HRC - EU Explanation of Position - Item 3/ Resolution L.11
UN Human Rights Council
61st Session – Item 3
Resolution L.11 – EoP
Mandate of the Independent Expert on the 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.
EU Explanation of Position
Mr. President,
I have the honour to speak on behalf of the EU Member States that are members of the Human Rights Council. This explanation of position has been agreed by the EU as a whole.
The EU remains concerned about the high level of debt vulnerabilities some low and middle-income countries are facing. We are committed globally to enhance mutually beneficial international partnerships and to remain a reliable, credible and solid partner, working towards the achievement of the SDGs.
The EU acknowledges that external debt burdens and related financial obligations of States can affect human rights. The discussions within the Human Rights Council and special procedures contribute significantly to put human rights at the centre of the conversation. We listen to the concerns of affected countries and remain fully mobilised in the specialised bodies with competence to deal with debt issues. [In these fora, the EU is committed to seeking long-term solutions to unsustainable sovereign debt, the critical importance for countries to ensure debt sustainability and increase fiscal space for reaching the SDGs, and the need to support countries in these efforts through better prevention and improved resolution mechanisms.]
We remain concerned that resolution L.11 risks being used to call into question the primary responsibility of States to promote and protect all human rights. It is for this reason that the EU cannot support L.11. Nevertheless, we remain committed to a constructive approach and continued dialogue on this important issue in all appropriate fora. Furthermore, the EU would have wished to see rationalisation efforts reflected in the resolutions Cuba has presented this session.
The EU takes note of Cuba’s engagement during the informal consultations on the resolution L.11. Similarly, we recognise Cuba’s engagement in a constructive dialogue during negotiations of other important resolutions presented at HRC61. The EU remains ready to be actively engaged in a meaningful discussion with Cuba on these issues in the future.
Thank you.