UN Human Rights Council

Introduction

The Universal Periodic Review (UPR) was established by the United Nations (UN) General Assembly in 2006 as a process through which the human rights record of every UN Member State is peer-reviewed.  This review, conducted through the UN Human Rights Council (HRC), is based upon each country’s human rights obligations and commitments in the UN Charter, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, human rights instruments to which the country is party, and other sources. ...Read More

When the United States leads at the United Nations, we shape the rules and norms – and we can leverage UN capabilities in service of international security, making the United States safer and stronger, while sparing us financial and operational burdens that are unsustainable for the United States. Over the last eight years, we have re-engaged the United Nations, and we have led the world. ...Read More

Thank you, Mr. President.

Let me begin with a quote: “The United States will not support the use of any additional land for the purpose of settlements during the transitional period. Indeed, the immediate adoption of a settlement freeze by Israel, more than any other action, could create the confidence needed for wider participation in these talks. Further settlement activity is in no way necessary for the security of Israel and only diminishes the confidence ...Read More

The U.S. also believes that the resolution creating the Independent Expert to address violence and discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity is well-merited by the facts on the ground. For who here today would argue that LGBTI people are treated equally around their world, or that they are not subject to violence and discrimination? Nobody can argue that on the basis of the facts. This is a world we live in which, according to a report issued in 2015 by the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, “the overall picture remains one of continuing, pervasive, violent abuse, harassment, and discrimination affecting LGBT and intersex persons in all regions…often perpetrated with impunity.” ...Read More

We can start by supporting a resolution on human rights in North Korea that will come up for action soon in the General Assembly. But Jeong-Ah and Joseph’s experiences should encourage all of us here to do much more. To raise awareness by sharing their experiences. To speak out publicly against the regime’s repression. And to rally support for the Security Council, the Human Rights Council, and the General Assembly to press the North Korean government to stop the abuse of their people. ...Read More

December 10, marks the 68th annual Human Rights Day in which the United States and countries around the world recall the ideals of freedom enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. On that day in 1948, governments came together to say that human rights are universal to all people and that governments have a responsibility to respect and actively protect them. ...Read More

Thank you all. I would like to start by saying I would actually like to give my time back to the cantor. Is that legal? Whoa. But I did draw the short straw of following him here this evening.

I do want to thank Director Gluck, Rabbi Schneier, Secretary-General Ban ki-Moon – who we will miss very much at the helm of this organization – my friend and great colleague Ambassador Danon, and all of ...Read More

The U.S. is committed to protecting the human rights of all people, including members of minority groups and people in vulnerable situations. This is a foundational tenet of the United States, reflected in our laws and constitutional protections domestically, as well as in our international human rights obligations. ...Read More

Thank you, Madame Chair

The United States fully supports the amendment before us today tabled by Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Mexico, and Uruguay. If there is to be a Third Committee resolution noting the report of the Human Rights Council, it should take note of the report in its entirety and not undermine the Council by attempting to re-litigate a mandate. There are many mandates that were created by the Human ...Read More

We also must remember that civil society organizations and governments work courageously in all regions to protect the human rights of all persons – regardless of their sexual orientation and gender identity. Our actions on the Africa Group’s resolution at the Third Committee and Plenary will have significant implications for their work. We must continue to uphold dignity and fundamental freedoms for all persons. ...Read More