Report on the 58th session of the Human Rights Council

Quick summary

• The 58th regular session of the Human Rights Council (HRC58) was held from Monday, 24 February 2025 to 4 April 2025.
• As the main session of the Council, HRC58 began with a High-Level Segment (HLS). The 2025 HLS included speeches by around 70 high-level dignitaries and officials. The discussions revolved around pressing global human rights challenges, reaffirming commitments to the Council’s work, and addressing country-specific crises. An analysis of the content and focus of the high-level speeches can be read here.
• On 3 March 2025, UN High Commissioner Volker Türk addressed the 58th session Human Rights Council session by presenting a global update on the situation of human rights around the world. Expressing alarm over intensifying global conflicts, repression of civic freedoms, and rising gender-based discrimination; he reaffirmed that sustainable peace, development, and democracy depend on the protection of human rights worldwide. The High Commissioner also addressed the growing influence of big tech, gender inequality, climate justice, and accountability for corporate abuse. 
• Eight panel debates were held during the session.
• More than 80 reports under the Council’s various agenda items were considered.
• The outcome reports of the UPR Working Group of 13 of the 14 planned States: Albania, Bhutan, Brunei Darussalam, Costa Rica, Côte d’Ivoire, Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Dominica, Equatorial Guinea, Ethiopia, Qatar, Portugal, and Norway. The Council could not adopt Nicaragua’s UPR outcome report, as Nicaragua informed on 27 February of its decision to disengage from the Human Rights Council and all activities linked to it and its subsidiary mechanisms.
• The session concluded with the adoption of 32 texts. This is 2 texts less than the number of texts (34) adopted at the 55th session in March 2024, marking a slight decrease of 6%. Out of the 32 adopted texts:
  • 20 were adopted by consensus (63%) and 12 by vote (38%).
  • 17 were thematic and 15 dealt with country-specific situations. Of the country-specific texts, two resolutions address human rights situations under item 2 (i.e., annual reports of the High Commissioner, his Office, and the Secretary-General), seven resolutions deal with ‘human rights situations that require the Council’s attention,’ under item 4, three resolutions pertain to item 7 specifically on the ‘human rights situation in Palestine and other occupied Arab territories,’ and three resolutions relate to technical assistance and capacity building under item 10.

High Commissioner’s briefing

On 3 March 2025, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk addressed the Human Rights Council through his global update on the state of human rights. He began his address by stating that the world is facing a moment of profound instability, with over 120 conflicts raging worldwide, causing immense human suffering and threating the very foundation of the international order. 

He stressed that conflict is not only a source of suffering but a symptom of systemic breakdown —fueled by impunity, inequality, disinformation, and a disregard for international law. He highlighted the ongoing humanitarian catastrophes in Sudan, Ukraine, Gaza and the West Bank, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Myanmar, Haiti, and Yemen, which are marked by mass atrocities, deliberate targeting of civilians, sexual violence, and denial of humanitarian access. He noted that 356 humanitarian workers were killed in 2024 alone, calling for urgent measures to end impunity and place accountability at the heart of global peacebuilding efforts.

Mr. Türk expressed deep concern over the shrinking space for civil society, democratic backsliding, and increased repression of dissent, including in Russia, Belarus, and Egypt. He condemned the weaponization of national security laws to silence journalists, human rights defenders, and political opponents. He highlighted the transnational repression of dissidents, particularly in Southeast Asia, as a rising and insidious trend. Ahead of elections in several regions, he warned of disinformation campaigns, the manipulation of public debate, and political polarisation threatening the integrity of democratic processes. He called on States to ensure transparency, uphold the rule of law, and protect democratic institutions.

A significant portion of his speech was dedicated to the erosion of gender equality and the rise of misogynistic rhetoric. He denounced the state-sponsored gender apartheid in Afghanistan, the continued enforcement of discriminatory laws in Iran, and the alarming global trend of pushbacks against women’s rights and reproductive freedoms. He warned of the increasing influence of misogynistic ideologies, both online and offline, which contribute to violence against women and girls. Additionally, he raised concerns about attempts to restrict reproductive rights globally, which disproportionately impact marginalised women. Mr. Türk called on all states to combat this backlash and reaffirm commitments to gender justice.

The UN High Commissioner also addressed persistent structural racism, xenophobia, caste-based discrimination, and the scapegoating of migrants, refugees, and minorities, particularly in political discourse and electoral campaigns. He expressed concern for the global rollback of protections for LGBTIQ+ persons, citing growing criminalisation and violence, especially targeting transgender individuals. He emphasised that dehumanisation is a precursor to hate and violence, and must be confronted at all levels—legal, political, and cultural.

Mr. Türk called for robust corporate accountability, particularly for environmental harm, climate injustice, and human rights abuses linked to extractive industries and armed conflict. He praised recent court rulings, such as the Kenyan Supreme Court’s decision on lead poisoning, and litigation against fossil fuel companies, while cautioning that such efforts are rare and insufficient. He urged States to enact and enforce stronger due diligence and sustainability legislation, and called on the European Union to uphold ambitious human rights and environmental standards in ongoing legal reforms.

The role of technology and the unchecked power of big tech companies was highlighted as an emerging threat to human rights. He warned that data exploitation, surveillance, and digital manipulation by tech oligarchs are undermining democracy and personal freedoms. He urged stronger national and international regulations to ensure technology companies operate with greater transparency and accountability, safeguarding human rights in the digital age.

He reaffirmed that international legal mechanisms are critical to breaking cycles of violence and injustice, expressing concern over rising efforts to undermine the International Criminal Court and other institutions. He cited recent convictions for atrocity crimes and emphasised that accountability remedies the past and protects the future. Mr. Türk urged States to halt arms transfers to parties violating international humanitarian law and to uphold obligations under the Geneva Conventions.

In closing, Mr. Türk emphasised that human rights are not merely aspirational — they are essential to peace, security, and sustainable development. He pointed to successful transitional justice efforts in Liberia, Colombia, Ethiopia, and the potential in Syria and Bangladesh, underscoring that reconciliation requires truth, justice, and inclusion. He called for renewed investment in multilateral institutions, social protection, and global solidarity, warning that without them, societies will remain vulnerable to autocracy, fragmentation, and decline.

He concluded with a call to action: to cherish the values of respect, unity and solidarity; and work together for a safer, more just, more sustainable world.

The official transcript of Mr. Türk’s oral update can be found here.

Panel discussions

A total of eight panel discussions were held during the 58th session of the Human Rights Council.

