to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly and association, enabling all parties to operate freely. We also hope that OHCHR will continue to provide appropriate support in this area. Japan remains committed to working with Cambodia as a partner in collaboration with the international community, including the United Nations and other relevant stakeholders. I thank you.

Thank you.

I give the floor to the Maldives.

Thank you, Madam Vice President. The Maldives thanks the High Commissioner and his office for their indispensable work in advancing technical cooperation. We recognize the crucial role that OHCHR's technical assistance and capacity building play in supporting national development and improving human rights situations on the ground. The Maldives firmly believes that technical cooperation and capacity building are among the most effective and constructive tools of the Human Rights Council in fostering meaning and lasting change. This is precisely the vision of the LDC SEEDS Trust Fund. Over the years, it has enabled LDCs and SEEDS, including those without a physical presence in Geneva, to participate meaningfully in the work of the Council. Madam Vice President, last year, the Maldives had the honor of hosting the Trust Fund workshop for the Asia region, providing a valuable opportunity to take stock of the fund's achievements while identifying practical ways to further enhance its reach, impact, and accessibility. LDCs and SEEDS continue to face multifaceted challenges including economic vulnerabilities and the devastating consequences of climate change. These challenges have placed considerable strain on our development pathways. We therefore call on the international community to continue extending targeted needs-based support to the trust fund. I thank you.

Thank you. Give the floor to Iceland.

Thank you, Madam Vice-President.

Human rights are at the core of Iceland's foreign policy, and we greatly value the work of the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights to promote and protect them worldwide. At a time of growing pushbacks against democracy and fundamental freedoms, this work has never been more important. Technical assistance and capacity building are vital for states to strengthen institutions, uphold the rule of law, and turn commitments into reality. In many cases, this support makes the difference between principles on paper and rights enjoyed in daily life. As a member of this Council, Iceland is committed to constructive cooperation with the OHCHR and all member states. We will continue to build on our strengths and emphasize collaboration and respectful dialogue irrespective of background or circumstance. Reflecting the importance we place on this mandate, Iceland has more than doubled its predictable core contribution to OHCHR for 2024 to 2028, reinforcing both its independence and the sustainability of its work. In closing, for Iceland, the priority is clear: human rights must remain at the heart of our collective efforts. OHCHR's technical cooperation and capacity building are indispensable tools to turn principles into practice and ensure that dignity, freedom and justice become lived realities for all.

I thank you.

Thank you. I give the floor to Gambia.

Thank you, Madam Vice-President. The Gambia comments the Office of the HC and wishes to reaffirm the central importance of technical cooperation and capacity building in the work of this council as a vital instrument for solidarity, partnership, and genuine progress in the protection of human rights on the ground. Since our democratic transition in 2017, the Gambia has benefited greatly from the technical assistance of the Office of the High Commissioner and other international partners in our quest to reestablish our human rights credentials. The establishment of an OCHR country office and the support for the TRC, as well as the establishment and strengthening of our National Human Rights Commission, have been key in advancing the protection of fundamental rights, accountability, and legal reforms. Our National Human Rights Commission has been particularly pivotal in driving a paradigm shift and entrenching a culture of respect for the rule of law and human rights in our society. Madam Vice President, The Gambia's journey demonstrates the transformative value of technical cooperation and experience sharing. We therefore urge the Council to strengthen and adequately resource its technical assistance programs to enable all states translate commitments into tangible improvements in the lives of their people. In this regard, the Gambia fully aligns itself with the statement delivered by the African group, as well as other groups of which we are a member, and reaffirm our collective commitment to strengthening cooperation, dialogue, and capacity building as essential pillars of this Council's work and to ensuring that technical assistance is guided by the principles of objectivity, non-selectivity and genuine partnership. Thank you.

Muchísimas gracias.

Thank you.

I give the floor to China.

Vice President. Human Rights Advisory Service, technical assistance, capacity building, constitutes A vital mandate of the Council. It helps to effectively advance the promotion protection. of human rights. China has consistently supported the OHCHR's investment in this area. However, certain countries persistently push for country-specific mechanisms under agenda item 10, degrading a platform for dialogue and cooperation to a staging ground for naming and shaming. Where the concerned countries face difficulties in implementing the report recommendations, nobody lends a helping hand. The Knowledge Hub on the Promotion and Protection of Economic, Social, and Cultural Rights is established pursuant to the Council resolution on promoting and protecting economic, social, and cultural rights within the context of inequality, of which China is the main sponsors. China calls on the all parties to uphold the following principles, increase investment in this area. Firstly, respect the will and sovereignty of the concerned countries and proceed on the basis of full consultation with the countries. Secondly, maintain a result-oriented approach, providing more tangible assistance and less empty appeals and slogans. Thirdly, focus on capacity building and empowerment, emphasizing the promotion and protection of the right to development, as development is the core concern and the foundation of addressing all other issues. Thank you.

Muchisimas gracias.

Thank you very much. The floor to Cuba.

Thank you, Vice President. It's important to ensure sufficient resources, stable, predictable resources to promote respectful dialogue. Cooperation mechanisms must prioritize support to states that require it, implementation of recommendations accepted during UPRs. implementation of recommendations from the treaty bodies, capacity building activities, and provision of advisory and assessment services when it comes to data collection and legislation. That's the most effective way to tackle national challenges in human rights. We should raise the profile, the achievements and positive experiences on the ground as a result of cooperation and technical assistance actions and of advisory services offered by OHCHR. Technical assistance and capacity building, provision of advice, technical assistance and capacity building. should be based on the request of the country concerned. Technical assistance and capacity building cannot be conditioned to the political agendas of donors. They must meet the needs identified by the receiving states themselves. We urge OHHR to continue upholding respect for this principle during its mandate. We're opposed to instrumentalization of item 10 for political ends. States and other actors must respect the noble purposes that motivated the inclusion in the Council's agenda of this theme, which continues to be paramount in supporting the efforts of States in promoting and protecting human rights. Thank you.

Thank you very much. I give the floor to the Dominican Republic.

Thank you very much, Vice President. The Dominican Republic. values item 10 as a key for a space for promoting international cooperation and capacity building. Along those lines, we draw attention to a grave threat to the full enjoyment of human rights and an existential reality for millions of persons around the world, rising sea levels, a clear and present reality that erodes territories, displaces communities, and jeopardizes basic rights such as life, health, housing, water, and food. In that context, the Dominican Republic, as pen holder, together with the Bahamas, Cabo of the Cyprus, Ecuador, Maldives and Malta is honored to present to this session of the Council a draft resolution on the rising sea levels and their impact on the full enjoyment of human rights. The first time this... critical theme to many countries has been brought before the Council. It seeks to bolster both technical cooperation and capacity building and generate analytical studies to continue addressing this issue substantively in this forum. Dominican Republic and the countries of the core group request the support and co-sponsorship of all states for this historic initiative, convinced that only collectively can we ensure that no country faces alone the impacts of rising sea levels. I thank you.

Thank you very much. I give the floor to Malawi.

Madam Vice-President, Malawi aligns with the statement of the African Group and welcomes the report of the Secretary-General and the report of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, detailing the role and achievements in assisting governments in the promotion and protection of human rights. Malawi reaffirms the importance of technical cooperation and capacity building in the strengthening national human rights structures. We echo the emphasis on empowering national human rights institutions and national mechanism for implementation, reporting, and follow-ups. These institutions are essential in translating international human rights commitments into tangible progress at the national level. Malawi has benefited from international support in enhancing the capacity of our national human rights institutions and national mechanism for implementation, reporting, and follow-up. However, challenges such as limited funding, technical expertise, and coordination persist. We urge continued and targeted assistance to address these gaps, ensuring our institutions remain independent, effective, and responsive. We call for strengthened partnership between states, the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights and other stakeholders to foster sustainable capacity building. Let us work together to ensure these structures can further uphold their mandates in promoting and protecting human rights.

I thank you, Madam Vice President.

Thank you. I give the floor to Benin.

Thank you, Vice President. Benin aligns with the statements of the African group, and we thank the OHCHR for its efforts in implementing Council resolutions on technical assistance and capacity building. My country reaffirms the importance of technical assistance and capacity building as necessary support measures and tools of constructive dialogue with states beneficiaries of international commitments and obligations in the field of human rights. Benin also commends the sustainability of the Special Trust Fund for support for the participation of the LDCs and SIDS in the work of the Council and calls for its continued strengthening in the context of the recommendations contained in the Cotonou Declaration of 22nd May 2025. encourages OHCHR to pursue its technical assistance to states that so request, particularly when it comes to institutional strengthening, training, judiciary actors, and in human rights education. Thank you.

