Statement by India under General Debate, Agenda Item 8, Follow-up and implementation of the Vienna Declaration and Programme of Action during 46th Session of the Human Rights Council (22 February – 23 March 2021) delivered by Ms. Seema Pujani, Second Secretary, Permanent Mission of India (Geneva, 18 March 2021)

Madam President,

The Vienna Declaration and Programme of Action (‘VDPA’), has been a milestone in the evolution of international human rights framework.  It 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 progressive realisation.     

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

India has guaranteed to our citizens all the basic human rights as fundamental rights.  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 entire humanity, we have taken steps to make COVID-19 vaccine accessible to all and ‘Made in India’ vaccines have been delivered to 72 countries around the world.

Madam President,

As a member of the Human Rights Council, we remain committed to working together with fellow members to achieve its goals.  The gaps in implementation of human rights, in our view, should be addressed in a fair and just manner, with objectivity, non-selectivity, transparency and due respect to the principles of non-interference in internal affairs and national sovereignty. We have always favoured an inclusive and constructive approach based on dialogue, consultation and cooperation.

India supports the view that the Council should adhere to its mandate, established rules of procedure and standard practices. As acknowledged in the VDPA, the primary role of promotion and protection of human rights lies with the States. The efforts of the Council and its mechanisms should, therefore, supplement and strengthen the national efforts of States. The Council should focus on providing technical assistance and capacity building in consultation with and with the consent of the concerned States, for improvement of human rights situation on the ground.

Thank you, Madam President.

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