41st Meeting - 60th Session of Human Rights Council

Well, once again, good morning, one and all. I believe we're now ready, and my thanks to the secretariat for ironing out that problem in the short term. So I'm afraid we have to lower the blinds over the windows so that the cameras can be seen for the overspill room. We're now going to be carrying out another test for the vote. The voting machine has been activated, so I would ask you once again to please press the buttons for your vote. I can't see it on my screen, says the President. May I ask delegations to please check that their vote is correctly reflected on the screen? Is everything in order? Is there any delegation that believes that its vote is not correctly reflected on the screen?

All is fine, it seems.

So, may I ask the secretariat to please close the voting machine for this test vote. And we can now begin our consideration of draft resolution. We will follow the standard voting procedure as has been used during previous Council sessions. Perhaps I might briefly remind you of the main elements of this. The right to vote is strictly for Member States of the Council. Observer States can only take the floor in two cases, if they are submitting a draft resolution or decision, or if they are directly concerned by the draft resolution or decision. Apart from these cases, observer States do not have the authority to intervene, including on a point of order. However, if time allows, observer States can have the opportunity to make general observations once the consideration of all draft resolutions and decisions has been completed. We will proceed to consider the draft resolutions in the chronological order of the agenda items. For each item, we will consider the draft resolutions and decisions in the order in which they were submitted. If a text is not yet ready for consideration, I will keep you informed of this. In as far as possible, I intend to grant the parties concerned the necessary time to continue their negotiations in order to promote adoption of drafts by consensus. Allow me to remind you that pursuant to our voting procedure, any procedural motions such as oral amendments and requests for a vote on separate paragraphs will have to be announced during the general comments section. If a procedural motions should be submitted during explanations for the vote, the motion will be considered inadmissible. And I would ask you to bear this in mind. I would remind you furthermore that explanations for the vote and general observations after the vote will only be possible once all draft resolutions and decisions under a single agenda item have been considered. And finally, pursuant to article 128 of the Rules of Procedure of the General Assembly, the author of a resolution or an amendment is not authorized to explain their vote on their own resolution or their own amendment. Speaking time during the voting procedure is three minutes for all. If several delegations are submitting a draft resolution, then this speaking time will have to be shared between them. I also wish to inform you that I will be strictly abiding by the speaking time so that we can conclude our work within the time allowed. Your Excellencies, distinguished colleagues, I've been informed that the resolutions ready for consideration during this meeting will appear on the screen. And before we begin, let me specify that, for each draft proposal, I will announce the programme budget implications, or PBIs. Those are figures that are also published on the Enstranet. I will indicate whether those costs have already been provided for and included for 2026 and the other years concerned on the basis of previous council decisions, or whether they will have to be added due to new or unforeseen mandates that are decided on by the council. I also remind you that the figures of the PBIs are just estimates which will have to be submitted to customary review and approval procedures, budgetary approval in New York, notably the ACABQ and the Fifth Committee of the General Assembly. And finally, allow me to remind you that Because of the liquidity crisis faced by the United Nations Organization as a whole, any budgetary allocation approved for a mandate does not guarantee the availability of the required resources.

Consider draft presidential statement L7 under agenda item 1, entitled Reports of the Advisory Committee. The draft statement before you has been prepared in consultation with all concerned. Are there any members of the Council wishing to make comments at this stage? I don't see any delegation asking for the floor. I have been informed by the Secretariat that there are no PBIs for this draft proposal. I understand that the proposal enjoys the support of all in this room. With this, I take it that Presidential Statement L7 has been adopted. Thank you very much. The Council will now consider draft proposal L1/Rev/1 entitled Promoting reconciliation, accountability and human rights in Sri Lanka. I give the floor to the representative of the United Kingdom to introduce the draft text. You have the floor.

Thank you, Mr. President. I have the honour to introduce draft resolution L1 on behalf of the core group comprising Canada, Malawi, Montenegro, North Macedonia and the United Kingdom. Let me begin by paying tribute to Dr Kaspilei Manoharan, who sadly passed away during this session. Dr Manoharan was a tireless advocate for justice following the killing of his son, Ragiah, one of five students murdered in Thirunakormali in 2006 in an emblematic human rights case. Dr Manoharan's unwavering pursuit of truth and accountability, including his campaign at the United Nations and his presence at this Council, inspired many. His passing is a solemn reminder that too many family members have passed away without seeing justice for their loved ones or without knowing the fate of those who have disappeared. For those who remain, survivors, families, communities, their call for truth and justice grows ever more urgent. this draft resolution acknowledges the steps taken and the commendable commitments made by the current Sri Lankan Government to address long-standing human rights concerns and the deep wounds left by decades of ethnic conflict, we urge the Government to translate those commitments into tangible action. The exhumation of mass graves holds the potential to deliver long-awaited answers to families. It is imperative that these investigations are conducted in a manner that ensures they support future identification efforts and upholds the dignity of victims. The establishment of an independent prosecutor's office would mark a vital step towards dismantling the entrenched impunity surrounding the conflict-era violations and abuses. The repeal and reform of key legislation in line with international standards, notably the Prevention of Terrorism Act 1994 and the Online Safety Act 2022, would demonstrate a meaningful shift in approach. An end to the surveillance and intimidation of human rights defenders and families of the disappeared is essential to rebuild trust and foster reconciliation. As those efforts progress, the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights continues to play a crucial role through technical assistance, reporting and its work to advance accountability. We extend sincere thanks to the Sri Lankan delegation and to all delegations who have engaged constructively on this resolution. We have worked hard to strike the right balance between recognising progress and urging action on the challenges that remain. We hope that all members of this Council will adopt this draft resolution without a vote. Thank you.

Thank you. I have been informed by the Secretariat that there are three additional co-sponsors. I now give the floor to members of the Council who wish to make general comments. I see the distinguished representative of China.

Mr. President, China appreciates Sri Lanka's positive efforts in promoting and protecting human rights, including fighting terrorism, protecting vulnerable groups' rights, such as women and children, promoting economic recovery, raising people's living standard, et cetera. China will, as always, firmly support Sri Lanka in maintaining political stability, focusing on building its economy, thereby creating favorable conditions for better protecting people's human rights. China supports the HRC's work in adhering to principles of universality, impartiality, objectivity, and non-selectivity. We have all along opposed country-specific resolutions without the consent of the countries concerned or instrumentalizing human rights to interfere in internal affairs. L1 Rev. 1 seeks to extend relevant mandate. Yet this mandate has not yielded real effect for the people of Sri Lanka. Therefore, China will disassociate itself from the consensus and would like this to be put on record. We hope all parties will respect the human rights development path independently chosen by Sri Lanka and come back to the right track of dialogue and cooperation. I thank you, President.

Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of the Republic of Korea.

Thank you, Mr. President. The Republic of Korea sincerely appreciates the Co-Chair Group led by the United Kingdom for its unwavering dedication to preparing a balanced text. We also welcome the constructive engagement of Sri Lanka as the country concerned in the consultation, which has been essential in shaping a cooperative outcome. We note with appreciation the new government's active efforts, including the invitation extended to the High Commissioner in June, as well as the ongoing domestic reconciliation initiatives. These steps reflect Sri Lanka's genuine commitment to building a more inclusive and democratic society grounded in equality, rule of law, and respect for human rights. We encourage Sri Lanka to continue along this path with determination. We look forward to tangible results in reconciliation, accountability, and human rights through sustained engagement with UN human rights mechanisms, including the OHCHR, and through the faithful implementation of each commitment. In this spirit, the Republic of Korea is pleased to support adoption of the present resolution by consensus as a collective expression of encouragement for Sri Lanka's progress. I thank you.

Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Japan.

Thank you, Mr. President. We thank the core group for preparing this resolution. As we repeatedly mentioned during the session, the Sri Lanka's own efforts are most important to improve its human rights situation on the ground in a concrete and tangible manner, and to further promote confidence building measures that contribute to national reconciliation. In this regard, we welcome various measures taken by the government of Sri Lanka so far, as well as its acceptance of the High Commissioner's visit to the country in June this year. We strongly expect the government of Sri Lanka to continue its efforts for accountability and national reconciliation, reflecting the will of the people of Sri Lanka through development of a transparent domestic mechanism. We also expect the Government of Sri Lanka to take such steps as part of a novel commitment to the protection of human rights, including for persons from vulnerable communities, as well as to governance reform. We will continue to support such efforts by the Sri Lankan Government and hope that this resolution will be adopted

without a vote.

Thank you very much. Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Kuwait.

Thank you, President.

I have a statement on behalf of the GCC, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, UAE, Bahrain, Oman, and the State of Kuwait. First of all, the GCC countries thank the sponsors of the resolution, L1 and R1. The GCC states reiterate their support for efforts made by Sri Lanka to move forward in the social and legislative reform process. We commend the good governance and the positive impact this has had on the Sri Lankan people. We also welcome Sri Lanka's cooperation with UN mechanisms, as well as steps taken with a view to reconciliation and fighting impunity, institutional reforms also. We reiterate the importance of pursuing this process that's based on technical assistance, capacity building, while fully upholding Sri Lanka's sovereignty meeting its own needs, since this will lead to bolstering and promoting human rights for the whole Sri Lankan people. Thank you.

Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Ethiopia.

Thank you, Mr. President. Ethiopia underscores the vital importance of reconciliation, accountability, and the protection and promotion of human rights. However, we firmly believe that these objectives must be pursued through constructive dialogue, mutual respect, and in full conformity with the principles of national sovereignty and non-interference in the internal affairs of a state. In this context, Ethiopia commends the Government of Sri Lanka for its continued and constructive engagement with the Human Rights Council. including the recent visit of the High Commissioner and its cooperation with United Nations human rights mechanisms. These efforts underscore a genuine and sovereign commitment to advancing reconciliation and human rights in a manner that is context-specific and nationally owned. We reiterate our principled position in support of transitional justice processes. that are inclusive, locally driven, and responsive to the unique historical, cultural, and political circumstances of each country. In this regard, Ethiopia remains concerned about the continued extension of external evidence-gathering mechanisms established without the consent of the state concerned. We believe that such mechanisms risk undermining national efforts eroding trust and politicizing this Council's work. It is critical that this Council uphold impartiality, avoid selectivity, and support sovereign efforts that are contextualized, inclusive, and sustainable. Finally, Mr. President, We reaffirm our enduring commitment to a balanced, cooperative, respectful approach to human rights within this Council. Thank you, Mr. President.

Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Cyprus.

I'm honored to speak on behalf of the EU member states that are members of the Human Rights Council. This general comment has been agreed by the EU as a whole. The European Union welcomes the efforts of the Government of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka during the past 12 months to initiate and advance comprehensive reforms. We will continue to support Sri Lanka's path in order to enable a sustainable economic recovery, lasting reconciliation, and inclusive prosperity and growth in line with its international human rights obligations and commitments. The challenges that lay ahead are still manifold, especially regarding accountability. Significant progress on accountability and justice for the victims are decisive for Sri Lanka's efforts towards a united and reconciled country. The OHCHR Sri Lanka Accountability project focuses on ensuring that reconciliation and accountability are fulfilled and can thus create a strong foundation for a peaceful and just society that can thrive in the long term. We welcome the renewal of the mandate and would like to thank the core group for its considered and constructive draft. We recognize also the importance many stakeholders have attached to the OHCHR Sri Lanka accountability project. We would like to keep engaging with Sri Lanka's government on how the project can best support them and vice versa. The EU stands ready to continue its support to Sri Lanka on this path, underlining that justice and accountability are essential for lasting reconciliation and sustainable peace. We will join the consensus and, should a vote be called, we'll vote yes and urge others to do the same. I thank you.

Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Costa Rica. Thank.

You, President. In the last year, Sri Lanka held presidential, parliamentary, local elections in the midst of a complex political reality, the political panorama is evolving while social, economic and ethnic tensions continue. On 8 September, the Sri Lankan foreign minister spoke to the council to set out the priorities of the new government to uphold human rights, including repealing the law on prevention of terrorism, whose implementation disproportionately affected Tamil and Muslim communities. Among other progresses and commitments acquired, Costa Rica commends the sponsors of the resolution for their practical, balanced and consistent approach. The language is balanced and recognises efforts, and it also underlines persistent concerns. Costa Rica was a co-sponsor to build bridges with Sri Lanka. with a view to promoting cooperation in Geneva and substantive progress on the ground from a human rights-based approach. The draft, with its accountability approach, is an excellent opportunity for the new Government to lead by example and highlight the benefits of open, transparent dialogue with OHCHR as an instrument to improve the human rights situation for the whole population on the basis of cooperation reconciliation, mutual understanding and commitments that are included in the draft. We trust that the draft will be adopted without a vote. Costa Rica is willing to co-operate in all efforts of that country to achieve justice, peace and lasting reconciliation.

