15th Meeting - 63rd Session of Human Rights Council Human Rights Council Date: 17 September 2026 Language: English Transcript: https://transcripts.un.org/en/hrc/63/15 Transcripts available through this tool are created by using automatic speech recognition and are not official records nor official documents of the United Nations. Official records and official documents are available on the Official Document System of the United Nations. --- HRC · President [20:39]: Excellencies, distinguished representatives, colleagues, I hereby declare open the 15th meeting of the 63rd session of the Human Rights Council. Excellencies, colleagues, we will now begin the high-level panel discussion on the 60th anniversary of the International Covenants on Human Rights. universality, indivisibility, interdependence and interrelatedness of all human rights, held pursuant to Council resolution 61/7. This debate is accessible to persons with disabilities through the provision of international sign language interpretation and real-time captioning, together with other accessibility measures. I encourage those who may need reasonable accommodation to inform the Secretariat if they haven't done so already. It is my honor to welcome to the podium Mr. Wael Khoury, the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, who will deliver an opening statement. I warmly welcome Mr. Bertrand Ramcharan, former acting United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights and Deputy High Commissioner for Human Rights, who will moderate the discussion. It is also my honor to welcome our distinguished panelists, Ambassador Preeti Saran, Chair of the Committee on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights; Mr. Chang Rok-sol, Chair of the Human Rights Committee; and Mr. Philip Alston, former Chair of the Committee on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, former Special Rapporteur on extrajudicial summary or arbitrary executions and former special rapporteur on extreme poverty and human rights. Excellencies, colleagues, the list of speakers will close in 15 minutes. I encourage all speakers to intervene in an interactive way, present comments and ask questions that reflect the panelists' intervention and the discussion. The speaking time limit is, as you all know, one minute 30 seconds, and a maximum of 40 speakers will be accommodated. Delegates inscribed on the list of speakers who cannot take the floor because of time constraints can upload their statements on the online system to be posted on the HRC portal. And I now have the honor to invite the High Commissioner for Human Rights to deliver the opening statement. You have the floor, sir. OHCHR · High Commissioner for Human Rights · Volker [23:22]: Thank you, Mr. President, excellencies, distinguished panelists, and distinguished delegates. When United Nations member states unanimously adopted the two great human rights covenants 60 years ago, they brought the force of law to the principles set out in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. They broke new ground. The edicts of Ashoka, the Code of Hammurabi, the Magna Carta, and many other historical agreements bear witness that people everywhere need protection from abuses of power and a vision to realize their aspirations for a better world. After the 20th century's paroxysms of war and genocide, states knew they must devise a system strong enough to uphold human rights across regions and generations. All human rights, including the rights to development and to a safe, healthy and sustainable environment. Because economic, social and cultural rights are as vital as civil and political rights, and all these rights depend on each other, contributing to a virtuous circle of greater social cohesion, more trust in institutions, and more stability. It took almost 20 years after the Universal Declaration to set out the covenants principles in binding treaty law. And in the end, political divisions arising from the Cold War meant that the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights had to be set out as two separate treaties, but they were adopted under a single resolution. The signatories to that resolution acknowledged human rights as among the fundamental norms of statehood. They formulated and agreed to abide by authoritative international standards governing the treatment of all the people under their jurisdiction. They agreed to regular scrutiny of their human rights record by independent experts. These were extraordinary advances for human rights law and for the lives of many millions of people. And they shaped the foundation of our broader system of international human rights protection. Mr. President, an ecosystem of human rights treaties has grown up around the covenants on racial discrimination, discrimination against women, torture, the rights of the child, migrant workers, people with disabilities, and enforced disappearances were also adopted. Treaty bodies were shaped in their wake, as was my office and this Council, with its special procedures and universal periodic review. All of them in large part from the strong trunk of the two covenants. So there is a direct correlation. The covenants have notably inspired the Inter-American, the African, the European human rights systems, as well as the ASEAN and Arab human rights charters. Numerous domestic laws have drawn on the language of the treaties from Colombia to the Philippines, Romania, South Africa, and many more. The covenants' two expert bodies, the Human Rights Committee and the Committee on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, have guided us to respect the growing diversity of our societies. They have helped sustain the force of global as well as grassroots activism. They have advanced implementation of the covenants and given many individual petitioners the opportunity to receive recognition and remedy for violations of their rights. The committees also continue to guide state responses to new challenges. In 2020, the Human Rights Committee made clear that the right of peaceful assembly applies to online gatherings. Neither officials nor internet providers may restrict or violate the privacy of people participating in critical discussions online, and obviously in the current environment, ever more important to remember this. In 2019, the same committee found that states may not deport people to their countries of origin if they would face life-threatening impacts of climate change. In 2017, the Committee on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights said states must adopt measures to prevent businesses from abusing people's rights, and if people do suffer corporate abuses, states are responsible for providing them with effective remedy. Mr. President, today I am extremely concerned that the entire human rights treaty body system is at risk of crumbling. Cuts in funds have forced a sharp reduction in staff, the cancellation of committee country visits and sessions, and increasing delays in the consideration of states' reports and people's individual petitions for help. Together with a decline in reporting by State parties, these developments mean that the treaty bodies are now unable to perform their essential functions adequately. A report by the Secretary-General on the status of the treaty bodies will be submitted to the General Assembly in the coming weeks. We urgently need to fulfill the commitment that States made in the Pact for the Future to ensure adequate and sustained resources for all mandated work of the treaty body system. We also need reforms. The treaty bodies can become more accessible, efficient and impactful if the resources are there. The treaty body chairs and my office have put forward a number of important proposals. Excellencies, this is not just a symbolic anniversary, it is an urgent call for help. and support for states and leaders everywhere to recognize the extent and depth of achievements of the two covenants, that these two covenants have built, to acknowledge the wisdom and humanity of their guidance, and to advance their promise of a future that is more just and therefore more safe for us all. Thank you, Mr. President. HRC · President [30:06]: Thank you, High Commissioner. I now invite Mr. Betrand Ramcharan to moderate the panel discussion. And as we know, we have two hours for the overall of this session, of this dialogue. One hour would be allocated for Member States and one hour would be allocated to the panel. So, Mr. Ramcharan, I invite you to moderate the panel discussion. You have the floor, sir. Moderator · Bertrand Ramcharan [30:38]: Mr. President, the High Commissioner just told us that he's concerned about the future of the treaty system. I'm your link with 1976, when the covenants came into force. And I have seen a fair bit in my time, and as I had a chance to speak with you yesterday, Mr. President, I've just edited a book called The Value of Human Rights Treaties. It has chapters in every one of the United Nations treaties and each of the regional treaties. And the reason I mention this is that, distinguished delegates, ladies and gentlemen, I would just like to say to you the invaluable work that is done by these treaties and these treaty bodies. And so, my dear Volker, we've known each other for a while, and I would just like to say that if we were to lose the treaty system, we would lose the soul of the United Nations Human Rights Program. I just wanted to start with that. Mr. President, you have introduced the members of the panel already, and so I don't need to do that myself. I will just make a few framework remarks. I'm honored to be with you today. As a young officer, I saw, and I was part of a team that worked on the entry into force of the Covenant in 1976. I should like to pay tribute to the first Chairperson of the Human Rights Committee, the late Mr. Andreas Mavrommatis of Cyprus, for his exceptional wisdom in steering the Committee during the Cold War. Likewise, to the first batch of members of the Committee, At that stage, the Committee on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights did not yet exist. In 1977, the ECOSOC decided on a sessional working group, which the man to my left here considered of minimal usefulness, and he arranged for its replacement by today's Committee on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights. Mr. President, this Human Rights Council is the godparent and the moral guarantor of the covenants, which were drafted to begin with by your predecessor, the Commission on Human Rights. Folklore sometimes pours scorn on the Commission on Human Rights, but it was the vision of the Commission to have an international bill of human rights with a declaration and what became the covenants and measures of implementation. So, Mr. President, When the covenants were adopted in the General Assembly in 1966, the then Secretary-General U Thant stated, and I quote, "I gladly accept these responsibilities on my behalf and on behalf of the Secretariat." Mr. President, this is a moral and a legal responsibility to support the work of these two committees. I want to emphasize this point because the covenants in the pantheon of treaties have a rather special place because they are components of the International Bill of Rights and because of this solemn pledge of the Secretary General of the time. The representative of Morocco, Madam Halima Warzazi, the chairperson of the Third Committee, said on the occasion that they represented, quote, the wishes of humanity in all its diversity. If the Moroccan delegation is in the room, I would ask you to convey my personal greetings and gratitude to Madam Halima Warsazi. I am told that she was 24 years of age at the time when she presided over the Third Committee. She was a stunning beauty. I knew her for most of her life, and I am told that she used all of her wiles to get the covenants adopted in the Third Committee. Mr. President, the President of the General Assembly at the time, Mr. Abdul Rahman Pazhwak of Afghanistan, highlighted that universal respect for human rights is inseparable from world peace. A week before, on the occasion of Human Rights Day, Mr. Pazhwak had the following to say: "If the United Nations can be said to have an ideology, it must be, surpassing all others, the ideology of human rights. When the covenants were adopted, a leading delegate from the Western world that I will not mention today quoted these remarks on the occasion. As I said a week earlier on human rights, the president of the General Assembly, Mr. Pasqua, said that the philosophy of the UN was that of human rights, and the Secretary General echoed that in his statement at the time of the adoption of the covenants. Mr. President, it is important to remind ourselves that States Parties to the Covenant have specific legal responsibilities that they must uphold. This is the point of departure. The role of the Covenant Committees is to help States Parties achieve this, and the role of the Human Rights Council is to support and promote this. I'd like to repeat that. The role of the Human Rights Council is to support and promote this. Mr. President, it is important to have in perspective that the law of the Human Rights Council is the law of the Charter, its founding resolution, the Universal Declaration, UN human rights treaties, and general international law. This relationship between the Human Rights Council and the treaty bodies is of some importance, and it is for this reason that I said what I just said about the governing law of the Council. The law of the two committees is the law of their respective covenants and general international law. And in the interrelatedness and the interaction between the Human Rights Council and the treaty committees. It's important to remember this. Mr. President, the history of efforts for the implementation of the covenants has seen patient international cooperation, incremental progress, persistent efforts, understanding of the political and economic context, and the quest for justice. Justice is the yardstick for all of our efforts. Let me just say this. I saw the covenants in operation when it first came in. It was the time of the Cold War. I'm seated next, I met her today for the first time, a distinguished member of the Secretariat for Mauritius. And the first batch of members of the Human Rights Committee was a Mauritian judge named Mr. Rajsumar Lalla. and the members of the Human Rights Committee at the time, they had to navigate a way mindful of the complexities of the Cold War. One may say that there are elements of the Cold War in the times that we live in right now. Mr. President, as I think about this, I say I think that one might ask what are the needs of the Covenant committees? What needs are they experiencing on which the Human Rights Council might be of support? One might also ask how one might link up the implementation of the covenants with the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals and of the Agenda for Peace. On the occasion of the 50th anniversary of the covenants, the then Secretary-General, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, he was the one who advanced the ideas that the implementation of the covenants could go in tandem with the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals. Mr. President, it is a privilege to join you in this commemorative meeting. And I now ask the panelists, the two current distinguished chairpersons of the Covenant Committees, and a distinguished previous chairperson, and my friend, Philip Olson, we work together to make their presentations. Madam Chairperson, you have the floor. CESCR · Chair · Preeti Saran [39:15]: Thank you, sir. Mr. President, Excellencies, distinguished representatives, Distinguished colleagues on the panel, I'm delighted to participate in this panel discussion, and I'd like to thank the Human Rights Council for recognizing the importance of jointly celebrating the 60th anniversary of the two landmark international covenants on human rights. This is a valuable opportunity to reflect on the achievements and future of the two covenants, their role at a time when the international rules-based order is being challenged and global governance has become fragmented, volatile and weaponized. Since its inception, the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights has brought these rights like adequate standards of living, rights to health, education, housing, food, social security, work and participation in cultural life from the margins to the forefront of human rights discourse. A global legal baseline for human dignity was established, codifying the enforceable standards. The covenant has inspired national courts and constitutions worldwide to treat socioeconomic guarantees as enforceable rights linked to the right to life. It mandated non-discrimination. Progressive realization and use of maximum available resources has meant that international assistance, opaque and unviable debt servicing obligations upon the poorest nations, taxation, public expenditure, social protection, development and economic reforms all have direct human rights implications. Recognizing the economic, social, cultural rights are not mere aspirations, the committee, our committee, has helped translate the covenant into concrete standards. Its jurisprudence, numerous concluding observations, and its 27 general comments have clarified states' obligations, both at the national and international level. developed the conceptual architecture of economic, social, cultural rights and made them applicable to concrete situations. In 2025, our committee adopted a general comment on the environmental dimensions of sustainable development, and we are now working on our next general comment on economic, social, cultural rights in armed conflict situations. Other notable general comments include on land, science, non-discrimination, business activities, etc. During COVID, our committee issued three important statements highlighting the importance of TRIPS flexibilities in access to vaccines and essential medicines for the poorest. The cumulative impact of all this has been immeasurable. Our optional protocol was a milestone that enhanced the potential impact of the covenant by making it accessible to individuals and seek accountability. States that have not yet ratified the Optional Protocol are strongly encouraged to do so on the occasion of the 60th anniversary, as well as to achieve universal ratification of the main human rights treaties. Over the years, our Committee has done everything possible to rationalize its work and harmonize its working methods with other treaty bodies, including simplified reporting procedures and a predictable review cycle. However, 40% budget cut with a drastic reduction in our meeting time and cancellation of our pre-session working group has impacted adversely in fulfilling our mandate. Today, the treaty body system is under stress. Discussions on strengthening the treaty body system with suggestions for specific reforms due to ongoing liquidity crisis in the United Nations has been on the agenda now for over a decade. It is being framed as an existential crisis, which merits careful scrutiny by state parties that created the treaty body system. Reforms cannot be discussed in isolation without also discussing the key challenges, requirements and demands for reform of the United Nations itself in accordance with established rules. The Office has proposed to reform the treaty body system by combining State Party reviews of different committees in a single review in the regions by cluster of treaties without the full participation of the committee, which was established by the State Parties for this purpose. There is yet another suggestion to create a digital platform for participation of external bodies to assist in the election of committee members, which has the prerogative of the State Parties. While budgetary pressure are real, it does not justify structural changes that would fundamentally alter the nature of the treaty body system in such a way that they would violate the treaty provisions and undermine the independence, integrity and specificity of the individual treaties