47th regular session of the Human Rights Council

Interactive Dialogue with the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Ms. Michelle Bachelet on her annual report

 

21 June 2021

 

Statement of Portugal

 

Chairperson,

         Portugal aligns itself with the EU statement.

Madam High Commissioner, we renew our thanks for your committed leadership on the promotion of human rights and their universality. We commend the work of your Office, including on the prevention of human rights violations and abuses, and reiterate our support to its mandate and independence.

Vaccination against COVID-19 gives the world the hope that we may be closer to overcome the pandemic. However, it is paramount that vaccines are made available universally and without discrimination, as public health goods. We join the Secretary General’s and your call in this regard and are we are committed to contributing to this joint effort, including through COVAX.

Economic, social and cultural rights have been the most affected by the pandemic and it is here that recovery efforts need to be focussed on. The promotion of the full realization of these rights is a longstanding priority for Portugal.

One of the main events of the current Portuguese presidency of the Council of the EU was the Social Summit, last May in Porto. Together with social partners and civil society, decisive action was taken by the EU to reinforce the implementation of the European Pillar of Social Rights.

Portugal fully supports the international recognition of the human right to a safe, clean, healthy and sustainable environment. This right has been enshrined in the Portuguese Constitution for many decades.

I conclude informing that, at this session, Portugal will present again a draft resolution on the right to education and, together with the core-group, a resolution renewing the call for a human rights-based approach to all aspects related to HIV/AIDS.

Thank you.

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