Joint Statement by India under Agenda Item 3 on “Role of Access to Clean and Affordable Energy in Eradication of Extreme Poverty” during the Interactive Dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on Extreme Poverty at the 53 rd Session of Human Rights Council (19 June - 14 July 2023) delivered by Amb. Indra Mani Pandey, Permanent Representative, Permanent Mission of India, Geneva, 30 June 2023

Mr. President,

1. I’m delivering this joint statement on behalf of over 60 member States and Observers on the critical role of access to clean and affordable energy in eradication of extreme poverty.

Mr. President,

2. Clean and affordable energy is a critical input to achieving the sustainabledevelopmental goals and respect for human rights, including those related to access to adequate food, housing, water, sanitation, healthcare, education and information, including in digital media and entertainment.Availability of energy plays a fundamental role in improving living standards, enhancing productivity and unlocking development opportunities for individuals and communities. Unfortunately, a significant part of the global population still lacks access to clean, reliable, and affordable energy,
perpetuating their entrapment in the vicious cycle of poverty and gravely
hindering their social and economic progress.

3. Reliable energy supply facilitates education through lighting for schools and power for electronic learning devices like tablets, computers, and projectors; it improves access to water, sanitation, good hygiene practices, and quality health care. Clean cooking fuel reduces the burden of disease and drudgery, particularly for women. Access to energy enables productive economic activities, including agriculture and small and cottage industry,which directly contributes to poverty reduction.

Mr. President,

4. Without ensuring access to energy for all, it would be impossible to achieve full implementation of the SDGs on reducing poverty, broadening the education base, and improving public health. Therefore, access to clean, reliable, and affordable energy is not only critical to the eradication of extreme poverty but for enjoyment of human rights by all.

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As on 17 th July 2023

List of countries supporting the Joint Statement on Role of Access to Clean and Affordable Energy in Eradication of Extreme Poverty during the ID with the Special Rapporteur on Extreme Poverty: Fri 30 June 2023 under Agenda Item 3