Statement on U.S. Reengagement with the UN Human Rights Council

Olivia Alair Dalton
Spokesperson
U.S. Mission to the United Nations
New York, New York
February 8, 2021

Statement on U.S. Reengagement with the UN Human Rights Council

As Secretary Blinken said, effective use of multilateral tools is an important part of the Biden administration’s recommitment to a U.S. foreign policy centered on democracy, human rights, and equality. The best way to realize this commitment is through our continued engagement with allies, partners, non-governmental organizations, civil society, and multilateral organizations, including within the UN system. We recognize the UN Human Rights Council has its flaws, but we also believe it can help promote fundamental freedoms around the world. The only way we can ensure the Human Rights Council fulfills this important mandate is by being at the table as an observer and working with our partners and allies in a principled fashion to make it better. Through our leadership on the UN Security Council and by reengaging with the Human Rights Council, the United States will continue to fight for global peace and security, and to promote human rights and fundamental freedoms for all.

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