UNITED NATIONS HUMAN RIGHTS COUNCIL

57^th session

Interactive dialogue on UN High Commissioner for Human Rights report on technical assistance in Honduras

7 October 2024

EU Statement

Mister President,

The EU thanks the Office of the High Commissioner for the assistance provided to Honduras in spite of the liquidity crisis and its impacts on your support in critical areas, such as the reforms of the penitentiary system, security and justice.

The EU welcomes the political will of Honduras to work on structural reform processes, with the assistance of the Office and international human rights mechanisms. We recognize progress made for the protection of persons with disabilities and the fight against gender-based violence.

However, we are concerned that Honduras remains affected by structural obstacles to the enjoyment of human rights for all, in particular high levels of violence, including gender-based violence and violence against LGBTI persons and journalists, land-related conflicts, corruption and impunity.

We condemn the killings of and attacks against human rights defenders,  particularly land and environmental human rights defenders, and urge Honduras to thoroughly investigate patterns of human rights violations against them, and to identify and develop a strategy to prevent their recurrence.

The EU encourages Honduras to continue implementing the recommendations of the Office of the High Commissioner and stands ready to support inclusive and sustainable development in Honduras based on the rule of law, democracy and human rights.

Mr. Salazar,

How can we continue supporting Honduras in strengthening the capacities of the National System for the Protection of Human rights Defenders?

Thank you.