Statement by Iceland
General Assembly 79th session, 23 October 2024
27th Plenary Meeting of Third Committee
Promotion and protection of human rights (item 71)

Mr. Chair,

Human rights are a key pillar of Iceland’s foreign policy, based on the conviction that all human rights are universal, indivisible, interrelated, and interdependent as enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and key human rights treaties.

As a member-elect of the Human Rights Council (HRC) from 2025-2027, Iceland plans to do its part in advancing human rights for everyone, everywhere, and at all times.

We will continue to engage with countries from all regions of the world in an inclusive manner, recognizing the critical importance of respectful and genuine dialogue for a more efficient and effective Council.

It is important to keep in mind that the HRC, just like this Committee, draws strength from its
diversity. None of us are perfect but we can all do better, and we should all aim to do so. We must not shy away from dialogue or from calling out human rights violations, regardless of where they take place or by whom.

Mr. Chair,

We are witnessing deteriorating human rights situations around the world, with too many states trying to justify discrimination and violence against their citizens. Respecting, protecting, and fulfilling human rights obligations is a crucial commitment which all states must take seriously.

Severe and escalating human rights situations worldwide must be addressed, and Iceland will
continue to stand up for those whose rights are under threat or being violated, particularly those who are the most vulnerable.

Some of the most severe human rights violations and abuses take place during wars and armed conflicts. But even wars have rules. International human rights law and international humanitarian law have been designed precisely for this reason - when life, dignity and our very humanity are at risk and must be protected.

In Ukraine, we witness relentless Russian attacks on civilian infrastructure, including schools and hospitals. The horrific terrorist attack by Hamas a year ago and the subsequent war in Gaza is another case in point, where civilians, not least women and children, are subject to unacceptable and indiscriminate attacks, forced displacement, and deprivation of necessities on a scale not seen for decades.

We can name Sudan, Myanmar, and the continued rise of violent extremism in the Sahel –
everywhere, civilians bear the brunt of the horrors of war.
The international community needs to be steadfast in its response and commitment to contribute to alleviating the suffering of civilians.

Mr. Chair,

No one should be discriminated against or denied human rights on the grounds of gender, race, ethnicity, disability, age, religion or belief, sexual orientation or gender identity anywhere in the world.

As a member of the HRC, Iceland will continue its focus on accelerating progress on the human rights of women and girls, upholding the rights of children and fighting discrimination against LGBTQI+ persons.

Women and girls still face structural inequalities and multiple and intersecting forms of
discrimination. Sexual and gender-based violence, exploitation, abuse and harassment is a
worldwide problem which we must address urgently on all levels.
LGBTQI+ persons face increased discrimination, violence and hatred. Violence and discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity is deplorable. Iceland will continue to protect the human rights of LGBTQI+ persons and advocate for the advancement of their rights worldwide.

Mr. Chair,

The promotion of human rights is not just a moral imperative but also a strategic necessity. It is an integral part of a broader approach that recognizes that the three pillars of the United Nations –peace and security, sustainable development, and human rights – all go hand in hand.

We must ensure the effectiveness of the multilateral system, including the UN human rights treaty bodies, to enable it to fulfil its duty to protect the enjoyment and full realisation of human rights for all.

I thank you