I give the floor to the representative of Bangladesh.

Thank you, Mr. President. Mr. President, Bangladesh thanks the core group for presenting the draft resolution as contained in L1/Rev.1. Mr. President, we note the constructive engagement of the Government of Sri Lanka with this Council and with the Office of the High Commissioner, the facilitation of the High Commissioner's recent visit in June 2025, and Sri Lanka's continued cooperation with international human rights mechanisms. demonstrate its openness and goodwill. In this regard, Bangladesh underscores that the spirit of dialogue and cooperation is necessary for promoting and protecting human rights everywhere. Bangladesh appreciates the measures taken by Sri Lanka to overcome its economic challenges. We express our support and solidarity to the government and people of Sri Lanka in their path towards stabilization, recovery, and development. Mr. President, Bangladesh recognizes the initiatives that Sri Lanka has undertaken in advancing reconciliation, human rights, and inclusive development through nationally owned mechanisms. Institutions such as the Office on Missing Persons, the Office for Reparations, and the Office for National Unity and Reconciliation hold the potential to play pivotal roles in addressing the past while building a future based on unity and equality. These processes need to be given adequate time, space, and encouragement to yield meaningful results. Sri Lanka's democratic and inclusive reforms and its engagement with this council reflect a clear commitment to constructive change. As a fellow member of the global south and a close neighbor from South Asia, Bangladesh encourages the international community to accompany Sri Lanka on this journey with empathy and understanding. In conclusion, we urge that the Human Rights Council continue to engage Sri Lanka through cooperation and dialogue, respecting the country's ownership of its reconciliation and human rights processes. I thank you, Mr. President.

Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of the Maldives.

Thank you, Mr. President. Sri Lanka is facing many challenges in addressing recent economic downturn. Despite these challenges, Sri Lanka has improved social coherence and political stability since the election of the new government. We do not want to see any negative impact on the ongoing progress in domestic situation in Sri Lanka. The Maldives reiterates its appeal to the international community that Sri Lankan government should be given more time to implement its domestic plans in a systematic manner. As a member of this esteemed Council, the Maldives will continue to promote accountability for human rights violations and country-led reforms to strengthen human rights protection. The best way forward for the Council and international community is to strengthen constructive dialogue and engagement with and support the national efforts of the Sri Lankan government in addressing the issues of human rights situation in that country. The Maldives is confident that the Sri Lankan Government will further strengthen its engagement with the Council through constructive dialogue and actions to address the issues in an effective manner. Maldives therefore remains committed to the traditionally close relationship between the Maldives and Sri Lanka and extend its support and solidarity with Sri Lanka in implementing human rights issues. Thank you.

Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of the Dominican Republic.

Good morning. Thank you, President. The Dominican Republic thanks the UK and the co-sponsors for the draft resolution to promote reconciliation, accountability and human rights in Sri Lanka. Those elements are key in building on initiatives and efforts that the Sri Lankan Government has been carrying out and to maintain balance between international cooperation and respect for national sovereignty, fundamental pillars of the work of the Council. Those steps show a willingness to move towards genuine reconciliation, strengthening of the rule of law and respect for fundamental freedoms. In that context, it is key for the Council to keep promoting dialogue and technical co-operation as tools and elements to support States. That's why we urge all members to support this resolution as a step towards dialogue, cooperation, and the quest for lasting solutions for the Sri Lankan people. Thank you.

Thank you. We will now hear from the concerned country. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Sri Lanka.

Thank you, Mr. President. Sri Lanka participated in discussions on this resolution in a spirit of open and constructive engagement, demonstrated throughout in our interactions with this Council. We appreciate the core group's engagement on amendments proposed by Sri Lanka. We, however, regret that we could not find agreement on certain key concerns for us. We thank all delegations for their constructive participation on the draft text, and particularly wish to thank very sincerely those countries which made positive suggestions during informal consultations and bilateral meetings. As we had indicated from the beginning to the Co Group, our fundamental issue with the text is the reference to resolution 51/1 of 2022, denoting the external evidence gathering mechanism on Sri Lanka within the OHCHR, which in our view is an unprecedented and ad hoc expansion of the Council's mandate. During the interactive dialogue on 8 September, the Honourable Minister of Foreign Affairs reiterated that Sri Lanka does not accept the external mechanism set up by the OHCHR, labelled as the Sri Lanka Accountability Project, at a time when the government is continuing to strengthen domestic institutions based on its genuine commitment to reconciliation and human rights in the interests of our own people. These processes include strengthening the independent offices on missing persons and reparations and the Office for National Unity and Reconciliation, as well as the operationalization of a truth and reconciliation commission and an independent public prosecutor's office. Sri Lanka, as well as many other countries, have repeatedly questioned the credibility and transparency of how this project within the OHCHR was set up, its work, and the budget allocated to it. After four years of its existence, this Council is yet to see any benefits of this project for the people of Sri Lanka. This is clearly evident from the contents of the High Commissioner's report as well. The extension of its mandate will only serve the interests of elements with vested interests seeking to create divisions and polarize the communities in Sri Lanka, and will be counterproductive to the government's efforts. Mr. President. We firmly believe that genuine, nationally owned processes are best placed to address matters relating to human rights. National processes are rooted in the local context, allow for greater ownership, recognize unique sensitivities, and make implementation of action more efficient and effective. Within a short time, the Government has taken a series of tangible and decisive steps on reconciliation and human rights. Therefore, it is only fair that Sri Lanka be allowed to seize this opportunity to advance the rights of its own people through domestic processes. For these reasons, we do not agree with coercive international action, and we reject resolution 60/L.1/Rev.1 presented to this Council. I thank you.

Thank you. I have been informed by the Secretariat that there are PBIs for this draft proposal. The PBIs amount to a total of $3,800,400. This amount has already been included under the programme budget for the relevant years. I now give the floor to members of the Council who wish to make explanations of votes before the vote on the draft proposal. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Cuba.

Our delegation reiterates its rejection of interventionist selective mandates imposed against the will of the states concerned. We think the external mechanism for Sri Lanka is inconsistent with the principles of impartiality, objectivity, and non-selectivity, and with the institutional package. This mechanism has yielded no tangible results, nor can it. Almost $15 million have been assigned thus far to this mechanism and all the personnel, without any benefit to the Sri Lankan people. Only states concerned are in a position to identify their own needs and request technical assistance and co-operation that they deem appropriate to manage their challenges based on their national circumstances. The proposed text does not correspond even with the constructive attitude and the willingness for genuine co-operation and respectful dialogue shown by Sri Lanka. An example of that is the call to the high commissioner to make an official visit to the country, which took place in June this year. Extending the mandate of the mechanism for another two years, as proposed in the draft will not contribute to the process of unity and national internal reconciliation that is under way in Sri Lanka. We must respect the legitimate right of that nation to tackle, in a sovereign fashion, its own internal affairs without interference or external pressure. For those reasons, Cuba disassociates from the consensus on the draft resolution L.1/1 and, in the event of it being submitted to a vote, will vote against.

Thank you. I don't see any other delegation asking for the floor. Is there a request for a vote? I see none. May I take it that draft proposal L1/Rev.1 may be adopted without a vote? It is so decided. Thank you very much. The Council will now consider draft proposal L9 entitled "Situation of human rights in Afghanistan". I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Denmark to introduce the draft text.

Thank you, Mr. President. I have the honour to present on behalf of the European Union draft resolution L9 entitled "Situation of human rights in Afghanistan". four years since the Taliban takeover by force, the human rights situation has only deteriorated amidst a deepening humanitarian crisis. To quote the Deputy High Commissioner, "Women and girls face extreme forms of gender-based discrimination and oppression that amount to systematic gender persecution." Men and boys also suffer under the Taliban. Persons in vulnerable situations, including persons belonging to minorities, as well as LGBTI persons, human rights defenders and media workers, former government officials and former members of the Afghan National Defense and Security Forces, all continue to face human rights violations and abuses, often compounded by intersectionality. Civic space has been devastated. Mr. President, this Council has taken cautious and incremental steps in addressing the situation in Afghanistan. Following the Taliban takeover, it stressed, and I quote, "the need for transparent and prompt investigations into reports of all violations and abuses of human rights and violations of international humanitarian law committed by all parties to the conflict, and to hold those responsible to account." End of quote. In 2021, the Council created the mandate of the Special Rapporteur, which is subsequently extended and strengthened. The Taliban has since entrenched the repression and disengaged on human rights. They banned the Special Rapporteur from entering the country. They blatantly disregard Afghanistan's international obligations, and they drive Afghanistan through an ever-deepening human rights crisis. This Council has a duty to react and stand in solidarity with the people of Afghanistan. If adopted, draft M/9 will mandate the creation of an international investigative mechanism to address long-standing impunity in Afghanistan. This Council has been discussing a decisive step on accountability for Afghanistan for years. The creation of a mechanism is commensurate with the gravity of the situation and operationalizes what this Council has advocated. Along the work of the Special Rapporteur, OHCHR and UNAMA, as well as CEDAW and ICC related processes, this mechanism will complete a comprehensive multidimensional gender responsive and victim centered network that applies a comprehensive approach to transitional justice and aims to bring perpetrators to justice. We thank all delegations for their constructive participation in the negotiations, and in particular the draft co-sponsors, which include Afghanistan. We call upon all members of this Council to adopt this resolution by consensus. I thank you.

Thank you. I have been informed by the Secretariat that there are three additional co-sponsors. And I now give the floor to members of the Council who wish to make general comments.

Thank you, President.

Mexico follows closely the situation in Afghanistan and expresses its concern that, four years after the Taliban took power, we see a persisting human rights crisis that is particularly impacting women, children, religious minorities, LGBTI+ persons and other groups in situations of vulnerability. For my country, gender equality is a priority for sustainable development and social justice, consistent with our feminist foreign policy. We take note with concern of the enactment of the law promoting virtue and preventing vice, as well as restrictions limiting access for women to fundamental rights such as education, jobs, freedom of movement and participation in public life. For those reasons, Mexico supports draft resolution L.9. to establish an independent investigative mechanism to collect, consolidate, preserve and analyse evidence of international crimes and grave violations of international law. We are pleased that the mechanism mandate includes specifically investigation into violations and abuses of international human rights law against women and girls. We also welcome the fact that the mechanism mandate provides for efficient use of resources, especially through coordination with existing mechanisms and through incremental development of its work based on available resources. In the context of the financial crisis, for Mexico it is important to ensure the viability of mechanisms established by this Council. Therefore, Mexico will join consensus regarding L9 and urges all members of this Council to do likewise. Thank you.

Thank you. I'll give the floor to the distinguished representative of France.

Thank you, President. more than four years after the Taliban took power by force in Afghanistan, when the human rights situation continues to deteriorate, the Council must react with determination. Patent systematic violations of fundamental freedoms committed by the Taliban, especially against women, Afghan women and girls, have been documented impartially and implacably, especially by the Special Rapporteur Bennett, whose work I want to commend. I note that the majority of States have expressed agreement during the last session in condemning the segregation policy that excludes women from public, private and economic life. These points of convergence regarding a continually deteriorating situation, as recalled recently by the deputy high commissioner, means we must do more so that the perpetrators of those crimes be held accountable. The EU members have heard that call and have risen to the challenge and expectations of civil society towards this council by proposing the creation of an investigative mechanism. It will allow us, I quote, to collect, preserve, analyse evidence of international crimes of human rights violations committed in Afghanistan. France fully supports this. We must today use all the levers at our disposal to support the Afghan population by combating impunity. The perpetrators of those crimes have enjoyed particularly gender-based persecution, which is consistent with crimes against humanity, to ensure that the law prevails, protect victims and ultimately combat oblivion. Thank you.

Mr. President, Let me begin by thanking the Core Group for presenting this timely initiative to the Council. Iceland has consistently called for a comprehensive investigative mechanism for Afghanistan. The threshold for such a mechanism was long reached. Every day, the people of Afghanistan, especially women and girls, suffer grave human rights abuses. As reported by the Special Rapporteur, the Taliban have expanded and institutionalized gender oppression, excluding women and girls from public life, banning education, and rendering them socially, politically, economically, and legally marginalized. Afghan women themselves have described their plight as gender apartheid, a call that merits serious discussion. The international community must remain firm and united in supporting the Afghan people. We must not allow this situation to become normalized. Today's resolution is therefore vital. Establishing an independent investigative mechanism with a comprehensive mandate and broad scope, alongside with renewing the mandate of the Special Rapporteur, is a crucial step towards accountability for grave international crimes and for preventing further violations. Albanian women and girls have shown extraordinary courage and leadership. It is our shared responsibility to ensure their voices are heard, their rights upheld and their full enjoyment of all human rights guaranteed. Iceland is proud to co-sponsor draft resolution L9. We urge all members of the Council to support the draft resolution, both regarding the establishment of the independent mechanism and for the continuation of the Special Rapporteur, and to adopt it by consensus. Thank you.

Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Japan.

Thank you, Mr. President. My delegation expresses appreciation to the EU for their efforts in drafting a resolution L9. The government of Japan remains deeply concerned about the human rights situation in Afghanistan. The Afghan people, particularly women and girls, continue to endure systemic oppression, including gender-based discrimination, and restrictions on their rights to education. Afghanistan has been facing various challenges, including natural disasters, terrorist attacks, increased internal displacement, and the mass return of Afghan citizens from neighboring countries. Mr. President, these complex issues cannot be resolved by Afghanistan and its neighbors alone. However, the lack of progress on human rights severely limits the potential for international engagement and assistance. For its part, despite this difficult situation, Japan will not cease its engagement with Afghanistan or its support to the Afghan people. As international aid to Afghanistan continues to decline, we believe it is important to provide support for basic human needs and economic empowerment, fostering self-reliance and sustained growth for the Afghan people. In this context, Japan is working with civil society and stakeholders within Afghanistan placing livelihood support at the center of its efforts, with a particular focus on supporting women entrepreneurs and female workers. Together with its international community and all other relevant stakeholders, Japan will make every effort to engage directly with the Taliban to reverse policies that undermine Afghanistan's potential prosperity and hinder efforts to build international trust, ensuring they respect the human rights of all Afghans, especially women and girls. In this regard, Japan hopes the Council will adopt this resolution by consensus, and that the independent investigative mechanism to be newly established would work in coordination with existing mechanisms, including the Special Rapporteur and the UNAMA, with a view to future evaluations of the efficiency and effectiveness of multilayered structures for Afghanistan. I thank you, Mr. President.

Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Colombia.

Thank you, President. Colombia welcomes the draft resolution on the situation of human rights in Afghanistan, and we emphasize the essential importance of this debate. We are not faced with an abstract discussion here. We are speaking of millions of people whose lives, rights and dignity are being systematically violated. My country fully supports the Human Rights Council procedures in this case and in other cases too, including the investigative mechanisms and the commissions such as the ones that are established pursuant to these resolutions. These mechanisms are essential to prevent, protect and rehabilitate the rights of the populations through investigation of facts, the quest for truth, accountability and ensuring that human rights violations and war crimes are subjected to a justice procedure. They mustn't be forgotten, as they often are. Victims and the protection of victims' rights must lie at the very heart of the debates on conflict situations. The international community must not remain indifferent when faced with the situation in Afghanistan. What Afghan women and girls are facing today is an institutionalized system of repression which simply aims to delete them from public life and deny them their most basic rights. But all of the Afghani population are, in fact, suffering in a climate of hunger, displacement, and repression. Colombia firmly supports this Council's efforts to ensure that victims' voices are heard, that the perpetrators are held accountable, and that international justice becomes a true reality for those that today are calling for truth and reparation. In this most serious of times, we would urge all Member States to support this draft resolution and to redouble their efforts to ensure that there is a firm, consistent and human response from the global community. Afghanistan reminds us of the need to ensure that our actions are always centered on victims and for the Council to be a clarion call against repression and for justice. Thank you.

Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Chile.

Thank you, President. Chile wishes to thank the European Union for submitting a draft resolution titled "The situation of human rights in Afghanistan". Our country has decided to co-sponsor this initiative in line with our position and with previous resolutions, and in line with our feminist foreign policy. The text that is before us today is a significant step forward. On the one hand, it renews the mandate of the Special Rapporteur, which is very important mechanism to keep an eye on the situation on the ground and on the other hand it also creates an international accountability mechanism in order to collect, analyze and act on the basis of evidence of international crimes. This gender centered perspective also responds to the needs of civil society. The draft says that there is an institutionalized system of discrimination against women and girls, which could constitute persecution on the grounds of gender and, pursuant to the Rome Statute, a crime against humanity. New mechanisms should not be understood as a symbolic gesture. It is a tangible action to support victims and ensure justice, in line with the International Criminal Court and other relevant procedures. The broad support which was expressed from countries from different regions during informal consultations proves that it is essential, uh, to progress in this manner. We call on members of the Council to support this resolution and to allow its adoption by consensus. This will send a clear message of support to Afghani women and girls, and it will show a real commitment with accountability and to end impunity. Thank you.

Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of South Africa.

Thank you, Mr. President. My delegation wishes to express its gratitude to the European Union for this initiative on the situation of human rights in Afghanistan and sincerely appreciates that South Africa's proposals, along with those expressed by like-minded States, which were rooted in the long-held demands of Afghan civil society, are reflected in the text before us, as demonstrated in the provision for the establishment of the independent investigative mechanism. This resolution resonates closely with my delegation, as we proudly claim our rightful place at this Council among the family of nations because of the bravery of those countless women who fought on the front lines of our struggle and sacrificed so that we could be free. These sheroes not only challenged apartheid, but also patriarchy. As a country that prizes the promotion, protection, and fulfillment of the human rights of women and girls and in doing justice to the proud legacy bequeathed to us by these valiant women. South Africa cannot remain silent while women and girls in Afghanistan are robbed of their rights simply because they happen to be born women and girls. As part of this process, women and girls in Afghanistan have been subject to a series of misogynistic, decrease, institutionalizing an organized, widespread, systematic campaign to erase them from public life, which could amount to a crime of gender persecution. Accordingly, we must ensure that those responsible are held accountable, and the IIM will go a long way to achieve, as the erosion of the rights of women and girls in Afghanistan serves as a salutary reminder of how quickly the rights of women and girls can regress everywhere. The human rights situation confronted by women and girls in Afghanistan does not occur within a vacuum. It derives from a deeply entrenched culture of impunity, where generations of Afghanistans have been denied truth, justice, reparation, and guarantees of non-recurrence for the widespread violations and abuses committed by multiple perpetrators over four decades of conflict. There is therefore a need for a comprehensive approach towards accountability. The need for a comprehensive approach is similarly embedded in resolution L9, and as such, it must inform the mandate of the IIM. In so doing, we will finally be able to end the unimaginable suffering of women and girls in Afghanistan once and for all. South Africa therefore joins consensus on this resolution L9 and urges other member states to do so as well. I thank you.

Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of the Dominican Republic.

President.

The Dominican Republic expresses its concern at the human rights situation in Afghanistan, especially the conditions which disproportionately affect women and girls, who continue to face severe restrictions when it comes to accessing education, employment, public life, and basic services. Such limitations are a violation of fundamental rights and prevent the achievements the global community has obtained in terms of equality. There were broad consultations carried out in submitting draft resolution L9 before this Council. The rights of women and girls are indivisible rights of universal human rights, and everyone is strengthened if their full participation is ensured in all sectors. welcome the establishment of an independent investigative mechanism to investigate alleged human rights abuses and to ensure accountability and justice. We also welcome the renewal of the mandate of the Special Rapporteur, whose work is essential to ensure the global community continues to monitor the situation of the people of Afghanistan. President, the sovereignty of states must not be at the margins of their right to protect the dignity and life of all their citizens. In this spirit and in solidarity with Afghan women and girls, we fully support this resolution. Thank you.

Thank you. We shall now hear from the country concerned and I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Afghanistan.

Thank you very much, Mr. President. It has been a long journey since August 2021 when we convened during the OIC Afghanistan special session, expressing the urgency of creating an investigative mechanism commensurating with the grave human rights violation in Afghanistan. It was a week after the Taliban military takeover and the beginning of disintegration of the state and society in Afghanistan. Ever since, the tyranny inflicted upon my people and the country, including women and girls, has been unprecedented. Today, four years of relentless advocacy from partners, including civil society and women's rights groups in Afghanistan, have culminated into this resolution. Late, but definitely not too little. We express our gratitude to the European Union and all Member States who have co-sponsored this resolution. Mr. President, the reality on the ground is stark. As highlighted by the Deputy High Commissioner and the Special Rapporteur Bennett, we are witnessing a systematic campaign of violence and repression. The magnitude of suffering has been exacerbated by the recent ban on the internet, devastating earthquakes, mass deportation from the neighboring countries, and now from some European countries. The people of Afghanistan have reached the end of the rope with the Taliban regime, stifling their basic human rights and dignity, their access to education, information, and humanitarian assistance. Girls and women have faced relentless exclusion from the educational institutions and public life, enforced by an oppressive set of laws. Mr. President, time for mere words and passive monitoring has passed. The international community's response must evolve. so-called pragmatic engagement and mixed signals have empowered the perpetrators to operate with impunity. In their fifth year, the Taliban regime has transformed into a fully oppressive theocratic state that, besides violating the human rights of our compatriots, is nurturing and hosting regional and international terrorist and violent extremist groups. Therefore, a clear action on accountability is needed more than ever before. This resolution marks a pivotal moment. It signifies the establishment an international accountability mechanism for Afghanistan, a much-needed framework to collect, preserve and analyse evidence of international crimes. Therefore, Mr. President, I urge the Council to adopt this resolution by consensus, demonstrating firm solidarity with the people of Afghanistan. This gesture will show that their suffering cannot be ignored and that, despite all the challenges that the rule-based system is facing, the pursuit of justice and accountability remains a tangible prospect. Thank you, Mr. President.

Thank you. I have been informed by the Secretariat that there are PBIs for this draft proposal, and I give the floor to the Secretariat to present the details on that. Thank you.

Good morning, everyone. Thank you, Mr. President.

The Council's adoption of.

Draft decision A/HRC/60/L.9 on the situation of human rights in Afghanistan would entail financial implications, including staffing, travel of representatives.

Travel of staff.

General operating expenses, as well as conference servicing costs for the translation and processing of the report.

And interpretation during the field missions. I would like to inform the Council that the adoption of the draft resolution would.

Result in additional requirements for the Independent Investigative Mechanism of $2,600,800 for 2026, $3,660,700 for 2027, 3,147,700 for 2028, leading to a total requirement of 9,235,900 from 2029 onwards. These have not been included in the proposed program budget for 2026.

Additional requirements for the other mandates in the draft resolution add to 3,092,000 of this amount. 2,985,500 are already included in the proposed programme budget for 2026, and 107,000 are additional requirements. These requirements, in accordance with the established procedures, would be brought to the attention of the General Assembly in the context of the annual report of the Secretary-General on the revised estimates resulting from resolutions and decisions adopted by the United Nations Council during 2025.

Thank you.

Thank you very much. You will also find these figures on the extranet. I now give the floor to members of the Council who wish to make explanations of votes before the vote on the draft proposal. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of China.

Thank you, Mr. President. In recent years, Afghanistan has taken various measures for stability, economic growth, and improvement of people's livelihoods. The overall security situation has remained stable with a notable decrease in violent incidents. These positive developments merit recognition and encouragement from the international community. That said, Afghanistan continues to face serious challenges in the humanitarian situation, the threat of terrorism, and the protection of the rights of women and girls. China hopes Afghanistan can enhance protection of women and other groups. China supports the international community in strengthening engagement and communication with Afghanistan, encouraging the country to actively respond to international community's concerns, and working together to help Afghanistan achieve reconstruction and development while better protecting and promoting human rights. This draft resolution fails to acknowledge the positive progress achieved in the country and lacks balance in its formulation. The establishment of a new investigative mechanism runs counter to the Council's efforts to enhance efficiency through reforms, does not fully take into account the UN liquidity crisis, and lacks consent from the concerned. It is unlikely to achieve its intended results. and will increase burden on member states. China expresses its concerns. Therefore, China will not participate in the consensus on draft resolution L9 and request this to be put on the record.

I don't see any other delegation asking for the floor. Is there a request for a vote? I see none. May I take it the draft proposal L9 may be adopted without a vote? Thank you very much. The Council will now consider draft proposal L18 entitled Responding to the human rights and humanitarian crisis caused by the ongoing armed conflict in the Sudan. I give the floor to the representative of the United Kingdom to introduce the draft text.

