UK Explains Vote on UN Human Rights Anniversary Resolution

The United Kingdom has a long-standing commitment to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the International Covenants on Civil and Political Rights and on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights. These foundational human rights instruments have been central to the UK's foreign policy and domestic human rights agenda for decades.

As we commemorate the 60th anniversary of the adoption of these International Covenants, the United Kingdom reaffirms its steadfast support for the universality, indivisibility and interdependence of all human rights. We commend the crucial role these Covenants have played in advancing human dignity and fundamental freedoms worldwide.

The UK has a proud history of championing human rights globally, and we will continue to do so. We remain deeply committed to upholding the rules-based international order and strengthening the international human rights system. Multilateral cooperation and collective action are essential to address the human rights challenges we face today.

That is why the UK is proud to have co-sponsored this resolution and voted in favor of it. We hope that this resolution will help to reinvigorate global efforts to promote and protect human rights and fundamental freedoms for all.

Eleanor Sanders, the UK Human Rights Ambassador, delivered this Explanation of Vote at the 61st session of the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva. The UK remains committed to working with all UN member states and civil society to uphold the universal values enshrined in the International Covenants and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.