Третий комитет, 37-е пленарное заседание - Генеральная Ассамблея, 80-я сессия
Генеральная Ассамблея
Date: 3 November 2025
Language: English
Transcript: https://transcripts.un.org/ru/ga/c3/80/37?lang=en
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.

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3rd Committee · Chair [0:01]:

Good morning, dear colleagues. The 37th meeting of the Third Committee at the 80th session of the General Assembly is called to order. I now invite the committee to resume its consideration of agenda item 71, entitled Promotion and Protection of Human Rights, and its sub-items A to D. I wish to remind delegations that the deadline for the submission of draft proposal under this agenda item is 1:00 PM. tomorrow, Tuesday, 4th November. I would like to welcome the Chair of the Expert Mechanism on the Right to Development, Mr. Boni Ibaog. Participants wishing to make comments and pose questions to the speaker are invited to press their microphone button within the next three minutes, after which the list will be closed. The time limit for each speaker will be announced before the floor is given to the first speaker. I thank you for your cooperation. I now invite the Chair of the Expert Mechanism on the Right to Development to make an introductory statement. Mr. Ribbabo, you have the floor.


EMRTD · Chair [1:05]:

Distinguished President, Madam President, Excellencies, delegates and colleagues, it is an honor to be here today in person to address the General Assembly TAC Committee in my capacity as the Chair of the Expert Mechanism on the Right to Development. I just arrived from Geneva, where we had a successful 12th session. Here today, I am pleased to present our annual report A/HRC/60/38, which informs of our activities undertaken from July 2024 to June 2025, and especially summarizes the outcomes of our 10th and 11th sessions. In September this year, we presented the annual report of the two thematic studies to the Human Rights Council. We appreciate that in its recent resolution on the right to development, the Council welcomed this document and recognized the expert mechanism's continued efforts in promoting the right to development, providing thematic expertise to the Council, and fostering the exchange of good practices among Member States and other stakeholders. This recognition adds meaning to our work and encourages us to redouble efforts to continue advancing in the right direction. During the two reported sessions, we held interactive dialogues with member states, civil society, experts, and practitioners. Our mechanism observed that delegations consistently underscored the right to development as essential for achieving the sustainable development goals, and called for stronger international cooperation. Many delegates also repeatedly expressed concern regarding extreme poverty, debt, climate change, discrimination, and inequality as major obstacles to the realization of the right to development. In discussions of these two sessions, several delegates also drew attention to the impact of unilateral coercive measures noting their role in exacerbating inequalities and urging for respect for the sovereignty and policy space of states. Distinguished delegates, the 10th session took place in Geneva in October last year. We had significant exchanges on the different ways in which the right to development could be featured in ongoing international discussions, agreements, and instruments. The session included six interactive dialogues where we emphasized the critical intersection between business and human rights, and noted the calls for a shift away from business models focused solely on short-term profits. We examined the rapid evolution of generative artificial intelligence, recognizing its potential to advance development, but underlining the need for effective regulation. We further underscored global concern about biodiversity, closely tied to climate change and the rights of indigenous peoples. In many developing countries, the measures and standards sometimes imposed by developed countries can be seen as infringing on sovereignty and can affect the people making a living from this biodiversity. We therefore emphasize the need for breaking the silos in institutions and actors in charge of trade and environment to progressively transform the model of international trade and apply it through a right to development principles. We finally reiterated the critical importance of women's leadership in advancing the right to development, noting concerns about funding and gender gaps. Distinguished delegates, our 11th session took place in New York in April this year. Together with member states and other stakeholders, the mechanism evaluated obstacles and identified ways to ensure continued commitment to international cooperation and financing for development. With a decline in official development assistance, we aimed to rethink and revitalize the architecture of international cooperation. We highlighted that interests and priorities of recipient countries must be central. Therefore, greater emphasis must be placed on the quality and impact of cooperation and on rebuilding trust amongst partners. In donor countries, better public understanding could be fostered about international solidarity as a long-term investment in shared prosperity. We called for a renewed commitment to multilateralism, one that includes not only bilateral efforts, but also strengthened engagements through regional, multilateral, and intergovernmental frameworks. These issues were also prioritized in our advocacy efforts for the 40th International Conference on Financing for Development, which included concrete contributions from mainstreaming the right to development in the conference outcome document. These contributions are now available on our website. Distinguished delegates, unfortunately, financial constraints continue to affect the expert mechanism's ability to fully deliver on its mandate, including through the cancellation of country study visits, lack of funding for members' participation in international conferences, and the participation of experts guests in our annual sessions. Nevertheless, we made every effort to ensure broad participation across constituencies and perspectives. We also engaged with international negotiations to promote full consideration of the right to development and maintained close coordination with the Chair of the Intergovernmental Working Group on the Right to Development and the Special Rapporteur. Excellencies, The right to development offers a practical framework for renewing multilateralism based on solidarity, shared responsibility, and international cooperation that puts people first. As the United Nations marks its 80th anniversary and as we approach the 40th anniversary of the Declaration on the Right to Development, this is a moment to translate commitments into action. The Expert Mechanism stands ready to continue its close collaboration with Member States, United Nations entities, civil society, and the private sector to advance the realization of the rights of all peoples to sustainable development. I thank you.


3rd Committee · Chair [8:05]:

I thank the Chair of the Expert Mechanism on the Right to Development. I will now open the floor for any questions or comments to Mr. Boni Ibaño. As per past practice, I would ask the delegations to limit their comments to three minutes. I thank you for your kind cooperation. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Cuba, to be followed by Japan and Nigeria. Cuba, you have the floor.


Cuba [8:29]:

Good morning, Madam. Madam, firstly, I should like to say how grateful I am that Mr. Bonning is here. Thank you. Cuba reasserts its full commitment to the UN Convention on the Right to Development, the 40th anniversary of this we will be celebrating next year. Development is not just a target that can be measured, a goal that can be measured with targets, but the Vienna Programme states that it's an inalienable universal right and part and parcel of fundamental rights. Everybody, all peoples, have a right to play a part in economic, social, cultural and political development, to contribute to these and enjoy the benefits thereof. Cuba supports the mechanisms and special procedures of the UN, whose task it is to promote the right to development. We note the documents and the studies that the Experts Mechanism has produced. Their work must continue, strictly complying with the mandate from the Human Rights Council pursuant to 42/23, the resolution there, together with States. We support you as a Chair of the Third Commission, and we note with interest your comments on UCM's and their impact on the right to development. We welcome the fact that the Chair of the Experts Mechanism will tell us more today about the double dimension, both individual and collective, of the right to development. Madam Chairman, solidarity and international cooperation, South-South cooperation and economic integration are vital to ensure enjoyment of the right to development and to arrive at sustainable development. paying attention to and respecting the various national plans. UCMs against the Southern Nations should be abolished. They are a violation of the UN Charter and international law. They have a direct and harsh impact on all human rights. I would conclude by a call to action. It is essential to double our efforts when it comes to promoting the right to development. Here, you can always rely on Cuba's voice and our experts, both in our national capacity and as our role of coordinator of the Non-Aligned Movement Group for Promoting Rights. We showed our responsibilities fully committed. Thank you.


3rd Committee · Chair [11:08]:

I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Nigeria, to be followed by the Russian Federation.


Nigeria [11:15]:

Thank you, Madam Chair. Nigeria thanks the Chief Rapporteur, Professor Bonny Ibafor, for the comprehensive and thoughtful report. We commend the mechanism for its continued leadership in advancing the global discourse on the right to development, particularly through its thematic focus on international cooperation, climate justice, and the meaningful participation of women in development. Nigeria affirms that the right to development is a universal and inalienable human right essential for achieving the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. This right holds particular resonance for Nigeria, as it is enshrined in our constitution, which mandates the state to promote equality, social justice, and the welfare of all citizens through the optimal use of national resources. Furthermore, we emphasize that realizing the right to development requires collective global action, grounded in fairness, inclusivity, and international solidarity. In this regard, Nigeria welcomes the outcome of the Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development held in Seville, Spain, and the adoption of the Seville Commitment and the Seville Platform for Action. This outcome reaffirmed the global resolve to close the $4 trillion annual SDG financing gap, integrate the right to development principle into international financing frameworks, and advance reform to the international financial architecture, including new debt relief initiatives, and strengthen cooperation for sustainable development. Madam Chair, Nigeria reiterates its support for the continued work for the expert mechanism for the ongoing effort towards the UN instrument on the right to development, which will translate shared commitment into concrete and measurable progress for all. I thank you, madam Chair.


3rd Committee · Chair [13:01]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Nigeria. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of the Russian Federation, to be followed by Indonesia and China.


Russian Federation [13:12]:

Madam Chair, we thank Mr. Abkhavov for his contribution to the discussion. The Russian Federation attaches great importance to promoting the right to development. In this regard, we think the work of the Expert Mechanism on the Right to Development is necessary. Its analysis and popularization of the advanced practice and achievements by States in this area promotes the implementation of collective and individual right to development. We believe that it would help overcome social and economic inequality, create the necessary conditions for other human rights. Today, we have to say that progress in the right to development remains flawed and leaves a lot to be desired. Unilateral coercive measures are used as collective punishment of the population of countries for their states' independent domestic and foreign policy, have nothing to do with the well-being of people. On the contrary, they block the very possibility of economic growth and social progress. Another problem is the legacy of the era of colonialism. The ugly practice of some states exploiting the natural resources of others continues to flourish, leading to a deeper schism between developed and developing countries, which negatively impacts the life of people, creates tension in the world, undermines efforts to achieve peace and security. Madam Chair, Next year, we are going to mark the 40th anniversary of the Declaration on the Right to Development. We have to remember that for its full implementation, international cooperation in this area must be built on the principles of respect for sovereignty and non-interference in internal affairs, and the right of states to their own model of development. Thank you very much.


3rd Committee · Chair [15:04]:

I thank the distinguished representative of the Russian Federation. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Indonesia, to be followed by China and Cameroon.


Indonesia [15:13]:

Thank you, Madam Chair. At the outset, Indonesia appreciates the report and presentation by the Chair of the Expert Mechanism on the Right to Development. We value the Expert Mechanism's vital contribution in the promotion and implementation of the right to development globally and reaffirm our strong support for the Expert Mechanism's mandate. As a fundamental human right, ensuring the materialization of the right to development is everyone's responsibility. It should not be left with the developing countries only to defend, nor should it be given by the developed countries as an act of charity. We must continue to mainstream the right to development across multilateral process and beyond. Madam Chair, global inequalities remain entrenched, hindering developing countries to fully implement of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. This is aggravated by multiple crises, from armed conflicts and humanitarian emergencies to environmental degradation and unethical uses of advanced technologies. It is imperative that developing countries substantially take part in the global economic development, move.