Thank you. I give the floor to Algeria.

Thank you, Vice President. We align ourselves with statement delivered by like-minded groups, and we reiterate our commitment to the Council's mandate with regards to capacity building and technical assistance in line with the relevant resolution. These activities should be based on cooperation, dialogue, respect of countries' priorities and sovereignty without politicization or interference. This item is key for supporting countries to fulfill their commitment, including UPR recommendations. In this light, Algeria calls for further support to developing countries, particularly in Africa, because they are facing challenges with regards to lack of resources, climate change, multidimensional crisis. All of these impede development and human rights. We remind you that cooperation between the South is complementary for exchange of best practices and expertise. In closing, we call for further technical support that is sustainable, fair, and predictable, based on a partnership, solidarity, and mutual support. And thank you very much.

Thank you. I give the floor to Colombia.

Thank you very much, Vice-President. Agenda item 10 of this Council highlights the importance of technical assistance and capacity building as a key element for the promotion and protection of human rights, particularly in the context of serious human rights violations and humanitarian crises that call for international solidarity. This is why the Government and the people of Colombia reject the abduction of Colombian citizens, Manuela Bedoya and a further citizen, in international borders on the EOS boat by the Israeli armed forces in full violation of international treaties. The government of Colombia asked for the immediate release of its own citizens and all the other members of the flotilla. and we ask all governments to act promptly and in a cooperated fashion to protect the lives of all of their citizens. These were boats that were in the Mediterranean to provide humanitarian aid to Gaza, given the immediate needs of the Gazan people. We reiterate our solidarity with the Palestinian people and restate our commitment to multilateralism in respect of international law and global justice. We believe there should be access to humanitarian aid at this time when the Palestinian people need it, and we must provide the technical assistance and capacity building that Palestine needs for its rebuilding. Thank you.

Thank you. I give the floor to Uganda.

Thank you, Vice President. I deliver the statement on behalf of the NAM. We firmly believe that this agenda item is an essential platform for states to share their vision and views to promote more effective technical cooperation and capacity building in the field of human rights. It is also a good opportunity for states to share concrete experiences, challenges, and information on assistance needed in the implementation of their human rights obligations and commitments. The NAM recalls that providing advisory services, technical and financial assistance at the request of the state concerned to support their respective actions and programs in the field of human rights is among the responsibility for the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, and therefore technical assistance and capacity building constitutes an essential component of the Office of the High Commissioner. The NAM emphasizes that the enhancement of international cooperation aimed at strengthening the capacity of states is essential for the effective promotion and protection of human rights and implementation of the 2030 Agenda Sustainable Development. NAM is also of the view that both Human Rights Council and the Office of the High Commissioner should increase their efforts in providing advisory services, capacity building, technical assistance, indeed, upon the request of the state concerned. In conclusion, Madam Vice-President, we reiterate that all human rights are universal, inalienable, and indivisible, and therefore the technical assistance should go beyond civil and political rights to include social and economic rights, including the right to development. I thank you.

Thank you very much. This was the last speaker on my list. And we'll now continue with the list of speakers. From the observers, I give the floor to Suriname on behalf of CARICOM.

Thank you, Madam Vice President. I'm honored to deliver this statement on behalf of the Caribbean Community, CARICOM. Our countries are committed to the principles enshrined in the Human Rights Charter, which seek to ensure the universal respect of the human rights of all peoples. We reiterate our appreciation for the emphasis put on technical cooperation of which many of our countries have been beneficiaries, including through mechanisms such as the LDC SIDS Trust Fund. Our participation within the Council's mechanisms provides not only an opportunity for us to dialogue and engage, but also equating ourselves on new developments and emerging human rights issues by learning from the good practices of other countries. The OHCHR Regional Office for CARICOM in the Bahamas illustrates another concrete example of the value of technical cooperation. As SIDS countries, the challenges and vulnerabilities we face persist. We therefore embrace the delivery of technical assistance and capacity building under item 10, which allows us to strengthen the rule of law and good governance, promote human rights education and training, and build domestic human rights protection institutions, including judiciary institutions and national human rights institutions. On behalf of the CARICOM, we thank the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights for its.

Thank you. I'm afraid we have to continue with the next speaker. The next speaker is Sweden.

Vice President, as global democratic backsliding continues unabated and the respect for and protection of human rights is being challenged, the essential role of the OHCHR is more apparent than ever. Sweden would therefore like to pay tribute to the OHCHR, its unique mandate and the critical work that is being carried out to protect and promote human rights globally and for all. Vice President, we thank the High Commissioner for the report work on the Human Rights Advisor Program, highlighting major achievements, challenges and a future vision. The Human Rights Advisory Programme constitutes a prime example of how OHCHR contributes effectively to states' efforts to fulfill their human rights obligations, making a real difference at country level. Sweden has been a staunch supporter of and a donor to this programme since its outset, and we encourage all efforts to ensure its long-term financial stability. Vice President, we call upon all states to fulfill all their financial obligations to the OHCHR in order to demonstrate our collective commitment to the principles enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and international human rights law. I thank you.

Thank you, Ambassador. The next speaker is Saudi Arabia.

Thank you, Vice President. We stress the great importance of this item because it is key to providing support to countries to build their national capacities in the realm of human rights without politicization or linking it to other items, which makes it irrelevant. Capacity building to Yemen and to enable its institutions to carry out their mandate in the field of protection of human rights. We express our concerns over grave violations by Houthi militias, including assaults of UN staff. Vice President, the Kingdom provides humanitarian, development, and economic support to Yemen through Salman Center for Relief and Saudi Fund for Development and the Yemen Reconstruction Program. Lately, we have provided additional development aid of over a billion Saudi riyal for the stability of Yemeni economy. We have hosted a high-profile world conference sponsored together with the UK and with the participation of over 35 countries. It saw the launch of the International Maritime Security Partnership to counter piracy, smuggling, and to protect trade routes. This shows our interest in the stability, security of Yemen and to support its people's aspirations. And thank you, Vice President.

Thank you, Ambassador. The next speaker is the United Arab Emirates.

Madam Vice-President, at the outset, the delegation of my country wanted to offer a vote of thanks to OHCHR for the technical assistance provided to the Government of Yemen. We welcome the report of the Third Commission of Inquiry on the human rights violations of Yemen, and that is despite the difficulties in the country. The delegation of my country welcomes efforts taken by OHCHR to meet the growing need for technical assistance and capacity building and the assistance to strengthen national institutions to promote human rights throughout the world. To conclude, we emphasize the need to finding solutions to assist OHCHR to provide technical assistance and capacity building and to ensure there are resources for all UN bodies to support states to ensure that they can appropriately progress to meet the SDGs and develop appropriately. Thank you, Madam Vice-President.

Muchas gracias.

Thank you. The next speaker is the Ambassador of Finland.

Madam Vice President, Finland aligns itself with the EU statement. Finland supports politically and financially the very important work of the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights in providing technical assistance and capacity building. We welcome the progress made in many countries in strengthening their human rights frameworks.

We commend improving the rights of disabled

persons, for example, in Uganda, where the rights of disabled persons were integrated into

public policy, resulting in the adoption of inclusive education policies and improved accessibility standards in public infrastructure.

We note with appreciation that even in conflict zones, some actions have been possible. In Sudan, it was possible for OHCHR to offer remote support for civil society and human rights defenders. And in Ukraine, the Human Rights Monitoring Mission provided important reporting on violations of international human rights law that were committed in the context of the Russian invasion of Ukraine. We are deeply concerned that only 1% of the UN's expenditure goes to human rights work. This vital pillar must be properly funded.

The UN was founded on peace, security, development, and human rights, and these pillars are inseparable and interdependent.

Human rights must not be left behind.

Thank you.

Thank you. The next speaker is the Russian Federation.