and the cohesion of the treaty bodies. Instead of strengthening the treaty body system, these could potentially further weaken, if not completely dismantle it. The treaty body system derives its status from treaty obligations assumed by the state parties to each treaty. It is created by state parties to monitor implementation of the different treaties. Has it been foreseen that it would not be feasible to merge the reports of different treaties for a common review when memberships and mandates of the treaties vary? In fact, it could pose difficulties of reporting burdens upon the State Parties, especially those that have not signed the specific treaties. Such proposals deserve a serious discussion by the State Parties that are party to the respective treaties. A thorough impact assessment and cost-benefit analysis is also necessary for these reforms, and this was discussed by the Chairs' meeting in June earlier this year, and it needs greater transparency and accountability. The only way to strengthen the treaty body system would be to equip it with necessary financial and administrative resources from the regular budget and allow it to undertake its work without compromising its integrity and independence. Moving forward, The value of the covenant lies in meeting future challenges of human rights, which cannot be approached in isolation, ignoring the complex relationship between human rights, development, democracy and international cooperation. There should be no double standards in dealing with human rights commitments. Persistent inequalities, ongoing conflicts, energy security crisis, tariff volatility, Discriminatory market access, economic measures, and rapid technological changes demand renewed attention to the full spectrum of human rights. Economic concerns have other dimensions, including connectivity, protection of key sea lanes, restrictions in the global workplace, changing labor markets, demographic aging, supply chains, heightened control of technology, and critical minerals. Artificial intelligence and digital platforms are reshaping work, social protection and access to services. The same technologies are driving an unprecedented concentration of economic and political power. These developments demonstrate the need to rethink current economic models. Our Committee has remained ahead in addressing these emerging challenges, whose potential for disruption cannot be understated. We have raised these issues in our constructive dialogue with State parties and taken cognizance of it in our internal work of the Committee. The threats to human dignity posed by today's challenges are unprecedented in their dimensions. These challenges demand a serious response. The covenants provide a solid blueprint for action. It is imperative that state parties that created this treaty body system ensure that it remains effective. I thank you. Moderator · Bertrand Ramcharan [47:19]: Thank you, Madam Chairperson. Let me just pick up this sentence of yours. A global legal baseline for human dignity was established, codifying enforceable standards We were talking yesterday about the drafting of Article 1 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights. It's an important, there is a book by a young academic called Geneva Lemoli, Human Dignity in International Law. So I just wanted to register this point of yours on human dignity. It gives me great pleasure now to give the second panelist, you have the floor, Mr. Chairperson. Human Rights Committee · Chair · Chang Rok-sol [48:05]: Mr. President, Excellencies, distinguished guests, delegates, colleagues, and friends, on behalf of the Human Rights Committee, I thank the Council for the resolution that brings us together today. It is a privilege to join you in commemorating the 60th anniversary of adoption of International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. along with its sister covenant on economic, social and cultural rights. The ICCPR is one of the greatest achievements of international law. By affirming the right to life and liberty, to equality before the law and a fair trial, to privacy, expression, assembly, association, religion and political participation, it provides a blueprint for a just and free society. Many of these rights were recognized only reluctantly through struggle and conflict. The Covenant enshrines these rights not merely as noble aspirations, but as universal legal entitlements, the minimum guarantees we owe one another in order to live together in dignity and peace. Above all, these rights are safeguard against the abuse of power. The covenant sets limits on what states may and may not do, regardless of political circumstances or expediency. This matters because the temptation to restrict rights in the name of security or public order never entirely disappears. Since joining the Human Rights Committee, I have often been struck by the foresight of the drafters. They understood that a treaty must not simply be adopted, ratified and forgotten. It must be continuously monitored. Progress is possible, but never guaranteed, and there is always a risk of backsliding. Mr. President, The Human Rights Committee is the body the drafters created to monitor the Covenant's implementation. Through its general comments and concluding observations, the Committee has made the Covenant a living instrument, clarifying States' obligations, strengthening accountability and giving concrete meaning to Covenant rights. Through the individual communications under the Optional Protocol, It offers a path to justice at the international level when domestic remedies have been exhausted, and has built a body of jurisprudence that informs states, courts, and practitioners worldwide. Today, as threats to human rights take new forms, the Committee work evolves with them. We are drafting, for example, a General Comment 38 on freedom of association, addressing new forms of association and challenges to civic participation, including those shaped by new technologies. Artificial intelligence, mass digital surveillance, biometric technologies pose new challenges to privacy, while disinformation spreads at a scale we have never seen. These developments raise questions of power and accountability. Technologies and resources are increasingly concentrated in the hands of states, wealthy individuals, and corporations, while civil society, independent media, and other accountability actors face growing constraints. All of this is unfolding at a time of profound geopolitical instability, when the international order is under considerable strain. Yet the Covenant remains an essential normative foundation. Unlike earlier periods of global upheaval, we are not starting from scratch. The international community has already agreed on the fundamental rights and freedoms that never be sacrificed. Our central challenge today is implementation. Each State Party review is an occasion to examine whether these commitments are being translated into reality. We call on States Parties to support that work by engaging with our views in good faith, by taking concrete action to implement our recommendations, and by ensuring that the system is adequately resourced. Looking ahead, greater coordination and coherence across the treaty bodies are important. but coherence should not mean uniformity. Stronger coordination should reinforce, not erode, the distinctive mandate expertise of each committee. The system must also be sustainable. Treaty bodies cannot continue to observe growing responsibilities without adequate resources. Efficiency and rationalization are necessary, but they must not diminish the treaty bodies' expertise, independence or capacity to carry out their mandates. We have heard repeatedly from the Office of the High Commissioner that things cannot continue as they are. As Chair of the 38th Meeting of Chairpersons, I want to convey the shared view of all the Chairpersons: changes must serve clear objectives. and their full implication must be honestly assessed. In other words, we must not pursue change for the sake of change. We have asked for details of High Commissioner's proposals, look forward to reviewing and discussing them fully very soon. Mr. President, 60 years on, the two covenants have transformed the international human rights landscape. from charity to legal entitlement, from beneficiaries to rights holders, from Ohio Akio rights to indivisibility and interdependence, from abstract principles to concrete remedies, and from domestic issues to legitimate international concerns. This anniversary is therefore not only a celebration of remarkable achievements, but also a renewed commitment to the future. The challenges before us is not to redefine these rights, but to ensure that they are enjoyed by everyone, everywhere, now and in the future. Thank you. Moderator · Bertrand Ramcharan [55:24]: Thank you, Professor. The High Commissioner, when he addressed us, he made the following statement. The signatories to the resolution adopting the covenants acknowledge human rights as among the fundamental norms of statehood. It's an important formulation. And you, in your remarks, say that the covenant provides a blueprint for a just and free society. And you have this very important sentence, stronger coordination should reinforce not erode the distinctive mandate and expertise of each committee. It gives me great pleasure now to give the floor to my former colleague, Philip Alston, and let me just say that when he joined the UN Secretariat, he was a specialist in economic, social, and cultural rights and on the relationship between development and human rights. And he has probably made, I cannot think of anyone else who has made such a contribution as he has in shaping the concepts and frameworks for the implementation of the economic and social covenant. In other words, ladies and gentlemen, whatever the fate of the covenant, you can attribute it to him. Philip, you have the floor. Panelist · Philip Alston [56:48]: Thank you. Thank you very much, Bertie, for those kind comments. Mr. President and distinguished colleagues, it is a great pleasure to be here. I need to abbreviate the comments that I had planned to make to stay within the time limit. The first point I want to make is a simple one, and that is that back in 1966, there was huge disagreement, I would say, over the content of specific norms. and the implementation system that was set up was really very skeletal and member states had dramatically different expectations for what would happen. So the greatest achievement that we're celebrating today is that a set of norms which were quite open-ended and sometimes not especially clear, and a set of implementation arrangements which were really rudimentary have come to fruition in the form of a very solid normative consensus that underpins the human rights system and a very solid and effective treaty body system. So it's a huge achievement. I want to go on, though, and emphasize that we also need to take account of the context in which we are marking this anniversary, and we can't ignore the backlash against human rights in many different contexts from many different players. And I think we need to try to identify some of the key challenges that lie ahead. I've identified three. The first is the interdependence of rights. The second is treaty body reform. and the third is meaningful private sector accountability. Let me start with the interdependence of the system. We talk endlessly, I would say, about the indivisibility of the different rights. I'm sorry if I offend some of you, but having worked for so long in the field of economic, social and cultural rights, I still feel that there is an element of invisibility, that there is not an equal relationship between the two sets of rights, that the system remains absolutely dominated by attention given to civil and political rights, and economic, social and cultural rights are an afterthought. This is not to question for a moment the enormous achievements that have been made by the Committee on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights as outlined by its current chairperson. But in many ways, I think it's fair to say that these rights never recovered from having been given second-class status when the single draft covenant was split into two in 1951, and economic, social, and cultural rights were treated very differently. This was reinforced by subsequent efforts to enable, to ensure relatively weak economic, social, and cultural rights provisions in key treaties, such as those dealing with racism, women and children, the social rights standards in those treaties are diluted, and it was intentionally so. One illustration today is the fact that about 20% of UPR recommendations relate to economic, social and cultural rights, and those that are made are very generic, very non-specific. These rights remain almost irrelevant to the work of the major development agencies, the World Bank, the IMF, the OECD, and others. There are major consequences of the marginalization of economic, social, and cultural rights. As we struggle with the resurgence of populism in a great many countries, As we struggle to respond with the lowering standard of living of workers around the world, human rights has a very weak response because economic and social rights have not been given the status that they or the importance that they deserve. I think that indivisibility is not something that can be left to the Committee on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, despite the fact that it has made a huge contribution over many years now. But it's the other actors that need to really take indivisibility seriously. And I would go further and say that if we're serious about indivisibility, It means that all of the committees, including, for example, the Human Rights Committee, needs to take these rights seriously. Next, I want to talk briefly about the question of what I call treaty body renewal. I want to be perhaps unduly confrontational. by suggesting that the current system reflects the goals and aspirations of the 1990s. I was there, I helped to design it, I chaired the meeting of Treaty Body chairpersons four times during that period. I don't think that the procedures, the methods that we have today are necessarily the ones that respond to today's challenges. And my sense is that we need to rethink treaty body renewal in a much more fundamental way. We shouldn't be trying, and I don't think we will be able to succeed, in getting the existing system simply renewed or even reproduced on a smaller scale. My own sense is that technology is the key. Artificial intelligence will offer immense opportunities, and we need to start thinking how we can take advantage of that. One could imagine a very different approach to Treaty Body implementation, which would ideally be more efficient and more effective than the existing system. Finally, I just want to mention the challenge of private sector accountability. I don't need to talk to you, representatives of states, about the seriousness of climate change, of artificial intelligence, and of the increasing privatization and commodification of all forms of social and economic activity. In other words, corporate actors are becoming increasingly dominant in our world. But if we look at what this Council does, we see, I think, a very regrettably siloed approach. We have the treaty on one hand, we have the UN Guiding Principles on the other, we have recommendations from treaty bodies, some very important ones, We have some important reports by special rapporteurs on accountability, but the truth is we're not moving very far at all. And that means that the single most important new actor in the entire human rights field, the private sector, is able to basically ignore human rights considerations. I will leave it at that. For me, the challenge is to try to think of a more innovative, more coordinated approach to tackling a huge issue which currently remains bogged down in a whole range of different areas that are each doing worthy work in their own way, but are not providing the sort of response which is indispensable. Thank you, Mr. Chair and Mr. President. Moderator · Bertrand Ramcharan [1:06:48]: Thank you, Philip. Philip, in your written text, you say the following: "The fact is that only around 20% of UPR recommendations address economic, social, and cultural rights specifically, and most of those do so in a generic way." Distinguished members of the Council, When one thinks about interrelatedness and interaction, one would think that you may wish to reflect deeply on this fact that Philip has adduced before you. And then, Philip, you refer in your written text to the advisory opinion on the right to strike, the advisory opinion of the International Court of Justice. And there, the International Court of Justice is referring specifically to the two covenants and they say the following, quote, "The two covenants contain relevant rules that must be taken into account when interpreting the ILO Convention No. 87 on the right to strike." Mr. President, you have heard the panelists, and the floor is yours. Thank you. HRC · President [1:08:01]: Thank you very much, Mr. Ramcharan. Also, thank you to all members of the high-level panel. for the breadth and depth of experience that they bring with them into this session. Let me also, as the presiding officer, express appreciation for all the support that has been provided to the high-level panel. Excellencies, distinguished representatives, we will now proceed with the first segment of the list of speakers. All intervention from the floor are limited to one minute and 30 seconds. And the list of speakers is now closed. And for the rest of the session, we have about a few minutes after one hour. So we shall keep that in mind. And I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Bolivia. His Excellency Hector Francisco Juana Guiterez, Minister for Foreign Affairs for a video statement. Bolivia (Plurinational State of) · Minister for Foreign Affairs · Hector Francisco Juana Guiterez [1:09:11]: President of the Human Rights Council, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, on behalf of the Bolivian government and the Bolivian people, I would like to extend a greeting to this important commemoration event which brings together High Representatives of States and Dignitaries, As we mark the 60th anniversary of the International Covenants on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, Bolivia would like to reaffirm its commitment to the principle of the universality of human rights. This marked by a backdrop of multipolarity, geoeconomic competition, technological disruption and the climate crisis, comes at a time when the defence of human dignity is being challenged. At the national level, we'd like to highlight important achievements in terms of reducing poverty and incorporating human rights indicators in our public policy planning. We have reduced literacy, digital literacy gaps, and we are contributing to modernizing our judicial system. We call for this anniversary to breathe fresh life into the multilateral commitment to promoting and protecting human rights around the world. Thank you. HRC · President [1:10:43]: Thank you, and I now give the floor to His Excellency, Sid Ahmed Ali Benani, Commissioner for Human Rights, Humanitarian Action, and Relations with Civil Society of Mauritania. Mauritania · Commissioner for Human Rights, Humanitarian Action, and Relations with Civil Society · Sid Ahmed Ali Benani [1:11:03]: Thank you, Mr. President of the Human Rights Council, ladies and gentlemen. It is my honor to participate in the 60th anniversary for the adoption of the two international covenants in addition to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. They are pillars of human rights. Mauritania reaffirms on this occasion its commitment to the universality of human rights, their indivisibility and interdependence between economic, social, cultural rights and civil and political rights. We cannot achieve sustainable development without the rule of law, justice and equality, as well as preserving fundamental freedoms. put this approach in our national strategy to promote human rights 2024-2028, in parallel with enhancing our collaboration with international treaty bodies. Mr. President, after six decades, the main challenge is to move from normative commitments to effective implementation. of rights, far from any selectivity, double standards, and politicization. In the context of the multiple crises our world faces, human rights remain part of the solution and the basis for peace and development. Mauritania will continue to implement its international commitments and to work on achieving a more just international system that makes human dignity and effective enjoyment of human rights a reality for everybody without any exception. Thank you. HRC · President [1:13:19]: Thank you. I give the floor to a distinguished representative of Lithuania on behalf of a group of countries. Lithuania · Lublin Triangle [1:13:27]: I'm honored to participate in this discussion on behalf of the Lublin Triangle states. Poland, Ukraine, and my country, Lithuania. We reaffirm that human rights are universal, indivisible, interdependent, and interrelated, as enshrined in the Universal Declaration and the two covenants. As cornerstones of the international human rights framework, the covenants translated ideals into legally binding international treaty obligations. They shape legislation globally and establish treaty bodies to review human rights situation in our countries. While this panel is an opportunity to reflect on these achievements, full respect for the rights and their proper implementation are essential. It is deeply concerning that 60 years after the adoption of the covenants, some of the countries vocally promoting the covenants neither respect nor adhere to the very agreements they promote. Russia's war against Ukraine remains the starkest example of violations of virtually every right enshrined in the covenants. Multiple UN reports confirm that Russian authorities have committed war crimes and crimes against humanity, including the deliberate targeting of civilians and the deportation of children. Thus, a country suspended from the Human Rights Council membership in 2022 for gross and systematic human rights violations and abuses during its ongoing aggression against Ukraine, can it credibly position itself as a promoter of the covenants? I thank you. HRC · President [1:14:54]: Thank you. I give the floor to a distinguished representative of Austria on behalf of a group of countries. Austria [1:15:01]: Mr. President, I have the honor to speak on behalf of Austria, Croatia, and Slovenia. 