India Advocates Comprehensive Human Rights Approach at UN Council

India's Call for a Holistic Human Rights Framework

On February 26, during a virtual address to the Human Rights Council in Geneva, India's External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar emphasized the need for a comprehensive approach to human rights. He highlighted the importance of development and capacity-building to achieve 'real improvements in the lives of the most vulnerable' while addressing terrorism instead of engaging in politicized debates.

Jaishankar stated, 'In a world plagued by conflict and division, India aims to identify and broaden common ground.' He reiterated India's commitment to dialogue over confrontation, consensus over division, and prioritizing human-centric development over narrow interests.

He urged the UN and the Human Rights Council to uphold their commitment to human rights by advocating for a zero-tolerance policy against terrorism, which he described as one of the most severe violations of human rights, particularly when it targets innocent individuals.

India was re-elected to the Human Rights Council in October for the seventh time, receiving a strong mandate with 177 out of 188 votes in the General Assembly. Jaishankar remarked, 'Our mandate signifies the trust and expectations of the international community, especially from Global South partners.'

He expressed India's belief that human rights are best promoted through dialogue, capacity-building, and authentic partnerships, rather than through politicization or selective approaches. As the world's largest democracy, India is committed to collaborating with all members and observers to uphold human rights for everyone based on equality and respect.

Jaishankar articulated India's perspective on human rights, stating that the insecurity of any region or the marginalization of any group ultimately threatens the rights and welfare of all. His remarks subtly criticized the limited focus on human rights by some Western nations and institutions.

He elaborated on India's broad view of human rights, drawing from its experiences as a developing nation that has faced poverty and external challenges while choosing the path of democracy, pluralism, and social justice.

In light of ongoing discussions about technology and human rights, Jaishankar asserted that technology should enhance human rights rather than create new divides. He cited India's Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) as an example, noting that the country has made significant investments in developing human capacities, enabling millions to access welfare benefits and public services transparently and efficiently.

He stressed that development is crucial for individuals to genuinely enjoy their human rights, especially in the context of the pandemic, climate change, geopolitical tensions, and economic pressures that have intensified existing inequalities.