Thank you, Mr. President. On behalf of a core group of Germany, Ireland, the Netherlands, Norway and the United Kingdom, I present draft resolution L18, which responds to the humanitarian and human rights crisis in Sudan. Mr. President, the UN fact-finding mission's findings are clear. The warring parties have committed war crimes, the Rapid Support Forces' actions constituting crimes against humanity. Civilians are targeted and killed on the basis of ethnicity, and sexual and gender-based violence is perpetrated on an overwhelming scale. Over 30 million people are in need of humanitarian assistance. Yet even as famine and cholera spreads across Sudan, access is deliberately blocked. The Rapid Support Forces' continued siege of El Fasher and the Sudanese Armed Forces' brutal reprisal killings, including 26 in just one village identified by the FFM, demonstrate yet again a total disregard for international law. Mr. President, we would prefer not to have to present this resolution. The international community has repeatedly called for all parties to immediately agree a ceasefire, protect civilians and facilitate humanitarian access. And yet, indiscriminate shelling and destruction of schools, hospitals and places of worship continues to intensify. This Council cannot sit idly by as the world braces itself for yet further mass atrocities in North Davao. We must stand united. The UN Fact-Finding Mission is the only independent investigative body documenting and reporting on these violations across Sudan. Extending its mandate is crucial to ending the cycle of impunity that devastates Sudan. There is sadly no credible international or national alternative. As the FFM itself has made clear, Sudan's National Committee remains unwilling and unable to conduct thorough, prompt and impartial investigations. Without the FFM's documentation efforts, the victims of these international crimes will not see justice. Our core group held consultations and discussed this draft extensively with all delegations, starting with Sudan. We took on board many of the proposals made, including a number from Sudan. Yet, unfortunately, despite our best efforts, these changes were not enough for the Sudanese authorities. Mr. President. It is the brave Sudanese local responders who continue to stand by the people of Sudan. I want to pay tribute to the commitment of these mutual aid groups who risk their lives to promote humanitarian assistance and hope across the country. The Sudanese authorities may not be in favour of this resolution, but the people of Sudan are. They want accountability. They want peace. Let us show the people of Sudan they are not forgotten by voting in favour of this resolution. Thank you.

Thank you. I have been informed by the Secretariat that there are four additional co-sponsors. And then I'll give the floor to members of the Council who wish to make general comments. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Japan.

Thank you, Mr. President. At the outset, Japan appreciates the efforts of the core group behind the draft resolution L18, namely the United Kingdom, Germany, Ireland, the Kingdom of the Netherlands, and Norway in preparing this draft resolution, and we are grateful for the constructive discussions held during the informal consultations and bilateral meetings. Japan appreciates the work of the FFM. We believe that its activities are essential for ensuring impartial accountability and for improving the human rights situation in Sudan. Japan remains deeply concerned about the human rights situation in Sudan. Two years of conflict and political instability have led to mass displacement and a grave humanitarian crisis. All persons' right to the enjoyment of the highest attainable standard of physical and mental health and adequate food must be protected. Japan reiterates its call on all parties to the conflict to immediately cease hostilities and uphold their obligation under international humanitarian law and international human rights law. We urge all parties to guarantee immediate, unconditional, safe, and unhindered humanitarian access to populations in need, while also protecting civilians. Japan, for its part, will continue to work closely with the international community, including through the activities of the Special Envoy for the Horn of Africa, to support the cessation of hostilities, improve humanitarian access, and facilitate a peaceful and orderly transition to civilian governance in Sudan. Accordingly, Japan values of fact. This resolution reflects the humanitarian human rights situation in the country. We also appreciate strong focus on securing humanitarian access, protecting civilians, and ensuring accountability for violations. In addition, Japan welcomes the extension of the FMS mandate, recognizing its crucial role in monitoring the situation on the ground and documenting violations. Consequently, Japan hopes that this draft resolution will be adopted and that the FFM will be able to continue its mandate. I thank you, Mr. President.

Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Cyprus.

Thank you, Mr. President. I have the honor to speak on behalf of the EU member states that are members of this Council. This general comment has been agreed by the EU as a whole. Over the past two and a half years, the human rights situation in Sudan has continued to deteriorate. The violations occurring on the ground, the indiscriminate targeting of civilians, the sexual and gender-based violence, the ethnically targeted killings, the attacks on critical civilian infrastructure, and the forcible displacement demonstrate an environment of total impunity. Famine has been declared. The humanitarian situation is a catastrophe. Despite this dire situation, we continue to see no genuine national efforts to investigate the crimes committed by both sides with independence and impartiality. Yet accountability and justice are the only route to a sustainable, lasting peace for the people of Sudan. This is why the EU strongly supports the extension of the independent international fact-finding mission as mandated by L18. This worsening crisis merits our continued attention. We believe that this resolution offers hope to the victims of violations in Sudan that perpetrators will brought to justice and that the scourge of impunity in Sudan will end. Mr. President, the EU will vote yes on resolution L18 and calls upon all others to do the same. I thank you.

Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Sudan.

Thank you very much, President. Draft resolution L18. attempts to misrepresent the situation in Sudan. The sponsors has, in fact, simply not regarded the real situation. Today, we have an OHCHR office in the country with five branches around the territory, and this is over and beyond the experts mandated by this Council to consider the human rights situation in Sudan. Furthermore, let us not forget that the expert group established pursuant to L15 of 1991 on Sudan continues to report on the human rights situation in the country. These three mechanisms have always been welcomed and we have always cooperated with them. And that is why our government is constructively working with all of the council mechanisms. and this proves my statements. This would be a fourth mechanism which would be imposed and it's not a positive development. Voices are continuing to call for greater financing, but this is not logical, President. Some here in this resolution draw a parallel between the Rapid Reaction Force and the Sudanese army, but this is incorrect. The armed forces have a constitutional mandate to defend Sudan from any threat or genocide or demographic changes or any other danger. It is I would remind such acts that continue the war, which worsen the humanitarian and social situation. This is why any... Security Council resolution, particularly 2736, which has asked for the lifting of the blockade around El-Fasher, have not been implemented for more than a year. Everyone can witness this. The United Nations remains impassive and powerless, unable to take any real decision or The authors of this resolution want to put on an equal footing the authorities and the rapid reaction force. This is why we would like to ask all states that support the UN Charter and pursuant to resolution of General Assembly 25161 that established this Council and these mechanisms, we would ask all of these states to the President interrupts the speaker.

President.

To push for a rapid resolution to the situation in Sudan.

We need to use dialogue and negotiation and re-establish stability in Sudan. The Sudanese government has made many efforts to promote and protect human rights, including establishing a national commission of investigation to investigate human rights violations and ensure accountability, as well as cooperation and dialogue with human rights mechanisms. China believes that the solution for Sudan lies with the Sudanese people themselves. The government has often spoken against putting in place an international investigation. Imposing human rights mechanisms against their will would simply create conflict and not lead to a solution. There must be respect for the sovereignty of Sudan. There must be a real contribution to improving the human rights situation in Sudan. Bearing in mind all of this, China asks that L18 be put to a vote, and China will vote against. We would urge all Member States to vote against. Thank you, President.

Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Qatar.

Sayyid Al-Raisi.

Thank you, President.

I'd like to speak with respect to L18. I want to thank the sponsors for facilitating informal consultations on L18. We reaffirm our support for Sudan's unity and the right of Sudanese to live in dignity. We reject all external interference. We deplore the war which is raging and which has take has plunged Sudan years back. It's destroyed infrastructure and claimed the lives of many civilians. The Council has created many mechanisms on Sudan. The Sudanese Government has never hesitated to cooperate fully with those mechanisms. First of all, resolution 3922 of this Council created a first mechanism, the OHCHR Office, In 2019, an expert appointed by the OHCHR was dispatched. That expert carries out his mission and visits Sudan. His last visit was in July, and he reports to this Council on the human rights situation, including with respect to violations perpetrated. We think the Sudanese Government is fully cooperating. with the UN mechanisms, which are entirely necessary for the promotion of human rights, for preventing violations, bolstering justice, the judicial apparatus, so they can all discharge their commitments and mission. consistent with all resolutions adopted by this Council. The multiplication of mechanisms carrying out the same work runs counter to the effectiveness of this Council, especially at a time when we're speaking of a period of scarce resources. That's why we must make current mechanisms more effective. That's what Sudan needs and that's what the Sudanese people need. Thank you.

Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of the Netherlands.

Mr. President, After over two and a half years of conflict, Sudan continues to face widespread impunity. The FFM report is clear on the extent of the violations taking place by both parties to the conflict, amounting to international crimes. My colleagues have already underscored the importance of allowing the mission to continue its valuable work. The Netherlands echoes this statement and is proud to be part of the core group on this important resolution. The Kingdom of the Netherlands is particularly concerned about the horrifying details of the sexual and gender-based violence which is taking place in Sudan. This violence, aimed primarily, but not exclusively, at women and girls, is shocking. It is shocking both in its scope and the sheer number of victims, but also in the barbarity of the crimes being committed. The report details rape, gang rape, forced nudity, abduction, sexual slavery and forced marriage of girls as young as 12. For the sake of the survivors of this violence and to prevent, as much as we can, further sexual violence, accountability will be crucial, in addition to support to victims. Another most disturbing finding in the report is that hunger is being wielded as a weapon of war in Sudan. Widespread attacks on humanitarian facilities, convoys and workers, along with imposed bureaucratic restrictions, prevent humanitarians from providing life-saving assistance. Al-Fashir has been under siege for more than 500 days, and the 260,000 people there remain trapped under appalling conditions. This is a horrific example of the use of prohibited siege tactics by the Rapid Support Forces, with devastating humanitarian consequences, including famine. We echo the recent call of the High Commissioner for the siege on Al-Fasher to be lifted immediately, and for all parties to ensure the unimpeded delivery of humanitarian assistance and the creation of safe evacuation corridors for civilians. This willful starvation of civilians as a method of warfare must stop now, and the perpetrators must be held accountable. The FFM is the only independent body to fully investigate and document all violations and abuses committed throughout the whole of Sudan. Therefore, this Council must allow the FFM to continue its valuable work. We call on all members of the Council to support L18. I thank you.

Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Costa Rica.

Muchas gracias, Senor Presidente.

Thank you, President. Costa Rica is grateful to the group of sponsors for presenting this resolution, which highlights the grave human rights situation and humanitarian crisis caused by the ongoing armed conflict in the Sudan. The witness testimonies from the ground are horrendous. The magnitude of human suffering due to shelling and bombing, leading to millions of people being displaced and conditions of famine, are scourges that this council must take action against. We are troubled, moreover, by the devastating impact of the conflict on women, girls and children in general, who face alarming risks of sexual violence and gender-based violence. used as weapons of war. Similarly, the Secretary General's reports on the impact of children armed conflict are depressing, given the reports of mutilation, attacks on schools, forced recruitment, attacks on hospitals. Given that situation, the draft resolution L18 makes a call to the parties to reaffirm their responsibility to respect international humanitarian law and international human rights law So that's a priority cause for our delegation, which today in this session will be submitting a resolution together with Qatar on that same theme. Costa Rica supports extending the mandate of the International Independent fact-finding mission and stresses the need to collect and preserve evidence and to pinpoint perpetrators with a view to guaranteeing accountability for their acts, as well as the references to the national and international mechanisms aimed at guaranteeing truth, justice, reparations and guarantees of non-repetition. That is why Costa Rica firmly supports the the calls in the resolution to a ceasefire, to de-escalate the conflict, to end human rights violations and abuses, and stresses the importance of tackling the root causes of the conflict. It's with sadness that those calls, we're sad that these calls are interpreted as a violation of Sudan's sovereignty. No, it's a, we're seeking for cooperation in a country which is beset by tragedy. We urge all members of this Council to adopt this resolution by consensus. Thank you.

Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Switzerland.

Thank you, President. The situation in Sudan remains alarming, especially in North Darfur. The civilian population has suffered everyday violence due to numerous violations of international human rights or IHL. Switzerland is concerned by attacks and the possibility of intensification of hostilities in Al-Fashir, where the population has suffered a siege For over 500 days, the High Commissioner himself has said that El Fasher is on the brink of even graver catastrophe if urgent measures are not taken to break the siege of the army, which is suffocating the civilians. In the last report, the fact-finding mission on Sudan highlighted dreadful rates of sexual violence, of attacks against civilian infrastructure and against humanitarian staff by all parties to the conflict. heightened risk of famine was also noted. Humanitarian access is intentionally hampered in the conflict, as well as by bureaucratic obstacles. We recall that under IHL, parties to conflict must authorize and facilitate passage unhindered for civilians in need. We welcome the sponsors for presenting L18. The text before us today reflects the gravity of the situation in Sudan and calls on all parties to respect international humanitarian law and implement a ceasefire. It is a balanced, comprehensive text, the fruit of transparent, constructive negotiations. For all those reasons, Switzerland believes that the situation in Sudan merits the attention of this Council and believes that the extension of the mandate of the fact-finding mission constitutes a necessity. Rest assured of our full support for L18.

Thank you, Mr. President.

And as other delegations have been saying here, the humanitarian and human rights situation in Sudan has continued to worsen

dramatically over the past two and a half years.

Targeted killings, arbitrary detentions, torture, recruitment of children, and sexual gender-based violence, and famine have been ongoing for far too long. And we are all alarmed by the deteriorating situation in El Fasher. The independent international fact-finding mission of this Council remains a cornerstone in ensuring the international community's continued attention to the crisis in Sudan. And we are convinced that the fact-finding mission has a crucial task documenting the ongoing human rights violations. Germany will therefore vote yes on resolution L18 and calls upon all others to do the same.