60 years after their adoption, the international covenants have profoundly shaped constitutions, legislation, jurisprudence, and public policies around the world. This is an extraordinary achievement that contributed greatly to the development of the modern international human rights framework. But the true measure of their success is not the strength of the standards on paper, nor how often they are invoked or celebrated. Commemorating the covenants must go hand in hand with respecting and implementing them in law and in practice. For many, the gap between legal commitments and lived reality remains considerable. Restrictions on civic space, on freedom of expression and association, unequal access to justice, education, housing and health services, as well as new challenges linked to technological developments or environmental change, continue to expose serious implementation gaps. Closing those gaps requires effective national institutions, accessible remedies, meaningful civil society participation, free and pluralistic media, and genuine engagement with independent scrutiny and treaty body recommendations. This anniversary should therefore be a moment of renewed implementation and an impetus towards universality. We call on all states that have not yet done so to ratify the two covenants. Distinguished panelists, What concrete mechanisms at national level have proven most effective in ensuring that recommendations are implemented rather than simply acknowledged? Thank you. HRC · President [1:16:43]: Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of the European Union. EU [1:16:49]: Thank you, Mr. President. The EU thanks the High Commissioner and panelists for their statements. All EU member states are parties to both covenants. and are actively committed to the implementation, including through meaningful participation in. Reviews conducted by the corresponding treaty bodies and the. Effective follow up to their recommendations, given the importance we attach to the covenants. And deeply committed to the principles of universality, indivisibility, interrelatedness, and interdependence of all human rights, we. Strongly encourage the ratification and implementation by our partners across the world. We extend practical cooperation, technical assistance, and capacity building to support the respect for. Protection and fulfillment of civil, cultural, economic, political, and social rights of each individual. We deeply appreciate the crucial role of the. Two committees to foster implementation and observance of the covenants and are highly. Concerned about the current UN budgetary and liquidity crisis, which has significantly reduced their ability to discharge. Their mandates effectively, including delaying the vital review of states and the ensuring reports. Distinguished panelists, what more can states and other stakeholders do to advance universal ratification of the covenants and the optional protocols, as well as the effective implementation at the national? Mr. President, in times of huge global challenges, the most meaningful way to celebrate the 60th anniversary this year is through the sincere respect. For protection and fulfillment of the universal human rights enshrined in the covenants. Thank you. HRC · President [1:18:26]: Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Venezuela on behalf of a group of countries. Venezuela (Bolivarian Republic of) · Group of Friends in Defence of the UN Charter [1:18:33]: Gracias. Thank you. President, we make this statement on behalf of the Group of Friends in Defence of the UN Charter. Marking the 60th anniversary of the adoption of the International Human Rights Covenant, our group reaffirms the historic value of these instruments, which constitute a milestone in consolidating the international legal framework for realising human rights. The spirit which inspired their adoption remains fully in place. Universality of human rights can only be fully achieved through recognition of their indivisibility and interdependence, ensuring that all rights are treated fairly and equitably, on an equal footing and with the same attention. Under that principle, it is crucial to preserve the comprehensive, balanced approach towards civil and political rights and economic, social and cultural rights, attributing to each the same attention and recognition. With respect to their importance to human dignity, our group stresses that international cooperation and genuine dialogue should continue to be pillars of multilateral action when it comes to human rights, based on objectivity, impartiality and non-selectivity, strictly abiding by the purposes and principles of the UN Charter. This anniversary should serve to renew our collective commitment to transform the aspirations embedded in both international covenants and tangible realities. I thank you. HRC · President [1:20:05]: Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of the Netherlands on behalf of a group of countries. Netherlands (Kingdom of the) · Benelux [1:20:12]: Thank you, Mr. President. I have the honor to deliver this. Statement on behalf of the Benelux countries, Belgium, Luxembourg, and my own country, the Kingdom of the Netherlands. The 60th anniversary of the international covenants is an important opportunity to reaffirm their central role in the international human rights architecture. In this regard, we would like to highlight. The considerable contribution that the treaty bodies, notably the Human Rights Committee and the Committee on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, have made to the implementation of human rights obligations through recommendations regarding national legislation, policies and practices, as well as through general comments and We, therefore, call on States parties to engage constructively with the treaty body system and to make full use of their expertise to increase the respect for and protection and fulfilment of human rights at the national level. Furthermore, we urge States to respect the independence of the treaty bodies and to condemn reprisals against those who submit complaints before them or collaborate with them. Excellencies, how can we, as part of the Treaty Body reform process, ensure that the respective committees work efficiently and effectively for another 60 years? Thank you. HRC · President [1:21:29]: Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Sweden on behalf of a group of countries. Sweden · Nordic-Baltic countries [1:21:36]: Mr. President, on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries, I am honored to participate in this commemoration. Sixty years ago, the international community transformed the aspirations of the Universal Declaration into binding legal commitments. In doing so, it affirmed a simple yet profound principle: that every human being is entitled to live in freedom and dignity. Today, the two covenants remain at the heart of the international human rights system. They have shaped constitutions, guided legislation, empowered human rights defenders, and provided hope and protection to countless individuals whose rights have been violated or abused. Yet, this anniversary is not only an occasion to celebrate progress. For far too many people around the world, the rights guaranteed by these covenants remain out of reach. This is why implementation matters. Turning legal commitments into lived realities requires political will. It requires strong institutions and sustained efforts at the national and international levels. The Nordic-Baltic countries reaffirm our commitment to an independent and adequately funded treaty body system. We support efforts to strengthen its effectiveness and sustainability while respecting its independence. Our task today is not only to honour the vision that gave rise to the covenants, but also to carry it forward, strengthening implementation, supporting the treaty bodies and ensuring that the covenants remain a source of protection, accountability and justice for generations to come. I thank you. HRC · President [1:23:09]: Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of the Russian Federation on behalf of group of countries. Russian Federation [1:23:17]: Thank you, Mr. President. The Russian Federation has the honor to deliver this statement on behalf of a group of countries. Sixty years ago, the UN General Assembly adopted the International Covenant on Economic, Social, and Cultural Rights and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. That paramount decision marked a significant milestone in the field of promotion and protection of human rights. We strongly believe that the concept of human rights should unify the states rather than divide them. Being universal, indivisible, interdependent, and interrelated, all human rights must be treated globally in a fair and equal manner, on the same footing and with the same emphasis. It is a primary duty of states to promote and protect all human rights and fundamental freedoms, while states, national, and regional particularities and various historical, cultural, and religious backgrounds should be borne in mind. Any attempts of politicizing the concept of human rights or using the human rights issue as a tool for imposing political pressure on sovereign states seem to be counterproductive and unacceptable. Only a constructive and mutually respectful dialogue should be the way to achieve sustainable and long-lasting decisions in the field of promotion and protection of human rights. Celebrating the 60th anniversary of the International Covenants, we encourage all states to contribute constructively to multilateral cooperation in the field of human rights, with the view of achieving concerted solutions, which gain universal support and recognition to the existing human rights challenges and to promote universal respect for and observance of human rights and fundamental freedoms. I thank you. HRC · President [1:24:55]: Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Kenya on behalf of the African Group. Kenya · Africa Group [1:25:02]: Thank you, Mr. President. I have the honor to deliver this statement on behalf of the African Group. The Africa Group welcomes this high-level panel. We thank the panelists and acknowledge the efforts undertaken pursuant to Human Rights Council resolution 61/7. This anniversary reaffirms that all human rights are universal, indivisible and interrelated. The covenants closely align with the African Charter on Human and Peoples' Rights, highlighting that civil and political rights must therefore advance together with economic, social and cultural rights. For millions of Africans, human rights enjoyment depends on overcoming poverty, inequality, unemployment, limited access to education, healthcare, conflict and external shocks. These challenges require international partnership, predictable development finance, technical assistance, capacity building and technology transfer. We highlight the importance of dialogue, cooperation, non-selectivity and respect for national ownership. Applying human rights mechanisms should aim to help states through constructive engagement. We must also address the human rights consequences of conflict, foreign occupation, racism, discrimination, and unilateral coercive measures. In this context, we reaffirm the Palestinian people's inalienable right to self-determination and call for protection of their rights, lives, and dignity. Let this anniversary renew practical action to advance all rights. I thank you. HRC · President [1:26:36]: Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Iraq on behalf of the Arab Group. Iraq · Arab Group [1:26:42]: Thank you, President. We are pleased to celebrate today the 60th anniversary of the two international covenants. We also commend efforts made within the Human Rights Council through resolution 61/7, the two covenants constitute crucial foundations of the whole human rights system. Six decades after their adoption, those two documents remain safeguards in promoting and protecting human rights. We reaffirm that the Arab Group is firmly committed to both covenants and international cooperation with a view to their full implementation. We reaffirm that the protection of human rights necessitates open, frank dialogue, respecting the cultural, historical and diverse specificities of all countries, regardless of their level of economic or social development. The adoption of the two documents was accompanied by other instruments protecting human rights, highlighting their indivisibility. Today, we have a chance to reaffirm the solidarity of the international community to peoples denied their fundamental rights, especially the Palestinian people, who are denied their fundamental right. This statement will be posted on the Extranet. Thank you. HRC · President [1:28:27]: Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Switzerland. Switzerland [1:28:33]: Thank you, President. Switzerland welcomes the holding of this panel 60 years after their adoption and in a global context marked by multidimensional crises and the profound transformations in our societies, the relevance of the two covenants remains greater than ever. Human rights enshrined through them are universal, indivisible and interdependent. The covenants do not reflect a regional or cultural vision but constitute universal obligations that are ratified by virtually all states. Ratification is merely the starting point. Implementation of the covenants means that states need to fully give effect to their obligations, guarantee effective remedy and co-operate constructively with the treaty bodies. Switzerland reaffirms its support for the treaty bodies and for their strengthening. underlining the importance of their role in the Geneva human rights ecosystem. Switzerland does this well aware of the structural and financial challenges that the system faces today. Celebrating 60 years of the existence of the covenants is also committing to ensure that the implementation mechanisms remain relevant and effective for the next 60 years. In 2027, Switzerland will be presenting its periodic reports on implementation of the two covenants before the relevant committees and looks forward to pursuing this dialogue. Ladies and gentlemen, panelists, given the current challenges that the treaty body system is currently facing, what tangible measures would you recommend to guarantee that relevance and effectiveness and independence in the decades to come. Thank you. HRC · President [1:30:08]: Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of the Czech Republic. Czechia [1:30:13]: Thank you, Mr. President, distinguished panelists. Six years after their adoption, the international covenants on human rights remain cornerstones of the universal human rights system. As a country that experienced decades of authoritarian rule, the Czech Republic attaches particular importance to the civil and political rights protected by ICCPR. At the same time, our own democratic transition has demonstrated that civil and political rights and economic, social and cultural rights are mutually reinforcing and that their effective protection is essential to resilient and prosperous societies. These lessons resonate in many countries around the world today, where civic space is shrinking, critical voices are being silenced, or economic and social inequalities impede the equal enjoyment of human rights. The guarantees enshrined in covenants remain as important as ever. Let this anniversary be not a moment to celebrate, past achievements, but also an opportunity to renew our commitment to the full and effective implementation of both covenants. We must ensure that the promises are realized for all. Thank you. HRC · President [1:31:30]: Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Nepal. Nepal [1:31:35]: Mr. President, Nepal thanks the distinguished panelists for their valuable insights. The rights and freedoms enshrined in the two covenants constitute fundamental pillars of the international human rights system, Nepal reaffirms its unwavering commitment to the principles of universality, indivisibility, interdependence and interrelatedness of all human rights. We believe civil and political rights cannot be fully realized without the effective enjoyment of economic, social and cultural rights and vice versa. The Constitution of Nepal upholds the principles of equality, social justice, inclusion, the rule of law, and fundamental freedoms, with particular emphasis on the rights of women, children, persons with disabilities, Dalits, indigenous people, and other marginalized communities. The persistent challenges, including climate change, poverty, and inequalities, continue to impede the full enjoyment of human rights. It is time to renew our commitment to translate international human rights obligations into tangible and meaningful improvements in the life of every human person. Nepal calls for stronger multilateral cooperation and international support to realize economic, social and cultural rights on equal footing with civil and political rights. Thank you. HRC · President [1:33:11]: Thank you. I will now turn to the list of speakers for national human rights institutions and non-governmental organizations, and I give the floor to the representative of GANDRI. GANHRI [1:33:27]: Monsieur le President, President, GANDRI welcomes this opportunity to mark the 60 years of the international covenants on human rights. The covenants remain fundamental to the protection of human dignity. Their greatest significance, however, lies not only in the rights that they enshrine but in their effective implementation in people's everyday lives. The universality, indivisibility and interdependence of human rights require us to address civil and political rights together with economic, social and cultural rights, including where inequalities and discrimination prevent people from fully enjoying those rights. National human rights institutions play a critical role in translating those commitments into national practice. Through monitoring, complaints handling, investigations, advice to public authorities and engagement with international human rights mechanisms, NHRIs can identify gaps between international obligations and their implementation, support access to remedies and promote accountability. As we look ahead, and re-encourages states to strengthen implementation of the covenants at the national level, ensure effective remedies for violations, and provide NHRIs with the independence, mandate and resources necessary to fulfil their functions in line with the Paris principles. How can states further strengthen the role of national human rights institutions in monitoring and promoting the effective implementation of the rights enshrined in the covenants at the national level? Thank you. HRC · President [1:35:02]: Thank you. I give the floor to the representative of Morocco, Conseil National des Droits de l'Homme. CNDH [1:35:10]: Thank you, President. Six decades after the adoption of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, the National Human Rights Council reaffirms with force the principle of interdependence and indivisibility of all human rights and underlines the need to guarantee their effective implementation. As Morocco's NHRI, our council has adopted an action strategy based on the effectiveness of rights. combines legal and extra-legal dimensions to contribute to guaranteeing tangibly the enjoyment of civil and political rights, as well as economic, social and cultural rights. Through its 12 regional human rights commissions, the council also provides territorial follow-up to implementation of rights and contributes to assessing public policy at regional and local level, particularly with respect to commitments assumed by the public powers and their effective impact on the rights of citizens. This territorial presence allows the council to translate Specifically, the principle of indivisibility of the two covenants through a bottom-up approach based on realities at local and regional level to inform its recommendations, opinions and proposals at national level. Marking the 60th anniversary, the council underlines the need to bolster the involvement of NHRI's in implementation, follow-up and assessment process regarding the two covenants. 