Up the ladder of global supply.

Chain, and genuinely benefit from international trade in a just international system that works for all. For that, there is an urgent need to enshrine the right to development in international law through the establishment of an international covenant on the right to development. Madam Chair, we reiterate the conviction that the right to development should be an integral part of a strengthened multilateral system and an international order that is fair, fit for purpose, and works for all. In closing, allow us to ask one question. As we commemorate the 40th anniversary of the UN Declaration on the Right to Development next year, how can we ensure that the right to development continues to be a part of the core of the reformed multilateral system? I thank you.


3rd Committee · Chair [17:14]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Indonesia. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of China, to be followed by Cameroon and Rwanda.


China [17:26]:

Madam Chair. China commends the Chair for his report and for the effort in implementing, realizing the right to development. The Chinese delegation took an active part in the 12th meeting of the expert mechanism that took place in Geneva. The right to development is an alienable universal right. The Declaration was adopted 39 years ago, but there is still much to be done in this department. The right has suffered chronic, severe underinvestment from multilateral human rights institutions and was still undisguised hampering and denial by certain countries. Though it is a basic human right no one should be deprived of, some countries introduced UCMs to blatantly infringe on the right of other peoples. Madam Chair, China calls on all countries to fully realize the right to development, actively leverage the contribution of development to the enjoyment of all human rights, and uphold a people-centered development philosophy, ensuring development is for the people, by the people, and its benefits shared by the people. We must advance innovative, coordinated, green, open, and shared development, focusing on addressing imbalances and inadequacies in development. We must uphold multilateralism and support the UN in playing a coordinating role in implementing the 2030 Agenda. At the same time, developed countries should provide stronger, more targeted support and assistance to developing countries. Given the above, China has on multiple occasions proposed the resolution on development for human rights at the Human Rights Council, and this year, the same resolution was adopted by consensus. In the future, China stands ready to work with the rest of the international community to advance the realization of the right to development through tangible actions, effectively implement the important commitments set forth in the declaration, ensure that all people, especially women and girls, can enjoy and participate in development on equal footing and promote and protect all human rights. Thank you, Chair.


3rd Committee · Chair [20:02]:

I thank the distinguished representative of China. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Cameroon, to be followed by Rwanda.


Cameroon [20:10]:

Thank you, Madam Chair. Madam Chair, Cameroon would like to welcome the Chair Rapporteur of the Expert Mechanism on the Rights to Development, Mr. Boni Iwaho. My delegation appreciate the opportunity to engage once again with you after 11 session held in New York earlier this year in April. My country reaffirms its strong support to the right to development. The development is a human right, and the right to development is universal, indivisible, interrelated, and dependent with all other human rights. And based on the right to development is a shared responsibility of all countries. My delegation attaches greatest importance in the coordination of all mechanism related to the right to development to avoid duplication. We note with appreciation the joint work on climate change and financing for development, the coordination of studies and joint briefings and policies recommendation with the Special Rapporteur and the working group on the right to development. Could you, Mr. Chair Rapporteur, elaborate further on joint initiative and project with the other mechanism on the right to development? My delegation thanks you for the studies presented during the 10th and 11th session of the mechanism. We are particularly interested by the one you personally conducted. In that study, you stressed the right to development as an integrative approach, balancing individual and collective rights, and addressed political potential conflict between individual and collective rights. Cameroon recognizes the right to development as an individual and a collective right. However, the idea of right or collective right is questioned and challenged by a certain number of country. What response can we provide to those who contest the existence of collective rights, including the collective dimension of the right to development? One measure can be taken toward them to better their understanding of collective rights. Could we elaborate further on how state as right holder of the right to development can be beneficiary of that right? We also take note of the study on artificial intelligence, cultural right, and the right to development. The study concluded that without oversight, generative AI can undermine human creativity and lead to cultural homogenization, and particularly in developing country. This concern was also shared last year by the Special Rapporteur on cultural rights, whose report focused this year on the impact of AI on human creativity. What opportunity of cooperation do you see with the Special Rapporteur on cultural rights to strengthen the support for the realization of cultural rights and the right to development? I thank you, Mr. Chair. Madame Chair.


3rd Committee · Chair [22:50]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Cameroon. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Rwanda.


Rwanda [22:57]:

Thank you very much, madam Chair.

Very good morning, colleagues. I want to join colleagues who spoke before me to really commend the work of the Special Rapporteur for his comprehensive reporting and always the usual engagement with us on this particular important realization to the right to development. Madam Chair and colleagues, nearly four decades after the adoption of the Declaration, this right remains as relevant as ever before when we adopted this declaration, particularly for developing countries striving to overcome structural barriers and achieve the sustainable development that we strive to reach too. We share the view that development is not a privilege, but a universal and unalienable right rooted in equity, justice, and international solidarity. The overwhelming support from the Global South demonstrates a collective demand for a fair international order, one that enables all nations to exercise their full right to development, free from unilateral constraints and systematic development and addressing inequalities around the world and among our countries.

Special Representative Tuor, I want to ask you one question.

Many people, even within policy-making circles, still view the right to development as an abstract. What strategies can be used, or can you suggest to be used to make this right to development more visible, more practical, and actionable at all levels? Thank you very much.


3rd Committee · Chair [24:48]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Rwanda. I now give the floor to the Chair of the Expert Mechanism on the Right to Development, Mr. Bonny Ibbowal.


EMRTD · Chair [24:58]:

Thank you very much, Madam Chair. And thank you, States delegates, for your engagement. I'm particularly gratified that State delegates have expressed their support for the right to development and also for the expert mechanism. We are grateful for this continued support. I also want to acknowledge the point made by several State delegates that the realization of the right to development It's a collective responsibility and a way of addressing global challenges. Next year will mark the 40th anniversary of the Declaration on the Right to Development, and this presents an opportunity, as several state delegates noted, to reinvigorate the right to development and ensure its full realization. An integral part of this realization It's the current initiatives now going through intergovernmental negotiation here in New York for a legally binding instrument on the right to development. My expert mechanism supports this initiative, and I'm gratified to hear that many states support them. I want to particularly thank the intervention of states, including Nigeria and Indonesia and Cameroon, that voiced their support for this legally binding instrument. As this instrument continues to undergo intergovernmental negotiation here in New York, I urge states to be engaged in that process. I also urge civil society organizations here present to be engaged in that process, because we think it's an important step towards the realization of the right to development. Before I go into answering the specific question, Madam Chair, permit me to stress again the utility of the right to development framework to our current situation. At a time when the world faces global challenges, such as climate change, the ethical use of artificial intelligence, pandemic preparedness, wars and conflict, There is no better time to redouble our commitment to the right to development. The right to development provides a framework for all states to address these questions from a multilateral perspective. The right to development is not a global south right. It is a right that has been affirmed by almost every country in the world. through the Paris Principle and many other multilateral documents. It is also a right to believe that has potential for transforming conditions and lived experience of people all over the world that are confronted with the global challenges we just identified. My mechanism has worked to clarify some of the debates and issues that continue to pose an obstacle to the realization of the right to development. As several state delegates have noted, one of these challenges is the continued debate over the individual and collective dimensions of the right to development. And as a subsidiary body of the Human Rights Council charged with providing the council with thematic expertise on the right to development, My mechanism has sought to address these questions by producing a thematic study on the individual and collective dimensions on the right to development that explain and explicate that the right to development is both an individual right entrenched in international human rights law and supported by evolving international and regional jurisprudence. We hope that this study will provide a tool for states to better understand and engage with the right to development. At our session in Geneva, I just returned from that session in Geneva, my mechanism went a step further to produce a policy brief on these subjects. We have now launched the EMRTD policy briefs on the right to development. that distill our thematic reports into succinct, easily digestible, two to three page policy briefs that states can engage with and use in their negotiations on matters relating to the right to development. I would like to address the question posed by the distinguished delegates from Cameroon. on the coordination between the various mechanisms within the UN system dedicated to the right to development. It is true that there are several mechanisms within the UN system specifically dedicated to the right to development, our mechanism, the Special Rapporteur on the Right to Development, and the Intergovernmental Working Group. And states have justifiably raised concerns about duplication of these mechanisms. I'd like to assure the distinguished delegates that there is seamless coordination between these three mechanisms. At our recent session in Geneva, we did have coordinated meetings with the Special Rapporteur and the Chair of the Working Group. We coordinate our studies, we ensure that there are no overlaps between our studies, and we ensure that there are synergies between our studies. The right to development is a holistic right, encompassing political, civil, economic, social, and cultural rights. Given the scope and diversity of this right, it is important that all the UN agencies charged with the promotion and operationalization of this right work together to ensure a seamless coordination. I'd like to assure the distinguished delegate from Cameroon that this is exactly what is happening. To the question from the distinguished delegate from Rwanda, I acknowledge indeed that some states still do not recognize the right to development, not even the collective dimension. The very principle of the right to development remains contested. This is an unfortunate reality, given that we are now about to celebrate 40 years of this important declaration that emerged because of a recognition of the developmental inequities in the post-colonial world. And this right to development was intended to foster multilateralism and create a world that allows development to flow true to all societies and all peoples around the world. This was long before the sustainable development goal. There was a recognition that for a prosperous planet, a prosperous global community, development has to avail all communities in the world. It has to be centered on self-determination. It has to be centered on participation, and it has to be centered on international cooperation. The expert mechanism on the right to development is working with other UN agencies to reinforce this right and remind states of their commitments to this right. We are glad to report that states, even those that continue to question the right to development, have been very engaged with this process. We continue to create spaces for those conversations to continue. Just to give you an example, Your Excellency, was a recent session at an interactive dialogue where we invited states that have traditionally been opposed to the right to development, to engage with us on good practices on how development, ODA, overseas development assistance commitments can be met given changing political climates within their own countries. And this was a very useful dialogue. I should also mention that some states in the context of the European Union particularly, and I want to single out Luxembourg, has been very robustly engaged with the expert mechanism. And so I would like to say that we are moving away from the regional and ideological divide that seem to have been there for this right for a very long time. There is growing recognition that the global challenges that we face as an international community, like I said, from climate change, pandemic preparedness, and artificial intelligence need global efforts. And one of the ways that you establish this kind of global consensus is through a right to development framework. So I am optimistic that as we continue the intergovernmental negotiations towards a legally binding instrument, there will be a converging point where there will be a critical consensus on the significance on the right to development. And finally, I would continue to urge member states to help promote this right, not just domestically. States continue to be the primary duty bearer of human rights, including the right to development, but significantly, the right to development also has an international dimension. States have an obligation to cooperate. to remove obstacles to the right to development. So we emphasize not just the individual and collective dimensions of the right to development, we also emphasize the national responsibility and international duty to cooperate embedded in the notion of the right to development. I thank you.