I thank you.

Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Algeria.

Thank you, Mr. President.

We deliver this statement on behalf of the Arab Group to comment on L18. The group have taken note of the text and would like to stress the following. First of all, we extend full solidarity with the people of Sudan in order to meet their needs and protect their land and vital infrastructure. We reject any interference in the domestic affairs of the Sudan. We'd also like to call for strengthening the Sudan's efforts to preserve its national institutions and to prevent the collapse of these institutions, and we need to form an independent national government. We reject any steps that might threaten the territorial integrity of the Sudan or aggravate the humanitarian situation. We call for a cease-fire on the Jeddah Declaration and to continue the Jeddah Track III in order to achieve a sustainable solution. We value the humanitarian aid and development assistance provided to address the aggravated humanitarian situation, and we need to implement the Security Council Resolution 2736 and other relevant international resolutions. Thank you, Mr. President.

Thank you. I have been informed by the Secretariat that -- Sorry, I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Kenya.

Thank you, Mr. President. Kenya reaffirms its long-standing and constructive role in the search for peace in Sudan conflicts. Our commitment to peaceful resolution and inclusive dialogue has been consistent and unwavering, aimed at fostering stability in the region. Kenya acknowledges the deep human rights and humanitarian crisis in Sudan and the legitimate concern raised by the international community. We continue to stress the importance of sustained dialogue and the strengthening of existing mechanisms to ensure national ownership of solutions and enhance their effectiveness in addressing concerns at hand. We underscore our principal commitment to strict neutrality in this conflict, which is especially critical at a time of heightened sensitivities and divergent regional perspectives. Kenya's engagement has always been underpinned by impartiality and inclusivity. We further stress the imperative for supporting regional efforts and aligning all efforts towards Sudan-led and Sudanese-owned process. Kenya reiterates the urgent need for scaled-up humanitarian support, especially for neighboring host countries bearing expensive burdens under severe resource constraints. We appreciate that its proposal for enhanced support to host states have been reflected in this resolution. will continue to focus on constructive facilitation and principled humanitarian advocacy, free from any politicization. Kenya urges all parties to prioritize de-escalation, unfettered access for aid, and a return to inclusive peace negotiation, while reaffirming Kenya's continued engagement as a credible partner whenever consensus and regional trust can be upheld. In this regard, Kenya will abstain.

Thank you. hope I didn't miss any other delegation asking for the floor at this point. I have been informed by the Secretariat that there are PBIs for this draft proposal. The PBIs amount to a total of $5,966,300. This amount has already been included under the program budget for the relevant years. I now give the floor to members of the Council who wish to make explanations of votes before the vote. on the draft proposal. I would like to inform the Council that Belgium withdrew its co-sponsorship for this draft proposal, as reflected in e-delegate, and can therefore intervene on this text. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Belgium.

Thank you, Mr. President. Belgium would like to thank the sponsors of this resolution for submitting this draft and for the broad and open consultations they have conducted. The situation in Sudan deserves to remain on this Council's agenda. We are extremely concerned about the deteriorating human rights situation in the country, where widespread violations and abuses of human rights and international humanitarian law, which may amount to war crimes, continue with impunity. We are appalled by the brutality of the violence and the total disregard towards civilians, systemic sexual and gender-based violence, summary executions, enforced disappearances, arbitrary detentions, torture, reports of ethnic cleansing, the increasing number of grave violations against children, as well as the continued shrinking of civic space. Furthermore, Sudan is experiencing a massive humanitarian crisis, with famine declared in several areas, including for the 700,000 IDPs in the Zamzam and Abou Shuk camps in North Darfur. Mr. President, from the reports of the Office of the High Commissioner and the fact-finding mission, it is clear that accountability efforts have been insufficient and ineffective. Journalists, human rights defenders, civil society, and even humanitarian workers are under attack and cannot work freely, and the judiciary is facing gigantic challenges that fundamentally hinder their capacity to deliver justice. Now more than ever, the fact-finding mission has a crucial role to play to support accountability efforts and to bring truth and justice to victims. Voting no on this resolution would end the mandate of the FFM, which would come at the worst time. This Council would fail its mandate and responsibilities, and even worse, it would signal to the many victims of this conflict that this Council is no longer interested in their fate. does no longer strive to document the fact and the root causes that lead to their suffering and has given up on its quest for justice for human rights abuses when others fail to deliver it. For these reasons, we support draft resolution L.18, including the renewal of the fact-finding mission's mandate. We will vote yes and we encourage other delegations to do the same. I thank you.

Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Brazil.

Thank you, Mr. President. Brazil remains deeply concerned about the escalating human rights violations and the severe humanitarian crisis in Sudan. We are particularly alarmed by the devastating levels of food insecurity affecting the civilian population. Brazil will vote in favor of the resolution. because it recognizes that the fact-finding mission is playing a crucial role on the ground by monitoring the violations committed by both parties and promoting accountability. Our vote is intended to secure the FFM's mandate and ensure that this crisis remains under the Council's review. We must, however, express our concern regarding references in the resolution that touch upon matters of peace and security which fall outside the mandate of the Human Rights Council. We reinforce the need of a Sudanese-owned and Sudanese-led peace process. Finally, we call on all parties in conflict to immediately render full and unimpeded access to humanitarian aid and to negotiate a comprehensive ceasefire in good faith.

Thank you.

Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Kyrgyzstan.

Thank you, Mr. President.

Kyrgyzstan highly values Sudan's continued cooperation with the existing UN mechanisms and hopes that this engagement will be maintained.

We also hope that the international community will no longer tolerate the appalling underfunding of Sudan's humanitarian needs. Kyrgyzstan's decision to abstain was made after thorough and detailed consultations with the African Union.

We wish to see Africa united, not divided.

Thank you.

Thank you. I don't see any other requests for the floor. the request of the delegation of China, the Council will now proceed to a recorded vote on draft proposal L.18. I now ask the Secretariat to open the voting machine. And I request delegations to register their vote. I request delegations to check whether their vote is accurately reflected on the screen. If so, I ask the Secretariat to close the voting machine. And the voting is now closed. The result of the recorded votes are as follows: 24 in favour, 11 against, 12 abstentions. Draft proposal L18 is therefore adopted. Copies of the results of the votes will shortly be uploaded on Extranet. We will now move to explanations of vote and general comments after the vote on all resolutions adopted under agenda item 2. Are there any delegations wishing to take the floor? I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Indonesia.

Thank you so much, Mr. President. We take this opportunity to reiterate Indonesia's principal position under agenda item 2. Our approach remains guided by constructive cooperation with the country concerned in the promotion and protection of human rights. Indonesia support the consensus adoption of L.1/F.1 on Sri Lanka. Nevertheless, it is our view that the needs of Sri Lanka must be considered. This Council should focus on supporting national reform efforts, rather than imposing mechanisms that do not have Sri Lanka's consent. Regarding L9 on Afghanistan, Indonesia reaffirms that Afghanistan remains bound by its obligations under international human rights law. We remain concerned about the erosion of fundamental freedoms, particularly the continuing restrictions on the rights of women and girls. We underscore that any peace process must be truly inclusive, involving all segments of society. A conducive environment for meaningful and lasting change cannot be achieved through isolation, but through genuine and constructive engagement. The international community has a responsibility to assist, including through dialogue, as well as development and humanitarian assistance. Mr. President, on L18 concerning Sudan. Indonesia believes the message from this council must continue to be to silence the guns and ensure humanitarian access. All parties must pursue a peaceful solution through an inclusive Sudanese-led dialogue, while strengthening national human rights mechanisms, including for accountability. Sudan must stay on course towards a transition to civilian rule. International efforts must focus on supporting this transition by promoting peace, mediation, and humanitarian assistance. Extending the mandate of the fact-finding mission without Sudan's full cooperation risks undermining the peace and stability we seek. Finally, discussion under agenda item 2 cannot ignore their budgetary implications and the growing pressures on the Council. The extension of several mandates, as well as the new establishment of the Investigative Mechanism on Afghanistan, should prompt reflection on how priorities are being set in this Council. often by a limited number of states clouded by double standards and politicization. Equal attention, treatment, and resources should have also been given to support genuine cooperation based on impartiality and requested by states that are committed to advancing their human rights efforts. Thank you.

Thank you. I'll give the floor to the distinguished representative of Sudan.

Thank you, Mr. President. We would like to thank the countries that voted against this resolution because they voted for the Charter and the principles set therein regarding respect for the sovereignty of states and non-interference in the domestic affairs in states. This is a direct violation of the sovereignty of a state and also the judiciary. We have some questions, Mr. President. If the purpose of this resolution is the administration of justice and promoting human rights, then we ask, does this mean that the existing UN human rights mechanisms, notably the country office and the UN designated expert, are they ineffective? Is it a yes or a no? If the answer is yes, then imposing a new additional mechanism comprising of three staff only based on this unfair resolution proves that the purpose is political manipulation and pressuring the Sudan especially after the victories of the Sudanese Armed Forces against the RSF the resolution refrained from mentioning the state that gives weapons and mercenaries to the militias. How can this resolution contribute to protecting civilians and promoting human rights? The sponsors of this resolution maybe did not read tens of reports with evidence that proved that the United Arab Emirates is involved in the conflict in the Sudan. We'd like to hear the answer of the co-sponsors. Maybe they want to protect the country financing the militia. We have our national priority. not as external mandates. In this resolution, there is an attempt to equate SAF and RSF. But our Sudanese armed forces, backed by our people, will protect our country. Thank you, Mr. President.

I don't see any other request for the floor. We therefore move on to proposals submitted under item 3. The Council will now consider draft proposal L2 entitled "Human rights and indigenous peoples: Mandate of Special Rapporteur on the rights of indigenous peoples". I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Guatemala to introduce the draft text.

Thank you very much, President. It's a pleasure for me to submit to plenary relating to the renewal of the mandate of the Special Rapporteur on the rights of Indigenous Peoples. Mexico and Guatemala wish to thank all Member States and representatives of Indigenous Peoples and civil society representatives who participated in negotiating draft resolution which will be subjected to adoption today. As the core group, we wish to emphasize that since the adoption of the UN Declaration on Indigenous Peoples, this mandate has been the main instrument to put into practice these norms. It provides guidance to States as well as technical cooperation and reference points. The mandate, we would point out, has also been a keystone for accountability in that through country visits and thematic reports, the Special Rapporteur provides independent monitoring which helps States to comply with their international obligations. We believe that inequality is persistent and there are emerging risks faced by Indigenous Peoples. and all of these precisely require this reliable, trustworthy oversight. We would urge all Member States to cooperate fully with the Special Rapporteur, easing their work and heeding their recommendations, ensuring full compliance of their mandate and strengthening the positive impact of their work to the benefit of Indigenous Peoples. President, Continuing this mandate sends a message that the international community continues to be committed to fulfilling their responsibilities and will monitor compliance of Indigenous peoples' rights. Thank you.

Thank you. I have been informed by the Secretariat that there are nine additional co-sponsors. And I now give the floor to members of the Council who wish to make general comments. No request for the floor. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Chile.

Thank you very much, President. Chile would like to thank Mexico and Guatemala for introducing once more draft resolution L.2, extending the mandate of the Special Rapporteur on the rights of Indigenous peoples. We value the inclusive, transparent work carried out by both countries in the core group, the text before us helps renew a mandate that is key within the special procedures system. The rapporteur on the rights of indigenous peoples has played a key role in raising the profile of challenges facing indigenous peoples, in promoting the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, and in strengthening dialogue among states, indigenous communities and the international human rights system. reaffirms its full support for mandate holders of special procedures, whose independent expert work represents a key element in the functioning of the Council. Especially, we welcome the extension of this mandate, given that indigenous people face multiple interconnected forms of discrimination in times of crisis when both individual and collective rights are called into question and given the difficult financial situation of the UN system, which requires streamlining the work of this Council. What's crucial is to maintain and preserve substantive mandates that contribute directly to prevention, cooperation, and protection of human rights. For those reasons, Chile is pleased to co-sponsor this draft and calls on other members of this Council to adopt it by consensus. Thank you.

Thank you. I'll give the floor to the distinguished representative of Bolivia.