60 years after their adoption, the challenge is not just to reaffirm the principles embedded in the two covenants, our ambition 60 years after adoption must be clear, move from rights enshrined to rights effectively exercised and enjoyed. Thank you. HRC · President [1:36:50]: Thank you. I now give the floor to the representative of Centre CCPR. CCPR Center [1:36:58]: Excellencies, this statement is delivered on behalf of the Global Initiative for ESC Rights and the CCPR Center, two organizations dedicated to advancing the rights enshrined in the two covenants by strengthening civil society engagement and supporting the work of both committees, and we want to express our sincere gratitude to the committees for their work. The past 60 years have seen remarkable progress, the abolition of death penalty, the protection against torture, women's rights, health, education, and social protection, among others. Yet the covenants are not documents of the past. They remain essential for confronting the defining challenges of our times, from climate emergency to artificial intelligence, to rising inequalities, to democratic backsliding. This anniversary must also be a moment of reflection. We remain far from universal ratification, and we are witnessing worrying erosion of international norms and attacks on human rights, restrictions on freedom of association and assembly, retrogressive austerity, and setbacks in women's rights and reproductive autonomy. This comes at a time of growing fragility of the multilateral system. The UN's financial crisis has hit the treaty bodies particularly hard, leading to canceled sessions, growing backlogs, and reduced capacities to engage with states and civil society. We therefore call upon states to reaffirm their commitment to international law by providing the financial and political support necessary for the committees to fulfill the mandates and by accelerating ratifications of the two covenants, reclaiming them as a roadmap for development, grounding and rights. And finally, allow me to invite everyone to visit our exhibition on the ICCPR just outside the assembly hall. I thank you. HRC · President [1:38:31]: Thank you. I give the floor to the representative of Christian Council International for a video intervention. Christian Council International [1:38:38]: Christian Council International thanks the Council for convening this high-level panel to commemorate the 60th anniversary of the International Covenants. This milestone provides an important opportunity to reaffirm the original commitments contained in these foundational instruments. True universality requires respect for the text of the Covenants as ratified by sovereign states. Article 23 of the ECPR recognizes the family as a natural and fundamental group unit of society and affirms its entitlement through protection by society and the state. Article 18, paragraph 4, protects the liberty of parents to ensure the religious and moral education of their children in conformity with their convictions. Against this framework, we are concerned by efforts within the UN mechanisms to advance concepts not contained in the governance and not universally agreed by states, including sexual and reproductive health and rights, SOGI rights, comprehensive. Sexuality education, and abortion. These developments risk expanding state obligations beyond those accepted through ratification and undermining legal certainty. On this anniversary, we call for renewed commitment to the covenants, protection of life and protection of the family, without introducing new rights or obligations through interpretation. Thank you. HRC · President [1:40:04]: Thank you. I give the floor to the representative of Tamil Eelam. Tamil Eelam [1:40:11]: Mr. President and distinguished panel, on the 60th anniversary of the ICCPR and ICESCR, we recall that Article 1 of both covenants guarantees all peoples the right to self-determination. For Eelam Tamils in Sri Lanka, that right remains unrealized. On 15th of September 1987, 23-year-old student Thiluban began a fast unto death in Nallur, Jaffna. His demands included the release of Tamils arbitrarily detained, an end to state-sponsored colonization, a halt to militarization, and a genuine interim administration for the Tamil homeland. He died 11 days later. His demands remain unmet. Today, post the 2009 genocide, the Tamil homeland remains under military occupation. Land continues to be appropriated for settlements and military installations, while Tamils face arbitrary detention. Successive governments have failed to deliver a credible political settlement recognizing the right to determine their own future. Distinguished panel, how can the Human Rights Council act on past UN recommendations and establish concrete time-bound mechanisms for accountability, demilitarization, and self-determination of Tamils? We honor the liberal and sacrifice by insisting that his demands, the right to self-determination they embodied, are finally realized. Thank you. HRC · President [1:41:38]: Thank you. I give the floor to the representative of the Center for International Environmental Law. CIEL [1:41:44]: Excellencies, over the years, the covenants and their committees have played a central role in clarifying states' obligations to take action on climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution, and provide adequate remedy. The Human Rights Committee's jurisprudence and general comments continue to provide important precedents on States' obligations to protect individuals from environmental harm. The CESCR's General Comment No. 27 provides pivotal guidance on States' obligations in the context of sustainable development, and importantly recognizes the right to a healthy environment is implicit in the Covenant, thus building on the work of the Human Rights Council. Recommendations by both committees have provided relevant guidance also on states' obligations with respect to fossil fuels, highlighting the wide range of rights that are affected throughout their life cycle. The ICJ advisory opinion on climate change drew extensively on treaty bodies' work, confirming the central role in advancing human rights protection in the context of the triple planetary crisis. We thank both committees for their continued work, and we encourage them to continue to provide even more specific guidance on states' obligations related to fossil fuels, corporate accountability, and remedy for environmental harm. Thank you. HRC · President [1:43:00]: Thank you. We have exhausted the first segment of the list of speakers, and we will now proceed with the second segment of the list of speakers. And I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Liechtenstein. Liechtenstein [1:43:18]: Mr. President, as powerfully attested to by today's distinguished panelists, the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights are two landmark instruments that together form the cornerstone of the international human rights framework. As we celebrate the 60th anniversary of these important documents, we reaffirm that all human beings are entitled to enjoy civil, political, economic, social, and cultural rights without discrimination. These commitments remain as relevant today as they were 60 years ago. Nevertheless, human rights norms are increasingly being challenged and too often disregarded. Now more than ever, their full implementation requires renewed commitment and action. Moreover, sustainable, predictable and sufficient funding for treaty bodies, special procedures, the Office of the High Commissioner of Human Rights and other human rights mechanisms is indispensable for the effective implementation of their mandates. Marking the 60th anniversary of the Covenant is also a reminder of the need to support and to cooperate with the institutions that make the realization of these rights possible. Mr. President, we commend the work of the Human Rights Committee and the Committee on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, as well as the vital contributions of special procedures, the OHCHR, regional organizations, civil society, national human rights institutions. and human rights defenders. Together, their efforts are essential to translating the rights enshrined in the covenants into reality. I thank you. HRC · President [1:44:50]: Thank you. I give the floor to the Distinguished Representative of Ireland. Ireland [1:44:54]: Thank you, President. Ireland aligns with the statement of the EU. Ireland thanks the High Commissioner and the panelists for their statements, including some timely challenges and warnings on this landmark anniversary. As parties to the covenants and active participants in treaty body reviews, both instruments have had a profound influence on our human rights framework, embedding the principle that all rights are universal, indivisible, interdependent, and interrelated. For six decades, the covenants have been living frameworks that have guided our national progress in Ireland and around the world. They have helped shape legislation and policy, informed public debate, and reinforced the principle that human dignity, equality, and non-discrimination must be at the center of public decision-making. Through engagement with the treaty bodies and their recommendations, successive generations have benefited from a process of reflection and reform that has fostered constructive national dialogue and accountability, assisting Ireland and others to respond to evolving challenges and continuously strengthen implementation of human rights in law, policy and practice. Panelists, what are the most effective ways for states to ensure that civil and political rights and economic, social and cultural rights are advanced together rather than in isolation? Thank you. HRC · President [1:46:08]: Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative for Burkina Faso. Burkina Faso [1:46:23]: Thank you, Chair, President. President, my delegation would like to thank the panelists for their highly relevant statements. We are of the view that the two international covenants remain the bedrock of international human rights. However, the full enjoyment of the rights enshrined in these instruments is today in grave danger due to insecurity and terrorism, which undermine the foundations of development, peace, and human dignity. But despite these challenges, to which the international community seems to turn a blind eye, Burkina Faso, in the name of the principles of indivisibility and interdependence of all human rights, is doing its utmost to combat terrorism and protect human rights and development. As a party to the covenants, Burkina Faso would like to reaffirm its steadfast commitment to their full and effective implementation. We solemnly call for international cooperation to be bolstered in order to eradicate terrorism. It is only through collective and inclusive action that we will be able to guarantee the full enjoyment of all human rights for everyone. I thank you. HRC · President [1:47:36]: Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of the Maldives. Maldives [1:47:41]: Mr. President, As we commemorate six decades of the International Covenants. The Maldives also reflects on 20 years as a State Party to both instruments. Over the years, the Maldives has sought to translate these commitments into tangible progress. Our democratic. Framework has evolved with reforms strengthening civic participation, freedoms of association, and access to justice, alongside the establishment of. This Office for Civil Rights. Economic and social rights remain equally central to our development. The government continues to expand access to adequate housing under Housing for. All policy, ensure universal health care through Asaanda, and provide targeted financing through the SME Development Finance Corporation to support startups and small businesses. This inclusive approach also shapes the 20-year national development plan, focusing on harnessing the modern technology while. Addressing the country's key development challenges. As it sits on the front line of climate change, the Moldus recognizes that threats to the right. To a clean, healthy, and sustainable environment directly affect the enjoyment of other rights. The interconnected challenges reinforce the need to uphold the mutually reinforcing nature of all human rights and. Advance civil, political, economic, social, and cultural rights on an equal footing. I thank you. HRC · President [1:48:55]: Thank you. I give the floor to a distinguished representative of the United Kingdom. United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland [1:49:01]: Thank you, Mr. President. The United Kingdom welcomes this opportunity to mark the 60th anniversary of the two international covenants. When these two covenants were adopted in 1966, it was recognized that together they gave effect to the vision of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. By enshrining civil, political, and economic, social, and cultural rights in binding international law, they affirm the dignity and worth of every individual. This anniversary is an opportunity to reflect on the progress achieved and reaffirm our shared commitment to uphold these rights and to remain steadfast in the face of any efforts to weaken them. As we look to the next 60 years, the United Kingdom is committed. To working with the UN and partners worldwide to promote and protect human rights for all. And as noted in the agenda, showcasing the real world value of these rights. Is essential to building and sustaining commitment to them. Mr. President, we therefore welcome reflection from the panelists on what more we can do collectively to bring to. Life how these rights support people's everyday experiences, making clear their relevance, impact, and importance for communities around the world. Thank you. HRC · President [1:50:13]: Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Malta. Malta [1:50:18]: Thank you, Mr. President. Malta aligns itself with the EU statement. Today we are commemorating an important milestone in international human rights law. The two covenants adopted by the General Assembly on 16 December 1966 codified the principles enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, adopted in 1948, and have. Since served as foundational documents in international human rights law and protections for rights holders. As well as a basis for other UN conventions negotiated since. As UN Secretary General U Thant said after the covenants. Adopted in 1966, they transformed the broad moral principles of the Declaration of Human Rights into legally binding international treaty. Obligations for states. It is on this basis that Malta. Reiterates its full support to the treaty body system, which serves as an important reference point for states. In examining their implementation of obligations freely subscribed to through state ratification. We urge all States to ensure full and effective participation at review sessions. Commemorating this important event should not simply be limited to a panel discussion, but instead to recommit to implement our. Obligations and enhancing protections for rights holders. As agreed by all Member States in the Vienna Declaration. And Programme of Action, all human rights are universal, indivisible, interdependent and interrelated. Implementation should not therefore be dependent on benchmarks commensurate with national progress. I thank you. HRC · President [1:51:55]: Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Morocco. Morocco [1:51:59]: Thank you, Mr. President. My delegation fully associates itself with the commemoration of the 60th anniversary of the two international components on human rights, which gave binding force to the principles enshrined in the Universal Declaration. A party to both conventions since 1979, Morocco has placed their principles at the heart of its 2011 constitution, which establishes the primacy of duly ratified. International conventions. This vision is reflected in concrete progress: the generalization of compulsory health insurance, the reform of the family code, the implementation of alternative sentencing, new integrated territorial development programs, and Morocco's vote in favor of the universal moratorium on the use of the death penalty. Two sets of obligations, yet one shared commitment to advancing all human rights. This is the concrete meaning of their indivisibility. Morocco's accession in 2022 to the first optional protocol to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights also reflects the conviction that no rights can be fully effective without access to a remedy. My delegation reaffirms its support for the universal ratification and complementary implementation of both covenants with full respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of states. Thank you. HRC · President [1:53:27]: Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Lebanon. Lebanon [1:53:33]: Thank you, Mr. President. Lebanon welcomes the commemoration of the 60th anniversary of the two international covenants on human rights. This anniversary comes at a particularly difficult moment. Armed conflicts, displacement, inequalities, and humanitarian crises are putting longstanding human rights achievement under severe strain, while the international human rights architecture itself is facing increasing pressure. Lebanon knows this reality very well. Our country has traveled a particularly bumpy road, marked by war, occupation, repeated conflicts and displacement, a profound economic and social crisis, and today, renewed military operations affecting our territory and population. These successive crises have at times jeopardized hard-won progress and placed enormous pressure on our institutions. Yet, they have also made us even more conscious of the value of the international human rights framework. The covenants, together with human rights conventions and their mechanisms, are not texts to be commemorated. They are tools at our disposal, standards, safeguards, and avenues for accountability. Above all, they are a compass when circumstances make it most difficult to find our way. The more difficult the circumstances, the more indispensable these instruments become. I thank you, Mr. President. HRC · President [1:54:58]: Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Kuwait. Kuwait [1:55:05]: Thank you. We reaffirm that celebrating the 60th anniversary of the two covenants are a cornerstone in the system of human rights. They reflect an international commitment to preserve human dignity, human rights, and fundamental freedoms. This is an occasion to renew our commitment to enhance international cooperation and provide support to national efforts. We reaffirm the importance of dealing with the challenges that represent an obstacle, including armed conflicts, poverty, inequality, humanitarian crises, climate change, and challenges related to technology and AI, we reaffirm the importance of respecting human rights. without any selectivity or double standards. We must reaffirm international cooperation and dialogue, far from any politicization. In conclusion, we reaffirm our commitment to the international human rights system and to collective work to guarantee the effective implementation of all human rights. Thank you. HRC · President [1:56:25]: Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Togo. Togo [1:56:31]: Thank you, President. Togo welcomes this discussion that marks the 60th anniversary of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights. 