Statement by India under Agenda Item 3: General Debate on the promotion and protection of all human rights, civil, political, economic, social and cultural rights, including the right to development at the 58th Regular Session of the Human Rights Council (24 Feb – 4 Apr2025), delivered by Ms. Anupama Singh, First Secretary, PMI Geneva
Geneva, 17 March 2025
Mr. President,
1. The multiple crises the humanity is grappling with, have exposed deep global inequalities, pushing developing nations into crippling debt, driving up poverty rates, and derailing progress on the SDGs. The pandemic, ongoing conflicts, and the devastating effects of climate change have only intensified these challenges.
2. We see the Right to Development as the cornerstone of human rights, weaving together political, economic, civil, social, and cultural rights. Development rooted in sustainability, equity, and inclusion drives social justice, tackles exploitation, and combats inequality. These principles are not only the goal, but the pathway to development, propelling nations into a virtuous cycle of poverty eradication and progress.
Mr. President
3. In our discussions under Agenda Item 3, we’ve delved deeply into the broader vision of human rights. Reaffirming their universality, objectivity, and non-selectivity, we stress the need to reject double standards, and politicization. We call on the Council to prioritize constructive dialogue and cooperation, ensuring the promotion and protection of all human rights, including the right to development, in a fair, inclusive, and impartial manner.
4. There must be a renewed focus on achieving the SDGs, as they are key to realizing human rights and to ensure that no one is left behind. The Council should also prioritize human rights education, technical support, and capacity-building, with the consent of the States involved.
Thank You.
