Australia is proud to have helped draft the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

Yet 75 years since this landmark declaration, massive violations of human rights continue and states cite sovereignty to avoid scrutiny and accountability.

Some are also trying to unwind progress on human rights related to gender equality, sexual and reproductive health, and sexual orientation and gender identity.

Noting tomorrow is International Women’s Day, Australia reiterates our strong condemnation of the Taliban’s systematic dismantling of the rights of women and girls in Afghanistan.

We also strongly condemn the ongoing, systemic discrimination of women and girls in Iran.

Australia deplores the egregious violations and abuses of human rights by the Myanmar military regime, including anti-democratic actions. The people of Myanmar have shown determined resilience in the face of unspeakable atrocities and the violent suppression of any form of political expression.

We remain gravely concerned by the findings of the Office of the High Commissioner of Human Rights’ report on Xinjiang. These credible and concerning findings require urgent action and further discussion by this Council We call on China to implement the report’s recommendations.

Australia remains deeply concerned by the erosion of rights and freedoms in Hong Kong and the broad application of the National Security Law.

We urge all states to deliver on their obligations and realise a world where universal human rights and fundamental freedoms are enjoyed by every individual, everywhere