BRICS Joint Statement at Annual High-Level Panel on Human Rights Mainstreaming during the 31st Session of the Human Rights Council
(Feb. 29, 2016)

Mr. President,

I have the honor to deliver this statement on behalf of BRICS countries, Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa. The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development is a milestone in human development history, an important opportunity for all countries to jointly address the common challenges of sustainable development. This year marks the beginning of the implementation of the SDGs and the 30th Anniversary of the Declaration on the Right to Development. In this context, we would like to share the following comments:

First, BRICS reaffirm that the right to development should be central to the implementation of the 2030 Agenda. Development is the foundation for eliminating poverty, which is one of the root causes of many conflicts worldwide, and embodies dignity, freedom from want and the full realization of all human rights. We consider eradication of poverty as an indispensable requirement for and overarching objective towards the attainment of sustainable development, promoting social progress, safeguarding fairness and justice, and enhancing ecological conservation.

Second, all countries should respect the notion of "policy space" in development matters and avoid a "one-size-fits-all" approach, given the differences in levels of development, national realities and histories. National development strategies related to the implementation of 2030 Agenda should be encouraged.

Finally, BRICS reaffirm our commitment to establish a comprehensive development partnership, based on international solidarity, and supported by concrete policies and actions outlined in the Addis Ababa Action Agenda, including Technology Facilitation Mechanism. OHCHR and relevant UN bodies should effectively undertake activities in mainstreaming the right to development, strengthening global partnership for development among Member States, international development, finance and trade institutions. South-South cooperation can be seen as a beneficial complement to North-South cooperation, which remains the main channel of international development cooperation.

The principle of common but differentiated responsibilities should be upheld. Developed countries should honor their ODA commitments, promote technical assistance, capacity building to help developing countries achieve sustainable development. The role of the UN in mobilization of development resources and advancement of international development cooperation should be given full play.

Thank you, Mr. President.