3rd Committee · Chair [35:32]:

I thank the Chair of the Expert Mechanism on the Right to Development. I would now like to welcome the Independent Expert on the enjoyment of human rights by persons with albinism, Ms. Muluka Anne Miti Drummond. Participants wishing to make comments and pose questions to the speaker are invited to press their microphone button within the next three minutes, after which the list will be closed. The time limit for each speaker will be announced before the floor is given to the first speaker. I thank you for your cooperation. I now invite the independent expert on the enjoyment of human rights by persons with albinism to make an introductory statement. Ms. Mitidramant, you have the floor.


UN · Independent Expert on the enjoyment of human rights by persons with albinism [36:09]:

Thank you, Madam Chair. Madam Chair, Excellencies, distinguished delegates, I'm honored to be here today to present my thematic report on the right to health and persons with albinism in the context of skin cancer. This report builds on the report of my predecessor in 2018 on the right of persons with albinism to the highest attainable standard of health. My report highlights the social determinants of health for persons with albinism and their specific health concerns, including visual impairment, particularly reduced visual acuity, nystagmus, photophobia, refractive error, foveal hypoplasia, optic nerve misrouting, and in some cases, strabismus, as well as increased mental health concerns. The latter of which often results from widespread discrimination, exclusion, bullying, and microaggressions, leading to a form of racial and ableism-based trauma. Few persons with albinism, if any, receive psychological support for these experiences, including in relation to abductions, mutilations, and other physical attacks. The report further highlights the specific health concerns of those with rarer forms of albinism, such as Hermansky-Pudlak syndrome. In addition to a lack of melanin and visual impairments, persons with Hermansky-Pudlak syndrome have platelet dysfunctions leading to prolonged or excessive bleeding. They may also experience gastrointestinal complications and lung disorders, with some having to receive double lung transplants. The focus of this report, however, is skin cancer. Due to a lack of melanin, persons with albinism are susceptible to skin damage from the sun. and are particularly vulnerable in areas with high ultraviolet index and poor access to sunscreen. The various forms of skin damage include sunburn, photoaging, solar lentigines, and actinic keratosis, as well as skin cancer. Squamous cell carcinoma is the most common skin cancer in persons with albinism, followed by basal cell carcinoma and rare cases of melanoma. As the independent expert on albinism, I often receive information about skin cancer among persons with albinism, accompanied by photos of the individual in question with advanced tumors covering a large part of their face. I know for many, non-melanoma skin cancer is seen as highly treatable and not associated with death. However, when we are speaking about skin cancer among persons with albinism, we're not simply referring to small discoloration or a rough patch or spot on the body. Most of the time when I receive a report of skin cancer and such an accompanying photo, my heart sinks because I know that what will most likely follow, sooner or later, will be a death announcement regarding the same individual. Madam Chair, skin cancer is one of the highest causes of death among persons with albinism. In fact, it is now believed that more persons with albinism die due to skin cancer-related complications than to ritual attacks. The bulk of the research on this has been carried out in Africa and states that persons with albinism are up to 1,000 times more likely to develop skin cancer compared with the general population. And an estimated 98 percent do not live beyond 40 years of age if sun protective precautions are not adopted, with skin cancer being responsible for at least four-fifths of these deaths. Standing Voice, a civil society organization, reports that in Malawi and in the United Republic of Tanzania, a combined total of between 400 and 500 persons with albinism are referred for skin cancer surgery each year. In response to an informal survey carried out for this report, some organization revealed relatively low rates of.

About 1% of known cases of skin cancer among persons with albinism. However, other organizations reported quite high incidences. The Burundi organization, for example, reported a high skin cancer incidence of 87.5%, being 28 out of its 37 members surveyed, while Cameroon reported an incident of 53.3%, being 16 out of its 30 members surveyed. And it was not only African countries that reported cases of skin cancer. Countries in North and South America, Asia, and Europe also reported such cases. With the incremental rise in ultraviolet radiation and climate-related disaster, persons with albinism are disproportionately at risk of contracting skin cancer regardless of their geographic location. This is a bleak and unfortunate reality which can and must be reserved, reversed, sorry, to protect the albinism community globally. In light of the growing impact of skin cancer on persons with albinism, this year my focus was strongly on skin cancer. The theme for International Albinism Awareness Day was "Demanding our rights, protect our skin, preserve our lives," a theme that highlights the urgent need to prevent skin cancer in persons with albinism. This year was also the year that my mandate collaborated with the Special Rapporteur on Climate Change, albinism organizations, and a dedicated group of scientists and activists to submit a joint application to the WHO to re-add sunscreen to the essential medicines list for persons with albinism. The application was a call for the highest global body on health to recognize that sunscreen can no longer be considered as cosmetics for persons with albinism, but as an essential life-saving medicine or drug. I'm proud to speak to you today, having had the application, and thus the voices of persons with albinism and their organizations, validated as of 5 September 2025, when the WHO finally agreed to re-add sunscreen to the essential medicines list. While this decision is most welcome and potentially transformative in the everyday existence of persons with albinism, its true impact can only be realized if member states demonstrate the commitment and political will to reconcile the gap of access and affordability of sunscreen with national health systems. Various international and regional human rights instruments guarantee the right to health and obligate member states to provide the necessary healthcare benefits, including preventive services. Moreover, member states have an obligation to mobilize resources for health access, including through international cooperation, and to ensure progressive realization of the right to health. Madam Chair, while my report clearly shows that we are at the cusp of a global health emergency for persons with albinism in the context of skin cancer, I recognize the encouraging developments in policy and good practice which provide some basis for optimism. In 2024, the Southern Africa Development Community adopted the Declaration on the Protection of Persons with Albinism. in which it called on member states to add sunscreen to their national essential medicines list. And at the beginning of this year, the African Court on Human and People's Rights noted in a pivotal judgment that lack of access to sun protection, including sunscreen lotion, constitutes the thin line between good health and serious infirmity for persons with albinism. There have also been some good practices which other countries can learn from. For example, Guinea, Panama, Brazil, and the US territory of Puerto Rico have adopted specific legislation on the rights of persons with albinism. These laws provide access to healthcare services for visual impairment and for skin cancer. Even before the WHO decision, Australia, Kenya, South Africa, and Tanzania had already designated sunscreen as an essential drug. Other countries, including Angola, Malawi, Mozambique, Uganda, and Tanzania have adopted national action plans on albinism that include access to healthcare. In addition, there's mandated training of healthcare workers to understand albinism and improve health access in countries such as Fiji and the United Republic of Tanzania.

I'm also encouraged by the private-public partnerships and the North-South collaborations, including of civil society organizations, in relation to the acquisition, distribution, and sometimes local production of sunscreen, which facilitate free access to sunscreen in many countries. I note, however, with great concern, the barriers to local production of sunscreen, including the bureaucratic regulatory processes, high cost of importing filters necessary to produce sunscreen with adequate sun protective factor for persons with albinism, and a lack of sustained government investment in production plants. Madam Chair, my report ends with a set of recommendations to be implemented by member states in ensuring the right to the highest attainable standard of physical and mental health. Most of these recommendations focus on what has become the silent killer of many with albinism, skin cancer. As with all concerns impacting persons with albinism, there is a deplorable dearth of official data and statistics on the impact of skin cancer on persons with albinism, despite the existence of international and national research programs on cancer in general. I implore member states to carry out the necessary research and data collection which will enable appropriately targeted measures to be implemented. Furthermore, I call upon states to work with albinism groups in your country, even as we await the data in the design, development, implementation, and evaluation of relevant programs. I take this opportunity to remind member states that a failure to prevent foreseeable and unnecessary death to skin cancer is not just a violation of the right to health, but also a violation of the right to life. I thank you all for your attention.


3rd Committee · Chair [45:24]:

I thank the independent expert on the enjoyment of human rights by persons with albinism. I will now open the floor for any questions or comments to Ms. Drummond, to Ms. Miti Drummond. As per past practice, I would ask the delegations to limit their comments to three minutes. I thank you for your kind cooperation. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Cuba, to be followed by the European Union.


Cuba [45:49]:

Thank you very much, Madam Chair. Cuba supports the mandate of the independent expert. We welcome the report and we have taken due note of it. We welcome the international endeavors to avoid ill-treatment, stigmatization, and discrimination affecting people with albinism. Activities of education and awareness raising in public opinion must continue at a global level. We have made progress, but not enough. As you recognize, Madam Independent Expert, in your report, in Cuba, health is a free and universal right. It's a right enshrined in our constitution and one to which the state gives high priority. Although albinism is not frequent in Cuba, the rate is 1 per 19,000 births, our country is increasing its endeavors to protect the human rights of people with albinism. Here, the organization and projects of civil society are vital. The use of the Hebaferon drug, the result of Cuban biotechnology, improves the quality of life of the community of those who suffer from albinism in our country. This medicine is provided free to all those with an early diagnosis. It reduces the proliferation of basal cell carcinoma, the most frequent type of skin cancer. People with albinism also have multidisciplinary care, covering genetics, dermatology, ophthalmology, and psychology inter alia. All this has been done despite the vast restrictions that the blockade the embargo causes in the Cuban health sector. Cuba will continue to share with other nations its experience and good practices regarding the protection and promotion of the rights of those with albinism, including through the altruistic cooperation we offer in Cuba since 1963. This has contributed to the promotion of health and welfare of millions of people in hundreds of nations, in particular developing countries. We invite the independent expert further to explore the positive impact of South-South and triangular cooperation when it comes to the full enjoyment of human rights by people with albinism. Thank you very much.


3rd Committee · Chair [48:21]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Cuba. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of the European Union, to be followed by Portugal and Bulgaria.


