Statement attributable to the Spokesperson for the President of the General Assembly on the U.S. withdrawal from the Human Rights Council

The President of the General Assembly, H.E. Mr. Miroslav Lajčák, regrets the decision of the United States to withdraw from the Human Rights Council.

Created by the General Assembly in 2006, the Human Rights Council is the main body of the United Nations entrusted with strengthening the promotion and protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms for all. Through its various mechanisms, procedures and resolutions, it gives a voice to people everywhere, including the most vulnerable. The success of the Universal Periodic Review is one example of how the Council effectively serves to advance all human rights.

The President of the General Assembly recognizes the central role of human rights in the founding of the United States, as well as the strong human rights advocacy role the United States has traditionally played across the world. Given today’s global challenges, he believes that our collective work to ensure a better world will benefit from more dialogue and collaboration – not less. In that regard, he encourages the United States to remain engaged in the work of the Human Rights Council.

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Brenden Varma
Spokesperson for the President of the General Assembly
New York
19 June 2018