1. Annual high-level panel discussion on human rights mainstreaming on the theme ‘thirtieth anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action’ (24 February – concept note, video)

• The President of the 79th UN General Assembly H.E. Mr. Philemon Yang reflected on the progress made since the 1995 Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action (BPfA), while acknowledging the ongoing rollback of women’s rights and the underfunding of gender equality initiatives. He highlighted both achievements —such as strengthened legislative protections and an increase in women’s political representation— and persistent challenges, including gender-based violence, the disproportionate impact of conflict and climate change on women, and the gender digital divide. Emphasising that gender equality is a moral imperative and essential to sustainable development, he called for urgent, sustained action to realise the commitments of the BPfA and the Pact for the Future, and announced the re-establishment of his Advisory Board on Gender Equality to guide high-level efforts, including commemorations of the Beijing Conference and UNSCR 1325.
• UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk emphasised BPfA’s historic role in advancing women’s rights. While acknowledging achievements like legal reforms and increased representation, he stressed the urgent need for renewed solidarity against the growing backlash on sexual and reproductive rights. He called for collective action to reaffirm BPfA’s commitments and address ongoing violence, discrimination, and misogyny. He concluded by underscoring his Office’s ongoing support for women’s rights worldwide—from femicide justice in Mexico to peacebuilding in Colombia and survivor support in Ukraine.
• Ms. Sima Bahous, Executive Director of UN-Women reinforced the need for urgent, collective action to fulfill the promises of Beijing+30, highlighting that at the current rate of progress, gender parity in parliaments remains decades away, child marriage could persist for another 68 years, and extreme poverty among women and girls may not be eradicated for over a century. She outlined six priority areas: closing the digital gender gap; eradicating women’s poverty; ending violence against women and girls; ensuring women’s equal power and participation; placing women at the centre of peace and humanitarian action; and elevating women’s leadership in climate action. 
• Ms. Nahla Haidar El Addal, Chair of the CEDAW Committee highlighted the BPfA relevance as a global framework for advancing women’s and girls’ rights. While acknowledging significant achievements —including improved institutional responses to gender-based violence and gains in girls’ education— she stressed the persistence of challenges, such as backlash against women’s rights, underrepresentation in decision-making, and the rise of online and technology-facilitated violence. She emphasised the complementary roles of BPfA and CEDAW in addressing gender inequality and called for renewed commitments to tackle emerging issues like online violence.
  
• Ms. Doreen Bogdan-Martin, Secretary-General of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) reflected on the growth of digital technology since 1995, noting that while internet access has expanded, significant gender gaps persist, particularly in underrepresented regions. She emphasised that the digital gender divide is not just about access but also about usage, and the need for addressing barriers such as digital skills deficits and underrepresentation in tech. She called for collective action to ensure women and girls can fully benefit from digital transformation.

2. Biennial high-level panel discussion on the question of the death penalty on the theme contribution of the judiciary to the advancement of human rights and the question of the death penalty (25th February – concept note, video).

• UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk condemned the death penalty as incompatible with human dignity and the right to life, highlighting a disturbing rise in global executions, particularly in countries like Iran, Saudi Arabia, Somalia, and the United States. He emphasised that the death penalty disproportionately affects marginalised groups and can lead to wrongful executions, calling for a global shift towards abolition. Türk commended the progress made by 113 countries that have abolished it and urged others to introduce moratoriums. 
• Mr. Ramkarpal Singh emphasised Malaysia’s legal reforms aimed at reducing reliance on the death penalty through judicial discretion, legislative amendments, and the replacement of mandatory capital punishment with alternative sentencing. He underscored Malaysia’s commitment to aligning its legal system with international human rights standards and ensuring that reforms reflect public sentiment and judicial independence.
• Ms. Virginia Mabiza detailed Zimbabwe’s historical and legal trajectory towards abolition. She outlined the country’s transition from a colonial justice system that heavily applied capital punishment to a modern constitutional framework that prioritizes human dignity and restorative justice. She highlighted the judiciary’s role in interpreting human rights expansively, commuting death sentences, and shaping legal precedents that align with Zimbabwe’s constitutional and international obligations. She also acknowledged the government’s engagement with human rights organisations and regional bodies, underscoring the impact of judicial advocacy and policy reforms in abolishing the death penalty.
• In contrast, Mr. Dannel Malloy described the ongoing divide in the United States, where state-level disparities and shifting federal policies influence the future of capital punishment. While executions have declined, some states continue to expand their use, including adopting new execution methods like nitrogen gas. Having abolished the death penalty in Connecticut in 2012, Malloy emphasised the risks of wrongful convictions, racial disparities, and judicial inconsistencies, stressing the judiciary’s role in ensuring due process and fairness. Across all three countries, the judiciary has been central in shaping legal reforms, limiting the use of capital punishment, and reinforcing human rights principles within justice systems.

3. Panel discussion on early warning and genocide prevention (5 March – concept note, video).

• UN Deputy High Commissioner for Human Rights, Ms. Nada Al-Nashif emphasised the urgent need for effective genocide prevention, noting that the UN was established after the Holocaust to prevent such atrocities. She highlighted that prevention requires respect for international law, quick responses to early warning signs like hate speech and human rights violations, and accountability through credible processes. Ms. Al-Nashif stressed the importance of understanding the root causes of conflicts and the role of arms sales and international support in exacerbating violence. She also underscored the UN’s global efforts to counter hate speech, promote education on genocides, and support international accountability mechanisms, calling for a united commitment to human rights, democracy, and the rule of law to prevent mass atrocities.
• The panelists emphasised the urgent need for effective early warning and decisive action to prevent genocide and mass atrocities. They highlighted gaps in global response mechanisms, the selective application of international law, and the failure to act despite clear risk factors in places like Darfur, Gaza, and Myanmar.
• Professor Juan E, Méndez and Professor Sean D. Murphy stressed the link between genocide and crimes against humanity, advocating for stronger accountability measures and the development of a new UN Convention on Crimes Against Humanity.
• Ms. Savita Pawnday, Executive Director of the Global Centre for the Responsibility to Protect called for bridging institutional divides, ensuring civil society participation, and reinforcing the consistent application of the Responsibility to Protect to prevent geopolitical biases. 
• Ms. Virginia Gamba, Acting Special Adviser to the Secretary-General on the Prevention of Genocide stressed the importance of early warning systems, international cooperation, and addressing root causes such as hate speech and discrimination. Collectively, the speakers urged greater political will, strengthened UN mechanisms, and a holistic, human-rights-centered approach to ensure that genocide prevention moves beyond rhetoric to meaningful action.

4. Panel discussion on the realisation of human rights in sustaining and increasing the gains made in the HIV response and leaving no one behind (6 March, concept note – video).