60 years on after their adoption, these two instruments remain crucial pillars for the protection of human rights, and they reaffirm the universality, indivisibility, interdependence, and interconnection between all rights. For Togo, this anniversary is an opportunity to reaffirm the progress achieved and to renew its commitment to the rule of law, democracy and fundamental freedoms, in particular through the abolition of the death penalty in 2009. 2024 constitutional reform was undertaken in the same spirit. My country is pursuing efforts in order to improve its people's living conditions, in particular through free public schooling and universal health insurance and programs aimed at improving access to drinking water and electricity so as to bridge inequalities and strengthen access to essential social services. Togo calls on all of us to renew our collective commitment to the effective implementation of the rights enshrined in the two covenants to ensure that nobody is left behind. I thank you. HRC · President [1:57:52]: Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Mongolia. Mongolia [1:57:56]: Mr. President, the International Covenant remain cornerstone of the international human rights system. The ICCPR has given concrete legal expression to rights that are fundamental to human dignity, the right to life, liberty and security, equality before the law, freedom of thought, conscience and expression, peaceful assembly and association, and participation in public affairs. Its guarantees remain relevant to every generation. For Mongolia, its principles have accompanied our democratic transformation and continue to guide our efforts to strengthen in the rule of law, democratic governance, and fundamental freedoms. As we mark six decades of the Covenant, Mongolia believes that our priority must be renewed commitment to implementation. The next 60 years should be guided by three principles: universality, implementation, and accountability. At the same time, emerging challenges, including digital technologies, privacy, Environmental degradation and climate change requires us to ensure that human rights protections remain effective in a rapidly changing world. Mongolia stands ready to continue contributing to this common endeavor. We will continue to strengthen our democratic institution, uphold the rule of law, protect fundamental freedoms, and engage constructively with the international human rights system. I thank you, Mr. President. HRC · President [1:59:31]: Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Colombia. Colombia [1:59:36]: Thank you very much, President. Sixty years ago, the UN General Assembly met to approve, for the first time in history, two instruments that are international and legally binding, and they gave legal force to, as well as broad and uncemented, the aspirations enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights of 1948. Their approval and subsequent ratification by the broad majority of UN member states represented at the time, and continues to show today, the central place and inalienable nature of human rights as a pillar of the United Nations and as the global goal of the international community in its entirety. As the preamble of the Pacts recalls, The ideal of free human beings enjoying freedom from fear and want can only be achieved if conditions are created whereby everyone can enjoy all their human rights. With this in mind, six decades ago, States committed to promoting universal and effective respect for human rights and freedoms. These obligations remain as valid and relevant today as they were back in 1966. The covenants, along with their additional protocols and the committees that accompany them and monitor their implementation, remain central tools for turning our commitments into a tangible reality for millions and for demonstrating in a consistent way our effective commitment to human rights. Today, as we commemorate the 60th anniversary of the covenants, let us endorse once again those commitments. Thank you. HRC · President [2:01:07]: Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of the Russian Federation. Russian Federation [2:01:14]: Thank you very much, Chairman. The adoption 60 years ago by the General Assembly of the International Covenant on Human Rights was a turning point in the history of international human rights law. The adoption of these covenants involved some states speaking out against the USSR and some other states enshrining at an international level economic, social and cultural rights as a separate category. The Western states already back then in keeping with their individualism and liberalism, opted for one course. At the same time, as a colonial power that they were back then, they objected to the right of self-determination. They tried to impose on the global majority a particular rules-based order and not an order based on international law. We note with concerns attempts to revisit these neocolonial approaches. where human rights protection mechanisms are used for political blackmail and for exercising pressure and interfering in the internal affairs of sovereign states. We are, however, convinced that the values set out in the covenants more than half a century ago remain valid today. And protecting the legacy of these documents is only possible through mutually respectful dialogue. I thank you. HRC · President [2:02:40]: Thank you. I give the floor to the Distinguished Representative of Qatar. Qatar [2:02:51]: Thank you, Mr. President. The two international covenant six decades ago were cornerstone of human rights and collective work. They set the building blocks for the values and principles of human rights, and they have helped translate these principles to legal commitments. After all these years, they are still essential in the efforts to protect and promote human rights and to face the many challenges of today's world. At the national level, we consider the covenants as fundamental instruments to enhance the normative framework of human rights. Since adhering in 2018, we have worked on adopting a strategic approach to implement their provisions and integrate them in the national legal system and to raise awareness. We have also submitted periodic reports to treaty bodies, which reflects our efforts to abide by our commitments. We reaffirm the ideal implementation of the confidence include dealing with all rights as equal, interdependent and complementary, while preserving the national characteristics, be they national, cultural or religious. And I thank you. HRC · President [2:04:34]: Thank you. I will now turn to the list of speakers for national human rights institutions and non-governmental organizations. And I give the floor to the representative of the Qatar National Human Rights Committee. Qatar National Human Rights Committee [2:04:51]: Thank you, Mr. President. On this occasion, we'd like to highlight the role of National Human Rights Committee of Qatar. In monitoring Qatar's implementation of its obligation under the two international covenants on human rights. In 2018, Qatar acceded to both covenants, marking an important step in strengthening the national human rights framework The State also established a dedicated committee to review and align national legislation with their provisions. Since then, we have continued to monitor their implementation, provide observations and recommendations, and follow up on legislative alignment. Particular attention must be given to the reservation made upon accession. We believe that these reservations should remain subject to periodic review. We therefore continue to encourage the state to consider narrowing their scope or withdrawing them where circumstances allow in order to further strengthening the protection of rights and freedom. On the 60th anniversary of the two covenants, we are affirming the vital role of the national human rights institutions in promoting dialogue. Legislative harmonization, and the effective implementation of international human rights obligation. Ultimately, genuine progress must be measured by the effective protection of rights and freedom. And by making human rights a tangible reality for all. Thank you. HRC · President [2:06:23]: Thank you. I give the floor to the representative of the Instituto Brasileiro de Direitos Humanos. Instituto Brasileiro de Direitos Humanos [2:06:33]: Mr. President, Brazil's ratification of both covenants marked a new year for the country, one of the redemocratization and reopening to the international society after two decades of authoritarian regime. Brazil's constitution contains a bill of rights of all civil, political, and economic, social, and cultural rights, resonating with the covenant standards. This joint ratification reflects the trust of its society in the universality, interdependence, and interrelatedness of all rights. This due ratification had not only a merely symbolic effect, but concrete impacts on many aspects of society, including the most marginalized strata. New protective laws were enacted, improved policies, and international scrutiny through periodic reviews by the HRC and the CSCR marked the last decades. Yet, challenges in implementation of the covenants remain. such as more frequent use by the judiciary, a closer monitoring by the federal and state legislatures and prosecution service, and a greater reference to the relevant general comments, particularly by policymakers. We urge Brazil to ratify now the OPIC, allowing then universal justiciability of all rights. Despite these challenges, there is an undeniable positive impact of Brazil society through the ratification of both covenants. I thank you. HRC · President [2:08:13]: Thank you. I give the floor to the representative of Alliance Defending Freedom. Alliance Defending Freedom [2:08:19]: Mr. President, 60 years after their adoption, the covenants remain an important foundation for the realization of all human rights and fundamental freedoms. They are not outdated, nor should good-faith efforts to advance their letter and spirit in accordance with their ordinary meaning be labeled as regressive. Indeed, attempts to distort, reinterpret, or discard the rights enshrined therein generate unnecessary division that ultimately distracts from real progress on their realization in favor of ideologies fundamentally at odds with human dignity. Consider the family, recognized in these instruments as the natural and fundamental group unit of society. Far from controversial, this recognition serves as a powerful basis for the meaningful promotion and protection of human rights of every person within it and beyond. In this regard, we welcome the growing number of States and civil society actors working to mainstream a family perspective across the UN system and to empower families to more effectively fulfill their responsibilities towards their members. Mr. President, as we look ahead, we urge this Council to return to a first principles approach, founded upon the inherent dignity of the human person. Only on that foundation can it effectively fulfill its mandate to promote universal respect for and protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms for all, without distinction of any kind, in a fair and equal manner. Thank you. HRC · President [2:09:43]: Thank you. I give the floor to Partners for Transparency. Partners for Transparency [2:09:48]: Thank you, Mr. President. Sixty years after the adoption of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, their implementation continues to face significant challenges across the African continent, particularly with regard to advancing the democratic process and realizing the right to public participation. Mr. President, in Ethiopia, the elections held in June 2026 saw entire areas excluded from voting. Elections were completely suspended in all 38 constituencies in the Tigray region, which is home to approximately 6 million people, while 143 polling stations were not opened in the Amhara and Oromia regions. This deprived millions of citizens in participation in the electoral process and of exercising their rights to public participation, contrary to Ethiopia's obligations under the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. In Sudan, the continuation of the armed conflict and violations by the Rapid Support Forces has weakened state institutions, restricted public freedoms, displaced populations, and disrupted any inclusive democratic and electoral process. In conclusion, Mr. President, partners call on the Ethiopian government to ensure the participation of all citizens in elections without geographic and political exclusion. He also calls on the parties to the conflict in Sudan to end the war and create the conditions necessary to restore the democratic process, because no democracy can be built by excluding voters and no political transition can be built upon the ruins of the state and society. Thank you. HRC · President [2:11:21]: Thank you. I give the floor to the Al Salam Foundation for a joint statement on a video intervention. Al Salam Foundation [2:11:34]: Mr. President, as we mark the 60th anniversary of the International Covenant on Human Rights, we draw the Council's attention to Bahrain's continued arbitrary arrests of individuals for peacefully expressing their views and exercising their religious freedoms. Authorities have arrested dozens for protesting US and Israeli attacks on Iran, mourning religious leader Ali Khamenei, expressing opposition to Bahrain's involvement in the war. Authorities also banned protests nationwide, citing public safety. Individuals have further been arrested for peacefully expressing solidarity with political prisoners, including Hasan Mushaima. Arrests, raids, roadblocks, threats, and the detention of dozens, including minors, followed peaceful prayer gatherings outside his family home. During Ashura, authorities removed religious symbols and responded to peaceful protests with sound grenades, tear gas, and rubber bullets, injuring and arresting several young men. We urge the Council to call on Bahrain to immediately release all those arbitrarily detained for exercising their rights, and end the criminalisation of peaceful expression, assembly and religious practice. HRC · President [2:12:40]: Thank you. Thank you. I give the floor to the Association pour la Lutte contre la Contrainte et l'Injustice. All right, then. I give the floor to the representative of the International Federation on Aging. IFA [2:13:16]: Thank you, Mr. President. Sixty years ago, the two international covenants affirmed a promise belonging to everyone, equal civil, political, economic, social, and cultural rights. Human rights do not retire, and they do not expire with age. The International Federation on Aging asks what this universal promise means through longer lives. For older persons, freedom of expression and participation are inseparable from access to health, social protection, and adequate standard of living. Autonomy requires both legal recognition and practical support to exercise choices. The covenants must be brought to life together. Yet, Ageism and institutional barriers continue to restrict these rights, often compounded by poverty, disability, and gender inequality. A future United Nations legally binding instrument on the rights of older persons can build on the covenants, clarify obligations, and close persistent protection gaps. While member states will negotiate and adopt it, older persons must participate meaningfully in shaping it. Mr. President, dear panelists, we ask, how can the Covenant guide a legally binding instrument that makes universal rights effective through the whole life course? Honoring this, their 60th anniversary, means ensuring that their promise endures at every age. Thank you, Mr. President. HRC · President [2:14:55]: Thank you. We have now exhausted the second segment of the list of speakers. Excellencies, distinguished representatives, this was, that was the last speaker and I wish to remind you that delegates inscribed on the list of speakers who could not take the floor due to time constraints can upload their statements to be posted on the HRC portal. We have another hour for this session and we still have the response from the high level panel and there are three more other items that we need to discuss for the remainder of this time. And I now give the floor to Mr. Veteran Ramcharan for response to the views expressed by the floor. Moderator · Bertrand Ramcharan [2:15:59]: Thank you, Mr. President. Mr. President, panelists, I am advised that we should do this in 10 minutes. That would say two minutes each. I would just remind you that the representative of Austria asked the question, what national mechanisms have proven more effective? My words, if you wish to comment on that, up to you. And the representative of the Netherlands asked, how can we start the reform process? I suspect you are not able to answer this, but I give you the floor, Madam Chairperson. CESCR · Chair · Preeti Saran [2:16:37]: Thank you, sir. And of course, I would like to respond to some of the points raised by the distinguished delegates. But your immediate question about reforms, I would say my simple response would be, that's really for the state parties who are signatories to the covenant to maybe convene a conference of parties or just it's incumbent upon them if they want the reforms they should demand it if there's a need for it and discuss it and that is how multilateral bodies work and this is how it should be done in the case of these two covenants as well and the work of this our committees but that said I have to say that I'm really Heartened to hear the very positive statements and your vote of confidence in endorsing the work of the two committees and the contributions that you said we have made, the covenants have made in upholding international treaties in the field of human rights. The two covenants can and must serve as an anchor in times of turbulence and transition. States should take guidance from the covenants. Unlike previous periods of major upheaval, today there is an international agreement on the minimum guarantees of a dignified life that states must uphold. These obligations