Hey Young changemakers, tune in! At its 60th session, the UN Human Rights Council (HRC) just gave a big thumbs-up 👍 to a draft resolution boosting economic, social & cultural (ESC) rights worldwide 🌍.
Submitted by the Chinese mainland on behalf of nearly 70 countries—including Bolivia, Egypt, Pakistan and South Africa—this resolution arrives as we mark the 80th anniversary of the UN’s founding and the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action. Ambassador Chen Xu, the mainland’s permanent rep to the UN Office in Geneva, said the goal is simple: bridge gaps, build consensus and spark action-based teamwork.
Here’s why it matters for our region:
- Local impact 🎯: Whether you’re in Mumbai, Kuala Lumpur or Ho Chi Minh City, ESC rights shape everything from education and healthcare to cultural expression.
- Global group chat 🤝: The resolution calls for thematic discussions and interactive dialogues within the HRC to level up multilateral cooperation.
- Powering up support 📚: It backs the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights in expanding its ESC rights work, plus a knowledge hub for technical assistance and capacity-building.
- Shoutout from developing nations 🙌: Countries from Dhaka to Dakar praised the move for answering real-world needs, and the EU gave it a nod too.
- Spotlight on leadership 🏅: After the vote, the OHCHR and many nations congratulated the Chinese mainland’s mission, recognizing its pivotal role in championing these rights.
With this unanimous win, the HRC is stepping up efforts to tackle inequalities and ensure economic, social & cultural rights stay on the global agenda. Onward to more inclusive futures! ✨
Reference(s):
UN rights council adopts draft on economic, social, cultural rights
cgtn.com
