21 September 2022

Excellencies,

Mr. Secretary- General,

Mrs. Ilze Brands Kehris, ASG on Human Rights

Mr. Fernand de Varennes, Special Rapporteur on Minority Issues

Nobel Laureate and UNODC Goodwill Ambassador Nadia Murad,

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Thirty years ago, when the General Assembly adoptedthe Declaration on the rights of persons belonging to national, ethnic, religious, and linguistic minorities,there were high hopes for steady implementation, that could have been a major shift in the lives of many communities and millions of people around the world. The protection of the rights of minorities is vital toconflict prevention, the achievement of sustainable development, and the fulfilment of human rights.

But we are not there yet.

This Declaration is more relevant today than ever before.

I therefore urge you, to acknowledge the value brought by the full protection of minority rights to our overall stability, inclusivity, and sustainable development.

Distinguished Delegates,

As we speak, 75% of the world’s known stateless population belong to minority groups.

Over 70% of those targeted by hate speech or hate crimes are minorities.

Minority groups are often and systematically excluded from decision-making – even on issues that primarily affect them.

Minority women endure intersecting forms of discrimination, multiplying their vulnerability to violence.

Member States – I implore you to act urgently to protect the rights of minorities in your countries.

The Declaration’s ambition was to create a world where minorities can freely practice religion. Freely engage in tradition. Freely speak one’s native language.

A world where diversity is seen not as a liability – but as a strength.

However, our task today is not finger pointing. It would be easy but not productive enough. Our task isstrengthening the common ground that has already been agreed upon.

I urge you all to engage constructively in conversation today. Share your ideas, experiences, best practices, and pledges.

Let us commit to implementing the Declaration’s provisions.

Let us foster free, peaceful, and sustainable societies.

I thank you.