remain valid, regardless of whether a nation is at war or at peace, whether it is experiencing growth or recession, and whether the political right or left is in power. And the central question for the next 60 years is whether economies, institutions, and societies will be organized in a way that makes these rights real for everyone. Particular attention is needed in the light of emerging challenges, which we've talked about-- climate change, supply chains, artificial intelligence, automation, changing labor markets. Demographic aging, as we just heard the last speaker mention as well, new forms of poverty, debt, fiscal constraints, et cetera. Global oligopolies increasingly control goods and services, essential in the realization of covenant rights, including medicines, food supply, digital infrastructure. The COVID pandemic witnessed open discrimination in access to vaccines and to travel. The slow progress of the SDGs, Agenda 2030, and the international climate change commitments, where the goalposts constantly keep getting moved, are other areas of concern. Concentration of wealth and market power is not merely an economic fact, but a human rights challenge. It affects both the resources available for the realization of rights and the capacity of states to protect covenant rights. For example, Article 15 of our covenant, General Comment No. 25, make clear that scientific progress must benefit everyone, not only those who own technology. Under the covenant, states must make this a reality, translating recommendations into concrete deliverables and action in legislation. I'll stop here and continue thereafter. Thank you, sir. Human Rights Committee · Chair · Chang Rok-sol [2:19:47]: Thank you very much. Let me thank all delegation, national human rights institutions and civil society organizations for your interventions. First about reform, we have been talking about this for a long time. And as you heard, High Commissioner had his own proposals. Let me be clear, chairpersons are not against any change, not against reform, but reform needs to be done in a way strengthening treaty bodies. So we want to have them, and also at the end of the day, the final call is in the hands of the state. So, and also the reform cannot be possible without any resources. So our system is in danger. Our system, you know, everybody say that treaty bodies and Human Rights Council, the Human Rights Committee and Committee on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights is a backbone of the human rights system and cornerstone of human rights system. But backbone is being starved. No reform is possible without resources. I want to emphasize that. And I want to briefly talk about the Professor Arsten's mentioning the technology. We know that the digital technologies have both sides, positive and negative. And, you know, technology can help us only if the expertise and independence at the center of the system are protected, and only if system is resourced. And technology also raises question of accountability beyond the state. The Committee's general comments, our Committee's general comments already addressed the obligation of states in the relation to private actors. But the concentration of technological power in the hands of few individuals and few companies has gone further than our existing standard anticipated, and that is really dangerous. So there is an area where the committee's jurisprudence must develop, and this is where the Professor Aston's call for more coordinated response across the system is well made. And several of you call for universal ratification. So do we. On this anniversary, the most concrete gift a state can give the Covenant is to ratify its optional protocols. and to submit its overdue report. Let me end where I began. The Covenant was not adopted to be admired. It was adopted to be implemented. Six years on, the question is not whether there are right rights. It is whether we States, treaty bodies and this Council are willing to give them effect. The Committee will do our part. We ask the states to do your part. Thank you very much. Moderator · Bertrand Ramcharan [2:23:07]: Professorial Chairperson. Panelist · Philip Alston [2:23:13]: Thank you very much. I think a very interesting discussion. I think the challenge is pretty straightforward in a way. We need to protect what has been achieved We need to ensure greater protection for the relevant rights. But we also need to acknowledge that the world is changing in dramatic ways. That this is not a normal time. That the rapidity with which the climate is warming, which is going to bring radical changes across the world. The rapid ascent of artificial intelligence, which is also going to affect every walk of life. These mean that we are not in the 1960s or the 1970s. We're in a completely new world. And so the big challenge is how do we find novel ways to achieve the basic objectives that the covenants are designed to achieve, but without simply reproducing or relying upon techniques and thinking which were appropriate 30 or 40 years ago. I'm reminded of a story which I hope is not too mean, but I was appointed to chair a Committee on the computerization of the treaty bodies sometime in the early 1990s. And they convened a number of interesting experts, and we spent three days talking. And at the end of it, the representative of the office said, I'm convinced we need to go down this road. But one thing I want to make clear, the computer has to be in my office. In other words, he hadn't understood at all what the implications were of, quote, "computerizing the system, bringing in digitalization, bringing in a lot more automation." And I think the same moral applies today, that we really need to try to think outside the box and not just to take for granted all of the traditional ways of doing things. I'm not suggesting that'll be easy, but I think it's the real challenge that confronts us all. Thank you. Moderator · Bertrand Ramcharan [2:26:07]: Mr. President, allow me to thank you for your graciousness in organizing this commemorative session. I'd like to thank the states and NGOs and institutions that have participated. I'd like to thank the distinguished panelists. and I'd like to place on record my gratitude to the Secretariat for their superb assistance during the course of preparing for this event. Let me share with you the following concluding reflections. The Covenants, together with the UN Charter and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, are the cornerstone of the human rights edifice of the United Nations. The Covenants offer constitutional guidance and principles for States. The covenants can aid in the prevention of violations of human rights and prevention of conflicts. The covenants can help promote just societies. The covenants and their optional protocols can help provide justice for individuals and groups. The covenants can help promote and protect the rights of women and children. The covenants can help promote and protect the rights of minorities, indigenous populations, and migrants. The covenants, implemented in good faith, can help bring about a more just world. The covenants, alongside the Universal Declaration and the human rights provisions of the UN Charter, need to be disseminated and taught worldwide. The covenants and their implementation deserve the support of the United Nations, this Human Rights Council, and of the broader international community. Mr. President, thank you for your graciousness. Thank. Speaker 98 [2:27:53]: You. Thank you, Mr. Ramcharan. And I join you in thanking members of the panels and the member states the National Human Rights Institutions and NGOs for all their contributions and of course I thank you for your taking the leadership role for this session. This brings us to the end of this panel. I wish all members of the panel all the best in their endeavours in this matter. We now take a short technical break before proceeding with the interactive dialogue on the High Commissioner's analytical report on best practices and main challenges in the promotion and protection of the human rights of women and children in conflict and post-conflict situations. Excellencies, distinguished representatives, colleagues, we will now continue the interactive dialogue on the High Commissioner's analytical report on best practices and main challenges in the promotion and protection of human rights of women and children in conflict and post-conflict situations. We shall return to the and continue with the list of speakers. We are pressed for time. So I would ask you, all of you, to put a hard stop at one minute 30 seconds, and I will do my part in doing this. And without further ado now, I give the floor to the representative of the UNFPA. UNFPA [2:33:16]: UNFPA welcomes OSH's report and its focus on the impacts of gender-based violence in conflict and post-conflict situations. We note with concern that across crisis contexts, rates of GVV continue to rise, affecting the rights, health and protection of women and girls. In 2026, UNFPA estimates that 84 million people in crisis settings need GBV prevention and response services. These are women and girls who have experienced or are at risk of sexual violence, exploitation, forced marriage, and trafficking, among other forms of gender-based violence. Further, we reiterate the analysis in the report that attacks on health facilities, including maternity facilities, are disproportionately impacting women and girls. These impacts include restrictions on access to sexual and reproductive health services such as family planning, maternal health and treatment of sexually transmitted infections, including HIV. These restrictions can impact the ability of survivors of sexual violence from accessing life-saving care. UNFPA therefore underscores the need to prioritize the full spectrum of specialized health and protection services required by women and girls in crisis settings. including the delivery of the minimum ammunition service package for sexual and reproductive health, which is essential to ensure the timely delivery of life-saving health services for survivors of sexual violence. I thank you. HRC · President [2:34:32]: Thank you. I give the floor to the representative of University for Peace. University for Peace [2:34:38]: Mr. President, contemporary armed conflicts disproportionately affect women and children. According to the High Commissioner's report, 70% of civilian casualties are women and children, and nearly half a billion children currently reside in conflict zones, which is almost double the rate observed in the 1990s. The Rome Statute identifies rape and sexual slavery as war crimes, and Security Council resolutions call for accountability. Nevertheless, impunity remains widespread. One point stands out, survival at justice is effective and evidence-based, not merely aspirational. In formal peace negotiations, survivor initiatives have successfully embedded gender considerations directly into peace agreements. Interim operation pilot programs have provided immediate support to survivors, and through specialized legislation, survivor communities have played a direct role in shaping the legal frameworks that now compensate them. This principle aligns with the founding purpose of the University for Peace. Peace is constructed by people, not simply imposed upon them. We therefore urge States to act on this evidence, eliminate amnesties and immunities that protect those responsible, fund reparations that transform rather than merely compensate, and place. Women and children at the center as agents of their own justice rather than merely as its subjects. Accountability mechanisms must engage survivors as partners in the justice process, rather than limiting their role to that of witnesses. Thank you. HRC · President [2:35:56]: Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Kuwait. Kuwait [2:36:01]: Thank you, Mr. President. We have viewed the report of the High Commissioner, and we took note of it. Mr. President, we stress the importance of protecting women and children as an utmost priority of the international community, especially with the worrying increase of conflicts and their negative repercussions, especially in the Gaza Strip and other conflict areas, as women and children are being placed. We stress the importance of full adherence to the international humanitarian law and the international human rights law and to protect civilians and put an end to all violations against women and children and to provide unhindered humanitarian access for those in need and put an end to impunity. In conclusion, we see that the report includes some language that lacks international consensus, unlike what is stated in Decision 1619. Hence, we call upon using agreed-upon terminology to achieve full consistency. Thank you. HRC · President [2:37:15]: Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Egypt. Egypt [2:37:23]: Thank you, Mr. President. We take note of the report of the High Commissioner and we welcome the Special Rapporteur. We remember that violation is Putting an end to a violation is not enough to achieve justice. We have to disclose the truth and hold perpetrators accountable and to achieve reparation and compensation and to be ascertained of non-recurrence. Children have the right to education, to health, to live in dignity and recovery. These violations affect disproportionately women, especially in the Gaza conflict. We cannot restrict restrict the freedoms. Justice can only be achieved when reparation and compensation is achieved. The persistence of these tragedies call upon the importance of putting an end to violations and to find practical solutions, not just theoretical ones. Hence, in response to what has been mentioned regarding some controversial language, and the president interrupts. HRC · President [2:38:57]: To the International Development Law Organization. IDLO [2:39:03]: Thank you, Mr. President. The International Development Law Organization's experience supporting justice institutions and access to justice in conflict and fragile settings shows that conflict exposes women and girls to heightened risks of violence and abuse while weakening the very institutions they rely on for protection and justice. The challenge is growing. In 2025, almost one in five women globally were living within 50 kilometers of a deadly conflict event, while the number of women living in conflict zones has nearly tripled since 1990. There, disrupted justice systems and service delivery make it even harder for survivors to seek protection, obtain remedies, and hold perpetrators accountable. Justice must therefore be part of both the immediate response to conflict and the path to recovery. As examples of how this works, in Ukraine, IDEALaw has supported the prosecution service's capacity to investigate and prosecute conflict-related sexual violence, as well as unlawful deportation and transport of Ukrainian children from occupied territories. In Somaliland, IDEO-backed alternative dispute resolution centers referred more than 4,000 survivors of gender-based violence and other human rights violations to integrated legal, medical, and psychosocial services. The protection of women and children cannot end when hostilities cease. We must sustain investment in the rule of law and justice and prioritize access to justice throughout conflict and post-conflict recovery. I thank you. HRC · President [2:40:26]: Thank you. I give the floor to the representative of UN Women. UN Women [2:40:31]: Thank you, Mr. President. UN Women thanks the High Commissioner for her report and welcomes its recommendations. In 2025, an estimated 756 million women and girls live within 50 kilometers of armed conflict. In humanitarian settings, ensuring access to justice, accountability, and reparations is not separate from the response itself. It is essential to the protection and the restoration of dignity for women and girls. Justice remains out of reach for far too many women and girls. However, UN Women's experience shows what works. Our partnership with OHCHR, a justice rapid response, has deployed gender and child rights expertise to UN investigations more than 150 times since 2012, ensuring that serious violations against women and girls are documented. Our 2026 analysis of 22 transitional justice contexts show that legislative reform delivers transformative change when it is locally driven and survivor-centered. Mr. President, UN Women urges states to guarantee women's equal and meaningful participation in peace and justice processes, including survivors and women human rights defenders, to fund reparation programs that comprehensively address gender-based harms, to invest in humanitarian action that support access to justice and redress for survivors. And to use the upcoming Crimes Against Humanity Convention negotiations to codify harms that disproportionately affect women and girls, including reproductive violence, forced marriage, the slave trade, and gender apartheid. I thank you. HRC · President [2:41:56]: Thank you. I give the floor to the representative of UNRWA. UNRWA [2:42:02]: Mr. President, for Palestinian refugees, the issues addressed in this report are a daily reality. For decades, women and children have faced conflict, displacement, and repeated humanitarian crises. Their experiences show a simple truth: women and children are often the most affected by conflict, and protecting their rights cannot wait. In Gaza, Syria, Lebanon, and increasingly the West Bank, Palestinian refugee children face violence and displacement that disrupt their education, family life, and access to essential services, with serious psychological consequences. Women also carry heavy burdens, caring for children and older family members, securing food and water, and managing displacement, often while coping with trauma and loss. Yet they are also essential to the resilience of their families and communities. UNRWA works to reduce this impact through education, health care, protection, and psychosocial support. In Gaza, UNRWA provides protective learning spaces in more than 687 temporary classrooms. In Syria, over 200,000 women received cash assistance in 2024. In Lebanon, more than 6,600 displaced women received emergency psychosocial support. The right and dignity of women and children do not disappear in times of war. They are at the heart of the region future. Protecting their rights and ensuring access to education, healthcare, and protection are essential for recovery, stability, and peace. Thank you. HRC · President [2:43:33]: Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Afghanistan. Afghanistan [2:43:40]: Thank you, Mr. President. Afghanistan aligns itself with this report's findings that women and children in conflict and post-conflict settings face compounded structural violations. Five years since the Taliban takeover, the women and girls of Afghanistan live under what amounts to institutionalized gender persecution, exclusion from secondary and higher education, restriction on movement and employment, and enforcement mechanisms such as the PVP law and decree number 12 and 18 that entrench rather than remedy discrimination and child marriage. We welcome the report's recognition that official capacity does not shield perpetrators from accountability and that ministries cannot applied to crimes under international law. Afghanistan, therefore, reiterates its call for the Independent Investigative Mechanism for Afghanistan to retain its Geneva base and full operational capacity, and for sustained cooperation with the ICC following the July 2025 arrest warrants. We urge the Council to press for unimpeded humanitarian and human rights monitoring, access inside Afghanistan to support Afghanistan's women-led civil society as a source of credible documentation, and to ensure that any future engagement with the Taliban remains conditioned on verifiable progress for women's and children's rights. I thank you. HRC · President [2:45:03]: Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Andorra. Andorra [2:45:08]: Thank you. President. Andorra thanks the High Commissioner for his report, which recalls an unacceptable