As the Republic of Marshall Islands (RMI) ends its term on the Council, Australia commends them for their valuable contribution, including in bringing Pacific views to the Council.

We have appreciated the consistent voice of RMI in championing regional concerns and making the Council and its processes more accessible to Least Developed Countries and Small Island Developing States.

Australia has long stressed the importance of a diversity of voices on the Human Rights Council. A robust and effective multilateral system needs to include a range of voices and the equal and full participation of all states and civil society committed to upholding international rules and norms.

Australia is committed to supporting broader participation in the Council, including through our contributions to the Voluntary Trust Fund for the Participation of Least Developed Countries and Small Island Developing States.

Australia has particularly advocated for the participation and representation of Small Island Developing states in multilateral institutions given the breadth of views they bring to these fora including the Human Rights Council.