Statement by India on behalf of Like Minded Group at the
45th Session of the Human Rights Council (14 September – 07 October 2020) under General Debate under Agenda Item 5: Human Rights bodies and mechanisms, delivered by Mr. Pawankumar Badhe, First Secretary, Permanent Mission of India, (Geneva, 29 September 2020)
Madam President,
India has the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Like Minded Group of countries.
2. The Like Minded Group of countries believe that the Special Procedures are an important mechanism of the Human Rights Council for a constructive collaboration with all stakeholders. The code of conduct as stipulated in Resolution 5/2 seeks, inter alia, to enhance the cooperation between States and mandate-holders. The code of conduct strengthens the capacity of mandate‑holders to exercise their functions whilst enhancing their moral authority and credibility. This makes it very significant that the mandate holders must carry out their activities in strict adherence to the Code of Conduct and in conformity with their mandates.
3. The Like Minded Group of countries takes note of the press releases and statements by the mandate holders. Adherence to verifiable information as emphasized in Article 6 and 8 of the Code of Conduct and due analysis of comments and responses by all mandate holders would strengthen constructive engagements with States. Imprudent use of mass media by both mandate holders for self-glorification and easy publicity through unfounded and sweeping generalizations should be avoided. All Comments and recommendations by mandate holders should also conform to their respective mandates.
Madam President,
4. Currently, more than half of mandate holders continue to be from one region raising our serious concerns on lack of equitable geographical representation, different legal systems and cultural and professional diversity which is fundamental to understand diverse countries with which the mandate holders engage. We encourage all initiatives to address these concerns.
Madam President,
5. We view that all stakeholders should consciously and collectively work towards promoting the independent, unbiased and impartial nature of the Special Procedures. It is important that mandated activities regarding special procedures are undertaken independently, are of equal importance and are not unduly influenced by the source of funds. We emphasize the need for full transparency in the funding of the special procedures.
Madam President,
6. The Council needs to prevent politicization of all human rights issues and all mandate holders have important responsibility on this. Transparency and independence of mandate holders would go a long way in reinforcing trust and confidence of States.
Thank you Madam President.
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List of countries supporting the Statement
Syria,
China,
Burundi,
Russia,
South Africa,
Bangladesh,
DPRK,
Laos,
Malaysia,
Venezuela,
Belarus,
Egypt,
Cuba,
Myanmar,
Algeria,
UAE,
Lebanon,
the Philippines.