Thank you, President. We want to thank the distinguished delegations of Mexico and Guatemala for introducing the draft to renew the mandate of the Special Rapporteur on the rights of indigenous peoples. We stress the constructive spirit of the sponsors and the participation of all delegations, demonstrating their commitment during negotiations on this draft resolution. Bolivia believes that the mandate has proven its worth in highlighting the multiple persistent forms in which indigenous peoples face human rights violations in various parts of the world. The work of the rapporteur has been crucial in promoting effective implementation of the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, as well as supporting states in developing inclusive, participative and public policies that respects the self-determination of indigenous peoples. We express our agreement and call on all states to make commitments and give continuity to the work of the permanent forum and to the expert mechanism on the rights of indigenous peoples. We recognise, therefore, the broad mandate in addressing obstacles in the protection of human rights, especially we welcome the approach of the mandate with respect to the negative impact of climate change. For my country, among our priorities are protecting ethnic protection of ancestral lands, and protecting traditional leaders from threats of criminalization and violence. Those challenges persist and continue to be urgent. They require constant oversight. Bolivia reaffirms its support for the work of the Special Rapporteur, and we urge all States to cooperate fully and constructively with its work. Bolivia is proud to co-sponsor this initiative, and we are grateful once again to the chief sponsors for introducing this resolution. Thank you.

Thank you. I have been informed by the Secretariat that there are PBIs for this draft proposal. The PBIs amount to a total of $473,000. This amount has already been included under the program budget for the relevant years. And I'll give the floor to members of the Council who wish to make-- sorry, Dominican Republic, that's before the vote. You're very fast. Let me finish the announcement. I now give the floor to members of the Council who wish to make explanations of votes before the vote on the draft proposal. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of the Dominican Republic. Dominican Republic.

Thank you, President. The Dominican Republic congratulates Guatemala and Mexico for this initiative, and we welcome the submission of this resolution on the human rights of Indigenous peoples. which really calls us to mind of our history and obligations. In Hispaniola Islands, the native population had virtually disappeared, virtually 30 years after the colonialists arrived, as a result of disease and exports. And in 1511, we also heard Fray Anton de Montesinos' sermon, which was considered the first call for justice of the Americas, denouncing ill treatment and injustice against indigenous peoples. This tragic chapter of American history reminds us of the need to protect the life, the dignity of our indigenous peoples. For all of these reasons, Dominican Republic restates its support for any effort to promote the full participation, the justice, and respect of indigenous peoples, ensuring that their voices are heard and their rights truly are recognized. As co-sponsor of this resolution, we call for its adoption by consensus. That would be a testimony to the dignity and survival of indigenous peoples throughout the world. Thank you.

I understand that that was a general comment. We will reflect it in the minutes accordingly. Any other explanations of votes before the vote, or any actual explanations before the vote? Is there a request for a vote? I see none. May I take it that draft proposal L2 is adopted without a vote? It is so decided. Thank you very much. The Council will now consider draft proposal L3 entitled Mandate of the Working Group on the Use of Mercenaries as a Means of Violating Human Rights and Impeding the Exercise of the Right of Peoples to Self-Determination. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Cuba to introduce the draft text.

President, the delegation of Cuba finds it an honor on behalf of 21 co-sponsor states to introduce draft resolution L3 titled, "Renewal of the Mandate of the Working Group on the Use of Mercenaries as a Means of Violating Human Rights and impeding the exercise of the right of peoples to self-determination. This is a procedural text, and it would allow a three-year renewal of the mandate of the working group. If it is renewed, there would be ongoing cooperation, technical assistance, and specialized advisory services provided to those states that request it on the basis of respect and noninterference in domestic affairs. This working group is the only expert mechanism within the United Nations system to tackle the problem of the use of mercenaries in all of its forms and manifestations. and also assess the impact on human rights of the actions of private military and security companies. The balanced geographical representation of the group provides a balanced outlook and analysis of the issues that fall within its consideration. This fosters cooperation activities, which are more in line with the specific requirements and specificities of those who request it. The working group has been working pursuant to its code of conduct. It has proved to be a necessary, useful and effective mechanism for States. For all of the above reasons, Cuba would request or would ask all Member States of the Council to vote to support or to vote in favour of draft resolution L3. Thank you.

Thank you. I have been informed by the Secretariat that there are 15 additional cosponsors. And I now give the floor to members of the Council who wish to make general comments. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Colombia.

Thank you, President. Colombia wishes to thank the delegation of Cuba for introducing draft resolution L.3, which renews the mandate of the Working Group on the Use of Mercenaries as a Means of Violating Human Rights and Impeding the Exercise of the Right of Peoples to Self-Determination. As we have said during other panels of this Human Rights Council session, the use of mercenaries is an activity which feeds on the economic vulnerability, misinformation and the lack of legal protection. is not in favor of commercializing violence, and we believe that there should be ethical principles underlying the global order. The use of mercenaries doesn't just threaten the lives of those who've recruited through trickery, but it undermines international peace, and it fosters foreign conflicts. We also undertake with responsibility the protection of our citizens, especially those that have been victims of opaque recruitment networks or trafficking networks, which lead them to conflict scenarios abroad. We hope that soon we will be ratifying the Convention against Recruitment, Use, Financing and Training of Mercenaries. and we are preparing in March 2026 to host the official visit of the working group in our country. And we hope that their mandate will be renewed through this resolution. For all of these reasons, we've co-sponsored draft resolution L3, and we would urge members of this council to adopt the draft by consensus. Thank you, sir.

Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Kenya.

Thank you, Mr. President. Kenya firmly upholds the principle of the United Nations Charter, including the respect for sovereign equality, territorial integrity, and the right of people to self-determination. We recognize with deep concern that mercenary activities not only violate human rights, but also seriously undermine peace mediation and conflict efforts worldwide. Mercenaries, by their nature, exacerbate violence and instability, often fueling proxy wars and complicating the dynamics between conflicting parties. Their presence can derail mediation by hardening positions, fracturing coalitions, and enabling spoilers who resist peaceful settlements. This reality has been evident in various conflict zones, where mercenary involvement obstructs the crucial political processes necessary for durable peace. Kenya, as a leading contributor to regional and global peace mediation and peacekeeping, understand the vital importance of maintaining impartial and effective mediation channels. Our efforts have demonstrated how external violent actors, including mercenaries, threaten to unravel painstakingly built negotiations. The renewal of the mandate of the Working Group on Mercenaries is essential for strengthening international oversight and response to these threats. In this regard, and in reaffirming its commitment to peace, security, and promotion of human rights, Kenya offers its full support to the adoption of this resolution and encourage all states to do the same. Thank you.

Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative for South Africa.

Thank you. Thank you, Mr. President. My delegation thanks the distinguished delegation of Cuba for this initiative and welcomes the consideration of the draft resolution that seeks to renew the mandate of the Working Group on the Use of Mercenaries as a Means of Violating Human Rights and Impeding the Exercise of the Right of Peoples to Self-Determination. South Africa fully supports the mandate renewal to enable this mechanism to continue monitoring mercenaries and mercenary-related activities in all their forms and manifestations in all parts of the world. In addition, the renewal provides yet another opportunity to identify new sources and causes, emerging issues, manifestations and trends with regards to mercenaries and mercenary-related activities and their impact on human rights, particularly on the right of people to self-determination. We remain concerned that the activities of mercenaries and mercenary-related activities violate human rights with impunity, undermine the states, including rule of law, and at the attainment of the right to development in developing countries. Their increased presence and involvement require urgent action. The absence of a regulatory framework with regards to the activities of private military and security companies remains a concern in this regard. Indeed, We share the concern that when local populations oppose and resist such activities to defend their land, natural resources, and environmental rights, they are often subjected to gross human rights violations, including violations of the rights to life, to self-determination, to racial equality and freedom from discrimination, to health and a healthy environment, to water, to freedom of speech and assembly. Our own national laws prohibit mercenary activities and provide a regulatory framework for the prohibition of any assistance or services of a military or military-related nature in a country of armed conflict. Accordingly, we support calls for all states to exercise the utmost vigilance against any kind of recruitment, training, hiring, arming, protection, transit, or financing of mercenaries. South Africa will continue to support efforts at fostering synergies between the Working Group on Mercenaries and the Open-ended Intergovernmental Working Group on PMSCs in our endeavour to close the existing regulatory framework as far as the activities of PMSCs are concerned. I thank you.

Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Sudan.

Thank you, President.

We wish to thank Cuba for having presented this draft resolution. It is a very important draft resolution for the promotion of human rights, and we can see that this issue is all the more important given the spreading use of technology and all mercenary-related activities. Mercenaries exacerbate conflict. There is, in fact, a link between the use of mercenaries and the acts committed by criminal groups. We see devastating natural environments and security companies are training mercenaries. Our country is suffering because of the use of mercenaries, which are involved in different operations. They are active in militias that are conducting wars against governments and the Sudanese people. We have mercenaries from 12 countries, both neighboring and others, and all of this leads to human rights violations and pillaging of assets and other violations. The draft resolution reminds States that they must pay attention to the financing and transfer of mercenaries, including through use of the internet. We would ask for the adoption of this resolution by consensus. Thank you.

Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Algeria.

Thank you, President. My delegation wishes to thank the delegation of Cuba for having submitted draft resolution L.3, calling for the renewal of the mandate of the Working Group on the use of mercenaries as a means of violating human rights, including the right of peoples to self-determination. We traditionally co-sponsor this resolution and we're proud of that. President, the use of mercenaries in all of its forms, including through private military and security companies, can represent a threat to international peace and security. It can exacerbate conflicts and act as a barrier to efforts for national reconciliation. They operate outside any clear legal framework and are not held accountable. and we have a context which is further weakened by humanitarian crisis and instability. Often their actions are part of foreign military interference. Their actions violate the fundamental rights of civilian populations and compromise the respect of international humanitarian law and international human rights law. In this context, the main responsibility of states is required here. They must take all necessary measures to control and provide limitations to the actions of mercenaries and private military and security companies that operate under their jurisdiction or in their territories. The global community must also work towards a binding international legal instrument which specifies the activities, provides for reparations, amongst other things. President, my delegation therefore supports draft resolution L3, and we call on all Member States to adopt it by consensus. In case of a vote, we will vote in favour, and we would urge all Member States to do the same. Thank you.

Informed by the Secretariat that there are PBIs for this draft proposal. The PBIs amount to a total of $687,600. This amount has already been included under the programme budget for the relevant years. I now give the floor to members of the Council who wish to make explanations of votes before the vote on the draft proposal. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Cyprus. Microphone for Cyprus.

Thank you, Mr. President. I have the honour to speak on behalf of the EU Member States that are members of the Human Rights Council. This explanation of vote has been agreed by the EU as a whole. The EU has engaged openly with the mission of Cuba. We appreciate that the resolution is a technical rollover. To date, this resolution still confuses the actions of mercenaries, which are clearly defined under international humanitarian law, with the activities of private military and security companies, the activities of which are lawful and advisable in certain circumstances. Further, the mandate of the working group overlaps with the intergovernmental working group on PMSCs as well as with other special procedure mandate holders, and this results in an inefficient allocation of already limited resources. The EU regrets that Cuba did not consider our proposals to modify the working group's mandate to clearly focus on mercenaries and mercenary-related activities and phasing out the working group through the appointment of an EU-UN independent expert. Had these proposals been implemented, they would have helped to ensure greater conceptual clarity in the text and the mandate to be more effective. For the above-mentioned reasons, the EU cannot support resolution L3. The EU will call for a vote, and the EU member states that are members of the Human Rights Council will be voting against. Thank you, Mr. President.

Thank you. I would like to inform the Council that Bolivia withdrew its co-sponsorship for this draft proposal, as reflected in e-delegate, and can therefore intervene on this text. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Bolivia.

President, we would like to thank the distinguished delegation of Cuba for the presentation of this draft resolution. This reaffirms the strategic principles of the UN Charter, such as sovereignty, political independence, territorial integrity, and self-determination of peoples. And this runs counter to the use of mercenaries that threaten all these values. There is this request to renew the mandate of the working group on the use of mercenaries for three years with a view to monitoring their use as a means of violating human rights and standing in the way of self-determination. We believe it is appropriate for the follow-up work on this issue to be within the Human Rights Council's programme of work, given that there has to be a multilateral system for accountability and monitoring of the use of mercenaries as a way of threatening peace. must ensure that there is limiting of use of and financing of mercenaries. And we want a global order where peace, solidarity, international cooperation are our common horizon. For these reasons, Our delegation will support draft resolution L3. We ask for its adoption by consensus, and if there is a vote, we will vote in favour. Thank you.

Thank you. I'll give the floor to the distinguished representative of China.

Mr. President. The legal status of mercenaries remain ambiguous. In practice, they often breach legal and moral boundaries and commit serious violations of human rights, particularly in those regions affected by instability. The absence of effective legal constraints and administrative oversight allows mercenaries to use force excessively and arbitrarily, resulting in civilian casualties and posing serious threats to national sovereignty and security. If hired by terrorist organizations, mercenaries may even endanger the overall security of the international community. China expresses its concern over the use of mercenaries as a means of violating human rights and impeding the exercise of peoples' right to self-determination. We firmly oppose the use of mercenaries as a temporary tool in warfare. and support the working group in continuing its work in accordance with its mandate. Given the aforementioned, this delegation will support this draft resolution, and we call on members of the Security Council to vote in favor of it. Thank you, President.