Thank you, Deputy President. The Russian Federation traditionally considers provision of technical and advisory assistance as priority areas of the UN's human rights work. Moreover, we believe that the main task of OHCHR on this track should be provision of practical assistance to countries as per their request. In that regard, we continue to insist that the office should strictly abide by its mandate and to avoid mandate creep, seeking to take upon itself some kind of oversight functions. We believe that technical and advisory assistance should be provided exclusively in a depoliticized context. Particular concern, as before, are ongoing attempts to politicize this purely technical sphere. We again draw the attention of the Council to the fact that use of issues of technical assistance for political point scoring is counterproductive and ultimately undermines the spirit of cooperation in the Council, discrediting the mechanism itself for provision of help to states. Work in this area should be focused exclusively on bolstering capacities of states in the sphere of human rights and improving their sustainability and resilience to challenges. Abuse by certain groups of countries of this agenda is a blatant attempt to interfere in the internal affairs of sovereign states. We urge for such practices that undermine the authority of the Council to be put an end to, and we should focus instead on real work to ensure and protect human rights. Thank you.

Thank you. The next speaker is Bahrain.

Thank you, Madam Vice-President. We align ourselves with the statements made by the groups we belong to, regional and political groups. We have taken good note of the oral update and of the reports that have been submitted under this agenda item, and we trust that this agenda item will be able to be considered with the appropriate attention. This is an item which provides a connection and support and provides the expertise allowing us to support best practice. we should have creative, lasting solutions to breathe new life into agenda item 10. Madam Vice-President, we've always considered that technical cooperation and capacity building would be a golden opportunity to improve the climate in the human rights sector. So we hope these efforts will be ongoing and as will cooperation with OHCHR. Thank you.

Muchas gracias.

Thank you. I give the floor to the Islamic Republic of Iran.

Madam Vice President, the Islamic Republic of Iran attaches high importance to agenda item 10, which offers a constructive platform for dialogue, cooperation, and capacity building in the field of human rights. We firmly believe that technical assistance should be provided solely at the request of the concerned state in accordance with its national priority and with full respect for its sovereignty and territory. We assert that cooperation under this item must remain free from politicization, selectivity, and double standards, utilizing capacity building as a means of exerting pressure on their mutual trust and genuine cooperation. We also emphasize that the right to development is intrinsically linked to the realization of human rights. Unilateral coercive measures must be lifted to enable meaningful and effective capacity building, Iran remain committed to constructive engagement under agenda item 10, grounded in dialogue, mutual respect, and cooperation with the ultimate goal of promoting human rights globally.

I thank you.

Muchas gracias.

Thank you very much. And I'll get the floor to Nepal.

Thank you, Madam Vice President. Nepal thanks the High Commissioner for his report. which underscores the importance of technical assistance and capacity building as a vital tool for the protection and promotion of human rights. We believe technical cooperation must be demand-driven, context-specific, and undertaken in consultation with the state concerned. It should be carried out in the spirit of respect for sovereignty, noninterference, partnership, and dialogue, and should contribute to strengthening institutions, building capacities, and enhancing national ownership of human rights obligations. As a functioning democracy, Nepal has been constructively engaged with the United Nations human rights mechanisms and benefited from technical cooperation, notably in our homegrown peace process. Madam Vice President, Nepal stresses the need for enhanced international cooperation and adequate resources to complement national efforts to fulfilling human rights obligations and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. Nepal is committed to working closely with UNHCR and all partners to advance human rights through dialogue, cooperation, and capacity building. I thank you, Madam Vice President.

Muchisimas gracias.

Thank you very much indeed. And I give the floor to Malaysia.

Thank you, Madam Vice President. Malaysia aligns itself with the statements of groups to which it belongs to. Malaysia reaffirms its strong support for technical assistance and capacity building under the auspices of the HRC and OHCHR. Such support must be demand-driven, tailored to national context, and provided through constructive dialogue and cooperation. We value the role of the OHCHR in assisting states to implement UPR recommendations and strengthen national mechanisms. implementation, reporting, and follow-up. These efforts remain crucial in advancing human rights as well as a human rights-based approach to the Sustainable Development Goals. However, we cannot help but be concerned about the UN's liquidity crisis and its ability to provide technical cooperation as adequate and predictable resources are vital. In this regard, Malaysia encourages all member states to contribute to the UN Voluntary Fund for Technical Cooperation and to meet their financial obligations to the UN in a timely manner. As ASEAN Chair in 2025, Malaysia will continue to work closely with all member states to promote regional cooperation and practical partnerships to advance human rights through technical assistance and capacity building initiatives. I thank you.

Thank you very much. I give the floor to the delegation of Rwanda.

Madam Vice President, Rwanda aligns itself with the statement delivered by Ghana on behalf of the African Group. In Rwanda, the Human Rights Advisor Program has provided valuable advisory and technical support, contributing to improve the coordination, strengthen technical expertise, and enhanced reporting to international and regional mechanisms. Furthermore, it has facilitated constructive dialogue between institutions and civil society, promoting inclusive participation. The program has assisted in building national capacities through training workshops and human rights dialogues, including those focused on economic, social, and cultural rights, as well as business and human rights. and the universal periodic review. Support has also been provided to the Ministry of Justice in the process of establishing a permanent national mechanism for reporting, implementation, and follow-up. While progress has been achieved, we want to acknowledge that challenges remain, including limited resources and the evolving human rights environment. Sustained technical assistance and effective coordination with national institutions will be of continued importance in addressing these challenges. and the various constructive engagement and scores that our partnerships should be free from any forms of politicization and grounded in mutual respect and good faith to further strengthen national capacity and ensure the effective implementation of human rights obligations. I thank you.

Thank you very much indeed. I'll give the floor to Armenia now.

Thank you, Madam Vice President. Technical cooperation and capacity building are essential for translating human rights commitments into meaningful progress on the ground. Such cooperation ensures the effective implementation of international human rights obligations and strengthens national human rights institutions, paving the way for durable peace and development. As part of our commitment, we have established the National Mechanism for Implementation, Reporting, and Follow-up on Human Rights, which serve as a central platform to streamline interagency cooperation and ensure systematic implementation and reporting on Armenia's international human rights obligations. Armenia attaches particular importance to OHCHR's contributions to peace and reconciliation through documenting, reporting, and publicizing the outcomes of assessments and ensuring that severe violations of human rights are not overlooked, forgotten, or denied. We underscore that technical cooperation must be guided by the genuine commitment to improving human rights situation on the ground, particularly in conflict settings and humanitarian emergencies. To this end, adequate, predictable, and sustainable funding is critical to ensuring that OHCHR's capacity to effectively fulfill its mandate. We are therefore concerned by the consequences of the UN liquidity crisis and call on states to maintain their active support and engagement with the OHCHR. Thank you. Muchas gracias.

Thank you. I give the floor to Egypt.

Vice President, Egypt reaffirms the importance of technical cooperation and capacity building for supporting national efforts and institutions to improve the human rights situations in the concerned states. It stresses that such technical cooperation must be provided upon the request of state concern and in accordance with their needs without imposing specific policies. The success of technical cooperation depends on its ability to enhance the ownership by states of their national human rights efforts to build the capacities of their national institutions and to maintain dialogue and constructive cooperation with the concerned state while refraining from politicizing such assistance. In closing, Egypt calls for giving priority to ensuring adequate funding for technical cooperation and capacity building with a view to achieving progress in supporting states in the promotion and protection of human rights. It emphasizes the importance of strengthening partnership between the UN, international financial institutions and development partners to enhance the effectiveness of technical cooperation and of linking technical assistance programs to the priorities of concerned states and the objectives of sustainable development. And thank you, Vice President.

Thank you very much. I give the floor to the United Kingdom.

Thank you, Madam Vice President. The UK remains deeply concerned by the seriousness and scale of human rights violations in Yemen. This includes growing restrictions on women and their freedom of movement, child and forced marriage, sexual violence, and attacks on freedom of religion and belief. We strongly condemn the arbitrary detentions by the Houthis, including of UN personnel, humanitarian workers, and NGO staff, as well as indiscriminate attacks on civilians and civilian infrastructure. We call on all parties to the conflict to respect their human rights obligations. In Nepal, we regret the loss of life during recent protests. It is vital now that Nepal's interim government is able to deliver its agenda to strengthen democratic institutions and create a peaceful and inclusive transition ahead of elections in March. We welcome Bangladesh's continued cooperation with OHCHR and the establishment of a three-year mission and urge full implementation of the UN fact-finding recommendations. We support the consensus-led reform process in Bangladesh and encourage credible democratic elections that uphold human rights, strengthen institutions and reflect the will of the Bangladeshi people. We urge the protection of the rights and dignity of Rohingya refugees. Thank you.

Thank you. I give the floor to Iraq.