• The panelists reaffirmed that the fight against HIV is not just a health issue but a human rights issue. They called for the urgent removal of legal and social barriers to HIV services, increased funding for community-driven responses, and a holistic approach that integrates HIV care into broader health and social systems. The collective message was clear: only by centering human rights in the global HIV response can we achieve the goal of ending AIDS as a public health threat by 2030.
• United Nations Deputy High Commissioner for Human Rights, Ms. Nada Al-Nashif set the stage by emphasising that despite progress in the fight against HIV, systemic inequalities, stigma, and discrimination continue to obstruct access to life-saving services. She called for urgent political commitment to address the barriers that prevent marginalised communities, including key populations, from receiving adequate healthcare. She stressed that the HIV response must remain firmly rooted in human rights, with a focus on eliminating punitive laws, strengthening protections for vulnerable groups, and ensuring meaningful community engagement.
• Ms. Christine Stegling, representing UNAIDS, echoed this urgency, noting both the progress made and the stark realities that still persist. While over 30 million people are now on HIV treatment and annual infections have significantly declined in some regions, new infections are rising in Latin America, Eastern Europe, Central Asia, and the Middle East and North Africa. Millions remain without treatment, with adolescent girls and young women in sub-Saharan Africa disproportionately affected. Stegling underscored that the current failure to end AIDS as a public health threat is not due to a lack of technology or medical advancements but a failure of political will and support for human rights. She called for a sustainable, rights-based, and evidence-driven approach that prioritises eliminating stigma and discrimination, reforming harmful legal and policy frameworks, reducing gender inequalities, and protecting civic space.
• Dr. Adeeba Kamarulzaman, Vice-Chair of the WHO Science Council highlighted how HIV remains an issue of justice, not just public health. She pointed out that key populations—transgender individuals, sex workers, people who use drugs, and men who have sex with men—are at an exponentially higher risk of acquiring HIV, yet they continue to face legal and social barriers that hinder access to care. She called for a paradigm shift that recognises HIV not merely as a health issue but as a broader struggle for dignity and inclusion, urging governments to dismantle policies that criminalise vulnerable populations and instead invest in community-led responses.
• Ms. Erika Castellanos, Executive Director of the Global Action for Trans Equality shared her lived experience as a trans woman of Indigenous Mayan heritage who has been living with HIV since 1995. She spoke about how the HIV response has been instrumental in opening up conversations on human rights, particularly for LGBTQ+ communities in countries where discrimination remains deeply entrenched. She warned of the growing anti-gender backlash that is putting trans and gender-diverse people at risk, not only by limiting their rights but also by threatening hard-won progress in HIV prevention and treatment. Castellanos urged the international community to recognise HIV as more than a medical issue; it is a political and human rights battle. She called on States and institutions to sustain funding for HIV responses, stand against rising transphobia, and protect community-led advocacy spaces.
• Ms. Florence Anam, Co-Executive Director of the Global Network of People Living with HIV reinforced the need to center affected communities in decision-making, policy development, and service delivery. She stressed that people living with HIV, especially women and girls, must not be passive recipients of aid but active participants in shaping their own futures. Without their voices, the response risks becoming detached from the realities on the ground. She emphasized that access to healthcare is not enough; comprehensive strategies addressing social and economic inequalities must also be prioritised.
• Ms. Vuyiseka Dubula, Head of Community Rights and Gender Department at the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria built on this by reminding the panel that civil society organisations and grassroots movements have been at the forefront of the HIV response, often filling gaps left by inadequate government action. She warned that the shrinking civic space and restrictions on activism in many countries are endangering both the progress made and the future of the response. Sustainable, long-term investment in community-led initiatives is essential, as these organisations provide critical, stigma-free services to marginalised populations.

5. Panel discussion on the realisation of the rights to work and to social security in the informal economy (7 March – concept note, video).

• In her opening remarks, Ms. Nada Al-Nashif, the UN Deputy High Commissioner opened the discussion by emphasising the critical role of informal workers who make up over half of the global workforce in sustaining economies, yet remain excluded from labor protections, social security, and economic indicators. She called for expanding universal social security, strengthening legal frameworks, and increasing international cooperation to ensure dignity and equality in work. 
• Mr. Tomoya Obokata, UN Special Rapporteur on Contemporary Slavery, highlighted exploitative conditions in informal sectors such as agriculture, domestic work, and manufacturing, stressing the urgent need for stronger labor regulations, enforcement, and worker protections. 
• Ms. Allison Corkery, Director of the Law Programme at Women in Informal Employment emphasised intersectionality in informal work, particularly the vulnerabilities of women, youth, and marginalised groups, and the importance of collective bargaining and legal recognition for informal workers. 
• Ms. Mia Seppo, Assistant Director-General for the Jobs and Social Protection Cluster at the International Labour Organization reinforced the need for universal social protection, gender equality, and stronger worker representation, citing successful models from Uruguay, South Africa, and the Philippines. She urged integrated policy frameworks, investment in social protection, and digital inclusion to facilitate the transition from informality to formal work. Speakers collectively called for human rights-centered policies, legal reforms, and global cooperation to ensure decent work and social justice for all informal workers.

6. Annual interactive debate on the rights of persons with disabilities on the theme ‘Rights of persons with disabilities: digital and assistive technologies, countering cyberbullying, and digital inclusion’ (10 March – concept note, video).

• In his opening remarks, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk emphasised the urgent need to uphold the principle of equality for persons with disabilities. He warned that despite advancements, discrimination persists in all regions, and digital technologies, while offering opportunities, also pose serious risks. Mr. Türk highlighted cyberbullying as a growing form of violence against persons with disabilities and stressed the lack of meaningful participation in the design of digital and assistive technologies, which exacerbates exclusion. He urged governments and private sectors to prioritise inclusivity, close the digital divide, and ensure accessibility in e-governance, online services, and assistive products. Recognising the market failures in prioritising essential assistive technologies, he called for economic reforms, stronger policies, and accountability mechanisms to prevent further marginalisation.
• The panelists throughout the session reinforced these concerns, advocating for inclusive policies, digital accessibility, and greater investments in assistive technologies. Ms. Nikki Lily, a content creator, shared her personal experience with cyberbullying, calling for stricter platform accountability, better reporting processes, and stronger legal protections for persons with visible differences. Ms. Praveena Sukhraj-Ely, Chief Director of Governance and Compliance at the Branch on Disability Rights in the National Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities of South Africa) highlighted the transformative potential of e-governance systems in enhancing participation and accessibility, while Ms. Sanja Tarczay, President of theWorld Federation of the Deafblind stressed the right to affordable assistive technologies, emphasising that technology must complement, not replace, human support systems. Across interventions, there was a unified call for States to integrate disability-inclusive policies, invest in assistive tools, strengthen digital literacy, and ensure that persons with disabilities are involved in shaping technological advancements. The debate emphasised that achieving true digital inclusion requires political will, international cooperation, and a rights-based approach to ensure full participation and equality for persons with disabilities.

7. Annual full-day meeting on the rights of the child on the theme early childhood development  (13 March – concept note, video).

Part I

• In his opening remarks, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, emphasised the global failure to protect children’s rights, especially in conflict zones where they bear the brunt of violence and humanitarian crises. He stressed that early childhood development (ECD) is fundamental for lifelong well-being and called for urgent action to address malnutrition, poverty, and limited access to education and healthcare, which threaten children’s survival and future. Türk urged governments to invest in human rights-based care systems, supporting parents, caregivers, and social services to ensure that every child receives nurturing care, protection, and learning opportunities. He highlighted that early investments in childhood development yield high returns, benefiting economies and societies as a whole.
• Panelists, including Mr. Philip Jaffé (Committee on the Rights of the Child), Ms. Najat Maalla M’jid (UN Special Representative on Violence Against Children), Ms. Regina De Dominicis (UNICEF), and Vlad (child rights advocate from Moldova), reinforced Mr. Türk’s message by underscoring the importance of multi-sectoral policies, inclusive education, and early intervention services. Mr. Jaffé stressed the need for integrated policies to protect children from violence and ensure early participation in decision-making, while the Special Representative on Violence Against Children called for scaling up child rights-based ECD programs with stronger community and governmental support. Ms. De Dominicis emphasised that early childhood care must be universal and holistic, integrating health, education, and parental support systems. Vlad, sharing his experience from Moldova, illustrated how community-based early intervention centers transform children’s lives, advocating for greater investment in inclusive and accessible ECD services. Collectively, the panelists highlighted that ECD is not just a social obligation but an economic and moral imperative requiring immediate global action.

