PERMANENT MISSION OF INDIA TO THE UN, GENEVA

HUMAN RIGHTS COUNCIL

25TH SESSION (03-28 MARCH 2014)

AGENDA ITEM 2: INTERACTIVE DIALOGUE ON THE ANNUAL REPORT OF THE UN HIGH COMMISSIONER FOR HUMAN RIGHTS

(6 MARCH 2014)

Statement by India

Mr. President,

1. We thank the High Commissioner, Madame Navanetham Pillay for her Annual Report containing an overview of the activities undertaken during the last year by the OHCHR.  The year of Annual report covered an important milestone in the history of human rights, as the world has observed the 20 years of adoption of the Vienna Declaration and Plan of Action.

2.We observe that the report takes stock of development of normative framework as well as implementation aspects, apart from focusing on the implementation of the six thematic priorities set out by the OHCHR for 2012-13.  We have the following observations to make:

1. One, we are happy to note that the OHCHR has made a landmark publication “Realizing the Right to Development” and launched a Guide to Improve Assessment of Impact of Human Rights Policies and Development Programmes via Key Indicators. This is an important starting point. We would like to see greater efforts from the OHCHR to come up with tangible and implementable programmes for greater realization of the Right to Development by all stakeholders, including the Governments
2. Two, it is reassuring to hear that countries have become more open to engaging with the OHCHR and are seeking its assistance. At the same time, we need to bear in mind the financial constraints faced by the OHCHR. We hope the field presences and country offices will increasingly be funded from the regular budget. In this connection, we reiterate our call for greater allocation of funds from the regular budget to the OHCHR;
3. Three, we appreciate the commitment and resolve of the Office to combat racial discrimination especially its efforts in addressing issues affecting vulnerable groups. We hope the Office will continue to pay commensurate attention to the plight of Roma within its                 anti-discrimination agenda.
4. Four, we appreciate the continued emphasis on the rights of migrants, including, of those who seek protection in international territorial waters or maritime borders. We would have liked to hear the High Commissioner’s observations about the challenges to freedom of movement and problems caused by the re-imposition of border controls by some countries.
5. Five, the High Commissioner has identified the Secretary General’s Right Up Front Plan of Action as one of the important follow-up work for the OHCHR. We would appreciate sharing of greater details by the High Commissioner on what specific plans does she have in this regard in her next updates to the Council.
6. Six, we observe unequal balance in emphasis on various rights by the OHCHR. Given the ominous lingering effects of the global and financial crisis still persisting, where many people have lost their access to work, affordable food, housing, water and other basic necessities, we would to see greater emphasis on effectively addressing economic, social and cultural rights in the activities of the OHCHR.

Finally Mr. President,

3.We appreciate the tireless dedication of the High Commissioner for Human rights throughout her tenure and assure her of our continued support in the discharge of her mandate as contained in UNGA Resolution 48/141.

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