Thank you, Madam Vice President. The delegation of my country believes that agenda item 10 is one of the most important for the credibility of OHCHR. It's a very important point for developing countries too and for LDCs that are not able to implement necessary programs to strengthen their national institutions on their own. This must be conducted with the agreement of the states concerned, depending on their real needs. National mandates under this agenda item often become mechanisms that simply look at follow-up instead of implementing technical assistance. And this prevents states from raising local human rights needs, whereas the Council should provide a safe space where all states can act in trust and feel comfortable in mentioning the concerns that affect them. Thank you.

Thank you. I now give the floor to the delegation of India.

Madam Vice-President, India reaffirms its support to OHCHR's efforts for capacity building and technical assistance to promote and protect human rights. As the resolution founding the Council, its institution building package, and the Vienna Declaration and Program of Action clearly underline that such technical assistance must be provided in consultation and with the consent of the concerned member state, and should align with their national objectives and priorities. In this spirit, we urge that to achieve tangible improvements on the ground, the Council and its mechanism should remain focused on empowering member states by developing institutions and capacities. Madam Vice President, it is equally important that technical cooperation efforts should prioritize the implementation of the accepted UPR recommendations by constructive engagement between states and the OHCHR. It will foster mutual trust and sustainable progress on the ground. We stress that this agenda item must retain its non-politicized cooperative character. Any attempt to misuse it for purposes other than genuine capacity building will undermine its credibility. The sovereign role of states in the promotion and protection of human rights must be respected and upheld. Madam Vice President, India remains a committed partner. Our consistent contributions to the UN Voluntary Trust Fund for Technical Cooperation and the UPR Implementation Fund reflects our enduring support for practical, collaborative human rights advancement. Thank you.

Thank you very much. I now give the floor to the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela.

Thank you, Vice President. Genuine dialogue and cooperation, which is transparent, not politicized, and without any conditions attached, must lie at the basis of promotion and protection of human rights in order to strengthen the capacity of states. The only sine qua non requirement must be to have the agreement of the states concerned, and there must be close consultation with them. Financing for technical assistance, cooperation, and capacity building should not have any political agenda. Quite the reverse, it must occur pursuant to the UN Charter principles, especially the principles of respect for sovereignty and non-intervention, and it must be in line with the will and the real needs of states. The principle of international cooperation in the UN Charter invites member states to put in place the stability and well-being which are necessary for peaceful, friendly relations between nations, based on the principle of equal rights and self-determination of peoples, promoting universal respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms for all. To conclude, we reiterate the need to eliminate from the work of Council politicization, selectivity, double standards, and the use of human rights to attack countries of the global South. Thank you.

Thank

you. I give the floor to Pakistan.

Madam Vice-President, Pakistan aligns with the statement of OIC and acknowledges the role of Human Rights Council's technical assistance mandate in assisting States to enhance their efforts for promotion and protection of their citizens' rights. Capacity issues deeply impact the realization of the common objective of universalizing respect for human rights. We underscore that efforts should be doubled to provide assistance to the developing and least developed countries, especially to tackle the negative impacts of climate change, pandemic, and geopolitical conflicts. reaffirm that when guided by the principles of UNGA Resolution 60/251, the technical assistance mandate can serve as a catalyst for furthering international cooperation and dialogue, while laying a constructive foundation for the advancement of the human rights agenda. Madam Vice President, Pakistan strongly believes in building synergies and cooperation in the noble pursuit of human rights for all. As a responsible partner, we've always remained forthcoming in building strong partnerships with the HRC's initiatives, including by being a regular contributor to the OHCHR and the voluntary funds. We stress the technical assistance mandate must preserve its apolitical character and should never be instrumentalized as a means to interfere in the internal affairs of the states, lest it undermines the Council's credibility. We also take this opportunity to thank the OHCHR for their role in assisting states in advancing their development. I thank you very much.

Thank you. I give the floor to Sierra Leone.

Thank you, Madam Vice-President. Jamaica underscores the critical importance of technical assistance and capacity building in supporting developing countries in their efforts to promote and protect human rights. International cooperation remains indispensable to these efforts, particularly in ensuring that small and resource-constrained delegations are not left behind. We draw attention to the persistent challenges to access limited participation funding faced by small delegations, especially those that are not members of the Council. These limitations hinder effective participation in Council processes and engagement with human rights mechanisms. Jamaica will undergo its universal periodic review in November and expresses sincere appreciation for the support provided through the Voluntary Trust Fund, which helps to strengthen representation and ensure meaningful engagement. My delegation urges partners to explore innovative approaches to technical assistance, such as hybrid capacity-building platforms and targeted support for non-member delegations, to ensure equitable access and sustained participation.

Jamaica associates itself with the statement delivered on behalf of CARICOM.

Thank you. Thank you. Lao People's Democratic Republic.

Thank you, Madam Vice President. My delegation aligns itself with the statement of the groups to which it belongs. The Lao PDR acknowledges that the technical assistance and capacity building play a crucial role in strengthening and supporting member states to fulfill the human rights obligation. We are of the view that any provision of technical support and capacity building should be guided by the needs and priorities of the member states concerned based on the genius dialogue and cooperation. The Lao PDR appreciate the role of the Office of the Human Rights Commissioner for Human Rights in providing technical assistance and capacity building to member states in implementing the works of the human rights mechanism. In this connection, we encourage member states to continue providing financial contribution to the UN Voluntary Fund in order to support states in advancing human rights at the country level.

I thank you.

Thank you, Jordan.

Thank you, Vice President. We thank the High Commissioner and the Secretary-General for the various reports under this agenda item, which highlight the importance of a collaborative, constructive approach to promote and protect human rights. We have followed with interest the information on the work of the National Commission of Inquiry for Human Rights Violations in Yemen, as well as persisting challenges in that country in terms of accountability and transitional justice. It's necessary to pursue capacity building and technical assistance from that commission to fully discharge its mandate in full independence. Agenda item 10 is the key agenda item in this Council since it provides a non-politicized targeted cooperation platform and allows for capacity building for states to allow them to discharge their international obligations in the field. Thank you.

Muchas gracias.

Thank you. I give the floor to Eritrea.

Thank you, Madam Vice President. We recognize the critical importance of strengthening agenda item 10. Eritrea believes this agenda is vital to help states build institutions that reflect their own needs and priorities. When we speak of technical assistance, we reiterate once again that it must be clear that this is not about imposing external or Western institutional models. The goal is to empower nations to develop and strengthen their institutions in line with their national contexts. Item 10 provides A vital platform for genuine cooperation with states that have voluntarily accepted its mandate. It is therefore essential to preserve its intended purpose and integrity. We are concerned by increasing attempts to broaden Item 10 beyond its original scope, shifting attention away from technical assistance and capacity building toward issues unrelated to its mandate. Such politicization risks undermining the spirit of dialogue and support that Item 10 was designed to foster and ultimately diminishes its effectiveness. Our collective responsibility is to uphold the rights of all people. To achieve this, we need to work on our cooperation, respect sovereignty, and safeguard the right to development for all. I thank you.

Thank you. Uganda, please.

Thank you, Vice President. We align with the statements of the Nam African Group and the OIC. We appreciate the OHCHR for their continued effort in amplifying the importance of technical assistance and capacity building to foster national resilience in the promotion and protection of human rights. Madam Vice President, technical assistance is more than just financial support. To us, technical assistance, if it was up to us, would actually be agenda item two, right after the High Commissioner's speech. It embodies our collective commitment to inclusivity, equity, and empowering the principle that every voice matters in the human rights dialogue that shapes our global society. Today, we are privileged to have a statement delivered by the LDCs or SEEDs that are participating in this session. That alone demonstrates that this Council is committed to have every voice from every part of the world to be heard, those that could have different opportunities from those that are blessed to be here. those whose bank accounts read different from bank accounts of powerful countries, and to remind us all that beyond interests and power lies values that this Council could promote beyond state. Madam Vice-President, we take stock of the achievements and the generosity of Member States through their voluntary contribution that have enabled technical assistance. And we request and pray that their generosity goes beyond political interests and empowers every state to feel hard, real, and present. I thank you.

Thank you.

Give the floor to Tunisia.

Thank you.

