Thank you, Madam President,
The United Kingdom firmly believes that technical cooperation plays a vital role in promoting and protecting human rights and item 10 is a critical element of the Council’s agenda. We welcome States’ engagement with the Council and the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) and we encourage States to continue cooperating with the UN to meet their human rights obligations.
The UK commends Georgia’s co-operation with OHCHR but remains deeply concerned about alleged persistent human rights challenges in its regions of Abkhazia and South Ossetia, including disproportionate restrictions on freedom of movement which have impeded humanitarian assistance during the pandemic.
We urge Mali’s transitional Government to make progress on addressing the rise in human rights abuses and violations. Tackling impunity must be prioritised. We welcome the transitional Government’s commitment to the Peace Process and urge cooperation with MINUSMA and its Human Rights Division.
The UK also welcomes the peace talks in Afghanistan. We support a political settlement that brings peace and upholds the rights of all Afghan citizens including minorities and women. Only an inclusive peace that strengthens protection of human rights of all Afghan citizens will be sustainable.
Thank you.