Your Excellencies,
Ladies and gentlemen,

The world is in turmoil and the protection of universal human rights is under threat. 
In recent years, freedom of expression and freedom of religion have continued to decline.
More journalists were killed in 2024 than in any previous year.  
We’re all aware of the deplorable humanitarian situation in Ukraine, Sudan, eastern Congo, Gaza,  Myanmar and other places.
Yesterday, we marked the grim three-year anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

And the question we must ask ourselves is: what can we do to improve this situation? 
What can we do to support a detained Russian journalist, an oppressed Belarusian human rights activist, a Christian held in North Korean detention?
The Human Rights Council is a forum for multilateral dialogue, but we don’t gather three times a year in Geneva just to make strong statements.
It’s our collective duty in this Council to uphold and defend the hard-won norms of international human rights – and to make sure that these norms are respected, especially in turbulent times.

Excellencies, 
There can be no peace without justice.
This is why we work tirelessly to restore justice for Ukraine, together with many of you.
There can be no impunity for blatant aggression. 
Victims of Russian aggression deserve compensation.
The Netherlands is also firmly committed to achieving justice for the victims of ISIS, like the Yezidi people of Syria and Iraq.
We’re investigating the establishment of an international tribunal, so that the crimes against them do not go unpunished.

The promotion and protection of human rights also requires a strong Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights.
High Commissioner, we share your concern about the UN’s liquidity crisis and its impact on the UN human rights pillar. 
And I would like to reiterate your call for more states to give your Office their full support.
The Netherlands values strengthening OHCHR field presences, which is why we have committed additional funds to support human rights monitoring in the Palestinian Territories, Sudan and Ukraine.  

When it comes to human rights, my country is obviously not beyond criticism.
We all need an independent perspective, to see where things need to be improved.
That’s why we continue to advocate for civil society organisations to engage with the Human Rights Council.

Your Excellencies,
Ladies and gentlemen,
Our commitment to human rights is not a hopeless endeavour.
There are signs of hope.
Like in Syria, where an opportunity for a more peaceful and inclusive society exists. 
Across the world people are demanding universal human rights. 
And we have a responsibility to strengthen their voices.
Please be assured that the Netherlands remains your partner in promoting and protecting human rights.
Thank you.