Part II

• UN Deputy High Commissioner for Human Rights, Nada Al-Nashif, highlighted that nearly half of child deaths under five occur in conflict-affected areas, with 22,000 children facing grave violations in 26 conflict zones in 2023, a 35% increase from previous years. She stressed that denied access to food, healthcare, education, and safety leads to severe developmental and psychological consequences, urging global action to protect children’s rights, break cycles of poverty, and foster resilience. Joyce, a 10-year-old Syrian child rights advocate, described the loss, fear, and instability caused by war, calling for peace, education, and safe environments for all children, regardless of nationality or refugee status. Both statements reinforced that ECD services are not just essential but life-saving, demanding immediate, inclusive, and sustained investment to safeguard children’s futures in emergencies.
• Ms. Amina Shishany from Plan International Jordan stressed the urgent need for gender-responsive and inclusive ECD programs, particularly for Syrian and Palestinian children, who face severe educational disruptions and psychological harm due to displacement and violence. 
• Ms. Ilaria Paolazzi from the Global Coalition to Protect Education from Attack reported a drastic rise in attacks on schools, particularly in Ukraine, Gaza, and Myanmar, and called for stronger protections for education in conflict zones. 
• Ms. Rima Salah of the Early Childhood Peace Consortium emphasised that investing in ECD is not only crucial for children’s development but also a pathway to lasting peace, urging governments to sustain ECD services even in humanitarian crises. Collectively, the panelists called for immediate international action, increased funding, and strengthened policies to protect children’s rights and ensure their survival, well-being, and future potential.

8. Commemoration of the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination on the theme ‘Sixtieth anniversary of the adoption of the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination’ (27 March – concept note, video).

• Mr. Benard Mogesa secretary of the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights emphasised the need for increased political will and international cooperation to eliminate racism and discrimination, called for the full implementation of the Durban Declaration and Programme of Action and for nations to honor those who have suffered from historical injustices.
• Ms. Angeli Achrekar, Deputy Executive Director for the programme branch at the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) emphasised the importance of addressing racial discrimination in the context of global challenges. She noted the significant setbacks in the HIV response due to disruptions caused by geopolitical shifts. Ms. Achrekar highlighted persistent racial disparities in the HIV response, noting that while sub-Saharan Africa has made progress, it still faces high rates of HIV infections, particularly among young women. She pointed out that Black people in the United States are disproportionately affected by HIV and face barriers to care.  She stressed the importance of countering racism to end AIDS and advocated for strengthened monitoring of HIV programs to address racial disparities.
• Ms. Joan Carling, Executive Director, Indigenous Peoples Rights International highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by Indigenous Peoples in the fight against racial discrimination. She emphasised the need for Indigenous communities to be included in decision-making processes and for stronger protections against racial violence, particularly in relation to land rights and environmental justice.
• Mr. Michal Balcerzak, Chairperson, Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination reflected on the Convention’s role in the global fight against racism. He noted the persistent racial disparities and the rise of hate speech, urging States to strengthen their commitments to the Convention and actively address systemic racism. He also called for increased efforts in education, reparatory justice, and climate change measures that consider the racial impacts on marginalised communities.

Trust Fund for SIDS/LDCs

The Trust Fund to support the participation of LDCs and SIDS in the work of the Council, set up in 2012, will be supporting nine government officials (five female and four male) to participate in HRC58. The delegates come from: Bangladesh, Benin, Djibouti, Dominica, Dominican Republic, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Maldives, and Palau. Over half of the delegates (56%) come from States that are currently members of the Council.

Commissions of Inquiry, Fact-Finding Missions and Independent investigations

EID on the report of the Commission of Human Rights on advancing the human rights in South Sudan

On 28 February 2025, Ms. Ilze Brands Kehris, Assistant Secretary-General for Human Rights, addressed the Council on the human rights situation in South Sudan. She stated that the situation remained dire, with increased civilian casualties, extrajudicial executions, sexual violence, arbitrary arrests, and shrinking civic space. She noted that the delayed implementation of the Revitalized Peace Agreement, the extension of the transitional period, and the postponement of elections to December 2026 raised concerns about the country’s commitment to peace and stability. She further reported that violent incidents had increased by 15% in 2024 compared to 2023, with over 1,500 civilians killed and more than 1,300 injured. She condemned the use of extrajudicial executions and arbitrary detention by government forces and urged the authorities to implement the recommendations of the OHCHR-UNMISS joint report on deprivation of liberty.

Ms. Yasmin Sooka, speaking on behalf of the Commission on Human Rights in South Sudan, presented the Commission’s report. She expressed gratitude for the Government’s cooperation in facilitating their visit to South Sudan and recounted distressing testimonies from survivors of sexual violence. She described cases of young girls and women subjected to rape, forced marriages, and abandonment, noting that sexual violence remained a transactional issue in the country, further entrenching impunity. She reported that Warrap, Tambura, Upper Nile, and Western Bahr el Ghazal were experiencing an escalation in conflict-related sexual violence and criticised the dysfunctional judicial system that allowed perpetrators to act with impunity. She called for urgent action to address these issues, including establishing the Hybrid Court for South Sudan to prosecute serious crimes.

Ms. Sooka also highlighted political and legal failures, stating that South Sudan had undergone its fourth extension of the transitional period, yet key provisions of the Revitalized Peace Agreement remained unimplemented. She reported that the unification of armed forces was incomplete, a permanent constitution had not been enacted, and elections had been repeatedly postponed. She raised concerns about the continued use of emergency legislation under the Green Book, which permitted public extrajudicial executions. She provided alarming details about detainees suffocating in an unventilated container used as a detention site and the execution of individuals without due process. She criticised the unchecked power of governors and local authorities, which had led to a climate of fear and lawlessness, and urged the government to end these practices immediately.

She further described the economic and regional challenges facing South Sudan, stating that corruption and the mismanagement of oil revenue had exacerbated suffering. She reported that despite generating $3.5 billion in oil revenue between 2022 and 2024, the government had allocated most of it to corrupt projects, leaving little for social services. She pointed out that salaries for public sector workers had not been paid since October 2023 and that oil-producing communities were experiencing environmental devastation and displacement. She warned that the ongoing conflict in Sudan was further destabilising South Sudan by increasing refugee flows, weapons proliferation, and recruitment of fighters. She stressed the urgent need to fully implement the peace agreement to address these compounding crises.

ID with the Group of Human Rights Experts on Nicaragua 

On 28 February 2025, the Group of Human Rights Experts on Nicaragua, with Mr. Jan-Michael Simon, as the President of the Group presented their report to the Council, emphasising ongoing and severe human rights violations in Nicaragua. He condemned Nicaragua’s recent withdrawal from the Council. The report outlines systematic repression under President Daniel Ortega and Vice President Rosario Murillo, detailing a four-phase strategy that has progressively dismantled political opposition, suppressed civil liberties, and extended state control both domestically and abroad.

The first phase (2018-2020) saw violent suppression of protests, extrajudicial killings, arbitrary detentions, and restrictions on civil society. The second phase (2021) focused on eliminating political opposition, particularly ahead of elections, through arrests, sham trials, and bans on political parties. The third phase (2022) further eradicated opposition, leading to mass detentions, expulsion of critics, and intensified attacks on the Catholic Church. The ongoing fourth phase, beginning in 2023, has targeted Nicaraguans abroad by stripping citizenship and barring their return, consolidating state power through constitutional reforms that erode democratic institutions.

The report highlights the unification of State institutions, the ruling party (FSLN), and para-State structures into a single oppressive apparatus that surveils and persecutes dissenters. The government has not only engaged in extrajudicial killings, torture, and arbitrary detentions but has also confiscated property, revoked pensions, and stripped individuals of their nationality. Over the past seven years, thousands of Nicaraguans have suffered violations of their rights, including attacks on freedom of expression, education, and access to justice.

