80th Session of the Third Committee of the UN General Assembly
Interactive Dialogue with the President of the Human Rights Council Mr Jürg Lauber
Statement delivered by H.E. Rein Tammsaar, Permanent Representative of Estonia on behalf of the Nordic and Baltic States
New York, 31 October 2025
Chair,
I have the honour to speak on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic States.
Let me start by reiterating, that according to Resolution 65/281, it is the responsibility of the plenary of the General Assembly – and not of the Third Committee – to take action on the report of the Human Rights Council. We are, however, always grateful for the opportunity to engage on the important work of the Council and would therefore like to say the following.
We thank President Lauber for his leadership in increasing the efficiency and effectiveness of the Human Rights Council, including through deeper engagement with civil society and sustained attention to rapidly evolving thematic challenges, such as emerging technologies and climate change.
The Nordic and Baltic States remain firmly committed to addressing grave human rights situations worldwide. Resolutions on serious country-specific situations – including on Russia, Ukraine in the context of Russia’s ongoing war of aggression, Belarus, Afghanistan, Sudan, the Occupied Palestinian Territory and others – remain indispensable tools. Accountability must remain central in this regard.
We are deeply concerned about the UN liquidity crisis and its growing impact on the human rights system, including the postponement, reduction and inhibition of mandated activities. Stable, predictable and adequate financing is a precondition for credible and functioning international human rights architecture. Country-specific mandates addressing the rapidly deteriorating human rights situation are especially vital.
Today marks the 25th anniversary of the resolution on Women, Peace and Security. This year also marks the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Platform for Action and last year we celebrated the 45th anniversary of the CEDAW. Yet, we continue to witness an intensified pushback against gender equality, the rights of women and girls as well as of LGBTI persons, sexual and reproductive health and rights, and an increase in violence and discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. Our future progress depends on strong collective efforts, resources and political will.
Mr President, in light of increasing polarization within and beyond the Human Rights Council, how do you see opportunities to strengthen the human rights system and foster constructive dialogue across regions and perspectives?
Thank you.