EU · EU [48:35]:

Thank you, madam Chair. I have the honor to speak on behalf of the European Union and its member states. Madam Independent Expert, we warmly thank you for today's presentation of your latest report and reiterate our support to your work and mandate. As you rightly point out in the report, persons with albinism face specific health challenges and are highly susceptible to severe skin damage and the risk of developing skin cancer. This is often accompanied with increased mental health challenges as persons with continue to face discrimination, stigmatization, exclusion, and violence. The EU stands with persons with albinism worldwide and will continue working alongside them to ensure the full enjoyment of their fundamental human rights. This requires addressing the significant barriers to the right to health, mainly due to the lack of specialized expertise, disaggregated data, and limited access to adequate healthcare and psychosocial support services. We therefore underscore the need to prioritize the accessibility of health services for persons with albinism and the allocation of resources to increase knowledge and expertise within the medical field so that their specific needs are properly met. The EU strongly advocates for the implementation of laws that guarantee the protection of persons with albinism and their full enjoyment of the right to health. Awareness measures, skin care screening, access to sunscreen and protective gear, as well as mental health support, can be life-saving for persons with albinism. In this regard, the EU commends the adoption of national and regional action plans that include such measures and initiatives. Ten years after the creation of the Mandate on the enjoyment of human rights by persons with albinism, we recognize the progress achieved in the last decade. However, we also note that significant challenges remain. Madam Independent Expert, how can the EU's development and global health partnerships be used more effectively to support the health and protection of persons with albinism in partner countries? I thank you.


3rd Committee · Chair [50:43]:

I thank the distinguished representative of the European Union. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Portugal, to be followed by Bulgaria and China.


Portugal [50:55]:

Mr. Chair, Portugal thanks the independent expert for her important work, including her latest report on the enjoyment of human rights by persons with albinism, with a particular focus on the right to health in the context of skin cancer. Albinism entails increased vulnerability to sun-related health complications, including life-threatening forms of skin cancer, particularly where access to health care is limited. These risks are further aggravated by the social and economic exclusion that many persons with albinism continue to face. Madam Independent Expert, your report highlights the need to act on multiple fronts, from improving access to sun protection measures to addressing the lack of data that continues to hinder effective policymaking. We, therefore, welcome its emphasis on strengthening public health systems and on integrating preventive care, early detection, and treatment of skin cancer into broader national health strategies. Beyond physical health, the psychosocial dimension is equally critical. Combating stigma discrimination requires awareness raising and education initiatives to challenge harmful beliefs, legal protection against hate crimes, and access to mental health support. Portugal remains committed to supporting efforts aimed at promoting public policies that ensure the full enjoyment of all human rights by persons with albinism. In this context, we look forward to the visit later this month to Portugal of Madam Independent Expert, which we view as an important opportunity to engage in a constructive dialogue, share national experiences, and further strengthen cooperation in advancing the rights of persons with albinism. Madam Independent Expert, in your view, what avenues of international cooperation could be further mobilized to improve access to both preventive care and mental health support for persons with albinism? Thank you.


3rd Committee · Chair [52:43]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Portugal. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Bulgaria, to be followed by China.


Bulgaria [52:53]:

Thank you, Chair. Bulgaria aligns with the statement delivered on behalf of the European Union, and I wish to add a few remarks in my national capacity. We thank the Independent Expert for the presentation of her report and express our full support for her mandate. Bulgaria remains concerned by the persistent discrimination and violence against persons with albinism, who also continue to face serious health challenges, including heightened vulnerability to skin cancer, and who are often affected by limited access to health care and psychosocial support. We underlined the need to ensure accessible health services, raise awareness, and provide essential protection such as sunscreen, clothing, and also mental health support. We also stressed the importance of implementing national and regional action plans to guarantee the inclusion and protection of persons with albinism and commend those who have already implemented such plans. A decade after the establishment of this mandate, we acknowledge and commend the progress achieved, but also note that significant challenges remain. Bulgaria reaffirms its commitment to promoting equality, inclusion, and dignity for all persons with albinism. I thank you.


3rd Committee · Chair [54:10]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Bulgaria. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of China.


China [54:18]:

Madam Chair. The Chinese delegation has taken note of the report by the independent expert on the enjoyment of human

rights by persons with albinism and listened attentively to her statement. We express our gratitude for the additional efforts to protect the rights of persons with albinism. China has also taken note of the thematic study on skin care and albinism. As an equal member of society,

Persons with albinism should enjoy equal protection of all their rights, including the rights to life, liberty, and physical security.

Meanwhile, as a vulnerable group, they should receive greater recognition and care. Respecting and safeguarding the rights of people with albinism embodies social fairness and justice. Since 2018, the Chinese government has classified albinism as a rare disease, supporting related research, and incorporating rare disease medications into the medical insurance catalogue to facilitate patients' access to healthcare resources. In the future, China will continue to provide great support for individuals with albinism.

China also calls on the UN and the nations related to adopt concrete measures to enhance proper understanding and protection of the human rights of individuals with albinism, eliminate discrimination and abuse against them.

and earnestly respect and safeguard their human rights and personal dignity.

This will promote their equal integration into society, their right to enjoy a fulfilling life, and enhance their well-being.

Thank you, Chair.


3rd Committee · Chair [56:06]:

I thank the distinguished representative of China. I now give the floor to the independent expert on the enjoyment of human rights by persons with albinism, Ms. Muluka Nditidramant.


UN · Independent Expert on the enjoyment of human rights by persons with albinism [56:18]:

Thank you, Madam Chair, and thank you to all those who have engaged with the report and contributed with your questions and your engagement here today. I would like to agree with a statement made by Cuba that awareness raising is essential. It is essential to carry out awareness raising. And that will help in tackling stigma and discrimination, including attitudinal barriers within the healthcare system. In carrying out the report, these attitudinal barriers were raised as one of the main concerns for persons with albinism when it comes to accessing treatment for symptoms of skin cancer or what appears to be skin cancer. Apart from attitudinal barriers, it was also the lack of understanding by persons with albinism of their own condition and their vulnerability to skin cancer and lack of understanding of the importance of sunscreen, the need for sunscreen. So, awareness rating is essential in raising awareness for persons with albinism about the importance of sunscreen, raising awareness with healthcare actors that spots or, you know, discoloration on the skin is not a natural part of having albinism. It may actually indicate a skin cancer or potential skin cancer diagnosis, but many stated that by the time they are diagnosed, it's already too late, and they're only diagnosed when it's extremely severe. In relation to international cooperation, yes, international cooperation is essential, not only in the production and distribution of sunscreen, but also in carrying out research, particularly as well in regards to the rarer forms of albinism such as Hermansky-Pudlak syndrome. I think very little is known about this, and in some countries, people are not even tested to understand whether they have HPS or not. And it is essential that we start carrying out genetic testing because this may help in preventing further complications for persons who have HPS. With regards to local sunscreen production, this is an essential part, but there are so many bureaucratic hurdles that happen. And I would like to call on governments to remove these bureaucratic hurdles to ensure that import duty on the ingredients for local sunscreen production are removed and to invest in local plants for production of sunscreen. Public-private partnerships and partnerships with civil society organizations, north-south partnerships are essential in also distributing sunscreen. Sometimes local production is not possible, but I recognize that organizations and the private companies as well that have contributed sunscreen to different countries as well to assist persons with albinism. I would call on states to invest in training of medical specialists and ensuring that they are sufficient medical specialists, not just dermatologists, ophthalmologists are essential, and as I've mentioned, and oncologists as well, and as I've mentioned HPS, in relation to HPS, hematologists and pulmonologists are also essential, and we need to ensure that there's training of these. Regular skin cancer screening as well can make the difference between life and death for persons with albinism. Being able to detect skin cancer at an early stage can prevent the situation from getting extremely bad. The representative from the EU also asked about what can be done to assist in reducing the health concerns.

I would like to point out something that I say almost every time that I'm here, the lack of data. Data, data, data. It is essential that we have data on persons with albinism. Someone once said that you don't count if you're not counted. And a lot of times we are told there are very few people with albinism, or we do not have people with albinism in our country. But the truth is many states don't know if they have people with albinism because they have not taken the time to carry out the research. So I would encourage that research is done to understand the extent of skin cancer and other concerns of persons with albinism in your countries. In fact, in many cases, we see that skin cancer prevalence among persons with albinism is much, much higher than any other cancer prevalence in the general population. I also call on states that have very good welfare policies, disability allowances, to recognize that actually albinism is a form of disability and that persons with albinism should access these disability allowances. And this should include allowances for things such as sunscreen and accessing sunscreen and other reasonable accommodations and assistive devices. The lack of recognition of albinism as a disability prevents persons from albinism in accessing the welfare benefits that they have in the country. Finally, I would also like to refer to issues of mental health. Thank you for those for Portugal and Bulgaria and other countries that mentioned mental health.

It is a huge.

Concern, and it is something that we cannot continue to overlook when it comes to persons with albinism, and we need to invest in that. I would also just, you know, want to acknowledge Portugal and thank them for the invitation and for the country visit that will be taking place in a few weeks to Portugal. Yes, just, yes, and then with regards to laws, I have indicated countries that have specific laws, but at the same time, what I would like to say is What is important is implementation of laws and application of laws to persons with albinism. So many countries have existing laws that are applicable and that can support the rights of persons with albinism, but do not apply these laws to persons with albinism. So I would also encourage countries to specifically look at albinism as a disability, consider the specific needs of persons with albinism, and apply existing laws to persons with albinism in the country. Thank you.


3rd Committee · Chair [1:02:20]:

I thank the Independent Expert on the enjoyment of human rights by persons with albinism. I would now like to welcome the Independent Expert on protection against violence and discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity, Mr. Graham Reid. Participants wishing to make comments and pose questions to the speaker are invited to press their microphone button within the next three minutes, after which the list will be closed. The time limit for each speaker will be announced before the floor is given to the first speaker. I thank you for your cooperation. I now invite the Independent Expert on protection against violence and discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity to make an introductory statement. Mr. Reed, you have the floor.