We are very pleased with the role

and of the impact of technical cooperation and capacity building when it comes to human rights, which allows us to realize rights and freedoms at national, regional, international levels. We are committed to pursuing our constructive cooperation with international human rights mechanisms, respecting our sovereignty. our national priorities and the choice of our people and as per our constitution, national legislation and international commitments, it's important for technical cooperation to take into account all rights, all rights that are indivisible and focus more on economic, social and cultural rights, including the right to development. It's just as important to ensure respect for state sovereignty and the principles of objectivity, neutrality, dialogue, partnership and non-politicization, and to respond to the needs and priorities of states concerned with their consent. We call for streamlining the work of UN mechanisms to evaluate the effectiveness of their activities in coordination with countries concerned in technical cooperation. Thank you.

Thank

you. I give the floor to the Philippines.

Thank you, Madam Vice President. The Philippines takes note of the OHCHR's report on the Human Rights Advisor Program. The Philippines has long been a strong supporter of the OHCHR's capacity building mandate, having completed a three-year technical cooperation program in 2024, contributed to the OHCHR's voluntary funds, and welcomed the Human Rights Advisor since 2017. At present, we are implementing our sustainable development cooperation framework with the UN, where human rights are mainstreamed. Based on this extensive engagement, we underscore that technical cooperation is most effective when aligned with national priorities and when governments lead from planning to execution. National ownership garners strong support from domestic stakeholders, thus ensuring sustainability. Amid the UN liquidity crisis, it is imperative that scarce financial resources be used judiciously in line with the high standards of transparency and accountability. The deployment of HRAs must be on a demonstrable need and with the consent of the host state. The UN should also consider the option of providing pre-deployment and continuing human rights training to UN personnel from other agencies assigned to country teams. Equipping them with the necessary knowledge and tools to incorporate human rights into their work offer a more cost-efficient approach to mainstreaming. This could likewise reinforce the interlinkages of the UN's 3 pillars of work, peace, development and human rights by breaking silos and creating synergies for more responsive and agile UN system. Thank you. Muchísimas gracias.

Thank you. I give the floor to Dominika.

Thank you, Madam Vice President. Dominique aligns with the statement delivered on behalf of the CARICOM group in Geneva and commends the OHCHR for its ongoing commitment to advancing

its technical assistance and capacity building mandate despite current operational and financial challenges. Notably, we welcome with appreciation the OHCHR's continued efforts to implement programs and initiatives that respond to the specific needs of small and developing states, in particular small island developing states.

recall the establishment of the OHCHR CARICOM Regional Office, a significant development that is already playing a pivotal role in supporting CARICOM member states like Dominica in responding effectively to the unique

challenges and in strengthening human rights frameworks. Dominica further recognizes the contributions of the LDCs SIDS Trust Fund and the UPR Voluntary Fund in facilitating the effective participation of small and developing states in the work of this Council.

We underscore the critical role played by these initiatives in supporting states with limited resources or without a permanent presence in Geneva, ensuring their

voices are heard and their perspectives reflected.

However, we remain concerned about the ongoing lack of predictable and sustained resources for technical assistance and capacity building.

We therefore express our sincere appreciation to donors and encourage continued support of

programmes and initiatives tailored to the needs of small and developing states. I thank you.

Thank you very much. Give the floor to Mauritania.

Thank you, Vice-President. We support the statements delivered by the groups we belong to, and we welcome the report on the program on human rights consultants, that it's proven its worth in allowing states to honor their commitments in the field. We have always cooperated with the UN in several spheres. We have received technical support provided by OHCHR when it comes to follow-up, accountability, implementation of recommendations from UN mechanisms and for capacity building, in particular the support given to the National Mechanism Against Torture. However, we are concerned by the lack of financing, which poses a threat to the sustainability of support programs, which remains necessary given the importance of finding financing solutions to remedy that situation. In conclusion, our country is convinced that capacity building is a central tool in delivering on human rights commitments as per the principles of inclusivity. Thank you.

Thank you. Honduras is next on my list.

Thank you, Vice-President. Honduras is grateful for the presentation of the report, which confirms that capacity building and technical assistance have been very positive in supporting states in implementing their obligations at international level, bolstering national institutions and ensuring that Agenda 2030 is implemented under the principle of leaving no one behind. Therefore, we take note with concern of the challenges highlighted, in particular the absence of financial resources that jeopardize the durability and expansion of capacity building programs for developing countries, having that technical support is a very crucial tool in the formulation and implementation of inclusive public policies. Finally, we join others in calling for this theme to be maintain on the agenda of the Council and the need to bolster cooperation and capacity building mechanisms as they support countries in their processes of planning and implementation of policy, integrating various profiles and providing stable, sustainable resources. Thank you.

Thank you very much. I give the floor to Yemen.

Thank you, Vice-President. The Republic of Yemen stresses the importance of item 10 on the agenda on technical assistance and capacity building, since this is an important tool for supporting national institution promoting a culture of human rights and ensuring respect for commitments of states in the field. This item embodies the spirit of international multilateral cooperation and constitutes a long-term investment into protection and promotion of human rights for all, and a lever to allow states to implement UPR recommendations. We must preserve this item, protect it from any attempts at politicization or use it as a tool for pressure against state beneficiaries, and we need to ensure respect the choice and priorities of states concerned. We are troubled by the liquidity crisis, which has been ongoing for two years, and its impact on scheduled activities under this item. We urge member states to protect this item and to finance it as it deserves. Thank you.

Thank

you. That was the last speaker on my list. Moving now to the NHRIs and NGOs, I give the floor to Sam.

Thank you, Madam Vice President. Sam for Rights and Liberties Organization and Rights Radar for Human Rights affirm that true capacity building begins with respect for human dignity and freedom. Across Yemen, arbitrary detention has become a weapon of war used to silence voices and spread fear. Politicians, academics, journalists, and activists, and even ordinary civilians have been held in official and secret detention centers. Recently, Houthi forces launched a wave of massive arrests and carried out repression in many areas, including Ibb and Sana'a provinces. Over 11 years of conflict, more than 25,000 people have been detained, 23,000 by the Houthis, 2,000 by other groups, and more than 2,700 have been forcibly disappeared. These are not just numbers; they are cries for freedom. We urge this Council to take firm and decisive action to demand the release of all civilians, investigate abuses, and ensure accountability. Technical assistance help Yemen rebuild justice and open the path to peace. I thank you.

Muchas gracias.

Thank you. Give the floor to Irada, Organisation Against Torture and Forced Disappearance. Absent. OIPMA is next.

Madam Vice President, to address Yemen's multifaceted crisis, we urge the Council to adopt targeted strategies that go beyond capacity building and technical cooperation to tackle the deeper political structures fueling the conflict. OITMA recommends the following. One, the Council should call on relevant UN bodies and the Quartet on Yemen to move beyond conflict management toward a sustainable resolution grounded in jus cogens. Two, the Council should urge Yemeni stakeholders, with support from the Security Council and the Quartet, to ease internal tensions by restructuring the Presidential Leadership Council into a simpler model, comprising an honorary president and two vice presidents, one for northern, one for southern affairs. Three, the Council should recommend establishing 2 transitional governments, one focused on reclaiming Sana'a from the Houthis and restoring governments in the north, the other on rebuilding southern institutions in preparation for a federal southern state that guarantees the rights of its people. Four, the Council should support capacity building for the Southern Transitional Council and recommend a Northern Transitional Council to help lay the foundation for northern governance and the recovery of areas under Houthi control. These measures aim to prevent future conflict by promoting sustainable peace and inclusive governance in Yemen. Thank you.

Gracias.

Thank you. Next is China Great Wall Society.

President, I'm from Xi'an, today I'd like to elaborate on China's contribution to capacity building and technical assistance. We adhere to multilateralism and develop friendly relations with developing countries. In agriculture, we help Burkina Faso to increase the agricultural yield. In health, we launched large-scale anti-malaria assistance, providing billions of doses of drugs. Recently with, uh, technical advancement, uh, we further enhanced, uh, uh, cutting edge areas, uh, technical assistance, uh, we have, uh, developed, uh, digital infrastructure projects, uh, and to help in Tanzania as the wide band, uh, internet. infrastructure. We have actively engaged in human resources development, have 1,700 projects. In 2025, we plan to develop 2,008 projects covering 50,000 people. As a young generation, we call on all countries to abandon technical barriers and the natural sanctions, continue to develop technical assistance and help to further develop the Global Human Rights Course. Thank you.

Yes.

Thank you. Center for Gender Justice and Women's Empowerment. Thank you.