In response, the report calls for urgent international action, including financial and technical support for Nicaraguan civil society, legal measures against those responsible for human rights violations, and protections for those who have been exiled or rendered stateless. It also recommends integrating human rights considerations into international financial and trade agreements.

Joint ID with the Special Rapporteur on the Islamic Republic of Iran and the Fact Finding Mission on the Islamic Republic of Iran

On 18 March 2025, Mai Sato delivered her first report to the Human Rights Council as Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in the Islamic Republic of Iran.

She raised four major concerns: the alarming surge in executions, discriminatory treatment of ethnic and religious minorities, lack of transparency, and repression of dissent. Iran recorded over 900 known executions in 2024—the highest since 2015—with drug-related offences and qisas sentences among the leading causes, many of which do not meet international standards for the “most serious crimes.” She expressed grave concern over executions of individuals for crimes committed as minors, and called for urgent reforms to eliminate juvenile death sentences.

Sato highlighted intersecting discrimination against minority groups, especially women from these communities. She pointed to the sharp increase in executions of women and the lack of legal protection from domestic violence, noting cases of activists facing the death penalty and widespread impunity for femicide.

She condemned the lack of official execution data and broader opacity, especially in demographic and child marriage statistics, urging the State to uphold transparency obligations. She also warned of continued targeting of civil society, journalists, and human rights defenders, and called on the government to end repression and ensure an enabling environment for fundamental freedoms.

Ms. Sara Hossain, Chairperson of the Independent International Fact-Finding Mission on the Islamic Republic of Iran, presented the Mission’s findings based on two years of investigations into human rights violations committed in the context of the protests that began in September 2022, following the death in custody of Jina Mahsa Amini.

Ms. Hossain reported evidence of unlawful killings, torture, sexual violence, and arbitrary detention, some of which amount to crimes against humanity, including gender-based persecution. Children, ethnic and religious minorities —particularly Kurds and Baluchis— and LGBTQ+ persons were disproportionately targeted. She raised concern over the ongoing crackdown on women defying hijab laws, including arrests, surveillance, and corporal punishment. Four women human rights defenders were recently detained for peacefully marking International Women’s Day. Despite official claims of accountability, the Mission found no verifiable evidence of redress. The Mission has compiled confidential material on perpetrators and called for international accountability mechanisms.

Ms. Hossain urged the Council to establish a follow-up body to continue investigations and support justice and reparations, warning that without systemic reform, violations are likely to recur.

Iran, as the country concerned, condemned the session as a politically motivated attack on Iran, orchestrated by Western countries particularly Germany and the UK whom he accused of hypocrisy. Ambassador Bahreini rejected the legitimacy of both the Special Rapporteur and the Fact-Finding Mission on Iran, dismissing their reports as biased and influenced by anti-Iranian actors. He also criticised unilateral sanctions for violating the economic and social rights of the Iranian people. Emphasising Iran’s commitment to human rights grounded in its religious and cultural values, he warned that the continued politicisation of the Human Rights Council would undermine its credibility and may lead Iran to reconsider its cooperation with UN human rights mechanisms.

ID with the Commission of Inquiry on Syrian Arab Republic

On 18 March 2025, Mr. Paulo Sérgio Pinheiro, Chair of the Independent International Commission of Inquiry on the Syrian Arab Republic in his oral update to the Council, highlighted the Commission’s recent visits to detention facilities, meetings with victims and civil society, and efforts to engage with the transitional authorities. The Commission’s findings reaffirm widespread human rights violations under the previous regime, including torture, enforced disappearances, and crimes against humanity.

Despite recent progress, the humanitarian and economic crisis in Syria remains severe. Thousands of released detainees require urgent medical and psychological support, and families continue to search for missing loved ones. The Commission highlighted the destruction of civilian infrastructure, including in Douma and Daraya, calling for international support for large-scale reconstruction efforts. The legal status of returning refugees and displaced persons remains uncertain, and the restoration of civil documentation and property rights must be a priority to prevent further displacement.

Security threats persist, with reports of retaliatory violence, attacks on former government officials, and rising tensions in areas like Latakia and Tartus. Additionally, continued Israeli airstrikes in southern Syria and the resurgence of ISIL in the northeast further destabilise the region. The agreement between the transitional government and the Syrian Democratic Forces to uphold a nationwide ceasefire and protect political rights is a positive step, but full implementation remains uncertain. Ensuring law and order, demilitarisation, and non-repetition of past abuses are key to long-term stability.

Ambassador Haider Ali Ahmad, the Permanent Representative of the Syrian Arab Republic to the UN in Geneva, addressed the Council as the country concerned, declaring the end of the Assad regime’s oppressive rule, which was marked by widespread human rights violations, including attacks on civilians, the use of chemical weapons, torture, and forced displacement. He emphasised that Syria is now entering a new phase of justice and accountability, with the new government actively engaging with international mechanisms and civil society organisations. To this end, Syria has committed to transitional justice, the release of detainees, and the establishment of a commission to address past atrocities, despite the complexity of the task. A constitutional declaration has also been adopted to guarantee fundamental rights such as political participation, freedom of expression, and protections against torture and enforced disappearance.

The Ambassador called for the removal of sanctions, arguing that they are no longer justified after the fall of the previous regime. He also condemned Israel’s continued violations of Syria’s sovereignty, urging firm international action. In closing, he reaffirmed Syria’s commitment to rebuilding a free and just nation, ensuring that past atrocities are not repeated, and seeking global support in achieving lasting peace and stability.

ID with the Commission of Inquiry on Ukraine

On 19 March, Mr. Erik Møse, Independent International Commission of Inquiry on Ukraine, as the Independent International Commission of Inquiry on Ukraine presented the findings of the Commission of Inquiry. The Commission investigated grave violations of international human rights and humanitarian law resulting from the armed conflict initiated by the Russian Federation’s aggression against Ukraine. The conflict has led to over 12,000 civilian deaths, more than 29,000 injuries, and extensive destruction of infrastructure.

The Commission concluded that Russian authorities have committed crimes against humanity, including torture and enforced disappearances. These crimes were carried out systematically and as part of a coordinated state policy, targeting individuals perceived as threats to Russia’s military objectives. Many civilians, including prisoners of war, were detained, transferred to occupied areas or deported to Russia, where they suffered additional abuses such as torture and sexual violence. The Russian authorities routinely denied families information about the fate and whereabouts of detainees, violating their right to know the truth.

The report highlights that the Federal Security Service played a central role in ordering and carrying out acts of torture. Victims reported brutal interrogation methods, including electric shocks and threats against their families. Additionally, new evidence shows that Russian forces systematically used sexual violence as a form of torture, affecting both men and women. Some female detainees were raped during interrogations as a means of coercion and punishment.

The Commission also found evidence that Russian forces killed or wounded captured Ukrainian soldiers, constituting war crimes. Some Russian military personnel admitted receiving direct orders to execute prisoners rather than take them captive. The report also documents cases where both Russian and Ukrainian forces used drones to attack visibly injured soldiers, violating international law.

The report emphasises the need for judicial and non-judicial accountability, emphasising that perpetrators must be held responsible to break the cycle of impunity and support victims’ recovery. Ensuring accountability is critical for justice and the sustainability of peace.