UN · Independent Expert on protection against violence and discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity [1:03:03]:

Thank you, Madam Chair. Excellencies, distinguished delegates, colleagues. It's a privilege to present my second report to the Third Committee of the United Nations General Assembly in my capacity as an independent expert. First, I would like to thank the governments, civil society organizations, and independent scholars and activists for their responses to the call for inputs and for their contributions to the report. Second, I would like to express my gratitude to the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights as well as my academic host institutions, the Yale Jackson School of Global Affairs and the Center for Human Rights at the University of Pretoria, for their continued support. My report addresses a right that states have universally recognized, the human right to education. Yet some states have denied this right to children and young people based on sexual orientation and gender identity by enacting discriminatory policies, enforcing and even encouraging exclusionary practices, and fostering unsafe and hostile learning environments. These unlawful barriers not only reflect failures of states to fulfil their human rights obligations, but also inflict lasting and compounding harm on children, severely limiting their future opportunities and potential to meaningfully contribute to their communities while perpetrating cycles of exclusion, marginalization, and inequality. This report situates its findings and recommendations in the lived realities of children and young people whose right to education is under threat. At a time when social hostility and political polarization jeopardize significant strides in inclusive learning environments, states must act decisively to protect every learner's dignity and future. Education must remain a space of safety, equality, and belonging where all children, including those of diverse sexual orientations and gender identities, can thrive free from fear, discrimination, and violence. Excellencies, distinguished delegates, this report provides a comprehensive assessment of the barriers lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, and other gender diverse learners face in realizing their right to education. from bullying and violence to the absence of protection mechanisms, inclusive policies, and accessible health and mental health services. It also highlights promising practices that demonstrate meaningful progress. As a first challenge, my report documents that while bullying and violence are widespread problems in school environments globally, the failure of states to ensure safe and inclusive learning conditions leaves LGBT learners particularly at risk. Many are singled out and targeted in especially harmful ways. physical and sexual violence, psychological and emotional abuse, cyber bullying, forced outing, to name but a few. Bullying has both immediate and long term consequences, curtailing bullied learners trajectory and life chances. LGBT learners face higher rates of abuse than their peers, with transgender students experiencing the most frequent and severe forms. While some states prohibit discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity, many anti-discrimination frameworks leave gaps for LGBT learners. Similarly, while some states have enacted anti-bullying policies for schools, implementation remains uneven. Secondly, states do not universally ensure that there are accessible, confidential, and effective mechanisms for learners to report violations, receive prompt and fair review, and obtain redress. This leaves harmed students, and particularly LGBT learners, with little to no recourse. States must also ensure that school policies are inclusive to transgender and gender diverse students. For example, strict binary dress codes, gendered appearance rules, and enforcement of masculine and feminine norms create exclusionary environments that disproportionately harm transgender and gender nonconforming students. Finally, states must provide equitable access to health and mental health services in schools, a critical gap for LGBT learners. While health and well-being are essential to educational outcomes, many schools lack adequate services, and those that exist are often non-inclusive or discriminatory. Taken together, these violations result in physical and psychosocial harm to learners, disrupting their education and leading them to skip classes, change schools, or drop out entirely. These experiences contribute to lower academic achievement, poor mental health and heightened risks of poverty, homelessness, and isolation. Honorable Chair, it is here that I emphasize how supportive schools can make a significant and tangible difference in LGBT students' lives. When educators and staff are affirming, students feel safer, attend more regularly, and show better mental health and academic outcomes. Comprehensive and inclusive sexuality education is equally essential for all learners. Evidence shows that age-appropriate teaching on gender equality and sexual diversity supports healthy development for all students and reduces violence in schools. Importantly, we have seen promising examples of good practices from states, educational institutions, staff, and communities. A few examples. In the Philippines, some higher education institutions have adopted gender sensitive mental health support systems with trained counselors and partnerships with LGBT student organizations. In Brazil, students are guaranteed the right to use uniforms, facilities, and names aligned with their gender identity. In Spain and Sweden, LGBT inclusive content is mandated across curriculums and accompanied by teacher training in comprehensive sexuality education. Excellencies, distinguished delegates, all states must ensure that education is free from discrimination for all children and young adults. This obligation necessitates providing targeted and comprehensive support for LGBT learners so that they can learn safely, participate fully in school life, and exercise their right to education on an equal basis. I urge states to act to turn these findings into lasting change that guarantees education with dignity and equality for every student. Thank you.


3rd Committee · Chair [1:10:00]:

I thank the independent expert. I will now open the floor for any questions or comments to Mr. Reid. As per past practice, I would ask delegations to limit their comments to two minutes. I thank you for your kind cooperation. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Iceland, to be followed by the European Union and Australia.


Iceland · Nordic and Baltic States [1:10:23]:

Thank you, Madam Chair. I speak on behalf of the Nordic and Baltic States. We thank Mr. Reid, the independent expert, for his report and reiterate our unwavering support to his crucial mandate. Madam Chair, education is a human right, not a privilege. Equal access to quality education is essential for the realization of other human rights and for building inclusive, democratic societies. We are deeply concerned by justification of discriminatory laws and other efforts aimed to restrict inclusive education under the guise of protecting children. Such a backlash jeopardizes both the right to education and the safety of LGBTI+ persons in learning environments. Comprehensive sexuality education that promotes gender equality and respect for diversity is integral to the right to education and a powerful tool to prevent discrimination and violence. National anti-discrimination laws, legal gender recognition based on self-determination, and strong education policies are key to ensuring inclusive learning environments. Violence and discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity remains unacceptable, with alarming mental health impacts among youth. States must align laws and policies with international human rights standards to ensure that all learners thrive in safety and dignity. Mr. Reid, I would like to ask one question, please. How can states and civil society further counter organized backlash and misinformation that threaten inclusive education and the full enjoyment of human rights for all LGBTI+ persons in learning environments? Thank you very much.


3rd Committee · Chair [1:12:13]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Iceland. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of the European Union, to be followed by Australia and Austria.


EU · EU [1:12:23]:

Thank you, Chair, on behalf of the European Union and its Member States. Mr. Independent Expert, your report shows that LGBTI persons continue to face multiple and intersecting forms of discrimination and violence, which profoundly affect their right to education, their mental health, and their overall well-being. It also highlights worrying global trends, including within the EU, such as discrimination, bullying, and exclusion in educational settings. We are particularly alarmed by the persistently high rates of suicidal thoughts, self-harm, and suicide attempts among young LGBTI persons, especially those who are transgender. The stigmatization, violence, and discrimination that they face are too often perpetuated by societal prejudice. and in more than 60 countries aggravated by criminalisation. The EU reaffirms its commitment to respect, protect and fulfil the human rights of all persons without distinction. The entitlement of all persons, regardless of their sexual orientation and gender identity, to enjoy the full range of human rights and fundamental freedoms, including their empowerment and full, equal and meaningful participation in all spheres of public and private life, is a priority. We are committed to supporting UN work on combating all forms of violence and discrimination. Dialogue is crucial to help overcome fears and misconceptions. Our engagement on your mandate seeks to allow fact-based recommendations that aim at improving the full and equal enjoyment of all human rights by all LGBTI persons. Mr. Reid. What measures are most effective in preventing and addressing bullying and harassment, including cyberbullying and forced outing? Thank you.


3rd Committee · Chair [1:14:20]:

I thank the distinguished representative of the European Union. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Australia, to be followed by Austria and Cuba.


Australia [1:14:30]:

Thank you, Chair. Australia welcomes the Independent Expert's report on protection against violence and discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity in the context of the human right to education, and its substantive recommendations, from which we can all learn. The Universal Declaration of Human Rights is clear that human rights apply equally to all people, no matter who you are or where you were born, and regardless of your sexual orientation or gender identity. Australia remains steadfast in its support for this principle in all facets of life, including school and education. All children have a right to education. We are deeply concerned by the humiliation, exclusion and violence that LGBTQIA+ students face, as highlighted in the report, and equally concerned by the gaps in institutional and other protections and remedies for bullying and other forms of abuse. It is well established that health and wellbeing are central to positive educational and social outcomes. Discrimination, bullying and violence cannot be tolerated or excused. We thank the independent expert for his recommendations and ask for best practice examples for how we can collect disaggregated data about violence against LGBTQIA students without compromising their safety, in order to improve institutional and other protections and remedies. Thank you.


3rd Committee · Chair [1:15:49]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Australia. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Austria, to be followed by Cuba and Belgium.


Austria [1:16:00]:

Thank you, Chair. Austria aligns itself with the EU statement. Mr. Independent Expert, we thank you for your comprehensive report on the barriers to the right to education faced by LGBT persons. The report highlights the widespread violence, harassment, and discrimination that LGBT students continue to experience in many education systems around the world. As the report rightly points out, such challenges hinder the right to education and create lasting harm to the physical and psychological well-being of LGBT students, leaving them vulnerable to exclusion, stigma, and poor academic outcomes. We are deeply concerned by the finding that these abuses are often entrenched within the educational system, with insufficient support structures and legal frameworks in place to address the problem. Austria is committed to ensuring that all students, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity, can access education in a safe and non-discriminatory environment. In recent years, we have made significant progress in areas such as anti-discrimination legislation and LGBT inclusivity in schools, and we are committed to build on these improvements. The report emphasizes the importance of creating not only comprehensive legal frameworks and the implementation thereof, but also taking proactive measures within schools, such as anti-bullying policies, teacher training, and LGBT-inclusive curricula. These measures are essential to fostering respect and acceptance in school and ultimately lead to a more resilient and united society. Mr. Independent Expert, In your view, how can the international community tackle resistance to inclusive education policies in regions with deeply entrenched cultural or religious opposition, and what role can civil society play? I thank you.


3rd Committee · Chair [1:17:54]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Austria. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Cuba, to be followed by Belgium and Czechia.


Cuba [1:18:04]:

Madam Chair, We welcome the independent expert and would like once again to voice our support. We welcome the positive reference to Cuba in the report. Cuba is fully committed to continue to make progress on the protection of the human rights of all. We have a modern and holistic legal framework guaranteeing that everybody is equal before the law, receives the same treatment and treatment from the authorities, and has the same rights, freedoms, and opportunities, regardless of discrimination, without any discrimination on grounds of sex or gender or any other personal circumstance which would run counter to denying human dignity. The principle of equality is firmly enshrined in the law, the Constitution of the Republic, the Family Code, the Childhood, Youth, children occurred, equally implies the protection of LGBTI+ people. Various forms of organization of the families are recognized and their rights are ever more protected. The legal policy of the US against Cuba and violating the US Charter UN Charter, rather, directly affects the rights of the Cuban people, including LGBTI+, as well as the human right to education. We urge or invite the expert in the next report to look at the impact of UCMs on human rights, the quality of life and welfare of LGBTI+ people in those countries where these means are applied. Thank you.


3rd Committee · Chair [1:19:54]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Cuba. I I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Belgium, to be followed by Czechia and Canada.