Thank you, Vice President. Egypt, a state outside the Chemical Weapons Convention, facilitate the transfer of Iranian chemical agents into Sudan, threatening the al-Qaida-linked al-Bara bin Malik Brigade, sanctioned by the U.S. last week. This requires urgent Item 10 accountability and prevention. Almost 8 billion U.S. dollars in Sudanese gold has been smuggled into Egypt in two years, while 6 billion cubic meters of Nile of Nile water have been taken beyond quota. Sudan's farms and herds are drained amid war. These abuses must be addressed through item 10, protection and technical assistance. Port Sudan is now a hub for weapons, human trafficking. Thank you.

Sudan has a point of order.

We requested this intervention because the statement has nothing to do with the topic, which is capacity building. We wish that to remind the speaker and others of the topic, or to not speak at all in the first place. And thank you.

Thank you. As long as a speaker is addressing human rights issues relevant to the agenda item under consideration and is situating his or her comment within this context, reference to countries are permissible. With that in mind, I give the floor back to the speaker to finish. Thank you.

Thank you. North Sudan is now a hub for weapons, human trafficking, and kidnapping, with Egyptians backing, helping the army hide rape.

Crimes.

Terrorist organizations and this Council must act through item 10, and thank you for cooperation. Terrorist organizations not only pose an internal risk, but also an external risk, as we witnessed the terrorist attack in the UK yesterday. I, a Jewish mother and...

Thank you, Sir.

What is the relationship between terrorism on the one hand and capacity building on the other hand? We call upon the President to ask the speaker to speak within the limits of the item under consideration, and thank you very much.

Thank you. Let me give out the five seconds that are remaining. Thank you.

I, a Jewish mother and scholar, was threatened by a British student in a university lecture hall in the UK after 20 years of work with marginalized communities. I lost my freedom and my...

Thank you. Next speaker, please. FEDH is next.

Thank you, ma'am, Vice President. The Cochrane countries on Sri Lanka for last 16 years should insist that Sri Lanka to propose proper OHCHR mechanism like NAMI reporter special for Sri Lankan under Agenda 4 at the Council and refer Sri Lanka to ICC requested by three former OHCHR High Commissioners. Sri Lankan Sinhala government met genocide Eelam Tamils by killing more than over 147,000 Tamils between December 2008, May 2009. Eelam Tamils ask for international impartial mechanisms and refer to ICC for last 16 years and two days ago was the final day of relay hunger strike organized by the Association of Relatives of the forcibly disappeared in the North and East was killed in Jaffna with campaigners demanding international justice for enforced disappearances and mass atrocities committed against Tamils, and they were angry, and Tamil mothers burned the Council's draft resolution and the High Commissioner's last report on Sri Lanka. Call upon all member states to provide full cooperation and assistance to Tamil civil society in support of our efforts to ensure the protection of human rights and the promotion of transitional justice in Eelam Tamils.

We request to the third committee members of General Assembly.

Thank you. Next speaker, Baha'i International Community.

Vice President, the Baha'i International Community welcomes the Council's ongoing attention to human rights concerns in Yemen, including the right to freedom of religion or belief. Yet, Baha'is in Houthi-controlled area continue to face persecution and are denied the freedom to practice their faith. Baha'is have long been integral to Yemen's social fabric, contributing to education, medicine, and as well as supporting humanitarian relief. However, since 2014, Houthi authorities have led a systematic campaign of hate speech and incitement against Baha'is through media, religious sermons, and educational curricula. Houthi leaders have vilified the Baha'i faith as foreign and heretical, branding its members as spies while urging hostility and violence. This closely parallels Iran's longstanding anti-Baha'i propaganda. Such rhetoric has consequences, including the storming of Baha'i peaceful gatherings, arbitrary arrests, enforced disappearance, torture, imprisonment, exile, and death sentence, as documented by the special procedures. Madam Vice President, orchestrated hate speech constitute incitement to hostility and violence and in clear breach of Yemen's international obligation. As this Council prepares its resolution on Yemen, it is imperative that the rights of Baha'is be explicitly affirmed by name, sending a clear message to the Houthis.

Thank you. The next speaker. is the Asian Center for Human Rights. You have the floor.

Thank you, Madam Chairperson. We welcome the opening of the OHCHR country office in Bangladesh. We believe that technical cooperation actions of the OHCHR, even without country resolutions, ought to be brought on the floor of this Council. The OHCHR had conducted the fact-finding mission in Bangladesh. last year, and it found credible evidence of international crimes, including crimes against humanity. However, that said report of the OSCHR was not placed before the session of the Council, and we believe that a side event is not adequate to address this kind of issues. The OSCHR country office in Bangladesh at this point in time must publicly speak human rights violations in the country. to uphold the rule of law, including against the killing of indigenous peoples at Guimara village on 20th September 2025, as well as 49 attacks on the places of worship of the Hindu minorities during the Durga Puja recently. If the OSCHR maintains silence and doesn't speak up on these issues, despite being present in the country, it will erode the faith of the victims of the OSCHR and raise questions about the OSCHR's impartiality and objectivity. And finally, we believe that the OHCHR should extend tactical assistance to the Government of Bangladesh to investigate such killings of the indigenous peoples in the Chittagong Hill Tracts on 20th September, because the Government of Bangladesh has never conducted such an inquiry. Thank you, Madam Chairperson.

Muchas gracias.

Thank you very much. The next speaker is Human Rights Watch.

Vice President, we thank the High Commissioner for his report on Yemen. The report, unfortunately, says very little about the escalating human rights situation in Yemen because the Council did not give the High Commissioner A mandate to report on that.

In the past year in.

Yemen, we have seen the Houthis continued arbitrary arrest and disappearance of UN and civil society staff and arbitrary detention of dozens of others. also increasing arbitrary arrests of human rights defenders and journalists, and increasing restrictions on freedom of speech and information by all authorities across the country. There is still no accountability for warring parties' widespread violations of international humanitarian and human rights law throughout the conflict. As a new front to the conflict has begun over the last two years, it is imperative that warring parties are held to account for past violations so that these cycles of suffering and harm do not continue to repeat. Today, over half of the Yemeni population needs humanitarian assistance, including because of the destruction of civilian energy and water infrastructure by the warring parties. Civil society organizations, including Yemeni NGOs, continue to call for the Council to establish an investigation and accountability mechanism as a step towards ending impunity for the years of rights violations and deterring continuing abuses. Whilst the technical assistance requested in the draft resolution is welcome, a much more robust response of monitoring and reporting is required from this Council. Vice-President, the Council must not abandon the Yemeni people.

Thank you.

Muchas gracias.

Thank you very much. Maloka Internacional has the floor.

Gracias.

Thank you, Madam Vice-President. We welcome the report on the Programme of Human Rights Advisers presented pursuant to resolution 56/15. This mechanism is key in ensuring that technical assistance and cooperation provided by the UN comply with the UN Charter and international law without selectivity or political instrumentalization. However, it's a matter of grave concern that the financial crisis of the system has led to mass labor shedding of staff with experience and the inclusion of new profiles connected to governments such as that of the United States, compromising the credibility, impartiality, and non-politicization of OHCHR. We also condemn the illegal seizing of the Sumud flotilla by the State of Israel in violation of international law. We see with concern how the UN finance crisis is directly and indirectly affecting the Sahrawi refugees, the Palestinian people, and now the humanitarian flotilla. We also see coercive military actions against Cuba and Venezuela that are an attack against sovereignty and peace in the region. We have to strengthen the human rights advisers programme. This is essential to guarantee objective responses.

The next speaker will be the International Network for Human Rights and the Rule of Law.

Madam Vice-President, we welcome the recommendations of the Core Group. in relation to transitional justice. We note the recommendation that the Prevention of Terrorism Act be repealed. We also note the core group's concern that detentions under that law continue. But that relates directly to the ability of Tamil civilians to engage with the human rights investigation process, because civilians under military occupation in the north and northeast are scared to register complaints with the CID and provide data because LTTE association may trigger arrest under the wide-ranging provisions of the PTA. Also, there are concerns about the confidentiality of data from families if they were required as they are to register their complaints with the CID. The government of Sri Lanka is not a neutral party. CID officers obtain the information from the Office of Missing Persons. We also note that the core group recognized the importance of the Office of Missing Persons and urged the government to seek international support to ensure sufficient financial, human, and technical resources to conduct exhumations in line with international standards. We strongly support that provision. In terms of the OMP, please note 60 to 100,000 people have disappeared. Sri Lanka has one of the highest rates of disappearances in the world.