Ukraine expressed appreciation for the Commission of Inquiry’s efforts in documenting Russia’s widespread and systematic violations of international human rights and humanitarian law. The statement by Acting Prosecutor General Oleksii Khomenko underscores the grave nature of these crimes, which include torture, enforced disappearances, willful killings, and sexual violence – all deployed as deliberate tools of warfare to terrorise civilians and suppress resistance in occupied territories. Particularly egregious are the forced deportation of Ukrainian children and targeted attacks on critical civilian infrastructure, including continued assaults on Ukraine’s energy systems for three consecutive winters — calculated to intimidate, destabilise, and create unbearable living conditions for millions. Ukraine remains steadfast in its own investigations to ensure justice, holding perpetrators accountable while reaffirming the necessity of collective international action to prosecute these crimes and uphold justice. The Prosecutor General’s Office expresses deep gratitude to the Commission for its dedication and stresses the urgent need for sustained international commitment to ensure accountability and secure lasting peace for Ukraine.

ID with the Group of Human Rights Experts on Belarus

On 19 March 2025, Ms. Karinna Moskalenko, Chair of the Group of Independent Experts on Belarus (GIE). She expressed regret that the Belarusian government had refused to engage with the Group, denying them access to the country and withholding crucial information. Despite these challenges, she reported that the Group had conducted consultations with international bodies and civil society, documented the structures enabling human rights violations, and compiled a list of individuals allegedly responsible for such abuses. The GIE had also mapped detention facilities where torture was reported and analyzed official statements from Belarusian authorities.

Ms. Moskalenko described the ongoing human rights crisis in Belarus, highlighting that the repression following the 2020 presidential elections was not an isolated incident but part of a broader pattern of governance characterized by a lack of democratic institutions, judicial independence, and a culture of impunity. She noted that arbitrary arrests and politically motivated detentions had continued unabated, with over 7,500 people tried in 2024 alone. Reports gathered by the GIE indicated that detainees, particularly those imprisoned on political grounds, had been subjected to torture and inhumane treatment. Furthermore, ahead of the 2025 presidential elections, authorities intensified their crackdown on civil society, media, and opposition voices, liquidating hundreds of organisations, expanding surveillance, and prosecuting exiled Belarusians in absentia.

She asserted that the documented violations amounted to crimes against humanity, specifically political persecution and mass imprisonment, with evidence suggesting that these abuses were part of a systematic and state-driven policy. Given the judiciary’s lack of independence and the government’s unwillingness to prosecute those responsible, Moskalenko urged the international community to take the lead in ensuring accountability. She acknowledged ongoing initiatives, such as state referrals to the International Criminal Court and universal jurisdiction cases in third countries, and encouraged further efforts to document and preserve evidence for future legal action. Concluding her statement, she called on the Human Rights Council to remain vigilant regarding Belarus and pledged that the GIE would continue monitoring developments and advocating for justice.

H.E. Larisa Belskaya, the Permanent Representative of the Republic of Belarus, speaking as the country concerned reaffirmed commitment to advancing human rights based on its national conditions and sovereignty, rejecting what she described as politicised UN mechanisms used to pressure the country. She emphasised that all citizens were equally subject to the law and highlighted the government’s humanitarian approach, including pardoning individuals involved in anti-state activities. Belskaya asserted that Belarus remained stable despite external attempts to destabilise it and criticised the GIE’s work as biased and manipulative. She concluded by calling for the termination of such mechanisms, arguing that they serve political agendas rather than genuine human rights promotion.

ID with the Fact-Finding Mission on Venezuela

On 18 March, the Independent International Fact-Finding Mission on the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, with Ms. Marta Valiñas, as the chair, delivered an update on the worsening human rights situation in the country. She highlighted irregularities in the 28 July 2024 presidential elections, including the Supreme Court’s dismissal of legal challenges without substantive review and the National Electoral Council’s failure to publish key electoral documents. The Mission received credible reports that political instructions influenced the announcement of election results. Additionally, arbitrary detentions of opposition figures increased, particularly before the 10 January 2025 presidential inauguration, with reports of excessive repression by security forces and civilian groups. The Mission also investigated cases of extrajudicial killings, enforced disappearances, and mistreatment of detainees, raising concerns about the continued impunity of state officials.

As the country concerned, Venezuela rejected the report of the Fact-Finding Mission, denouncing it as a politically motivated instrument funded by Western powers—particularly the United States and the European Union—to destabilise the Venezuelan government. The delegation accused the report of lacking impartiality, alleging that its structure and content mirror those produced by the Venezuelan opposition. It criticised the use of human rights budgets for politically biased missions, arguing that the funds would be better spent on urgent humanitarian efforts, such as child vaccination campaigns in Gaza or aid to families in Haiti. Venezuela also denounced the arbitrary detention and forced transfer of Venezuelan migrants by the United States to El Salvador- The delegation called for urgent international scrutiny of these violations and reaffirmed Venezuela’s commitment to repatriating its citizens and defending their rights.

General Debate under Item 5 

On the 21st of March 2025, the Council held a general debate on agenda item five on human rights bodies and mechanisms.  Speakers underscored the critical role of engagement between the Human Rights Council’s mechanisms, particularly the Special Procedures, with not only the Council but also other international, regional, and national bodies. They highlighted the challenges that undermine the interaction of mandate holders with national authorities, such as denial of access and personal attacks against certain mandate holders. The importance of impartiality, independence, and cooperation in the execution of these mechanisms work was strongly emphasised, as these principles are essential for maintaining credibility and effectiveness.

In a joint statement delivered by Egypt on behalf of 31 Like-Minded Countries, the group reaffirmed the importance of equitable geographical and legal system representation within UN human rights mechanisms, emphasising the need for impartiality, objectivity, and the depoliticisation of these bodies. They called for greater cooperation between states and mandate holders, grounded in mutual respect and adherence to the Code of Conduct, and stressed that expert mechanisms should complement—rather than replace—intergovernmental decision-making. The group reiterated that the authority to establish norms remains a sovereign right of states and urged all actors to ensure that human rights assessments are based on credible, verified sources and account for national contexts.

In a joint statement on behalf of the Group of Friends of Special Procedures and the Republic of Korea, the speakers reaffirmed their strong support for the Special Procedures as a core pillar of the UN human rights system. Emphasising their responsiveness, independence, and expertise, the statement highlighted their essential contributions to urgent appeals, fact-finding, legal development, and technical cooperation. The group called for ensuring adequate resources, safeguarding mandate holders from intimidation or interference, and promoting full cooperation, including through standing invitations and unhindered access. They concluded by urging the preservation and strengthening of Special Procedures within the Human Rights Council framework.

Portugal on behalf of the Group of Friends of National Mechanisms for Implementation, Reporting, and Follow-up (NMIRFs) presented the key highlights that took place in the year 2024 for the promotion of NMIRFs: the Asunción Seminar in May which concluded with the adoption of the Asunción Declaration that establishing the International Network of NMIRFs and the adoption of the Marrakech Guidance Framework, offering best practices to support the creation and development of NMIRFs in diverse national contexts. Emphasising NMIRFs as vital tools for implementing human rights obligations and facilitating inclusive dialogue with civil society and national institutions, the GoF encouraged States to enhance their mechanisms, including through digital tools and international cooperation. The group called on OHCHR, UN agencies, and development partners to continue supporting these efforts at the national level.

