Human Rights Council adopts Swiss-led resolution on peaceful protests
Bern, 12.07.2024 - The 56th session of the Human Rights Council (HRC), based in Geneva, concludes today after four weeks of intensive work and the adoption of more than 20 resolutions. Switzerland presented a resolution on the promotion and protection of human rights in the context of peaceful protests, which was adopted by consensus, and participated in discussions on a range of issues and geographical contexts.
The 56th session of the HRC opened on 18 June with the presentation of the annual report of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk. During his opening speech, the High Commissioner focused on the conflicts currently raging and the urgent need to "find our way back to peace". He took the opportunity to reiterate that a strong and effective human rights protection system is the key to effective multilateral cooperation and to building a better future for people and the planet. Switzerland's statement in response to the High Commissioner focused on the bill in The Gambia seeking to repeal the ban on female genital mutilation, on respect for the right to freedom of expression and freedom of association in Georgia, on the rights of minorities in China, and on the call for an immediate ceasefire, the release of hostages and an increase in humanitarian aid to Gaza.
Swiss-led resolution adopted by consensus
For over a decade, Switzerland and Costa Rica have jointly led an initiative to promote and protect human rights in the context of peaceful protests. This year, the resolution focuses on the implementation of tools for law enforcement officers in the context of peaceful protests. The aim is to help them better fulfil their obligations in this area, such as facilitating demonstrations and ensuring they proceed safely. The resolution was adopted by consensus – a success for Switzerland too.
Switzerland participated in a number of negotiations on women's and girls' rights and gender equality, notably with regard to a resolution on combating technology-facilitated gender-based violence. It took the floor on several occasions, including to voice its concern that gains made in women's rights are being undermined. Switzerland also took part in negotiations on a text concerning the right to freedom of expression and opinion, which highlighted the issue of respect for these rights with regard to journalists and media professionals.
Various issues and geographical contexts discussed
Switzerland took part in the dialogue on the independence of judges and lawyers, stressing the importance of democracy and checks and balances provided by the judicial system. It also participated in the dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the right to health, whose report focused on harm reduction in relation to drug policies.
Finally, a number of reports on geographical situations were also presented. Switzerland expressed its views on the human rights situation in Afghanistan, Belarus, Sudan, Syria, Ukraine and Venezuela. It also voiced serious concern about the worsening situation in Myanmar's Rakhine State.
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