Belgium [1:20:03]:

Madam President, Belgium thanks the Independent Expert on protection against violence and discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity for highlighting the challenges faced by LGBTQI+ learners, particularly regarding access to safe and inclusive education. We renew our support to your mandate. Belgium remains deeply concerned by the growing intimidation, violence, and discrimination faced by LGBTQI+ persons of all ages over the world. As pointed out in the report, sexual orientation and gender identity are still too often grounds for bullying at school. This is exacerbated by limited access to inclusive information, role models, and support networks. As isolation increases vulnerability to discrimination and violence, We support your call to take concrete steps to foster safe, inclusive, and supportive environments, particularly in educational settings. Despite Belgium's progressive stance, LGBTI youth continue to face persistent challenges. A few years ago, Belgium experienced significant protest concerning relationship, emotional, and sex education classes in schools. which were fueled by misinformation and anti-gender rhetoric. In the face of these attacks and the impact on young learners and students, we must remain vigilant. The protection and the promotion of human rights for all will remain at the heart of Belgium's national and international actions. Mr. Independent Expert, could you share concrete examples of measures adopted by schools or educational institutions to better address the multiple intersecting forms of discrimination affecting LGBTQI+ students, particularly bullying based on sexual orientation and gender identity. Thank you.


3rd Committee · Chair [1:22:01]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Belgium. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Czechia, to be followed by Canada and Israel.


Czechia [1:22:11]:

Thank you, Chair. Czechia aligns itself with the statement delivered by the European Union. We thank the independent expert for his report and for bringing attention to the barriers LGBTI persons face in accessing their right to education. According to the report, around half of LGBTI learners have experienced bullying based on their sexual orientation, gender identity or expression. Many face multiple and intersecting forms of discrimination. This unacceptable treatment can lead to lower academic achievement and long-term exclusion from economic and social opportunities. Schools must be a safe space for everyone. We therefore affirm the importance of education free from discrimination, any form of violence, and exclusion. The right to education must be grounded not only in access, but also in safety and dignity. Bullying violates fundamental rights, including the right to education, freedom of expression, and personal integrity. Mr. Independent Expert, what concrete steps can States take to ensure the effective implementation of inclusive anti-bullying policies, particularly those protecting LGBTI learners? In this regard, we believe that strong policies must be matched by education that promotes understanding of diversity, challenges prejudice, and fosters respect. We therefore recognize the essential role of comprehensive sexual education as a critical tool in combating stigma, discrimination, and gender-based violence. I thank you.


3rd Committee · Chair [1:23:44]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Czechia. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Canada, to be followed by Israel and the United Kingdom.


Canada [1:23:54]:

Thank you, Chair. Le Canada, je remercie l'expert indépendant.

I would like to thank the independent expert for the report and presentation, and answer the following questions. How is it possible to strengthen lasting cooperation between teaching establishments and civil society in order to promote inclusive education, particularly in the context of opposition to this? Canada welcomes the conclusions of the report on protection against violence and discrimination linked to sexual orientation and gender identity in the context of the right to education. Inclusive education is vital to ensure the safety, dignity, and inclusion of all. Examples of violence and discrimination to which LGBTI people are subjected, including harassment and outing, have consequences on their mental health and success in school. Thanks to a strategy against this and our plan against hatred, we use consciousness raising and education amongst people as a tool to prevent and combat hate and discrimination, including as affecting LGBTQI+ people. We support the emphasis in the report against the many forms of discrimination and urge states to take measures to ensure that education may be provided regardless of diversity. Thank you.


3rd Committee · Chair [1:25:37]:

I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Israel, to be followed by the United Kingdom and Luxembourg.


Israel [1:25:44]:

Thank you, Honorable Chair. Israel thanks the independent expert for his report. Israel is firmly committed to the protection and promotion of the rights of all individuals in accordance with the principles of equality and human dignity enshrined in our basic laws. In the year 2000, the Student Right Law was passed, forbidding any kind of discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. In recent years, Israel has taken significant steps to foster inclusive educational environments. For example, the implementation of programs and official guidelines by the Ministry of Education in the matter. As an LGBT father himself to two-year-old twins living in Jerusalem, I am both encouraged and hopeful for what their future might hold. Seeing the recognition we get from state authorities, the support from our local community, and the safe feeling when we walk in the streets as a family. The state and local authorities support IGY, the Israeli Gay Youth Organization, which caters religious, ultra-Orthodox, Arab, and other groups within Israeli society. Israel remains committed to advancing equal opportunities for all the students. IGI has a distinctive model shared by Israel with other international partners and UN mechanisms. How can other countries help their LGBT youth to feel safer within the scope of their communities? We recognize that education plays a vital role in shaping inclusive societies. In Judaism, the duty to educate one's children first falls on one's parents. The general open and representative society Israel has permeates to each house. Having an openly LGBT speaker of our parliament who himself has a partner and two children, LGBT actors, hosts, and singers on prime TV, and our military's openness and inclusiveness exercise towards members of the LGBT community, all help in shaping gender and safer environment for LGBT children in Israel. Thank you.


3rd Committee · Chair [1:27:42]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Israel. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of the United Kingdom, to be followed by Luxembourg and Slovenia.


United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland [1:27:51]:

Thank you, Chair. We reiterate our support for the independent expert and his important mandate. The Universal Declaration of Human Rights applies to all, including LGBT+ persons. No ifs, no buts. The United Kingdom is committed to the principle of non-discrimination on all grounds, including sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, and sex characteristics. We appreciate the independent expert's report highlighting the right to education for LGBT+ persons. The UK is proud to have one of the world's most robust legal frameworks protecting the educational rights of LGBT+ individuals. Our Equality Act ensures that all citizens are safeguarded from identity-based discrimination, especially in public services and education.

Nevertheless.

We acknowledge that a range of societal influences can impact LGBT+ individuals' right to education, including the experiences of children with LGBT+ parents, family members, and friends. Mr. Independent Expert, in context where parents or guardians have the right to influence the educational content for those under 18, what strategies do you recommend for introducing diverse learning materials that reflect sexual and gender diversity? Could he share examples of best practice from other countries? Thank you.


3rd Committee · Chair [1:29:13]:

I thank the distinguished representative of the United Kingdom. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Luxembourg, to be followed by Slovenia and Malta.


Luxembourg [1:29:23]:

Madame la Présidente.

Madam, Luxembourg. aligns itself with the statement of the EU and also that of the LGBTI core group. May I just add a few comments in our national capacity? Independent expert, we thank you, sir, for your presentation today and would like once again to express our full support for your mandate. Your report sheds light on the hostile educational environments that LGBTQI people often face. Luxembourg states that any form of discrimination based on the sexual orientation or gender identity of people is unacceptable, particularly within educational establishments. As you emphasise in your report, access to full, age-appropriate information is vital to reduce stigmatisation and foster better understanding of the realities experienced by LGBTQI people. It's therefore a fundamental way to build inclusive, safe, and respectful school environments, fostering the integration of all girls and boys. Independent experts, in a context, a political context, with growing polarization and stigmatizing narratives which can wound endeavors to achieve inclusion, what measures and good practices would you recommend to member states who wish to implement inclusive school programs and a complete education for sexuality adapted to various contexts and anchored in the respect of principles of inclusion, Thank you.


3rd Committee · Chair [1:31:06]:

Representative of Slovenia, to be followed by Malta and the Kingdom of the Netherlands.


Slovenia [1:31:12]:

Thank you, Madam Chair.

Slovenia aligns with the EU statement. We reaffirm our strong commitment to the elimination of all forms of discrimination, including on the grounds of sexual orientation and gender identity, and to the protection and promotion of equality, dignity, and human rights for all. Mr. Independent Expert, we welcome your insightful report addressing protection against violence and discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity in the context of barriers to the right to education, a right that is fundamental to the full participation of every individual in society. We share your opinion that safety and inclusion within educational settings are indispensable preconditions for realizing this right. Every student must be able to thrive in an environment free from violence, discrimination, and exclusion. In Slovenia, human rights education is incorporated across all levels of the educational system, aiming to foster mutual tolerance, raise awareness of gender equality, encourage democratic and active citizenship, and promote respect for diversity and cooperation among all individuals. Comprehensive anti-discrimination and human rights training is also provided to teachers, ensuring they are empowered to advance these values within their classrooms and communities. Mr. Independent Expert, to reaffirm our steadfast commitment to these principles, Slovenia recently decided to join the United Nations LGBTI Core Group as an observer state. We believe that multilateral cooperation and dialogue remain key to building inclusive, safe, and equitable societies for all. I thank you.


3rd Committee · Chair [1:33:04]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Slovenia. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Malta, to be followed by the Kingdom of the Netherlands and South Africa.


Malta [1:33:14]:

Thank you, Chair. Malta aligns itself with the statements of the European Union and of the UN LGBTI Core Group. We thank the Independent Expert for today's presentation of his latest report, which exposes the barriers that prevent LGBTI students from fully enjoying their right to education, revealing how discrimination in schools reflects broader social inequality. It is essential to ensure accessible, inclusive, and equitable education that respects the dignity of the child and supports their right to freely express their views. In this regard, Malta reaffirms its commitment to the promotion, protection, and empowerment of LGBTI persons. Building on the findings of the independent expert, Malta remains concerned that LGBTI learners face overlapping discrimination in schools through bullying, exclusion, hostile environments, and punitive disciplinary measures, while transgender and gender diverse students also encounter denial of gender recognition in records, uniforms, and facilities. The challenges faced by these communities contribute to low academic performance and further mental health challenges. In this regard, Malta calls for States to prioritise measures to combat and eliminate all forms of social stigmatisation, discrimination and violence based on sexual orientation and gender identity. Malta is also concerned by the lack of adequate tools and training to prevent and address abuses towards LGBTI persons. In this regard, we ask the Independent Expert: what key actions can teachers and school staff take to create affirming learning environments?


3rd Committee · Chair [1:34:50]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Malta. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, to be followed by South Africa and Japan.


Netherlands (Kingdom of the) [1:35:02]:

Thank you, Madam Chair. The Kingdom of the Netherlands aligns itself with the statements by the European Union and the LGBTI Core Group. And I want to thank the Independent Expert. The findings of your report are clear and deeply concerning. Around the world, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and other gender diverse learners are denied their fundamental right to education, simply because of who they are. They face bullying, exclusion, forced invisibility, and even violence, sometimes at the hands of those entrusted to teach and protect them. Education is not a privilege, it is a human right. As this report reminds us, this must be safe and accessible for every learner without discrimination. A school should be a place of learning and safety, not for fear. Your report underscores the vital importance of a supportive school environment to enable LGBTI pupils to feel safe, to look to the future with confidence, and to reach their full academic and personal potential. We welcome your recommended best practices, including anti-discrimination laws, inclusive education curricula, safe and confidential reporting mechanisms, teacher training, and mental health support systems. Furthermore, we kindly like to ask: How can inclusive curricula and comprehensive sexuality education promote respect and equality? And what examples demonstrate success?

I thank you.