Overall, there was broad consensus on the necessity of strengthening dialogue and cooperation between States and human rights mechanisms to foster mutual understanding and effective implementation of human rights obligations. The importance of objectivity, transparency, and fairness in the functioning of these mechanisms was reiterated, with calls to ensure that human rights bodies operate without political bias or selectivity. Speakers reaffirmed their commitment to constructive engagement, urging all stakeholders to uphold the principles of credibility, impartiality, and respect for national sovereignty in the promotion and protection of human rights.

Universal Periodic Review

Adoption of the UPR Working Group outcome reports

The Council adopted the UPR outcome reports of 13 of the 14 planned States: Albania, Bhutan, Brunei Darussalam, Costa Rica, Côte d’Ivoire, Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Dominica, Equatorial Guinea, Ethiopia, Qatar, Portugal, and Norway. 

The Council could not adopt Nicaragua’s UPR outcome report, as Nicaragua informed on 27 February of its decision to disengage from the Human Rights Council and all activities linked to it and its subsidiary mechanisms. Nicaragua has not presented the State’s position to the 279 recommendations received during its four UPR, at the 47th session, despite several reminders and encouragement to maintain its commitment and engagement with the UPR process. Consequently, the Bureau recommended urging Nicaragua to resume cooperation with the UPR mechanism, requested the President of the Human Rights Council to take appropriate actions within his mandate, and to report progress at the Council’s 59th and, if necessary, 60th sessions. Adoption of Nicaragua’s UPR outcome report is postponed to the 60th session, with potential earlier consideration if cooperation resumes.

A total of 3,630 recommendations were made to these 14 States, out of which 2,575 were accepted in whole; 697 were noted; and 79 partially accepted (excluding Nicaragua’s position to the recommendations received).

General debate under item 6

On 26 March 2025, the Human Rights Council held its General Debate under Item 6, during which states, UN entities, and civil society reaffirmed their commitment to the UPR as a central mechanism for promoting and protecting human rights. 

The Group of Friends of the UPR (Argentina, Armenia, Fiji, Pakistan, South Africa, and Norway) reiterated strong support for the UPR as a universal and cooperative mechanism. They called for full implementation of HRC Resolution 51/30, emphasising the need for increased OHCHR regional capacity and sustainable funding for UPR Trust Funds. The Group warned that persistent funding gaps threaten inclusivity—particularly for Least Developed Countries (LDCs) and Small Island Developing States (SIDS)—and urged both new and previous donors to contribute to ensure a robust and accessible fifth UPR cycle.

Colombia reaffirmed its deep commitment to the UPR, noting that the mechanism has had tangible impacts on its human rights landscape. The country highlighted past cycles’ influence on justice for victims of extrajudicial killings, visits from Special Procedures, and protections for human rights defenders. Colombia expressed disappointment over Nicaragua’s refusal to complete its UPR review.

UPR Info marked the 25th anniversary of UN Security Council Resolution 1325 by urging states to strengthen the Women, Peace, and Security (WPS) agenda within the UPR. They called for precise, action-oriented recommendations referencing the WPS pillars—Prevention, Protection, Participation, and Relief & Recovery—as well as protections for women human rights defenders and other vulnerable groups. The organisation stressed that rhetorical commitments must translate into concrete action.

UNFPA emphasised the crucial role of National Mechanisms for Implementation, Reporting and Follow-up (NMIRFs) in ensuring that UPR recommendations lead to tangible progress: when NMIRFs are well-supported with clear mandates, technical capacity, and adequate resources, they enhance accountability, transparency, and policy integration, particularly in areas related to gender equality, sexual and reproductive health rights, and the protection of marginalised communities. Welcoming the 2024 adoption of the Marrakech Guidance Framework, UNFPA noted it underscores the role of UN Country Teams in supporting integrated approaches to human rights and sustainable development. A forthcoming report covering NMIRF experiences in 48 countries was announced, with a call for continued investment in institutional capacity, gender equality, and data-driven monitoring.

Special Procedures

Interactive Dialogues

20 Special Procedures (15 thematic, 5 country-specific) presented their annual reports or provided oral updates at HRC58 (all of which are available here). During 20 interactive dialogues (all individual), 145 States delivered 889 statements, of which 26% were from the African Group, 27% from the Asia-Pacific Group, 12% from the Eastern European Group, 11% from GRULAC, 13% from the Western European and Others Group, and 1% from other countries (namely the State of Palestine, the Holy See, and the Sovereign Order of Malta). Additionally, 19 statements were delivered by international organizations, including FAO, UNDP, UNEP, UNFPA, UN-Habitat, UNICEF, UN Women, and WFP.

 

Appointment of new mandate-holders

On the final day of the session, the following three mandate-holders were appointed to fill positions on existing mandates:

1. Antonina Gorbunova (Russia) to the Expert Mechanism on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples as member from Central and Eastern Europe, the Russian Federation, Central Asia and Transcaucasia.
2. Anexa Brendalee Alfred Cunningham (Nicaragua) to the Expert Mechanism on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples as member from Central and South America, and the Caribbean.
3. Valmaine Toki (New Zealand) to the Expert Mechanism on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples as member from the Pacific.

General Debate under Item 10

On the 1st of April 2025, the Council held the general debate under agenda item 10 on technical cooperation in the field of human rights.

Ms. Maarit Kohonen Sheriff, Director of the Global Operations Division at OHCHR, delivered an oral statement underscoring the vital role of technical cooperation in empowering rights holders and duty bearers, advancing the implementation of human rights recommendations, and reinforcing national human rights institutions. She illustrated OHCHR’s support through concrete examples, including initiatives in Honduras to address violence and impunity, legislative reforms in Tajikistan concerning media laws, and efforts in South Africa to combat gender-based violence and promote reproductive rights. Furthermore, she highlighted the alignment of human rights with the Sustainable Development Goals and the integration of a human rights-based approach into crisis responses, notably climate-related disasters in Vanuatu.

Mr. Santiago Corcuera Cabezut, Chairperson of the Board of Trustees of the Voluntary Fund for Technical Cooperation (VFTC), presented the Board’s activities for 2024, covering its fifty-eighth and fifty-ninth sessions. He reaffirmed the VFTC’s role as a vital resource for advancing technical cooperation in 56 countries, despite ongoing funding constraints. The Board prioritised support for the implementation of human rights commitments made during the 75th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, and underscored the importance of strengthening partnerships with businesses, national human rights institutions (NHRIs), and youth. A key focus was enhancing human rights education—particularly for children and young people—in response to the rise in anti-human rights discourse. The Board recommended a regional approach and urged OHCHR to mobilise additional voluntary contributions to expand support in this critical area.

The Maldives, delivering a statement on behalf of an informal group of Small Island Developing States (SIDS), highlighted the structural economic constraints, climate vulnerabilities, and capacity limitations that impede their full participation in multilateral human rights processes. While reaffirming their strong commitment to human rights, the group expressed appreciation for the SIDS/LDCs Trust Fund and the recent pledging event, which have supported their engagement in the Human Rights Council. However, they stressed that critical gaps persist and called for more consistent and predictable support. They also welcomed the operationalisation of the OHCHR regional office for the Caribbean and urged timely implementation of the Antigua and Barbuda Agenda to ensure human rights progress in SIDS.

