In a powerful address at the United Nations Human Rights Council in Geneva, China’s Permanent Representative to the UN Office and other international organizations in Switzerland, Chen Xu, urged all nations to unite for reforms and advancements in the global human rights framework. Speaking on March 2 during the 61st session of the Council, Chen highlighted the pressing need for collective action amid rising challenges.
This year marks the 20th anniversary of the Human Rights Council’s establishment and the 40th anniversary of the Declaration on the Right to Development. Yet, the world faces escalating unilateralism, protectionism, and hegemonism. Multilateralism is under strain, and the international human rights movement grapples with severe hurdles. The volatile situation in the Middle East stands out as particularly alarming.
Chen emphasized that safeguarding the multilateral system centered on the UN is crucial. Balancing efforts across peace and security, development, and human rights—the three pillars—remains essential. He called for sustained reforms to strengthen global human rights governance.
China, Chen affirmed, is committed to upholding human rights implications in global governance initiatives. He appealed to all parties to protect human rights through security measures and foster a peaceful environment for their realization. Adopting a people-centered approach, promoting balanced development of all human rights categories, advancing rights through equality, and abandoning politicization were key pleas.
As China launches its 15th Five-Year Plan and convenes its Two Sessions—the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) and the National People’s Congress (NPC)—the nation pledges to advance whole-process people’s democracy. This will ensure the benefits of Chinese-style modernization reach the masses. Beijing stands ready to collaborate with all countries to promote healthy international human rights development and build a community with a shared future for mankind.