3rd Committee · Chair [1:36:38]:

I thank the distinguished representative of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of South Africa, to be followed by Japan and Germany.


South Africa [1:36:49]:

Chairperson, we wish to thank the Special Rapporteur for his insightful report. South Africa's commitment to non-discrimination is a constitutional imperative, which prohibits discrimination, amongst others, on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity. Through jurisprudence and policy architecture, we build on that foundation and seek to eliminate unfair discrimination across public and private spheres. This is grounded in a very simple understanding: LGBTIQ+ rights are human rights. They are indistinguishable from the human rights we all proclaim to protect and promote. Chairperson, the Special Rapporteur’s report has highlighted education and the right to education captures a duty and investment by every State to safeguard and protect its future generations. Yet for many LGBTIQ+ persons, this right is marked with discrimination and fear of potential violence. Our priority is to ensure that every learner and every educator can learn and teach in safety and with dignity. To that end, South Africa has strengthening measures that prevent discrimination on any prohibited ground, including sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, and sex characteristics. Chairperson, we wish to ask the Special Rapporteur. Your rapporteur has advocated for the promotion of diversity and inclusion across the education system through curricular subjects and educational materials that reflect the broad range of human experiences and identities. In a system where these are already in place, how can we increase the impact of policy measures to have lasting and positive effects? In conclusion, Chairperson, South Africa remains steadfast: every classroom and campus must be safe. a family space where all can develop their talents and continue to society. We will continue to strengthen law services and cooperation to.


3rd Committee · Chair [1:38:50]:

I thank the distinguished representative of South Africa. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Japan, to be followed by Germany and Poland.


Japan [1:39:01]:

Thank you, Madam Chair. I would like to start by thanking Mr. Reid for his presentation and analysis of the barrier to education faced by LGBT persons, highlighting the discrimination, exclusion, and mental health challenge they ensure in academic settings, and offering crucial recommendations to ensure inclusive and safe learning environment for all. Ending violence and discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity is critically important, and as one of the founding members of the LGBTI core group since 2008, Japan continues to support the mandate of the Independent Expert. In the report, you mention inclusive policy in countries such as Spain, Brazil, and Thailand. Could you share some of the most notable initiatives from these or other countries that have proven effective in promoting gender identity recognition and inclusive environment in school and workplace? I thank you.


3rd Committee · Chair [1:40:02]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Japan. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Germany, to be followed by Poland and Portugal.


Germany [1:40:12]:

Thank you, Chair. Germany aligns with the EU statement and thanks the independent expert for his work. Germany condemns and determinedly opposes discrimination and harmful practices against persons based on their sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or on sex characteristics that do not fit binary notions of male and female bodies. Human rights are valid for everybody, including marginalized minorities, and it is our responsibility to protect these human rights. Schools, universities, and other educational institutions are supposed to be places where students can learn and develop their personalities in a safe and comfortable environment. However, as demonstrated in the latest report, in many cases, it is quite the opposite. LGBTIQ+ persons cannot always feel safe nor comfortable at school, as they are often facing various forms of discrimination and even violence. This cannot leave us unimpressed or indifferent, but should alert us to do more. Caring for the human rights of the LGBTIQ+ community is not an ideology. It is and should remain part of the very idea of the UN's human rights commitment, the protection and fulfillment of human rights of all human beings. Mr. Independent Expert, what measures are most effective to make schools what they should be, places of education where everybody, including LGBTIQ+ persons, can learn and develop under comfortable and supportive circumstances? Thank you.


3rd Committee · Chair [1:41:58]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Germany. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Poland, to be followed by Portugal and Brazil.


Poland [1:42:08]:

Madam Chair, distinguished independent expert, Poland thanks the independent expert for his comprehensive report and for his continued engagement with Member States. We are pleased that the independent expert concluded a 10-day visit to Poland last year, meeting representatives of the government, civil society, national human rights institutions, and members of the LGBTI community. This engagement provided valuable insights into our shared efforts to strengthen equality and inclusion. Poland reaffirms its strong commitment to the universality and indivisibility of human rights. Every person, regardless of sexual orientation, gender, identity, or any other status, is entitled to the full enjoyment of human rights and fundamental freedoms. Combating violence, hate speech, and discrimination remains a shared responsibility of all states. We welcome the report's emphasis on strengthening responses through law enforcement, education, public awareness, and civil society engagement. Within our national framework, we continue to take measures aimed at ensuring the safety and dignity for all, including extending hate crime and protections and developing legislation on civil partnerships. We also emphasize the growing need to protect individuals, especially children, from online violence, cyber bullying, and the misuse of new technologies. We would appreciate the independent expert views on how educational institutions can be better prepared to prevent and respond effectively to bullying and cyberbullying. Could you also share more details on the proposal safe and confidential mechanism to report harassment and discrimination? Thank you.


3rd Committee · Chair [1:44:09]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Poland. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Portugal, to be followed by Brazil and Ireland.


Portugal [1:44:18]:

Portugal commends the work of the Independent Expert and we welcome his latest report on the persistent violence and discrimination faced by LGBTI persons in educational settings. Education must be a space of safety, inclusion, and equal opportunity. Yet, as the report underlines, many LGBTI persons continue to face bullying and exclusion, often resulting in poor academic performance, early school leaving, and severe mental health consequences. Mr. Independent Expert, your report emphasizes that education plays a vital role in enabling socially and economically marginalized individuals to fully participate in society, while also stressing that this potential cannot be fulfilled where discrimination persists. We therefore welcome its call for comprehensive legislative frameworks, alongside measures to tackle intersecting forms of discrimination and violence, and adequate mental health support. Portugal firmly condemns all forms of hate speech, violence, and discrimination on the grounds of sexual orientation and gender identity, including in schools. To address these challenges, the National Action Plan to combat discrimination on the grounds of sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, and sex characteristics promotes inclusion through coordinated measures, from training in public administration to technical and financial support for civil society initiatives and capacity building for health professionals. Mr. Independent Expert, in your view, what further steps could States take to ensure the implementation of inclusive curricula and anti-bullying measures, particularly in contexts where discriminatory rhetoric and legal restrictions persist? Thank you.


3rd Committee · Chair [1:45:59]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Portugal. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Brazil, to be followed by Ireland and China.


Brazil [1:46:10]:

Mr. Chair, the full content of this speech will be available in the UN journal. As an active member of the UN LGBTI Core Group and a facilitator during the negotiations at the Human Rights Council, Brazil takes great satisfaction in the successful renew of the independent experts mandate last July. The international community's decision to preserve this essential UN mandate sends a powerful message of solidarity and commitment. Today, we thank Mr. Reid for his timely report on barriers to education faced by LGBT persons. Dear colleagues, it is a deeply concerning reality that LGBTIQA+ persons continue to face violence and multiple and intersecting forms of discrimination. Disturbingly, this occurs even in educational setting spaces, which should be safe, inclusive, and welcoming for all. As mentioned in Mr. Reed's report, Brazil has adopted a range of national measures to address this. The Brazilian Federal Constitution itself, as well as our Statute of the Child and Adolescent, guarantee equal conditions for access to education without distinction of any kind. Notably, the national program to combat systematic intimidation requires schools to take preventive and corrective actions against bullying, including those targeting LGBTQI+ persons. Our federal Supreme Court, which ruled that homophobia is a crime, has affirmed the duty of educational institutions, both public and private, to prevent such discriminations. Mr. Independent experts, how can member states, the UN system, and the broad international community enhance its cooperation in developing policies to ensure a culture of respect for diversity that upholds the rights to education for all? I thank you.


3rd Committee · Chair [1:48:04]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Brazil. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Ireland, to be followed by China and France.


Ireland [1:48:13]:

Thank you, Chair. Ireland aligns with the statement of the EU and thanks the independent expert for his report. We welcome the focus of the report on the right to education for LGBTIQ+ people. Ireland is deeply concerned for the safety of LGBTIQ+ learners who are often subjected to deplorable attacks, both physical and psychological, as well as intersecting forms of discrimination in education systems. This year marks the 10th anniversary of Ireland's Gender Recognition Act. Gender diversity and the forms of its expression must be respected and protected against all forms of bullying and discrimination. Ireland supports the recommendations of the independent expert for states to adopt legislation that protects the best interests of the child by enabling transgender and gender diverse people to change their name and gender marker in the education system through a straightforward administrative process. We call on all states to eliminate all legal and administrative restrictions to the right to freedom of expression and to education based on sexual orientation or gender identity, and categorically condemn the harmful practices of conversion therapy. Independent expert, how can we best ensure that curricula in schools are inclusive and address the root causes of exclusion to create a learning environment in which all learners can thrive? I thank you.


3rd Committee · Chair [1:49:34]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Ireland. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of China, to be followed by France and Uruguay.


China [1:49:45]:

The Chinese delegation takes note of the report prepared by the independent expert on safeguarding the right to education.

We concur that the right to.

Education is a universally recognized human right, essential to human dignity, personal development, and the realization of other rights. All parties should foster an inclusive, safe, and non-discriminatory learning environment to uphold the right to education for all. On sexual orientation, gender identity, China always believes that international community should respect diversity of civilizations, respect differences in religion, history, cultural traditions, and social systems, respect the human rights development path chosen by each country, avoid imposing one's own values on others. and promote and protect human rights through constructive dialogue and cooperation. Meanwhile, we oppose all forms of discrimination and violence, including those based on sexual orientation and gender identity. I thank you, Chair.


3rd Committee · Chair [1:50:44]:

I thank the distinguished representative of China. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of France, to be followed by Uruguay and Switzerland.


France [1:50:56]:

Madam Chair, France associates itself with the statement of the European Union. France reaffirms its unfailing commitment to the universality and indivisibility of human rights, the equality of all, without any distinction, to fighting all types of discrimination, including discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity. Your report correctly underlines the fact that violence, discrimination, hate speech based on sexual orientation and gender identity exists in all regions of the world and continues to undermine in each of our countries the effective use of fundamental human rights by LGBT+ persons. France is convinced that education has a central role to play. The school must be a place for all children to flourish in an atmosphere of tolerance and inclusion. Many LGBT young people are excluded. Faced with multiple forms of discrimination and bullying, their education is damaged. We share the objective of making sure that all our children enjoy these human rights. We think in particular about young people living in countries that criminalize homosexuality and trans identity, and countries where domestic legislation forbids the discussion of LGBT+ issues with minors. Mr. Independent Expert, we would appreciate your suggestions regarding these situations. Thank you.


3rd Committee · Chair [1:52:42]:

I thank the distinguished representative of France. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Uruguay, to be followed by Switzerland and Spain.


