Global Experts Urge Fair Development at UN Human Rights Council
A panel of global experts and policymakers came together on Wednesday to emphasize the urgent need for equitable development worldwide. The discussion took place during a side event of the 59th session of the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) in Geneva.
The event, titled “Promotion and Protection of the Right to Development,” was co-hosted by the United Nations Association of China (UNA-China) and the Permanent Mission of China to the United Nations at Geneva. Representatives from diplomatic circles, UN organizations, and Chinese civil society stressed that development is not just a right but a cornerstone for enjoying all other human rights.
Speakers highlighted ongoing global inequalities and expressed concerns over developed nations not meeting their international obligations. They pointed out how geopolitical tensions and trade protectionism negatively impact global development.
In particular, participants criticized past unilateral trade practices that have used tariffs as weapons, disrupting industrial progress in developing countries. Such actions, they noted, infringe on these countries’ right to development and hinder efforts to reduce poverty and achieve the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
The panelists praised China’s people-centered development approach, emphasizing its efforts to make sure all citizens can actively participate in and benefit from the country’s progress. They highlighted initiatives like the Belt and Road Initiative and the Global Development Initiative as models for promoting shared prosperity across the Global South.
As the United Nations marks its 80th anniversary this year, participants called for a renewed commitment to the organization’s founding purposes. They urged the international community to place the right to development at the heart of the global agenda and to practice genuine multilateralism.
They also encouraged UNHRC mechanisms, especially the Working Group on the Right to Development and the Special Rapporteur, to enhance their engagement on development-related human rights issues.
