HRC 52- High-Level Panel Discussion on UPR Voluntary Funds: Achievements, good practices and lessons learned over the past 15 years and optimised support to states in the implementation of recommendations emanating from the fourth cycle, delivered by: Hon. Candith Mashego-Dlamini, Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, 1 March 2023
Mr President,
Excellencies and Participants,
I am honoured to participate in today’s discussion on the Voluntary Funds of the Crown Jewel of the Council, the Universal Periodic Review mechanism.
South Africa is proud to be a core group member, along with Argentina, Armenia, Fiji, Norway and Pakistan of resolution 51/30 which made the call for the convening of this High-level Panel as one of the efforts towards strengthening the Voluntary Funds of the UPR mechanism.
South Africa believes that, both the Voluntary Fund for participation in the UPR and the Voluntary Fund for Financial and Technical Assistance in the Implementation of the UPR mechanism play a critical role in the advancement of human rights. They contribute to greater engagement with states and inclusivity as well as provide necessary support to countries, with their consent, that can make a significant contribution to lasting solutions.
South Africa believes that the human rights pillar requires increased funding to enable this pillar to advance its important work and to address global challenges of development as well as peace and security. The Voluntary Funds have contributed towards advancement of human rights in developing countries.
Without doubt, the COVID-19 pandemic has affected the lives of all people and placed a burden on the economies of most countries. It is for this reason that we should find means to support each other through international cooperation and solidarity; two principles that underpin the objectives of these two Voluntary Funds.
I thank you.
ISSUED BY THE DEPARTMENT OF INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND COOPERATION
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