Speaking on behalf of the OIC Group, Pakistan reaffirmed support for the Human Rights Council’s technical assistance mandate, underscoring its role in fostering dialogue and supporting States’ national human rights and development priorities. Pakistan emphasised that such assistance must be delivered only upon the request and consent of States, in accordance with UNGA resolution 60/251, and should not be used as a tool for interference. The OIC Group expressed concern over unequal resource allocation within OHCHR, which has hindered a balanced focus on all human rights, particularly economic, social, and cultural rights. The Group called for reforms to ensure equitable funding, respect for sovereignty, and a context-sensitive approach that strengthens cooperation and supports states in implementing UPR recommendations, especially in the face of compounding global crises.

The debate also addressed challenges related to financial constraints and global crises affecting human rights cooperation. The Board’s visit to Panama highlighted OHCHR’s crucial role in assisting Central American countries with issues related to asylum-seekers, refugees, and economic injustices. It emphasised the need to counter narratives that falsely separate economic growth from human rights. The Board expressed concern over declining resources for technical cooperation and called on states to increase their contributions to multilateral human rights efforts. The session concluded with a strong appeal for predictable and sustained financial support to OHCHR and the programs it administers at national and regional levels, recognising the invaluable impact of technical cooperation on human rights progress worldwide.

 

Adopted texts

The 58th session of the Council concluded with the adoption of 32 texts. This is 2 texts less than the number of texts (34) adopted at the 55th session in March 2024, marking a slight decrease of 6%. Out of the 32 adopted texts:

• 20 were adopted by consensus (63%) and 12 by vote (38%).
• 17 were thematic and 15 dealt with country-specific situations. Of the country-specific texts, two resolutions address human rights situations under item 2 (i.e., annual reports of the High Commissioner, his Office, and the Secretary-General), seven resolutions deal with ‘human rights situations that require the Council’s attention,’ under item 4, three resolutions pertain to item 7 specifically on the ‘human rights situation in Palestine and other occupied Arab territories,’ and three resolutions relate to technical assistance and capacity building under item 10. 
• Three were mandate renewals: right to food (SR), counter-terrorism and human rights (SR), and open-ended intergovernmental working group for the elaboration of a legally binding instrument on the promotion and protection of the human rights of older persons.

 

Resolutions and decisions listed in order of L numbers

Agenda item	Title	Sponsors	PBI	New resources requirements	Means of adoption
2	Advancing human rights in South Sudan	​​​​​​​​​​United Kingdom, Albania, Ireland, Norway	✓		Adopted by vote (24-17-6)
2	Human rights situation in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem, and the obligation to ensure accountability and justice	Pakistan (on behalf of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, except Albania)	✓		Adopted by vote (27-16-4)
3	The negative impact of unilateral coercive measures on the enjoyment of human rights	Uganda (on behalf of the Movement of Non-Aligned Countries)	✗		Adopted by vote (28-3-16)
3	Cultural rights and the protection of cultural heritage	Cyprus, Ethiopia, Greece, Iraq, Ireland, Italy, Mali, Poland, Serbia	✓		Adopted by consensus
3	Freedom of religion or belief	Poland (on behalf of European Union)	✓		Adopted by consensus
3	Question on the realization in all countries of economic, social and cultural rights	Portugal	✓		Adopted by consensus
3	Neurotechnology and human rights	Greece, Chile, Singapore, Switzerland			Adopted by consensus
3	Mandate of Special Rapporteur on the right to food	Cuba	✓		Adopted by consensus
3	Promotion of the enjoyment of the cultural rights of everyone and respect for cultural diversity	Cuba			Adopted by consensus
3	Effects of foreign debt and other related international financial obligations of States on the full enjoyment of all human rights, particularly economic, social and cultural rights	Cuba	✗		Adopted by vote (29-6-12)
3	Women, diplomacy and human rights	Morocco, Chile, Maldives, Mauritius, Mexico, Slovenia and Spain			Adopted by consensus
3	The negative impact of the non-repatriation of funds of illicit origin to the countries of origin on the enjoyment of human rights, and the importance of improving international cooperation	Ghana (on behalf of Group of African States)	✓		Adopted by vote (29-3-15)
3	Human rights, democracy and the rule of law	Romania, Morocco, Norway, Peru, Republic of Korea, Tunisia​			Adopted by consensus
3	Combating intolerance, negative stereotyping and stigmatization of, and discrimination, incitement to violence and violence against, persons based on religion or belief	Pakistan (on behalf of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation)	✓		Adopted by consensus
3	The impact of anti-personnel mines on the full enjoyment of all human rights	Algeria, Croatia, Mozambique, Peru, South Africa, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, Vanuatu	✓		Adopted by consensus
3	Open-ended intergovernmental working group for the elaboration of a legally binding instrument on the promotion and protection of the human rights of older persons	Argentina, Brazil, Gambia, Philippines, Slovenia	✓		Adopted by consensus
3	The human right to a clean healthy and sustainable environment: the ocean and human rights	Maldives, Costa Rica, Morocco, Slovenia, Switzerland			Adopted by consensus
3	Human rights defenders and new and emerging technologies: protecting human rights defenders, including women human rights defenders, in the digital age	Norway	✓		Adopted by consensus
3	Mandate of Special Rapporteur on the promotion and protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms while countering terrorism	Mexico	✓		Adopted by consensus
4	Situation of human rights in the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea	Poland (on behalf of the European Union), Australia	✓		Adopted by consensus
4	Promotion and protection of human rights in Nicaragua	Costa Rica Argentina, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Paraguay, Peru​	✓		Adopted by vote (29-14-4)
4	Situation of human rights in Belarus	Poland (on behalf of European Union)	✓		Adopted by vote (25-17-5)
4	Situation of human rights in Myanmar	Poland (on behalf of European Union)	✓		Adopted by consensus
4	Situation of human rights in the Islamic Republic of Iran	Iceland, Germany, North Macedonia, Republic of Moldova, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland	✓		Adopted by vote (24-15-8)
4	Situation of human rights in Ukraine stemming from the Russian aggression	Ukraine	✓		Adopted by vote (25-18-4)
4	Situation of human rights in the Syrian Arab Republic	United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, Albania, Ireland, Norway, France, Germany, Netherlands (Kingdom of the), Qatar, Türkiye	✓		Adopted by consensus
7	Human rights in the occupied Syrian Golan	Pakistan (on behalf of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, except Albania)	✓		Adopted by vote (27-14-6)
7	Right of the Palestinian people to self-determination	Pakistan (on behalf of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, except Albania)			Adopted by vote (43-2-2)
7	Israeli settlements in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem, and in the occupied Syrian Golan	Pakistan (on behalf of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, except Albania)	✓		Adopted by vote (34-10-3)
10	Technical assistance and capacity-building for Mali in the field of human rights	Ghana (on behalf of the Group of African States)	✓		Adopted by consensus
10	Technical assistance and capacity-building for South Sudan	Ghana (on behalf of the Group of African States)	✓		Adopted by consensus
10	Technical assistance and capacity-building to improve the situation of human rights in Haiti, in connection with a request from the authorities of Haiti for coordinated and targeted international action	Haiti	✓		Adopted by consensus

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Featured image: A general view of participants at a 58th session of the United Nations Human Rights Council in headquarters in United Nations in Geneva. 24 February 2025.

UN Photo / Jean Marc Ferré