The Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Enzo Moavero Milanesi, wishes to share the satisfaction for the important recognition shown by the United Nations General Assembly by electing Italy with 180 votes to the UN Human Rights Council for the period 2019-2021.
Minister Moavero said: “The very large number of votes cast today by the member States of the United Nations in favour of our candidacy proves the whole International Community’s significant and convinced appreciation of Italy’s intense and constant commitment to protect and uphold human rights. Rights are the pillars of the Republic’s legal system and an essential point of reference for Italy’s foreign policy. Such a broad consensus was made possible by the effective action carried out with coherence, determination to attain the goal and real teamwork, thanks to the mobilization of the Foreign Ministry and its entire diplomatic network.”
During its three-year term, Italy intends to promote a rigorous approach to the respect of human rights in the world. In particular, it will scrupulously focus its attention on a few issues that it deems to be of priority importance: condemn all forms of xenophobia; combat religious discrimination and guarantee the freedom of religion; protect children and minors; assure tangible protection to persons with disabilities; assure the effective social equality of women; combat all forms of human trafficking; extend the moratorium on the death penalty in the world; protect cultural heritage. Italy commits to continue to stand by those who genuinely defend and uphold human rights.
