About the Statement:

During the 57th session of the Human Rights Council, under Item 5 (General Debate), the Union Association for Human Rights delivered an oral statement emphasizing the need to enhance the effectiveness of international human rights bodies—especially during armed conflicts. The statement highlighted the major challenges these mechanisms face due to non-compliance by some states, while commending the UAE’s role in supporting international humanitarian law, facilitating aid, and advancing peace and reconciliation efforts.

Content of the Statement:

• The statement affirmed the Human Rights Council’s central role in supporting international human rights mechanisms and the importance of strengthening their functions during conflicts.
• It highlighted that wars and armed conflicts pose the greatest challenges to these bodies due to:
  • The scale of grave violations and war crimes.
  • Non-cooperation by warring parties and disregard for international obligations.
• It emphasized how these issues obstruct:
  • Impartial international monitoring.
  • Accountability for violations.
  • Justice for victims.
• The statement called for:
  • Expanding the mandates and powers of human rights bodies to ensure international legal compliance.
  • Strengthening international accountability for war crimes and human rights violations.
• It praised the UAE’s role in:
  • Supporting international humanitarian law.
  • Promoting reconciliation and conflict resolution.
  • Facilitating delivery of health and humanitarian aid to civilians in conflict zones.

Importance of the Statement:

• A call for real activation of UN mechanisms in conflicts: The statement sends a clear message that international bodies should not remain passive observers. They must employ effective and binding tools to protect civilians and hold violators of the law accountable.
• Warning against undermining the UN system through disregard for obligations: The statement highlights a serious compliance crisis that threatens the credibility of the United Nations if countries continue to ignore its resolutions and institutions.
• Showcasing the UAE as a model supporter of peace and humanitarian action: The statement positions the UAE as an exemplary model in balancing proactive diplomacy, sustainable humanitarian response, and support for international law during conflicts.
• Linking human rights to international justice in times of war: The statement directly connects strengthening UN mechanisms to achieving comprehensive international justice, reinforcing the principle of zero tolerance for impunity.