Thank you. I'll give the floor to the distinguished representative of Japan.

Thank you, Mr. President. We thank Cuba for preparing draft resolution L.3. However, this draft resolution regrettably still does not address the concerns we have consistently expressed. For example, we recognize that there remain diverse views and considerable ongoing discussion on the definition of the term "mercenaries" used in this draft resolution. Therefore, linking the use of mercenaries with human rights violations and extending the discussion to the right of people to self-determination is not appropriate. Taking these points into account, Japan maintains its long-standing position on this draft resolution. We will therefore vote against draft resolution L.3, and we encourage other delegations to do the same. I thank you, Mr. President.

Thank you. At the request of the delegation of Cyprus, the Council will now proceed to a recorded vote on draft proposal L.3. And I ask the Secretariat to open the voting machine. And I request all delegations to register their vote. I request delegations to check whether their vote is accurately reflected on the screen. If so, I ask the Secretariat to close the voting machine. The voting is now closed. The results of the recorded votes are as follows: 28 in favour, 17 against, 2 abstentions. Draft proposal L3 is therefore adopted. Copies of the results of the votes will shortly be uploaded on the Extranet. Council will now consider draft proposal L4 entitled promotion of a democratic and equitable international order I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Cuba to introduce the draft text

president the delegation of Cuba On behalf of 34 co-sponsoring states, finds it an honor to introduce draft resolution L4 titled Promotion of a Democratic and Equitable International Order. The change in the current international order is a pressing need. There are structural growing inequalities which condemn countries of the global south to underdevelopment, and this is something which perpetuates inequalities. There are tangible barriers standing in the way of national efforts for the promotion and protection of all human rights. These circumstances do not exonerate States from their primary responsibilities in the human rights sector, but there is no doubt that they also impose severe limitations to their enjoyment. Draft resolution L4 is based on language which the Council has previously approved, and it also takes into account the recently adopted Seville Declaration, particularly as it refers to complying with commitments of international development assistance. It takes a realistic approach to the establishment of a democratic and equitable international order, which fosters the achievement of both individual and collective rights. Cuba would like to thank the States and civil society organizations and other stakeholders that actively and constructively were involved in consultations on this draft resolution. The text that we submit today is the outcome of this collective, transparent, inclusive reflection. We regret that some delegations continue to have a rigid and remote position. when it comes to progressing towards an international order which is democratic and equitable and fairer, we would respectfully ask them to reconsider their positions in future. Let me conclude by emphasizing that the text that we are submitting today is a contribution in good faith to the efforts we make to ensure that the right of every person to an international order based on equality, social justice, human dignity, solidarity, and respect for cultural diversity and human rights becomes a reality. For the reasons that we've mentioned, on behalf of the co-sponsors, Cuba would like to ask Member States of this Council to vote in favour of draft resolution L4. Thank you.

Thank you. I have been informed by the Secretariat that there are 25 additional co-sponsors. I now give the floor to members of the Council who wish to make general comments. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Ethiopia.

Thank you, Mr. President. Ethiopia expresses its appreciation to the Republic of Cuba for the presentation of this important resolution. Ethiopia is pleased to have sponsored this resolution and fully supports its adoption. Ethiopia reaffirms its unwavering commitment to the principles enshrined in the Charter of the United Nations, particularly the respect for sovereignty, territorial integrity, political independence, and the peaceful settlement of disputes. We commend the resolution's comprehensive and balanced approach in addressing the intrinsic linkages between democracy, development, peace, and human rights. The resolution rightly underscores the central role of international cooperation, technical assistance and capacity building, particularly for developing, least developed and landlocked countries, in the effective realization of human rights. We underscore the importance of adequate financing, equitable trade opportunities and technology transfer in supporting national development efforts and the full realization of all human rights. We also welcome the resolution's emphasis on the urgent need for reforming the international financial architecture to ensure greater equity, inclusiveness, and responsiveness to the development needs of the global South. We reiterate our call for the reversal of declining trends in official development assistance and for a renewed multilateral commitment to address systematic inequalities, further exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, the impacts of climate change, and rising global economic uncertainty. Ethiopia values the resolution's emphasis on inclusive, representative, and transparent international institutions, a truly democratic and equitable international order, can only be achieved through the equal representation and participation of all States, regardless of size or economic power, in global decision-making processes. In conclusion, Ethiopia considers this resolution a timely and forward-looking contribution to the Human Rights Council work in promoting a fair, inclusive and cooperative international system. We urge all Member States to support its adoption by consensus and to remain engaged in its full and effective implementation. I thank you.

Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Kenya.

We thank the delegation of Cuba for this draft. Kenya continues to champion the call for a fair and inclusive international order, including at the highest political level, and reaffirms that global peace, justice, and sustainable development can only be achieved through genuine multilateralism and respect for the Charter of the United Nations. We emphasize that a democratic and equitable international order must be anchored on the sovereign equality of states, mutual respect, and non-interference in internal affairs. In this regard, Kenya reiterates that democracy has no single model, and that every people retains the sovereign right to determine their own political, economic, and social systems. Kenya underscores that global frameworks must deliver equity in access to finance, trade, and technology. Declining official development assistance, unsustainable debt burdens, and unilateral coercive measures continue to undermine the development aspirations and human rights of many nations. We therefore call for urgent reform of the international financial architecture to make it fairer, more inclusive, and responsive to the needs of developing countries. Kenya also welcomes the recognition of the right to clean, healthy, and sustainable environment, as well as the need to bridge the digital divide as integral parts of just an international order. In conclusion, Kenya reaffirms its full support for this resolution and the mandate of the independent expert and urges all states to work in good faith towards multilateral system grounded in equity, human dignity and solidarity among nations, large and small. Thank you.

Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of China.

Thank you, President.

In a world with turbulence, the UN faces a major challenge, and the deficit of global governance continues to grow. Promoting a more just, equitable international order is a common call of the majority of countries and consistent with the goals, purposes and principles of the UN Charter. China believes that the global governance system must respect sovereign equality, respect for international law, multilateralism, human-centredness and tangible effectiveness. It is necessary to bolster the implementation effectiveness of international mechanisms and to respond more effectively to the various global challenges and to better serve the interests of countries, especially the developing countries. China welcomes the L4 statement submitted by Cuba. and is committed to communicating actively with all parties to reach consensus. The proposed text comes from an in-depth reflection on the existing problems and challenges in the current international order, reaffirms sovereign equality and the fundamental principles of international law and international relations, non-interventionist international relations and reflects the aspirations of a vast group of developing countries for a democratic and equitable international order. On that basis, China supports this draft resolution and urges all other Member States to vote in favour of it. Thank you.

Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of South Africa.

Thank you, Mr. President. South Africa thanks Cuba for this initiative and expresses its support for resolution L4. At a moment of deep global uncertainty, marked by inequality, conflict and climate crisis, the imperative for a just and inclusive international order has never been greater. Draft resolution L4 speaks directly to this necessity. It reaffirms that all peoples are entitled to an international order grounded in equity, justice, solidarity, and respect for sovereignty. These principles are not abstractions. They are the foundations for peace, security, and development for present and future generations. As President Cyril Ramaphosa said in his recent address at UNGA 80, the world order must reflect the equality of nations, and the voices of the Global South must carry the same weight as those of the powerful. This call For reform is not merely an appeal for goodwill, but a recognition of our shared responsibility to uphold justice and ensure the sustainability of our global order. Meaningful transformation of global governance structures is essential if we are to realize the full promise of the UN Charter. We believe that a reformed system of global governance should prioritize democratic principles, international law, including international human rights law and international humanitarian law. It should be equitable and just. We should reject unilateralism and power-based solutions, and instead strengthen multilateralism, cooperation, and solidarity among nations in order to address contemporary global challenges. A truly democratic and equitable order also requires a reformed international financial architecture. the honouring of development financing commitments, and the equitable participation of all States in global decision-making. Resolution L.4 offers a path towards restoring balance, strengthening multilateralism, and ensuring that no nation, large or small, rich or poor, is left behind. By supporting this resolution, this Council reaffirms its role as a forum where human rights, development and dignity converge. South Africa therefore calls on the Council to adopt draft resolution L4 by consensus. And should the resolution be called to a vote, we urge members of this Council to vote in favour of L4. a fairer, more inclusive world order is not only possible, it is necessary. I thank you.

Thank you. I have been informed by the Secretary that there are no PBIs for this draft proposal. And then I'll give the floor to members of the Council who wish to make explanations of votes before the vote on the draft proposal. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Japan.

Thank you, Mr. President. We thank Cuba for preparing draft version L4. I want to make it clear that we certainly share the view that the theme of a democratic, equitable international order is important. We do not intend to dismiss all discussions, initiative on this theme. However, we find that the concept of a democratic, equitable international order referred to in this draft resolution remains unclear and cannot be considered as part of internationally recognized human rights. In addition, the introduction of new language regarding ODA funding and UCMs has made it even more difficult for us to support the draft resolution. Furthermore, it is with regret that we must state that the Council is not the appropriate forum to address many of the issues raised in this draft resolution. In light of these considerations, we are compelled to conclude that this resolution itself falls outside the scope of this Council's mandate, and we therefore cannot support it. For these reasons, we call for a vote and will vote against draft resolution L4. I thank you, Mr. President.

Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Qatar.

Mr. President, the challenges of our world today require serious action in order to build a democratic and equitable international order anchored in respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms and equality among states and peoples, including the right to self-determination. We shouldn't use the use of force or threat of that in order to build peace, equality, and ensure the rule of law, development, and international solidarity. In this context, L4 stresses that states should be committed to principles of international law, that is to say friendliness in international relations and respect for sovereignty. According to the UN Charter and other relevant documents, there is a need to promote all human rights and protect these rights. We stress the importance for the mandate of the expert in order to establish a democratic and equitable international order based on respect for human rights, international solidarity, rule of law, and realizing development. This resolution calls upon the expert to provide recommendations and measures to states and organizations to implement, to promote this international order that is based on democratic and equitable measures. We believe in these principles. including the respect for self-determination, the right to development and peace, and the right to participate in decision-making. Hence, we will vote in favour of this decision. And the interpreter notes that the speed of reading the statement did not allow for full interpretation. Thank you.

Thank you. I can inform the Council that Bolivia withdrew its co-sponsorship for this draft proposal as reflected in e-delegate and can therefore intervene on this text. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Bolivia.

Thank you, President. We are grateful to the distinguished delegation of Cuba for introducing this draft. Given the sensitive, critical international situation we face, we need to strengthen the multilateral system based on sovereign equality, cooperation, justice, and strengthening the human rights pillar. The text stresses that democracy and development and human rights are interrelated. and that no democratic model is universal or exclusive. It calls for the self-determination of people, sovereignty over natural resources, the right to development, peace and international solidarity as key pillars of an equitable global order. The draft promotes renewed multilateralism that promotes co-operation and leadership of the United Nations. It raises the need to reform the international financial architecture. promote greater equality in global trade and strengthen South-South and triangular co-operation as a complement to North-South co-operation. It highlights the importance of reducing economic and technological gaps, fostering the transfer of technology and meeting ODA commitments. Another part of the text is the call to action for inclusion and equitable participation in international decision making. balanced representation of regions and gender in the UN system, and creation of international, transparent, responsible institutions. In our opinion, all of this is relevant to strengthening human rights. Olivia supports the continuity and the work of the independent expert in accordance with his mandate to continue to present in concrete measures that can contribute to promoting a democratic, equitable international order and for the transformation of international financial architecture. For those reasons, my delegation co-sponsors this resolution and respectfully invites members of Council to vote in favour of it. Thank you.

Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Cyprus.

Thank you, Mr. President. I have the honour to speak on behalf of the EU member states that are members of the Human Rights Council. This explanation of vote has been agreed by the EU as a whole. The EU thanks Cuba for submitting this draft resolution. The EU and its Member States remain committed to promoting a democratic and equitable international order. However, our concerns expressed in previous years have not been addressed in draft resolution L4 and thus remain valid. We consider that the topic of the resolution has not been dealt with in a comprehensive way and certain elements fall outside the appropriate context and go beyond the Council's mandate. Moreover, the EU regrets that concepts that lack endorsement by the UN membership as a whole, such as new international economic order, have been introduced in this draft resolution. Taking this into account, the EU cannot support the draft resolution L4, and the EU member states that are members of the Human Rights Council will be voting against it. I thank you.

