Statement by India under Agenda Item 3 : ID with Independent Expert on democratic and equitable international order at the 45th Session of the Human Rights Council (14 September – 06 October 2020) delivered by

Ms. Mini Devi Kumam, First Secretary, Permanent Mission of India

(Geneva, 21 September 2020)

Madam Vice President

We thank the IE for presentation of his report. We hope that the discussions today will provide an opportunity to States to share their experiences on how International Financial Institutions could uphold good governance, accountability and respect for human rights.

Madam Vice President,

2. India is of the view that the international financial system needs to become more democratic and representative. At the same time, more responsive to the needs and interests of developing countries. The international financial system needs to ensure augmentation of net financial flows to developing countries in a stable manner to meet their long-term financing needs. It is important that an enabling and conducive international environment is created for IFIs to uphold these objectives. It’s also important that no new conditions are imposed by IFIs while providing assistance to developing countries in these difficult times of COVID 19 pandemic.

Madam Vice President,

3. Our government places special emphasis on good governance and accountability. All our policies encourage and promote respect for human rights by all stakeholders. The village level local governments are closely involved in the process of planning for economic development, social justice and implementation of government schemes and programmes. Additionally, Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is mandatory for projects above a certain threshold. At the same time cleared projects are monitored to ensure effective implementation of suggested environmental safeguards and to undertake mid-course corrections required, if any. It is also mandatory to conduct a Social Impact Assessment (SIA) and prepare a Social Impact Management Plan (SMP) for acquisition of land by government for its own use.

4. We believe that enhanced investments in public goods such as education, health and basic infrastructure would be essential for an inclusive growth. Major economic priorities for our Government have been fiscal federalism, universal social security, higher agricultural productivity and investment in public infrastructure towards this objective.

5. Finally, we assure the IE our full support and cooperation in discharge of his mandate.

Thank you, Madam Vice President.

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