Statement by India in Agenda Item 3: Interactive Dialogue with Independent Expert on Human Rights and International Solidarity at the 56th Session of the Human Rights Council (18 June – 12 July 2024), delivered by Ms. Suman Sonkar, First Secretary, Permanent Mission of India to the UN, Geneva, 26 June 2024

Mr. President,

1. 1. India is fully committed to the principles of international solidarity and human rights. We commend the efforts of civil society organizations and their vital role in promoting and protecting these values globally. 
   
   
2. 2.We appreciate the efforts of the Independent Expert in addressing the challenges faced by civil society organizations. However, we note with concern the report’s insinuations about India in this regard, which do not reflect reality. 
   
   
3. 3. India, as the world’s largest democracy, fiercely upholds the freedoms of expression, assembly, and association, which are enshrined in our Constitution as fundamental rights. We continuously strive to ensure a vibrant and thriving civic space, where diverse viewpoints co-exist and different voices are heard. This was clearly evident in our general elections, completed earlier this month. 

Mr. President,

1. 4. India actively supports international solidarity through various initiatives, including our substantial contributions to global health, climate action, and humanitarian aid. Our efforts in providing Covid vaccines to countries across the world under our Vaccine Maitri initiative exemplify our commitment to international solidarity.
   
   
2. 5. We urge the Independent Expert to consider the diverse socio-political contexts of countries and to engage constructively with States to foster a collaborative approach that respects national sovereignty while promoting human rights and global solidarity.

I thank you.