reality. In conflicts, women and children continue to suffer a disproportionate share of human rights violations. In 2023, they amounted to 70% of civilian victims. Children are exposed to recruitment, violence and separation from their families. While women and girls are particularly exposed to sexual violence and forced displacement, these violations don't just stop with conflicts. In post-conflict situations, too, the weakness of institutions, fear of reprisals, and stigmatization continue. to obstruct access to justice and reparations. For Andorra, protection of children in armed conflict, as well as gender equality and empowerment of women, are priorities. Three objectives must guide our action: combating impunity, guaranteeing effective access to justice and reparations, and placing victims at the centre of justice and peace processes. This means bolstering mechanisms sensitive to gender and age, protecting victims and witnesses, and guaranteeing participation of women and children. How can we better support states whose institutions have been weakened so that access to justice, reparations and to victim protection should never be interrupted by conflict? Thank you. HRC · President [2:46:29]: Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Australia. Australia [2:46:34]: Thank you, Mr. President. Australia thanks the High Commissioner for his report. Australia is a champion of the women, peace and security agenda. We are committed to promoting and protecting the human rights of women and children in conflict and post-conflict settings through our National Action Plan. A survivor-centred approach is essential for promoting and protecting human rights. Australia drives this work through our flagship partnership with the Gender Justice Practitioner Hub, which addresses impunity by facilitating gender-responsive accountability for conflict-related crimes. Australia has sanctioned four senior Taliban officials for their ongoing abuses of the human rights of women and girls under our world-first sanctions framework. Alongside Canada, Germany and the Netherlands, Australia has also taken unprecedented legal action against Afghanistan for violations under the Taliban of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women. With rising conflict, Australia is ensuring life-saving humanitarian assistance reaches those who need it most, including women and girls. High Commissioner, how can we ensure consultation with women and girls translates to action to achieve survivor-centered justice? Thank you. HRC · President [2:47:44]: Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of the Council of Europe. Council of Europe [2:47:50]: We thank the High Commissioner for his analytical report. A recent Council of Europe multi-stakeholder exchange on women, peace and security stressed the need for human rights to power the search for greater participation of women in conflict resolution and peacebuilding. For this to change, there is a need for overcoming the barriers to women's participation, such as gender norms and the range of domestic, sexual and conflict-related violence against women and girls. The Council of Europe's Convention on preventing and combating violence against women, the Istanbul Convention, is non-derogable, including in times of war. Its monitoring body, GREVIO, has just published its findings on the implementation of the Convention in Ukraine. It has praised the Ukrainian authorities' strong willingness to implement the Convention, despite the enormous challenges arising from Russia's war of aggression. The Council of Europe's Consultation Group on the Children of Ukraine continues to turn multilateral dialogue into practical responses for children affected by Russia's war of aggression. It focuses on accountability and child-friendly justice, safe return and reintegration, education and well-being, trauma-informed care, and protection from conflict-related sexual violence and trafficking. The Council of Europe welcomes efforts aimed at achieving closer synergy with the UN to draw on human rights standards, commitments and mechanisms to support more effectively the participation and leadership of women and at all levels of decision-making. Thank you. HRC · President [2:49:09]: Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Iraq. Iraq [2:49:18]: We thank the High Commissioner for his report and we, uh, take note of the recommendations and conclusions. We express our appreciation for, um… shedding light on the experience of Iraq as a national initiative to preserve the rights of Iraqi women. The Law of the Survivors has provided for reparation and compensation, housing, education, health care, in order to provide for their reintegration into the society and to protect the victims and the as well as witnesses. And we condemn what especially women and children endure in the Gaza Strip, all the deprivation of right and education. Hence, we have to provide unimpeded humanitarian access. assistance to them, there have been some controversial language that need to be reconsidered, and we should only restrict ourselves to terminology that enjoys consensus. Thank you. HRC · President [2:50:34]: Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of the Islamic Republic of Iran. Iran (Islamic Republic of) [2:50:41]: Mr. President, we take note of the High Commissioner's. Report, which rightly affirms that women and children are not merely victims, but active agents in the peacebuilding and reconstruction. During the aggression of the Zionist regime into our country in June 2025, about 1,100 Iranian civilians were killed, including 132 women and 47 children, as well as In the war waged by the American-Israeli aggressors in February 2026, at least 3,468 civilians, including hundreds of women and children, were killed. In just one single incident, during the attacks to elementary school in Minab, a region near the Persian Gulf, 168 children, including girls, among them parents and children, were murdered. These crimes are a flagrant violation of international law and the Charter of the United Nations. Accountability for the grave violations of war crimes must be ensured. Without exception and impunity, and regardless of the perpetrator's official capacity. Women and children should never become the hidden casualties and victims of geopolitical confrontation. Thank you. HRC · President [2:52:04]: Thank you. I give the floor to the representative of UNICEF for a video statement. UNICEF [2:52:08]: Thank you, Mr. President. UNICEF welcomes the report of the High Commissioner and the focus of this discussion on the disproportionate impact that women and children face during armed conflict and in its aftermath. UNICEF would like to make three recommendations for upholding women and children's rights in humanitarian settings. First, women and children must be meaningfully included in all humanitarian decision-making for their priorities, perspectives, and need to be fully reflected in all parts of the response. Second, all humanitarian sectors, from education to health and nutrition, must proactively contribute to preventing and responding to gender-based and conflict-related sexual violence in line with the centrality of protection. Third. We must invest in the local women-led organizations that constitute the very backbone for the protection of women and children as fundamental as driving change in their communities. Further, we join the High Commissioner in calling for states to ensure accountability for human rights abuses and violations of international humanitarian law affecting women and children. There can be no justice without accountability, which is the driving force behind behavioral change. And finally, we call on all parties to conflict to comply with their obligations under international law and urge all actors with influence over parties to use their leverage to put an end to violations against women and children. Thank you. HRC · President [2:53:32]: Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Pakistan. And I'll give the floor to a distinguished representative of the Syrian Arab Republic. Syrian Arab Republic [2:53:48]: Thank you, Mr. President. During the revolution, Syria suffered grave violations at the hands of the past regime. With the fall of the regime, we entered a new phase to deal with the legacy and to help the victims. We work in cooperation with the special representative of the SG to put in place a national plan for protection and prevention to preserve the rights of children. We also work on putting in place a national plan to implement the agenda for women, peace, and security. We continue to work on the rehabilitation of the education system. We realize that dealing with this legacy needs a national system that's comprehensive based on the victims in order to reinforce trust and social peace. We continue working with the UN and international partners to protect the rights of women and children on the basis of justice, dignity and the rule of law. We notice that the report includes terminology not agreed upon, and that is against resolution 1619. Thank you. HRC · President [2:55:22]: Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Portugal. Portugal [2:55:26]: Mr. President. Women and children continue to bear the burden of the devastating consequences of armed conflict. They face displacement, loss of access to essential services, and also risks of violence, including sexual and gender-based violence. To protect their rights, prevention must remain central to our efforts, including by addressing the inequalities that put women and children at risk in conflict and post-conflict situations. The full, equal, meaningful, and safe participation of women and girls in conflict prevention and peacebuilding remains also essential. That's why earlier this year, Portugal adopted its fourth national action plan on women, peace, and security, reaffirming our commitment to women's participation and leadership. Mr. High Commissioner, how can states better ensure that the meaningful participation of women and children in justice and accountability processes helps prevent violations from recurring? Thank you. HRC · President [2:56:21]: Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of the State of Palestine. State of Palestine [2:56:27]: Thank you, Mr. President. Palestine aligns itself with the statements of the Arab Group and the OIC and thanks the High Commissioner. The report's message is clear. The problem is not the absence of law, but the persistent gap between international legal framework and its implementation. For Palestinian women and children, this failure is lived through killing, forced displacement, attacks on health infrastructure, and reproductive violence. For Palestine, this is not a new warning. Impunity enables recurrence. Today, these violations are unfolding within a genocidal war and ongoing process of forced displacement and ethnic cleansing, rooted in the prolonged denial of our people's right to self-determination. Despite access restrictions, UN mechanisms, Commission of Inquiry, special rapporteurs, civil society, and independent experts have repeatedly documented and analyzed violations. while the International Court of Justice has clarified the applicable legal obligations and the illegality of Israel's continued presence in the occupied Palestinian territory. We are far beyond the stage of asking whether the law is clear or the violations sufficiently documented. The failure is enforcement. What is required now is accountability, prosecution, comprehensive reparations, guarantees of non-recurrence, and concrete actions by states. Thank you. HRC · President [2:57:52]: Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Armenia. Armenia [2:57:56]: Mr. President, the effects of armed conflict on the rights and well-being of women and children are often profound and long-lasting, requiring responses that bridge immediate protection needs with long-term recovery. Armenia believes that greater attention should also be given to the preventive dimension. protection of women and children must be integrated into early warning and prevention efforts, including through closer attention to patterns of violence, discrimination, and incitement that may signal escalating risks. This approach is closely linked to Armenia's longstanding efforts within the Human Rights Council to strengthen the prevention of genocide and other atrocity crimes. While recognizing the disproportionate impact of conflict on women, we must also move beyond viewing them solely through the lens of vulnerability. Their full, equal and meaningful participation in prevention, peacebuilding and recovery is essential to lasting and sustainable peace. Armenia's third national action plan on women, peace and security reflects this approach, with particular attention to conflict-affected and forcibly displaced women and girls. Mr. President, in protecting the rights of women and girls and children, particular attention must also be given to evolving risks in the digital environment. New and emerging technologies add another dimension, increasing the scale and speed at which incitement to violence and harmful narratives can spread. These evolving risks must increasingly inform both prevention and protection efforts. Human rights mechanisms have an important contribution to make to these efforts. Armenia remains committed to strengthening international cooperation towards these objectives. I thank you. HRC · President [2:59:26]: Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Kenya. Kenya [2:59:31]: Mr. President, Kenya takes note of the High Commissioner's report. Kenya recognizes that accountability must be accompanied by effective remedies that respond to the experiences and the needs of victims. Women and children must equally be recognized as the right holders and active participants in the processes concerning justice, reparations, and guarantees of non-recurrence. This is consistent with the report's emphasis on survivor-centered and meaningful participation. At the national level, Kenya continues to advance efforts towards a comprehensive reparations framework aimed at strengthening a victim-centered approach to redress, including compensation, rehabilitation, restitution, satisfaction, and guarantees of non-repetition. Kenya underscores that reparations should not be viewed solely as compensation. They should contribute to restoring dignity, promoting recovery, and addressing conditions that may perpetuate violations. The report similarly recognizes these complementary dimensions of reparation. Kenya therefore calls strengthen international cooperation and capacity building to support nationally owned justice and reparation processes, particularly in conflict-affected countries facing institutional and resource constraints. I thank you. HRC · President [3:00:55]: Thank you. I give the floor to the Distinguished Representative of South Sudan. South Sudan [3:01:02]: Mr. President, South Sudan aligns itself with the African Group statement and thanks the High Commissioner for his analytical report. We reaffirm our commitment to the promotion and protection of human rights, with particular emphasis on the right, dignity, and well-being of women and children, and to ensure justice, effective remedies, and reparation for victims of human rights violations. We recognize that their meaningful participation is essential to sustainable peace, reconciliation, and national recovery. Our government remains committed to strengthening national institutions and advancing measures to protect, prevent, and respond to gender-based violence, protect children from grave violations through the established transitional justice mechanism within the revitalized peace agreement, and through launching a dedicated task force, a special juvenile mobile court, and child protection unit within the defence forces. High Commissioner, since armed non-state actors are responsible for a wide range of abuses and their preparation often coincide with weakened institutional protection framework, as clearly indicated in your report, how could they be held accountable for these committed abuses? And how could weakened institution be strengthened? Thank you, Mr. President. HRC · President [3:02:34]: Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Colombia. Colombia [3:02:40]: Thank you, President. In 2024, according to UNICEF, one child in six was living in a conflict situation. The situation has continued to worsen, and we are losing entire generations to the scourge of war. Colombia knows all too well what it means for an armed group, non-state armed group to put a gun in the hands of a child. In the face of those who instrumentalize childhood in order to sustain their criminal economies, our stance is unequivocal: absolute firmness against crime, protection of children. This distinction has guided our institutional response. Minors who sever ties with illegal groups are not criminals; they are victims. Since 1999, the Colombian Institute of Family Well-being has restored the rights of more than 6,800 hundred such children, guaranteeing them with access to healthcare, education, reparation, and the possibility to rebuild their life projects. But separating from mum groups is just the beginning. It requires sustained state presence, psychosocial care, and communities that receive these children without stigmatizing them. It's the difference between a life recovered and a new recruitment, and it has been an unequivocal commitment undertaken by our country. We call categorically on all parties to armed conflicts, to respect international humanitarian law, and in particular, we call on those armed groups that operate on the margins of the law to immediately liberate all minors under their control. Their families and communities are waiting for them. Their place is not at war. Thank you. HRC · President [3:04:11]: Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Qatar. Qatar [3:04:18]: Thank you, Mr. President. Qatar attaches high importance to the protection of women and children in conflict situations. It is a priority in our foreign, diplomatic, and humanitarian policies. We have taken a number of international initiatives to protect children and women, including Resolution 1960 with Costa Rica on enhancing and protecting the rights of women and children. We have also the initiative of women in areas of conflict. We recall our request to all parties in conflicts to abide by their international commitments and to provide remedy, equality, and accountability. We welcome Resolution 1960, adopted by consensus. We would have hoped that the report of the High Commissioner would have reflected the same consensus spirit and that it should have abided by the terminology that is agreed upon internationally. And I thank you. HRC · President [3:05:42]: Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Algeria. Algeria [3:05:47]: Thank you, Mr. President. Algeria agrees with the findings of the report, stating that women and children are disproportionately affected by armed conflict and its aftermath. Addressing the persistent barriers facing women and children in conflict situation requires a comprehensive approach grounded in international law. In this regard, Algeria would like to highlight the following key actions. First, we need to ensure interaction between all areas of intervention, from reintegration of women and children in society to the inclusion of their protection into all peace processes. Second, ensure that the UN assistance programs provide the necessary training and requisite resources to effectively protect women and children. To be successful, we must strengthen women's presence in peacekeeping operations. Third, strengthen educational system in areas of armed conflicts, considering that children with low level of education are often the easiest targets of armed groups. Finally, Algeria reiterates the importance of prevention strategies to address the root causes of armed conflicts, such as poverty, lack of development, violent extremism, as well as colonization and foreign occupation. We would be remiss if we didn't emphasize that violence against women and children