Thank you. rest of the delegation of Japan, the Council will now proceed to a recorded vote on draft proposal L4. I ask the Secretariat to open the voting machine, and I request all delegations to register their vote. I request delegations to check whether their vote is accurately reflected on the screen. If so, I ask the secretariat to close the voting machine. The voting is now closed. The results of the recorded votes are as follows: 24 in favour, 17 against, 6 abstentions. Draft proposal L4 is therefore adopted. Copies of the results of the votes will shortly be uploaded on Extranet. the council will now consider draft proposal L5 entitled the right to development I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Uganda to introduce the draft text

thank you thank you mr. president Uganda has the honor to table resolution a stroke HRC stroke 60 stroke L5 on behalf of the Non-Aligned Movement, NAM. The resolution is sponsored by the 120 member states of the NAM. We would like to thank all states and civil society that constructively participated in the informal consultations to inform the outcome of the draft resolution tabled today. The draft resolution contains text from previously adopted resolution with some new language informed by real-time developments in the human rights fields and the needs of the respective states. The new language includes the following: In the preambular part, there is language that introduces the nexus between peace and stability and the enjoyment of all human rights and fundamental freedoms, including the right to development. Furthermore, the preambular part also reflects the ongoing challenges experienced by many countries, especially the low and middle income countries, in mobilizing or accessing the required financial resources to facilitate the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals. Thirdly, the resolution in the operative part requests the extension of the mandate of the Special Rapporteur on the right to development for three years. Mr. President, the new language is informed by the need to actualize the right to development where it matters most. We firmly believe the mandate of the Special Rapporteur on the right to development remains relevant in advancing the implementation of the right to development and facilitating the full enjoyment of human rights. The PBIs of extension of the mandate of the Special Rapporteur are not different from the current entitlements of the mandate. We believe that under no circumstances should people be deprived of their basic means of survival or access to critical infrastructure, services and goods that are enshrined in the right to development. The adoption by the Council of this resolution will enable this quest of many. A commitment to international cooperation to resolve obstacles to development should therefore underpin our collective efforts. We therefore invite all members of the Council to support this draft resolution and adopt it by consensus. In case of a vote, we implore all members to vote in favour of this resolution. Thank you, Mr. President.

Thank you. I now give the floor to members of the Council who wish to make general comments. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Cuba.

Senor President, We are grateful for the leadership of Uganda on behalf of NAM in coordinating and introducing this important draft resolution. The comprehensive text constitutes an initial effort towards operationalizing the right to development into international law, for the majority of countries of the south, that right continues to be a far-off aspiration. Development is not just a measurable target, but rather an integral part of fundamental human rights. Exercising the right to development is essential for the enjoyment of other human rights. Denying that reality would run contrary to the principles of universality, interdependence and complementarity that should prevail when addressing issues of human rights. The right to development is incompatible with the imposition of UCMs, as is the case with the criminal illegal economic blockade imposed by the US against the Cuban people for more than six decades. which has reached unprecedented levels in recent years. That blockade must end. Indifference and selfishness cannot dictate the path of global affairs. We will not renounce a more just, inclusive, sustainable future for all. Cuba reiterates its firm support for the adoption without delay by the UN General Assembly of the International Covenant on the Right to Development as recommended in 2023 by this Council. For those reasons, I call on all Member States of the Council to support and vote in favour of draft resolution L5. I thank you.

I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Ethiopia.

Thank you, Mr. President. Ethiopia expresses its appreciation to the Republic of Uganda for presenting this important resolution on the right to development on behalf of the Non-Aligned Movement and reaffirms its full support for its adoption. Ethiopia reaffirms its long-standing commitment to the right to development as an inalienable and universal human right, grounded in the Charter of the United Nations and the Declaration on the Right to Development. We welcome the resolution's reaffirmation that the right to development is central to the achievement of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and must be prioritized to ensure inclusive, equitable and sustainable progress for all peoples and nations. We commend the resolution's emphasis on international cooperation and solidarity to address structural inequalities and financial gaps, which remain major barriers to the full realization of the right to development, particularly for developing countries that continue to be underrepresented in global decision-making processes. Ethiopia also supports the emphasis on the elaboration of a legally binding instrument on the right to development and welcomes the progress made in the working group and other relevant fora. We believe such an instrument would represent a significant step towards operationalizing this right, ensuring greater accountability and coherence in global development efforts. We also underscore the importance of enhancing the mandates and the resources of the Special Rapporteur and the expert mechanism on the right to development, and welcome the resolution's provisions aimed at strengthening their roles. In conclusion, Mr. President, Ethiopia reiterates its strong support for this resolution, L5, and calls on all members of this Council to adopt it by consensus. We encourage collective efforts to realize the right to development in both policy and practice in a manner that respects sovereignty, upholds human dignity, and advances all human rights. I thank you, Mr. President.

Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Algeria.

Thank you, Mr. President. I would like to express our sincere appreciation to Uganda for presenting the draft resolution L.5, titled "The Right to Development," on behalf of the Movement of Non-Aligned Countries. My country reiterates its longstanding commitment to the realization of the right to development within a comprehensive approach that requires the effective participation of all. We reaffirm that the right to development is a universal, fundamental, inalienable right and an integral part of fundamental human rights, and that all human rights and fundamental freedoms, including the right to development, are universal, indivisible, interdependent, interrelated and mutually reinforcing. More than ever, equal importance must be given to all human rights, including the right to development, in accordance with the principle of non-selectivity. We underscore that development cannot be achieved in conflict setting and under a foreign occupation. In this regard, my delegation recalls the Vienna Declaration and the Declaration on the Right to Development that call for the fulfillment of the inalienable right to self-determination and as a prerequisite to the realization of the rights to development. Mr. President, Finally, the Algerian delegation underlines the importance of international cooperation and solidarity to achieve an effective and equitable economic model that allows everyone to enjoy the right to development and in a comprehensive way, with the participation of the stakeholders. My delegation strongly supports the resolution and urges all members of the Council to vote in favour. Thank you.

Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of South Africa.

Mr. President, South Africa is honored to take the floor in strong support of draft resolution L.5 on the right to development, tabled by the Non-Aligned Movement. The right to development should not be aspirational. It should be binding and universal. It is the right of peoples and nations to shape their political, economic, and social destinies without coercion or structural inequities. As affirmed in the Declaration on the Right to Development and repeatedly underscored in the resolutions of this Council, development is an inalienable right, universal, indivisible and interdependent with all other human rights. Yet, four decades after the adoption of the Declaration, the reality is that millions remain trapped in poverty and inequality, with financing gaps for sustainable development reaching $4 trillion annually, disproportionately affecting countries of the Global South. This is unacceptable and demands urgent correction action. South Africa welcomes the resolution's call to strengthen global partnerships, reform of international financial architecture, and enhancement of the means of implementation to make the right to development a lived reality for all. We strongly support the extension of the mandate of the Special Rapporteur on the right to development and the expert mechanism, whose work remains essential to ensuring accountability and coherence across the UN system. Our own history teaches us that freedom without development is hollow. Political liberation must be accompanied by economic emancipation. As Nelson Mandela reminded the world, overcoming poverty is not a gesture of charity, it is an act of justice. This resolution is about justice. It is about correcting structural imbalances in global governance and ensuring that no nation, no community, and no individual is left behind. Mr. President, South Africa believes that operationalizing the right to development through a legally binding instrument will be a decisive step forward. We therefore echo the Kampala Summit outcome and the call for the NAM to advance negotiation on such an instrument at the General Assembly. In conclusion, South Africa urges all delegations to support this resolution. Let us send a clear and united message that the right to development must move from principle to practice, from rhetoric to reality. I thank you.

Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Sudan.

Thank you, President. We would like to Thank you, Ganda, for introducing L5 on behalf of NAM. The right to development is an essential right in the sphere of human rights. People are entitled to conduct a dignified, decent life and contribute to development and the realisation of that development and to enjoy its fruits. The draft calls for the integration of the right to development into various programmes and projects, and it calls for international co-operation. It recalls that the state is duty bound under the right to development, as is civil society. The draft report believes that there is a link between human rights and the right to development. The human must be at the heart of that development. human rights instruments related to development must be implemented. The text also highlights the connection between the right to development and stability, showing that there are challenges when it comes to implementation of development programmes. There are also problems when it comes to financing and institutional reform. We urge the Council to adopt this resolution by consensus. I thank you.

Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of the Gambia.

Thank you very much, Mr. President. The Gambia thanks Uganda for presenting this important resolution on behalf of the NAM group and commends them for the leadership and dedication shown in advancing this initiative. The Gambia reaffirms that human rights are universal, interdependent, and indivisible. Human rights are not an end in themselves. Instead, they must strive for the well-being of human beings. The right to development is an integral part of the fundamental human right of all persons to participate in, to contribute to, and to enjoy economic, social, cultural, and political development. Therefore, this resolution rightly emphasizes the need for stronger international cooperation, policy coherence, and equitable distribution of economic resources to make this right a tangible reality. We welcome the resolution's focus on the operationalization of the right to development, including true enhanced support to the working group, the expert mechanism, and the special rapporteur, as well as its reaffirmation of the centrality of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. In this spirit, the Gambia strongly encourages all member states of this Council to support this resolution by consensus. Thank you, Mr. President.

Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Kenya.

Thank you, Mr. President. As a member of the Non-Aligned Movement, my delegation welcomes the adoption of this important resolution on the right to development, a cornerstone of the human rights framework and an enduring expression of equity, solidarity, and justice in global governance. The commitment reaffirmed in this resolution is not merely rhetoric; it is a practical blueprint for realizing the indivisibility of all human rights and ensuring no one and no nation is left behind in the quest for sustainable development. We continue to call for the advancement of this agenda and for ensuring that the Human Rights Council remains at the forefront of shaping a coherent vision for operationalizing the right to development. This resolution reminds us that the right to development is an inalienable human right, not a policy option. Its fulfillment demands both national action and genuine international cooperation. As highlighted in the text, the widening gap in financing for sustainable development and the persistence of inequality and the rise of unilateral measures continue to undermine the global partnership envisioned in the 1986 declaration. We therefore echo the emphasis placed on the review revitalizing multilateral solidarity, ensuring predictable financing, and reinforcing the centrality of the United Nations in coordinating efforts to make this right a lived reality for all. We also welcome the renewed three-year mandate of the Special Rapporteur and the continuing work of the expert mechanism. Their collaboration will be essential in translating normative progress into tangible development outcomes, particularly for communities in the Global South. The call for enhanced resources, strengthening regional outreach, and integrate the right to development within the broader UN system is therefore timely and necessary. Mr. President, for these reasons, my delegation is pleased to support the adoption of this resolution as a testament to our shared determination to make the right to development a lived reality for all people and future generations, and I call on all delegations to support and vote in favor of this resolution. Thank you.

Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Bolivia.

President, we would like to thank the distinguished delegation of Uganda for their presentation of draft resolution L.5 on behalf of the Non-Aligned Movement. Bringing about the right to development is essential for the enjoyment of all human rights in the respect to the principle of universality of all human rights. For Bolivia, our economic model Within our economic model, the right to development has a key role because it recognizes that all persons and all peoples have the right to participate, contribute, and benefit from economic, social, cultural, and political development in conditions of equality. That means that development shouldn't be just the right of the few, but it should be the right of all. Our foreign policy restates that all human rights and fundamental freedoms, including the right to development, are universal, indivisible and interdependent. They are connected to each other and mutually reinforce each other. In our view, this draft resolution includes fair and balanced language, and it also has the support of a broad range of countries. It also recognizes the need for broad ranging criteria to be applied to the recognition of all human rights. And there must be a more systemic inclusion of the right to development in all relevant work of the United Nations. For all these reasons, our delegation will co-sponsor this draft resolution and we'd urge all member states of council to adopt it. Thank you. By consensus, thank you.

Thank you. I have been informed by the Secretariat that there are PBIs for this draft proposal. The amount of $721,200 is already included in the programme budget for the relevant years, and the amount of $8,200 will be added to the budget. Colleagues, due to the lack of time during this meeting this morning, we will be unable to begin the voting process and to take explanations of votes before the vote. We will therefore stop here and take further action on these draft proposals, but not before I make one more announcement.

I would also like to inform you that an additional meeting will be necessary in order to allow the Council to deliver its opinion on all of the draft decisions and resolutions and the other proceedings that are still before it during this session. That means that, instead of concluding our 60th session at noon on Wednesday, we will continue our work into the afternoon of Wednesday 8 October. My apologies to those who were planning a long weekend. That brings us to the end of the meeting. We will resume our meeting at 3 pm this afternoon so that we can continue our consideration of draft decisions and resolutions. I close the 41st meeting of the 60th session of the Human Rights Council. Thank you and see you this afternoon.