Uruguay · LGBTI Core Group [1:52:52]:

Thank you, madam Chairperson. I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the 41 members of the UN LGBTI Core Group. We welcome the Independent Expert on protection against violence and discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity, Mr. Graham Reid, to New York, and we commend the recent renewal of the Independent Expert’s mandate by the Human Rights Council. We take this opportunity to reiterate our strong support for the work carried out by you and by all mandate holders since the establishment of this special procedure in 2016. We remain convinced that your collective work has made positive contributions to the protection of individuals who face violence and discrimination because of their sexual orientation and gender identity. The LGBTI Core Group welcomes the Independent Expert's latest report, which examines the barriers to the right to education faced by individuals of diverse sexual orientations and gender identities, and emphasizes that international human rights law is clear: it prohibits discrimination in education on all grounds. Schools and other educational institutions should be safe and inclusive environments that foster dignity, learning, self-confidence, and emotional well-being. Your report, however, shows a very different and disconcerting reality. In every region of the world, students continue to face multiple and intersecting forms of discrimination based on their sexual orientation and gender identities, which are compounded by inter-areas, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, disability, age, geographic origin, and migration status, both online and offline. It is completely unacceptable that many LGBTI students, as well as those who support their rights, continue to experience physical, sexual, emotional, and psychological violence and abuse, including bullying, harassment, and intimidation by educational staff.


3rd Committee · Chair [1:54:52]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Uruguay. No, no, sorry. I thank the distinguished representative of Uruguay. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Switzerland, to be followed by Spain.


Switzerland [1:55:10]:

Thank you very much, madam Chair. Switzerland would like to thank the Independent Expert for his report. We wish to express again our full support for his mandate. The report states that LGBT people find themselves dealing with multiple forms of discrimination in educational establishments throughout the world. These mean a high rate of dropout amongst pupils and poorer scholastic results, with indeed serious consequences on mental health. They also undermine LGBT people's right to education and therefore their dignity, self-determination, and full flourishing. In Switzerland, educational establishments have as a mission ensuring a safe and respectful environment for all pupils, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. Several higher educational establishments and universities have adopted action plans to promote inclusion. This is supported nationally by federal programs funding projects to prevent discrimination, strengthen abilities of the educational staff and foster environments for inclusive learning. Experts, what can states do at a multilateral level to strengthen the protection of LGBT people against discrimination and linked with education? Thank you.


3rd Committee · Chair [1:56:31]:

Switzerland. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Spain.


Spain [1:56:38]:

Thank you very much, Madam Chair. Spain aligns itself with the statement of the EU and the LGBTI core group. In many areas of the world, LGBTI people are criminalized and discriminated against by law and society. They're used as scapegoats in the communities where they live, excluded from the development agenda, and seriously affected by armed conflict and humanitarian emergencies. Criminalization hampers access to other basic rights such as education, health care, and means that LGBTI people are even more vulnerable here. These challenges are very deeply interlinked, and dealing with them is beyond the ability of any organisation, institution or state to act alone. The respect of human rights and fundamental freedoms of LGBTI is particularly protected in Spain. We believe that the defense of LGBTI rights, particularly in the educational sphere, is essential, not just to ensure that LGBTI people have access to education to enable their wholehearted personal development, but also in order to ensure a greater understanding and inclusion of LGBTI people. independent expert on SOGIE indicated, Spain has incorporated many of the recommendations of the report in its legislation. For example, the education law, the Law 3/2007 for the effective involvement of men and women, and the Organic Law of 2022 for equality of treatment and non-discrimination, added to with the approval of a law intended to ensure the real enjoyment and equality of transgender and LGBTI people. We recognize the link between education and we have legislation to prevent all sorts of discrimination, recognizing self-determination, gender identity, prohibiting so-called conversion therapies, and restricting non-essential surgery for *********** young people. Thank you very much.


3rd Committee · Chair [1:58:40]:

Expert on protection against violence and discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity, Mr. Graham Reid.


UN · Independent Expert on protection against violence and discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity [1:58:47]:

Thank you very much, and thank you for sharing both practices and the questions that I have received. I think I'll start with a broad overview that will address some of the questions and then cluster other questions rather than respond to them individually. I think at the heart of this report is really about individuals who are poorly treated because of perceived difference. And this is a product of systematic exclusion. The report, of course, focuses on schools and learning environments, but it reflects a broader context, and several questions address this broader context. That issues around stigma, about legal prohibition, about hostile political rhetoric, and negative social attitudes are the context in which the challenges in school and learning environments take place. Laws that are passed that are justified in terms of protection of children as the basis for restrictive laws that are harmful to children and particularly to LGBT children by restricting their access to information. This places LGBT students in situations of particular vulnerability, and this is especially applicable to trans students. There are immediate and direct consequences within learning environment, whether that be mental health or absenteeism or dropping out of school. But there are also long-term effects in terms of thwarted life chances, long-term psychosocial effects, and challenges in terms of employment. So I mention all of this because schools, in a sense, are a microcosm or a barometer, a litmus test for the health of society from a human rights perspective. So on the one hand, learning environments provide a microcosm, but on the other, they also shape the future. What values are being distilled? Do they foster respect for human rights or hinder respect for human rights? And I'm very heartened to have been able to include a number of positive examples within the report, and we've heard more positive examples during the comments and questions. A number of distinguished delegates asked questions in terms of what are effective measures in preventing and addressing bullying and harassment in a school environment. And it's very important to ensure that school anti-bullying and anti-harassment and child protection policies explicitly include protections for LGBT learners. Practices such as expulsion, denial of admission, or disciplinary action based on sexual orientation or gender identity should be prohibited. There should be safe, accessible, and confidential mechanisms for students to report abuses. Proactive measures should be taken to prevent and respond to bullying. There should be a zero tolerance policy for all forms of violence and bullying in education settings. A number of representatives also asked about access to inclusive curricula and comprehensive sexuality education. Vital to ensure that age appropriate, evidence based, and scientifically accurate comprehensive sexuality education is available. And that within that, there is attention to diversity and inclusion. In this respect, it's often valuable to collaborate with LGBT civil society organizations. And here my country visit to Poland also comes to mind in which I had the opportunity of learning about some positive examples in that respect. Other examples included in the report refer to Cyprus in terms of its anti-discrimination legislation, its anti-bullying legislation, as well as Spain and the comprehensive legislation that is in place there to ensure access to comprehensive sexuality education. How can schools be made safe spaces for all learners? It's very important to ensure that there are trained and qualified mental health professionals, that there is access to safe, confidential counseling, that there is access to information and resources, and that there is a sensitivity and awareness to the fact that many children also experience family rejection and that that might impact their experience at schools. The report does highlight a number of good practices, and again, the role of civil society organizations here should be emphasized. There was a specific question about data gathering, and civil society groups in this respect play a very important role. The absence of data and the lack of data is a hindrance to addressing the problems. But at the same time, data gathering also needs to be confidential and safe. And here, engagement with civil society organizations who are inexperienced in this arena can be helpful. To come back to the issue that the school as a microcosm that is not isolated from the broader environment necessitates addressing discriminatory laws and practices in society as a whole. So anti-discrimination legislation that explicitly includes sexual orientation and gender identity is important in that respect. So is anti-bullying legislation, and again here it's the implementation of those laws and policies that is of particular importance. creating an environment in the broader society, such as decriminalizing consensual same-sex conduct, adopting general comprehensive anti-discrimination legislation, ensuring the meaningful participation of LGBT persons and organizations in the development and implementation and evaluation of laws. Another set of questions address the role of teachers and school staff in creating affirming environments and what support and training they need. Having LGBT teachers and staff members creates visibility. It's important to create safe spaces for LGBT students, again, improving coordination with and using civil society organizations who have the expertise and resources related to the specific needs of LGBT students. It's important here to promote inclusive policies and to increase access to affirming health care and mental health services in schools. There was a cluster of questions around reporting and complaint mechanisms and how they can be safe and confidential, as well as effective for students. Schools should implement comprehensive systems for monitoring and evaluating violence. They should take proactive measures to prevent and respond to bullying of all students, establish safe, accessible, and confidential mechanisms to report bullying, harassment, and discrimination, and develop and apply fair, transparent, and effective remedies and disciplinary procedures. There was a question about specific examples from countries who have taken steps to address these issues, and there are many countries included in the report, including Bosnia and Herzegovina, Cuba, Estonia, Portugal, the Republic of Korea, Slovenia, South Africa, Thailand, the UK, Brazil, Japan for its explicit inclusion of sexual orientation in its anti-bullying legislation, and Sweden. So there are a number of positive examples and developments that have taken place to address the systematic exclusion that many LGBT students experience at school, primarily as a result of being perceived as different and hence experiencing both bullying and violence. So in conclusion, international standards affirm that the right to education is universal, must be realized progressively and without discrimination, ensure accessible and inclusive education at all levels, safe and affirming learning environments, and curriculums that foster respect, tolerance, and comprehensive sexuality education. Yet, as this report details, state failures to provide inclusive education have resulted in students enduring discrimination, exclusion, and unsafe learning environments. These failures have lasting implications for children and young people, severely hindering their future opportunities and reinforcing patterns of exclusion, marginalization, and inequality. States must take action to remove these persistent barriers that prevent LGBT learners from fully realizing their right to education. States must adopt and implement inclusive laws and policies, ensure safe and accessible reporting systems, and integrate inclusive content into curriculums so that all students can learn in environments grounded in dignity, equality, and respect. Thank you.


3rd Committee · Chair [2:09:16]:

I thank the independent expert on protection against violence and discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. Distinguished delegates, we will now hear general statements on any or all items. I would like to remind delegations of the time limit of three minutes. Delegations wishing to deliver statements are invited to press their microphone button. Any spillover request will be accommodated at the following meeting for general statements. To assist speakers in managing their time, a timer is visible on the screen. The microphone light will start blinking 30 seconds before the expiration of the time limit, and the microphones will be automatically switched off when the time is up. Okay. I see no requests for the floor. Okay, I would like to remind delegations again that the deadline for submission of draft proposals under this item is tomorrow, Tuesday, 4th November at 1:00 PM. The committee will begin its consideration of agenda item 69, elimination of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia, and its sub items A to B, and item 70, right of peoples to self-determination, tomorrow morning at 10:00 AM sharp. to hear statements by the special procedures mandate holders, chairs of treaty bodies, and other experts, and engage with them in an interactive dialogue pursuant to the program of work. The meeting is adjourned.