is worsened for those living under foreign occupation, where they are forcibly separated from their families and exploited for human trafficking, drug smuggling, and sexual exploitation and abuse. Therefore, protecting them should be our utmost priority. Thank you. HRC · President [3:07:22]: Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Azerbaijan. Azerbaijan [3:07:26]: Thank you, Mr. President. Azerbaijan thanks the High Commissioner for this important report. Its findings resonate profoundly with our national experience. As a result of nearly three decades of occupation of its territories, hundreds of thousands of Azerbaijani women and children endured displacement and grave violations of their rights. Accountability for the crimes committed against them and for the fate of nearly 4,000 missing persons, many of them women and children, remains an unfinished obligation of the international community. We wish to draw the Council's attention to a specific, continuous threat to women and children in post-conflict settings, which is not sufficiently reflected in the report: landmines and explosive remnants of war. In the liberated territories of Karabakh and East Zangazor, hundreds of Azerbaijani civilians, including women and children, have been killed or maimed by landmines since November 2020. The lack of accurate minefield information constitutes a direct impediment to the safe return of displaced women and children. Azerbaijan is implementing its National Action Plan on Women, Peace, and Security, and through the Great Return Program is restoring schools, health facilities, and social infrastructure to enable durable return with particular attention to the needs of women and children. We would ask the High Commissioner, how can OHCHR ensure that mine action and fate of missing persons and sustainable return of internally displaced women and children are systematically integrated into repression frameworks and the Women, Peace, and Security agenda? I thank you. HRC · President [3:08:52]: Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of the Sovereign Order of Malta. Sovereign Order of Malta [3:08:57]: The Sovereign Order of Malta thanks the High Commissioner for his report. In conflict and post-conflict situations, the rights of women and children are unfortunately too often violated. As the report mentions, while women and children bore nearly 70% of civilian fatalities in 2023, while impunity and barriers to justice continues to deny them effective remedies and reparations. International human rights law should be applied at all times, including during conflict and post-conflict situations. and full respect for the Convention on the Rights of the Child, including its optional protocols on children in armed conflict and child trafficking. The Order of Malta remains engaged on these issues through its work against human trafficking, advocating for stronger protection, access to justice and reparation for child victims of trafficking, sexual exploitation, and recruitment into armed conflict. In the field, the Order of Malta, through its relief service, Matisa International provides humanitarian aid and psychological and medical treatment to women victims of rape and assault in the South Kivu. Thank you, Mr. Chair. HRC · President [3:10:16]: Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Sudan. Sudan [3:10:25]: Thank you, Mr. President. We have reviewed the report of the High Commissioner. We agree with the content and recommendations on enhancing national legislation to protect women, children, and girls, and to guarantee remedies. The war by proxy in Sudan has led to many violations of the rights of women and children due to the rebel armed groups, and also their recruitment of children. We have taken measures to protect children and to integrate child soldiers in the society and to provide psychological medical service as well as enhancing education in areas of conflict. We call on the international community to support the efforts made to protect the rights of women and children in Sudan. In conclusion, we refer to the fact that the terminology in the report is not internationally agreed upon. We call on the High Commissioner to abide by internationally agreed concepts and terminology. Thank you. HRC · President [3:11:44]: Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Ireland. Ireland [3:11:49]: Thank you, Mr. President. Ireland aligns with the EU statement and thanks the High Commissioner for his report. As the report outlines, women and children bear a disproportionate share of harm during armed conflict. accounting for approximately 70% of civilian deaths in 2023. It is clear that gender inequalities and discriminatory social norms can also impact the enjoyment of human rights and limit access to protection, justice and recovery. Women and children are not homogenous groups, and Ireland recognises this diversity of experiences, including of persons with disabilities and of LGBTIQ+ persons. Measures to promote and protect the human rights of women and children in conflict and post-conflict situations must reflect this diversity. Ireland welcomes the report's acknowledgement of the crucial role played by human rights defenders, civil society organizations, and national human rights institutions in conflict and post-conflict situations. Their work, and in particular women-led and women's rights organizations, helps to ensure that accountability, reparations, and recovery efforts are survivor-centered, gender-responsive, and child-sensitive. Women peacebuilders have played and continue to play an essential role in building and sustaining peace on the island of Ireland. Ireland supports the report's recommendations and calls for their full implementation. High Commissioner, how can barriers to participation, including stigma, discrimination, security concerns, and lack of resources, be addressed to ensure that women and children can fully engage in decision-making processes in conflict and post-conflict situations? I thank you. HRC · President [3:13:17]: Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Burkina Faso. Burkina Faso [3:13:25]: Thank you, President. President, my delegation would like to thank the High Commissioner for his report. Faced with security challenges due to terrorism, Burkina Faso has made the protection of women and children a national priority. In this regard, our 2019 code of criminal procedure stipulates that specific protection measures for victim women and children must be taken in order to ensure their participation in justice processes. Between 2023 and 2025, 1,290 women and 206 children benefited from legal assistance pursuant to a decree adopted in 2016. In September 2022, a handover protocol was signed with the United Nations on the transfer of children found during security operations. The Support Agency for Widows, Orphans, and Victims of War was created in 2023. It coordinates psychosocial assistance, administrative and legal assistance, as well as the empowerment of families of combatants who died in combat. At the same time, the status of the ward of the state was gradually brought in for the benefit of children of combatants who died. We would like to urge the High Commissioner to step up technical assistance to states affected by terrorism. Thank you. HRC · President [3:14:56]: Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Tunisia. Tunisia [3:15:04]: Thank you, President. We have taken note of the High Commissioner's report, and we reaffirm that the protection of women and children in conflict zones and access to humanitarian aid, without forgetting accountability for perpetrators of violations, are international and ethical obligations that must be respected without any discrimination. These obligations also make up the bedrock of a society where sustainable development can reign. We call, President, for full respect of international humanitarian law and international human rights law for the protection of civilians. It is important to ensure accountability and to combat injustice and impunity. We are therefore very concerned by the legal and humanitarian situation affecting Palestinian families and children in the occupied Palestinian territories. we are equally concerned by the ongoing suffering endured by these two categories of the population. That's why we call for international law to be fully respected in the occupied Palestinian territories and for there to be fully organized humanitarian aid that can reach all the victims. It is also essential to ensure accountability and guarantees of non-repetition of the crimes that are committed there. Thank you. HRC · President [3:16:40]: Thank you. I give the floor to Mr. Stinks. representative of Yemen. Yemen [3:16:50]: President, we welcome the report at hand and we would like to reaffirm that women and children are a priority for our government, for these two categories remain the most exposed to the repercussions of the conflict we are experiencing. Women and children in Yemen are victims of the worst forms of violations. Women have been kidnapped and tortured and accused of the most heinous crimes and held in special detention centres. They have also seen their freedom of movement restricted in an undue fashion. Children have been victims of forced recruitment campaigns and placed in summer camps. before being sent to the front line of the conflict. The Government calls for resolution 1325 of the UN Security Council to be implemented. We are pursuing our efforts to that end, and also for the implementation of a road map on the protection of children. We call on the international community to put an end to the forced recruitment of children and to work towards their rehabilitation so as to guarantee a legal and psychological framework that protects women and children in times of war. Thank you. HRC · President [3:18:15]: Thank you. This was the last speaker we could accommodate for this debate. And we now turn to the list of speakers for national human rights institutions and non-governmental organizations. And I give the floor to the representative of Burundi, Commission Nationale Indépendante des Droits de l'Homme. Commission Nationale Indépendante des Droits de l'Homme [3:18:40]: President, my NHRI laments that during the civil war, women and children were victims of armed conflicts in Burundi. We denounce the widespread aggressions against their rights, in particular rape and the recruitment of thousands of child soldiers. The violations that women and children were victims of and the harm they endured have gone without any reparation. In terms of women, in 2016, Burundi adopted a law on the prevention and punishment of gender-based violence. But today, this law needs to be reviewed so as to make it more effective. For children, we call for there to be a child rights code and the establishment in the near future of child-specific courts. In order to achieve the necessary results, we would like to underscore that there are a number of institutions and mechanisms and public policies that are in place. We'd like to mention the Ministry for Justice, Rights and Gender, as well as the NHRI, and the creation of integrated centres for comprehensive care for victims of gender-based violence in the five provinces of our country. We would like to recommend to the Government of Burundi that it review the 2016 law on gender-based violence, that it step up child's rights protection through the establishment of a code on the rights of the child, and the creation of child-specific courts, and to create a trust fund for the reparation of women and children victims of gross violations. Thank you. HRC · President [3:20:16]: Thank you. I give the floor to the representative of Qatar National Human Rights Committee. Qatar National Human Rights Committee [3:20:25]: Thank you, Mr. President. The National Human Rights Institution would like to praise the report on the human rights situation of women and children, especially the rise in the casualties among civilians, especially among women and children, and documenting the violations they endure. In this respect, we stress the importance of protecting the staff operating in the humanitarian field without any intimidation or obstacles. There are 393 lives lost among the UNRWA staff, hence the UN has to operate in a manner to enable the staff to practice their functions and to preserve human dignity. We have a question about the future on the humanitarian system while preserving the dignity of staff and enhancing the role of the UN to confront crises and to enable it to be a model for justice, equality and inclusivity and make it able to protect civilians and those who are active in the humanitarian field. Thank you. HRC · President [3:21:53]: Thank you. I give the floor to the representative of Defence for Children International. Defence for Children International [3:22:01]: Mr. President, we thank the High Commissioner for his report. 30 years after the establishment of the Children and Armed Conflict Mandate, a comprehensive international framework for the protection of children in armed conflict is in place. However, the continued scale of violations demonstrates a persistent gap between existing standards and their implementation by States. We are also concerned by the lack of accountability for violations against children and by efforts to undermine existing accountability mechanisms, including the International Criminal Court. Accountability cannot depend on political circumstances. States must uphold their responsibilities and ensure that perpetrators are held to the same standards. Justice processes must also recognize the gendered and child-specific dimensions of violations committed during armed conflict. Age can itself be a ground for persecution, and children's experiences of violations must be properly reflected in investigations and accountability processes. DCI therefore calls on states to systematically integrate child-specific analysis into justice and accountability processes, ensure that children's evidence and experiences are appropriately heard and reflected, taking into account their age, maturity, evolving capacities, and best interests, and using child-sensitive and protective procedures where necessary. Guarantee access to justice and effective remedies for child survivors alongside appropriate mental health and psychosocial support services. Treat children formerly associated with armed groups or armed forces primarily as victims and ensure that responses prioritize protection, rehabilitation, and reintegration rather than detention or punishment. Implement existing commitments and strengthen accountability mechanisms rather than weakening or undermining them. I thank you. HRC · President [3:23:34]: Thank you. I give the floor to the representative of Accept International. Accept International. Okay. Give the floor to the representative of the Palestinian Return Center Limited for video intervention. Palestinian Return Center [3:23:59]: Honourable President, Distinguished Representatives, The Palestinian Return Centre is deeply concerned over the condition of pregnant women in Gaza. Today, pregnancy unfolds under siege, starvation, displacement, and the collapse of all medical care. Women are forced to give birth in overcrowded shelters or under equipped tents, often without skilled medical assistance. As hospitals are non-functional or unreachable, essential medicines, anesthesia, and blood supplies are critically scarce. According to the United Nations Population Fund, an estimated 55,000 pregnant and breastfeeding women in Gaza are at severe risk of death from malnutrition by mid 2026. scores of newborns are dying due to the absence of functioning incubators as electricity and fuel supplies collapse. The Palestinian Return Center expresses its grave concern over reproductive violence, defined as the systematic denial of conditions required for safe pregnancy and childbirth. The Palestinian Return Center calls for the immediate facilitation of sustained humanitarian access, including food, fuel, and essential reproductive and neonatal healthcare supplies. The Nations should take immediate action to halt ongoing Israeli atrocities that are placing pregnant women and their newborns in Gaza. At the threshold of death, in breach of the most basic protections of international humanitarian law. Thank you. HRC · President [3:25:30]: Thank you. I give the floor to the representative of the Lutheran World Federation for a joint statement. LWF [3:25:36]: Mr. President, the Lutheran World Federation and World Council of Churches welcome the report and thank the High Commissioner for bringing critical attention to this urgent matter. As faith actors working with conflict-affected communities worldwide, we witness both the devastating gendered consequences of conflict and the transformative role women and youth play in rebuilding trust, healing communities, and advancing peace. Protecting their rights and leadership is a prerequisite for just and lasting peace. Their leadership must be supported, funded, and meaningfully included in all peace, recovery, and transitional justice processes. Accountability must go beyond prosecution. Survivors of conflict-related sexual violence and other violations have a right to truth, justice, effective remedies, and comprehensive reparations that address both immediate harms and underlying structural inequalities. Furthermore, preventing further violations requires dismantling discriminatory laws, addressing harmful gender norms. Protecting civic space. Particular attention must be given to displaced and undocumented women and children, recognizing access to legal identity and registration as essential prerequisites for participation in all aspects of life. We urge the Human Rights Council and Member States to ensure survivor-centered justice and reparations that address both the root causes of violence and discrimination, immediate harms and structural inequalities, guarantee the meaningful participation and leadership of women and girls, end impunity and accountability. Thank you. HRC · President [3:27:08]: Thank you. I give the floor to the representative of Center for Global Nonkilling for video intervention. Center for Global Nonkilling [3:27:14]: Mr. President, Excellencies, everyone. Survivors of conflict-related sexual violence are often invited to speak about what happened to them. Far less often are they given power over what happens next. This is not simply a gap in participation. It is a gap in justice. The report highlights the transformative role of survivor-led initiatives and the importance of survivors having real influence over accountability, reparations and prevention. The Women, Peace and Security agenda gives us a framework to turn this recognition into political action. States must ensure that survivors can safely and meaningfully participate throughout accountability and transitional justice processes, from truth-seeking and reparations to guarantees of non-recurrence. This also requires addressing the structural inequalities, discriminatory norms and impunity that enable sexual violence in the first place, including the exclusion of women from security and justice institutions. Many Member States have adopted the Women, Peace and Security agenda and integrated it in the national policies and action plans. Now we need to give the agenda greater political priority in order to ensure effective prevention and long-term support and redress for survivors. Thank you. HRC · President [3:28:40]: Excellencies, distinguished representatives, colleagues, this brings us to the end of this 15th meeting. We will reconvene in the afternoon for the 16th meeting to continue the interactive dialogue on the High Commissioner's analytical report on best practices and main challenges in the promotion and protection of human rights of women and children in conflict and post-conflict situations, followed by the presentation of reports under agenda item 3 and a general debate. I'd like to thank our interpretation services as well as our security services for the extended time, and I hereby close the 15th meeting of this 63rd session of the Human Rights Council.