In terms of the OMP, thank you. I now give the floor to the next speaker, the Japan Society for History Textbook.

Distinguished Council members, under agenda item 10, we must remember that our mandate is to prevent atrocity and protect civilians. Today, we have to see the worrying role of the Egyptian army, who's been sending weapons and drones to the armed forces. Amnesty International has called these war crimes. We've seen more than 50,000 deaths and 12.5 million displaced persons. And in Gaza, closing passage points by Egypt is worsening the famine, and it prevents the entry of vital aid. So 65,000 deaths is the balance. Responsibility is universal. We're not pointing the finger at states. Egypt and all other states must be held to the same standards. We call on the Council to investigate delivery of weapons, to document attacks against civilians, and to provide safe corridors for refugees. Agenda item 10 calls for accountability and not silence. Thank you.

Thank you.

The ABC Tamil Oli is the next speaker.

I speak on behalf of the People's Action Aniyavala, the Unextinguished Lamps. Families in Jaffna kept lamps burning to symbolize their hope for justice for the disappeared. They demand six urgent measures, UN mentoring of excavation, unhindered access for evidence collection, victim representation and technical assistance, expedited funding for local initiative, reexamination of known mass graves, and referral to the ICC. The OSCHR has continued to provide the government with the technical assistance through its presence in Sri Lanka. It also provided financial and technical support for the last 16 years, but Sri Lankan United States never delivered justice for Tamils. From this combined perspective, I stress three priorities. First, victims must be allowed to place their DNA samples in either a victim or international community-driven mechanism abroad under trusted authority. Second, all exhumation must be under full international supervision in line with the Bernmouth Protocol, ensuring dignity and scientific credibility. Third, the OSLEP must expand its mandate to include gathering and preserving evidence of genocidal crimes and genocidal intent. We urge this Council that presence of High Commissioner Office in north and east of Sri Lanka, it's very important for safe Tamils from structural genocide and Sri Lankan military occupation of Tamils homeland. Could also send in evidence gathering and in parallel, willing member states should bring Sri Lanka state responsibility for genocide before the ICJ. Thank you.

Thank you.

I give the floor to Matt for Peace, Development and Human Rights Association.

Thank you very much, President. We condemn the attacks of the Israeli occupation forces against civilians in Sana'a in Yemen. These attacks, carried out on 25 September, led to eight civilian deaths and 140 wounded. And the attacks against the Hodeidah port also stopped the entry of humanitarian aid, including food and medication. And this is making the humanitarian crisis worse in Yemen, where 19 and a half million people need humanitarian aid. The United States has contributed to the financing crisis at the UN through its resolution. This is leading to a vicious circle of humanitarian crises. Matt, to conclude, recommends that member states put pressure on the Israeli occupation authorities to protect the civilians from the attacks of its air force in Yemen. We hope the United States will revisit its decision to cut humanitarian aid financing, which it used to provide to various countries around the world. Thank you.

Muchas gracias.

Thank you. We recognize the Egyptian Youth Council for Development.

We wanted to thank the OHCHR, which provides ongoing support and capacity building. We Yemen has been facing legal and other problems since the Houthi coup d'etat against the state authorities. we see ongoing and increasing violations. We would therefore like to emphasize that technical assistance is a fundamental pillar in support of Yemen by strengthening national institutions' capacity, notably the Commission on Investigation. This would also allow support for civil society as an oversight mechanism. We need strengthened cooperation with the relevant United Nations mechanisms. We emphasize the importance of the agenda item as support for aid. We would like to see aid reaching the country in order to abide by the right to development. Thank you.

Thank you. Association Peace has the floor. Absent. We will then hear from the Al-Hakim Foundation.

Madam Vice-President, I would like to focus on the occupation of Western Sahara by Morocco and the challenges that ensue. We lack resources for capacity building and to guarantee protection. Human rights defenders Human rights defenders of the Sahrawi people and militants that are striving for self-determination are deprived of services and suffer from flagrant discrimination, and they need support in order to decide on their political future. while in full respect of their right to self-determination, far from reprisals and arrest. Saleh, Dean, Sabah, and Mohamed were two students who were recently arrested, and we call for all political prisoners to be freed. We must also provide training to human rights defenders, notably women and persons with disabilities, so that they too can enjoy their right to demonstrate and protest in a peaceful manner. emphasize the importance of carrying out visits by OHCHR, allowing international observers to be present. Thank you, Madam Vice-President.

CS. Thank you. The International Career Support Association has the floor.

President, as it stands, neighboring countries surrounding Sudan are fueling the ongoing war and ignoring Sudanese suffering. This must be addressed as we desperately attempt to restore peace across the country once and for all.

Could the speaker please stand further away from the microphone?

-To an end. We urge all neighbors, along with the international community, to work with those of us who demand the most basic of human rights for all Sudanese, their safety, to work with us on the opening of urgent humanitarian corridors required to support the Sudanese people now having to endure the world's largest humanitarian crisis, destroying millions of lives for years on end. This war did not begin on 15 April 2012. Therefore, the current siege is not recent. History has recorded a tragic reality that has also divided Sudan into two separate states. It must be understood that Sudan is enduring a decades-long nationwide culmination of tyranny on the Sudanese people, conducted by a de facto regime that the people of Sudan spent five long years revolting against. Today, 24.6 million are in acute hunger. Over 2 million stand at famine's edge. Cholera and dengue fever is spreading rapidly. 7.8 million people are displaced, and countless women and girls face daily threats and acts of sexual violence. We note with alarm that neighboring countries have worked closely with Sudan's regime in conducting airstrikes on civilians in Darfur, the Nuba Mountains, Khartoum, and other areas, including highly populated markets such as Kabkabiya. Amnesty International describes--.

Thank you. I'll now give the floor to the next speaker, Geneva for Human Rights.

Thank you.

My name is Maria Luisa Lazarin. I'm the father of Israel Torres, who disappeared in Mexico more than 15 years ago. We welcome the work done by the Committee against Enforced Disappearances, particularly the fact that they've used the Article 34 procedure with Mexico, given that there are credible evidence of systematic, generalized disappearances. For the families of disappeared and the supporting organizations, this unprecedented process also includes a global package of technical cooperation and capacity building in Mexico in conjunction with civil society. This is a package which must guarantee the respect of urgent action in individual cases of the committee. There must be an independent audit and strengthening of the national register of the disappeared and a national plan which is adapted to the Mexican context, we must tackle the virtually comprehensive impunity. We believe it's appropriate for the Council, under agenda item 10, to support an analysis carried out by OHCHR, which focuses on the causes and consequences of disappearances. We would urge States to make a contribution to progress in these areas by ensuring that victims have the right to truth and to.

Thank you.

I give the floor to International Service for Human Rights.

Thank you, Madam Vice President. I'm speaking on behalf of the International Organization EDTR from the Yemen. I am a militant. and human rights defender from Yemen. I'm a member of the Coalition for Justice in Yemen. Our coalition calls on the international community to support transitional justice, which is a pre-requirement for lasting peace in Yemen, and ensure there is a better future for younger generations. Given that there are ongoing violations of the rights of civilians, of children, by all parties to the conflict. These violations are presented as acts of defense. In recent years, we've been able to see that parties to the conflict lack a real will to bring about transitional justice. The international community will have to bring its pressure to bear on these parties in order to gather evidence and raise awareness and strengthen national communities in order to truly bring about peace. We would call on OHCHR to include transitional justice in its consideration of Yemen, recognizing it as a pillar of peace. Thank you.

I give the floor to the Shanxi Patriotic Volunteer Association.

Chair and delegates, I represent the International Patriotic Pact Organization. We advocate patriotism should not come at the expense of other nations' interest. Technical assistance and capacity are crucial to advance human rights, and major powers like China and U.S. have significant responsibilities. China has fulfilled its responsibilities with remarkable results. through hybrid rice cultivation or infrastructure projects, such as in Madagascar and other countries. In contrast, the U.S. administration cut off aid, disregarding the needs of recipient countries, stalling the anti-malaria efforts and anti-AIDS efforts. According to Roll Back Malaria, disruption can lead to 15 million additional cases and other deaths, as well as termination of assistance has worsened food shortages in refugee camps. and prompting protest and warning. By politicizing technical assistance, the U.S. has hindered global progress in human rights. We call on all to pay attention to our pact, encourage national participation and signing so that together we can build a fair and just new world order. Thank you. Thank you very much.

