Statement by India at the 39th Session of the Human Rights Council under Agenda Item 10: Technical Assistance and Capacity Building, delivered by Dr. A. Sudhakara Reddy, Counsellor [Geneva, 27 September 2018]

Thank you Mr. President,

We thank the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights in providing technical assistance and capacity building to several countries that need assistance. We would like to reiterate our strong support to the OHCHR for its commitment and active cooperation in extending various forms of technical assistance and cooperation in order to achieve full realization of human rights.

2. India supports a dedicated agenda item on technical assistance and capacity building. This reflects the special place and the important mandate that the Council has in this area. The Council and its mechanisms, therefore, should focus on enabling Member States develop the necessary national institutions and capacities through rendering appropriate technical assistance, upon request. In our view, the best way to promote and protect human rights is by strengthening national mechanisms. The primacy of State’s role and participation should be fully respected in the process.

3. India strongly believe that discussions under Agenda Item 10 must genuinely address the needs of the concerned countries and any discussion under this agenda item should not be used as a proxy for Agenda Item 4 for listing of violations and naming and shaming countries.

4. For technical cooperation to be effective, regular monitoring and evaluation of the results achieved becomes critical. We take note of the efforts of the OHCHR in improving its Performance Monitoring System. We have in the past called for a thorough assessment and analysis of the technical capacities that States have at their disposal. Such assessments should guide OHCHR efforts in streamlining its cooperation programmes and would help in optimal utilization of all available resources.

5. In conclusion, we call upon all Member States to give priority to Agenda Item 10 while preserving its sanctity and intended purpose, so as to have a real and meaningful impact on the improvement of human rights on the ground.

I thank you Mr. President.