Addressing Human Rights Violations Worldwide
Across the globe, numerous individuals are being deprived of their fundamental human rights due to conflict, oppression, discrimination, and the misuse of power and technology. The principles we uphold in this Committee are not mere abstractions; they serve to protect human dignity, foster peaceful and inclusive societies, and contribute to the prevention of instability and conflict.
In an era marked by increasing challenges to human rights and the multilateral framework, it is imperative that we translate our shared commitments into tangible changes that benefit people. Unfortunately, the landscape for human rights is becoming increasingly perilous. The escalation of violence against women, girls, and LGBT+ individuals, alongside the diminishing space for civic engagement, exacerbates the ramifications of conflict and authoritarian repression.
Our response must prioritise human rights and the rule of law, ensuring that these principles are at the centre of our actions.
Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza
In Gaza, the most basic humanitarian needs remain unfulfilled. It is crucial that all parties adhere to international law, protect civilians, and ensure swift and unobstructed humanitarian access. We categorically condemn the abuses perpetrated by Hamas and other non-state actors. Hamas must dismantle its arsenal and terror infrastructure, having no role in the future governance of Gaza. We advocate for the full implementation of the 20-Point Plan and maintain our commitment to a credible political process aimed at achieving a two-state solution.
In the West Bank, the expansion of settlements, acts of violence by settlers, and the displacement of communities jeopardise the viability of a two-state solution. The United Kingdom has recently taken steps to address these pressing issues, including imposing restrictions on settlement activities and those who support or profit from them. We urge all parties to uphold international law, safeguard civilians, and facilitate humanitarian access.
The Human Cost of Conflict in Ukraine
As we enter the fifth year of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, the human toll continues to escalate. The independent monitoring and investigative mechanisms established by the United Nations are vital in this context. Russian forces have inflicted damage on civilian infrastructure, subjected detainees and prisoners of war to torture, and unlawfully deported and militarised Ukrainian children. It is essential that Russia is held accountable for its actions, while Ukraine’s sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity must be preserved.
In Sudan, civilians are enduring atrocity crimes, sexual violence related to conflict, displacement, and hunger. The illegal influx of weapons and external support is prolonging the violence. All nations must cease their support for the warring factions, respect international humanitarian law, and leverage their influence to protect civilians, facilitate humanitarian access, and put an end to the hostilities. The UN Fact-Finding Mission must continue its crucial work to gather evidence and lay the groundwork for accountability.
Stability and Human Rights in South Sudan
In South Sudan, rising political tensions, assaults on civilians, forced recruitment, sexual violence, and restrictions on political freedoms threaten stability and raise the spectre of renewed conflict. It is imperative for leaders to act with restraint, engage in genuine and inclusive dialogue, and honour the commitments outlined in the peace agreement.
Turning to Myanmar, we strongly denounce the human rights violations and abuses, particularly those committed by the military, including airstrikes on educational institutions, hospitals, and places of worship. We remain committed to supporting efforts to gather and preserve evidence to ensure that the perpetrators are brought to justice.
Encouraging Political Progress in Syria
In Syria, we acknowledge the steps taken by the government towards political transition, such as convening a new Parliament, and the initiatives aimed at ensuring accountability for both past and recent sectarian violence. We continue to encourage the Syrian government to pursue an inclusive and representative political settlement that safeguards the rights of all Syrians and holds accountable those responsible for human rights abuses.
The establishment of a stable and prosperous future for the Syrian people hinges on these efforts.
Rights of Women and Girls in Afghanistan
In Afghanistan, Taliban decrees systematically marginalise women and girls from education, employment, and public life, while also restricting access to justice and perpetuating discrimination against various religious and ethnic groups. These policies are indefensible and must be rescinded by the Taliban.
In Iran, the events of January saw security forces kill thousands of peaceful protesters. Since then, many have faced execution, with numerous others remaining on death row. Reports of torture and mistreatment, particularly against women, ethnic minorities, and religious communities, are alarming. Iran must cease its violent suppression of dissent, impose a moratorium on executions, and collaborate with UN accountability mechanisms.
Technology and Dissent in Authoritarian Regimes
Beyond the conflicts, governments are increasingly employing technology, legal frameworks, and state power to silence dissent. In China, persistent evidence of rights violations in Xinjiang and Tibet raises serious concerns. The Ethnic Unity Law threatens to further entrench restrictions on the rights and freedoms of ethnic minorities. China should act on the recommendations from the 2022 assessment, release those held arbitrarily, address allegations of forced labour, and permit meaningful independent access to Tibet.
The recent convictions in Hong Kong highlight the misuse of the National Security Law to stifle political expression. The sentencing of Jimmy Lai to 20 years in prison underscores the urgent need for his release.
Supporting Human Rights Defenders
In these challenging contexts and beyond, civil society and human rights defenders are instrumental in translating commitments into real change. However, they often face intimidation, reprisals, and transnational repression, particularly for their cooperation with the United Nations. The United Kingdom firmly condemns such acts of retaliation and is proud to support the Lighthouse Fund, which provides protection for human rights defenders at risk.
We will also persist in championing the rights of women and girls on a global scale. This includes addressing all forms of violence against women and promoting comprehensive sexual and reproductive health and rights. We are dedicated to empowering women economically and ensuring their full, equal, and meaningful participation in public life and decision-making processes, especially concerning peace and security.
Defending Universal Human Rights
Human rights are universal and apply equally to everyone, including lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and other LGBT+ individuals. No one should encounter violence, criminalisation, or exclusion based on their identity, their loved ones, or their mode of self-expression. In this period of pressure on the UN human rights system, the solution is not to lower our aspirations but to concentrate on where the system delivers unique value: through independent oversight, credible evidence, accountability, and protection for those whose voices are suppressed.
The United Kingdom is committed to listening, acting, and collaborating with partners from every region. We will uphold universal rights without fear or favour, as safeguarding human dignity is the surest pathway to fostering a safer and fairer world.