Permanent Mission of India
Geneva

Statement by India delivered by Shri Ajit Kumar,Ambassador & Permanent Representative of India to the United Nations, Geneva  at the 32nd Session of the Human Rights Commission (June 13 – July 1, 2016) under Agenda Item 2: High-Level Panel on the 10th Anniversary of the Human Rights Council (HRC)

(13 June 2016)

Mr. President,

As the Human Rights Council marks its tenth anniversary, we feel that it is worth reflecting on its achievements and challenges, prescribe change where necessary and look forward to a stronger and more effective Council.In its short life so far, the Council has encountered enormous challenges on issues relating to migrants, refugees, terrorism, violent extremism, climate change, development etc.India’s engagement with the Council besides historical reasons has been primarily guided by the significance of the UN mechanisms in framing the international discourse on human rights.

The Council must ensure that the indivisibility, interrelatedness and interdependence of all human rights including the right to development are treated in a fair and equal manner.However, the universality of rights should not be construed as uniformity of values and systems. The Council must bear in mind the significance of national and regional particularities and various historical, cultural and religious backgrounds in its dialogue with the member states.

We believe that the UPR mechanism of the Council provides a forum for non-politicised, non-selective and non-confrontational discussion among member states. We need to retain these characteristics as we approach the third cycle of the UPR. We would also like to mention that the success of dialogue with Special Procedures is hinged upon their continued independence, impartiality and their carrying out entrusted tasks with responsibility and sensitivity in accordance withtheir mandates.

Mr. President,

We take this opportunity to express our deep appreciation to the High Commissioner for Human Rights and his office for their tireless efforts. However, we share the view that the inherent ambiguities in governance and administrative arrangements of the Office, including in funding, geographical diversity of staffing, strategic planning etc. are hindering its optimal performance.

It is our long-held belief that human rights issues cannot be approached in isolation, ignoring the complex and intricate relationship between human rights, development, democracy and international cooperation. As we are celebrating the 10th anniversary of the Human Rights Council, we must also remain mindful of the reasons for its creation and avoid repeating mistakes of the past.

In conclusionIndia remains committed to making the HRC a strong, effective and efficient body capable of promoting and protecting human rights and fundamental freedoms for all in a transparent, cooperative and non-selective manner.

I thank you.

*********