Statement by India under General Debate, Agenda Item 8:: Follow-up to and implementation of the Vienna Declaration and Programme of Action, at  the 48th Session of Human Rights Council (13 September – 08 October 2021) delivered by Ms. Seema Pujani, Second Secretary, Permanent Mission of India (Geneva, 04 October 2021)

Madam President,

The Vienna Declaration and Programme of Action (‘VDPA’) has contributed to the mainstreaming of human rights in national and international contexts.

We welcome the VDPA’s emphasis on universality, indivisibility, interdependence and interrelatedness of human rights, as well as on promotion and protection of all human rights on an equal footing. We support the link between democracy, development and respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms, which it has underscored. By giving due attention to the right to development, rights of women, girl-child, minorities, children, disabled and other marginalised groups, it has furthered their realisation.     

While progress has been achieved in implementation of human rights obligations by States, there is a long way to go in ensuring enjoyment of human rights by the people. This year, the progress in global promotion and protection of human rights has witnessed further setbacks as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Madam President,

India has guaranteed to its citizens all the basic human rights as fundamental rights enshrined in the Constitution. We have created enabling legal and institutional frameworks for the people to enjoy their rights. Globally, we have contributed to promotion and protection of human rights through technical assistance, capacity building and our developmental partnerships. In line with our commitment to the welfare of humanity, we made quality ‘Made in India’ COVID-19 vaccines accessible and affordable for all. More than 66 million doses were supplied to 95 countries around the world, contributing to dealing with vaccine inequity, especially in the developing world. India will shortly resume exports of these safe and effective vaccines.

Madam President,

As a member of the Council, we remain committed to working together with States for the global promotion and protection of human rights. The gaps in the progressive realisation of human rights, in our view, should be addressed in a fair and just manner, guided by the principles of universality, impartiality, objectivity and non-selectivity, constructive international dialogue and cooperation and with due respect to principles of non-interference in internal affairs of States and their national sovereignty.

As acknowledged in the VDPA, the primary role of promotion and protection of human rights lies with the States. India supports the view that the efforts of the Council and its mechanisms shouldsupplement and strengthen the national efforts of States. The Council should place renewed emphasis on providing technical assistance and capacity building, in consultation with and with the consent of the concerned State, for improvement of human rights situation on the ground.

Thank you, Madam President.

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