I give the floor to the Cairo Institute for Human Rights Studies.

Thank you.

The human rights situation in Yemen is deteriorating in multiple regions, with civilians and civil society facing threats, repression, and intimidation. In the north, the Houthis continue arbitrary arrests and intimidation targeting civil society, journalists, and citizens expressing opinions online. This campaign of arrests, which began last year, must end immediately.

Among those detains is Abdelmajid Sabra.

One of the last independent lawyers in Sana'a, long involved in documenting human rights violations, who was taken from his home under unclear circumstances. We call for his immediate release. Other journalists have also faced detention and harassment, highlighting this urgent need to safeguard freedom of expression and press in Yemen. Hostilities continue across the country, including Israeli strikes in Sana'a, targeting residential areas and security building with detention facilities. Reports indicate at least eight civilians were killed. This pattern underscores that the conflict is intensifying and civilians remain unprotected. The Council must urgently mandate the OSCHR to monitor and report on the situation and to present findings in an interactive debate. We call for stronger measures to protect civil society, journalists, and all civilians, and the clear condemnation of the attacks targeting them. This Council must act decisively and without delay. Thank you. Muchas gracias.

Thank you very much. The next speaker is the Association of Horus for Youth and Development in Kenya.

Mr. President, I express deep concern over the catastrophic situation unfolding in Sudan as a result of the armed conflict that erupted in April 2023. which has caused widespread humanitarian tragedies, destruction of infrastructure, and the displacements of millions of civilians. In this context, we cannot turn a blind eye to the grave and systematic violations committed by the Sudanese Armed Forces in several areas, including the discriminate shelling of residential neighborhoods, the use of internationally prohibited weapons, such as chemical munitions in some reported cases. as well as the obstruction of humanitarian aid and the repression of civil society. These practices amount to war crimes and crimes against humanity. These violations demonstrate the scale of threat faced by the civilians across Sudan and place the shared responsibility on this Council and the international community to ensure accountability and to strengthen protection mechanisms. We call for increased technical and logistical support for monitoring and documentation mechanisms and for empowering human rights actors inside and outside Sudan. We also demand support for strengthening the judiciary and justice institutions in order to guarantee accountability and pave the way for genuine transitional justice. There can be no peace or stability without accountability, and no democracy without full respect of human rights. Thank you.

Thank you very much. I give the floor to RSKS.

Thank you, Mr. President. We underline that technical assistance and capacity building are cornerstones of a stronger human rights system. This work turns the principle of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights into a lived reality for people on the ground. Technical assistance is not a charity. It is a catalyst for change. It empowers states, societies, and institutions to deliver justice, improve governance, and provide essential services such as education, health care and clean water. Technical cooperation, when based on dialogue and respect, helps societies build resilience and ensures that no one is left behind. We all have seen its power, where journalists are trained to report safely, where governments get help to deliver essential services, and where NHRCs gain the skill to be truly independent. Mr. President, technical assistance must be demand-driven, impartial free from political conditionalities. We call on the Council to: Enhance cooperation with UN agencies, regional bodies and civil society. Ensure targeted support to countries in post-conflict and vulnerable situations. promote exchange of best practices, technology and innovation. Only through genuine technical assistance and collective capacity building can we translate promises into reality, strengthen human dignity and achieve a just and inclusive global order. We thank you. May all live happily.

Thank you very much. The Eliska Relief Foundation is the next speaker, but they are absent, so I give the floor to the Sambali Trust.

Technical assistance and capacity building are crucial pillars for strengthening human rights, sustainable development, and resilience across nations. They empower countries to better confront challenges, including economic conflicts like tariff wars that disrupt global cooperation and progress. At Sambali Trust, we believe true transformation begins with empowering individuals, especially women and marginalized groups. Through our empowerment centers, which provide vocational education, insurance, through our boarding homes, which provide resilience through our Nirbhaya helpline, which provides consultation and awareness. We cultivate self-dependence and confidence. India's commitment is reflected in comprehensive capacity building programs such as Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation program, which offers training across diverse sectors to over 160 countries. Nationally, schemes under the Digital India Capacity Building Phase 3 enhance government capabilities in governance and digital services, supporting inclusive growth. Mr. President, we commend the United Nations for its vital role in providing technical assistance and supporting capacity building worldwide. To strengthen these efforts, we urge enhanced financial support, expanded partnerships with local organizations, and a focus on adaptable solutions.

Tailored to each country's needs to build a more resilient, cooperative world.

I thank you, Mr. President.

Thank you very much. I give the floor to Iyo Tan.

Thank you, Chair. The Eelam Tamil community is in deep shock.

After the discovery of over 240 human remains in the mass graves of Chamaney.

These are not just bones.

They are the lives of men, women and children who were handed over alive to the Sri Lankan armed.

Forces or they were arbitrarily arrested and made to disappear. Families of the disappeared have waited decades for answers. More than 350 family members of the victims have died without seeing any justice for their loved ones. The recent judicial approval by the current government for excavation is a step forward, but it is deeply concerning that the government has taken no steps to identify the remains through DNA testing. Many Tamil families have come.

Forward, ready to give their DNA, but Sri Lanka lacks the resources, system and preserve the remains or match data properly. In line with the Vienna Declaration, we urge this Council to provide technical assistance to collect, preserve, and analyze forensic evidence, and to ensure a credible.

Path to justice with foreign expertise.

This is not just about the past; it is about accountability, truth, and dignity.

The victims of Chernobyl and other mass graves deserve justice, and their families deserve closure.

Tamils, urgent.

Which the member of this council to act now and make sure.

The perpetrators of this crime escape without facing the justice.

Thank you.

Thank you very much. Foundation Secours Humanitaire is the next speaker.

Thank you, Madam Vice President, distinguished council members. Agenda item 10. should be at the forefront of our attention today more than ever. It shouldn't count out of power, but it should be entrenched in law and rights. Yesterday, 45 ships in the Sumud Global Fatiha, bringers of peace and assistance to Gaza, were arraigned in international waters. More than 400 humanitarian persons, doctors, members of parliament, many others are now awaiting expulsion, whereas they were just bringing assistance to peoples that were being beset by hunger and war. Whole families in Gaza are being condemned to death. Our foundation would like to call on this Council and the international community to request the immediate freeing of all humanitarian workers that are detained, to put in place a special mechanism under an international mandate to guarantee safe humanitarian access to Gaza and protect all civilian missions, to refuse that solidarity become a crime and that indifference is more important than justice. Council must ensure that its voice is heard, but not just its voice, but its acts. Item 10 must not simply chronicle powerlessness. It must be a spark bringing about real protection. Thank you.

Thank you. The next three speakers are absent, and so we will hear from the last speaker for today, the Al-Ayin Social Care Foundation.

Al-Ayin Social Care Foundation is an organization committed to helping orphan children and widowed mothers.

We currently sponsor 105,158 orphan children in Iraq, 3,475 orphan children in Afghanistan, and 348 orphan children in Ghana. Our services include providing financial aid, psychological rehabilitation, medical care, educational support, vocational training, and more. In recent months, we have focused on medical care in line with Article 24 of the Convention.

On the Rights of the Child, the rights of each child to the best possible health.

In Iraq, we have treated over 133,000 individuals. Some of the medical cases we have already supported include treatment for brain tumors, kidney stones, and thalassemia, amongst others. We are currently working towards offering a facility in Karbala that provides speech and language therapy.

So we can deliver more comprehensive support to children with physical and mental disabilities. In Ghana, we have provided support in cases of sickle cell disease, kidney stones, pneumonia, and others.

Prevention is also a priority for us. A key element of this is providing access to clean water.

After the success of our WASH project, which involved pumping clean.

Water to Kosowa, a village in the central region of Ghana, we are now in the process of.

Establishing a new well in the Balghab district of Afghanistan, which will pump clean water to more than 300 families.

We are also planning the construction of additional wells in Kabul to serve the communities there.

Our work in 2025 highlights our commitment to help the most vulnerable members of society.

Thank you.

Thank you very much. That was the last speaker on my list. With this last intervention, we have concluded the general debate of agenda item 10. Excellencies, friends, this brings us to the end of this meeting. We will reconvene on Monday at 10am to take action on draft proposals. I remind you that will be in room 16. I hereby close the 40th meeting of the 60th session of the Human Rights Council, and I wish you a very pleasant weekend.