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Statement by India on behalf of LMG countries in the General Debate under Agenda Item 3 at the 48th ..

Statement by India on behalf of LMG countries in the General Debate under Agenda Item 3 at the 48th Session of Human Rights Council (13 September – 08 October 2021) delivered by Ms. Seema Pujani, Second Secretary, Permanent Mission of India (Geneva, 22 September 2021)

Statement by India on behalf of LMG countries in the General Debate under Agenda Item 3 at the 48th Session of Human Rights Council (13 September – 08 October 2021) delivered by Ms. Seema Pujani, Second Secretary, Permanent Mission of India (Geneva, 22 September 2021)

Madam President,

India has the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of27 LMG countries.

2.In accordance with GA resolution 60/251 that established the Human Rights Council, we reiterate the importance ofthe principles of universality,impartiality, objectivity and non-selectivity in the consideration of human rights issues, and the elimination of double standards and politicization.The Council should promote and protect all human rights, civil, political, economic, social and cultural rights, including the right to development, in a fair and equal manner, on the same footing and with the same emphasis. Itshouldserve as a forum for dialogue on thematic issues on all human rights.

3.We place emphasis on the spirit of constructive international dialogue and cooperation that should guide the work of the Council. As regards country-specific initiatives, it is of paramount importance that they enjoy the support of the concerned countries so that they lead to the desired impact on the ground. This will also promote consensus building on other human rights issues of universal concern.

4. We are of the view that selective focus of the Council on certain human rights issues and situations runs counterproductive to the Council’s mandate of global promotion and protection of all human rights. The human rights agenda, including the Council’s contribution towards prevention of human rights violations, must be pursued in a fair manner with due respect for the principles of UN Charter such as national sovereignty, territorial integrity and non-interference in internal affairs of States.

5. As mandated by GA resolution 60/251, the Council must place greater emphasis on promoting human rights education and learning as well as providing advisory services, technical assistance and capacity-building, in consultation with and with the consent of concerned States, for improving the human rights situation on the ground. Due attention should also be paid to achievement of Sustainable Development Goals which have a positive impact on realisation of all human rights and ensure ‘no one is left behind’.

Thank you, Madam President.

List of countries that supported the above statement is as under:

1. Egypt

2. Russia

3. Democratic People's Republic of Korea

4. Lao People's Democratic Republic

5. Nicaragua

6. Iran

7. Sri Lanka

8. Bangladesh

9. Syria

10. Belarus