Statement by India at the 39^th session of Human Rights Council under Agenda Item: 8 Item 8: Follow-up and implementation of the Vienna Declaration and Programme of Action, delivered by Ms Mini Devi Kumam, First Secretary [Geneva, 24 September 2018]

Mr. Vice President,

The Vienna Declaration and Programme of Action (VDPA) guarantees equal treatment of all human rights. Any follow-up action to the VDPA should, therefore, avoid selectivity, politicization and double standards.

2. The VDPA reaffirmed the right to development as a universal and inalienable right. Right to Development is key to the realization of all other human rights. RTD can also provide a balanced, comprehensive and enabling framework to strengthen the global partnership to achieve the SDGs in a sustainable manner. Yet, it has seen the least progress and still remains a distant reality. The Council and its mechanisms should facilitate effective international cooperation to recognize RTD as enabling right to ensure promotion and realization of human rights for all.

3. While recognizing the important role of national institutions in promotion of human rights, the VDPA supports the right of each State to choose the framework best suited for it. States are the primary bearers of responsibility for protection and promotion of human rights on a sustained basis. This can be best achieved through constructive dialogue and cooperation with States. This will, in turn, can ensure realization of the full objectives of the VDPA. Any attempt to establish more external and intrusive mechanisms without the express will of the States should be avoided.

Thank you Mr. Vice President.