UN Human Rights Council 58: UK Statement on promotion and protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms while countering terrorism
UK Statement for the Interactive Dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the promotion and protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms while countering terrorism. Delivered at the 58th HRC in Geneva.
Thank you Madame Vice-President.
The United Kingdom thanks the Special Rapporteur for his report.
In this 20th anniversary of the Special Rapporteur’s mandate, the UK reconfirms its commitment to the protection of human rights and the rule of law, which underpin our counter-terrorism efforts.
The report makes clear that cooperation and engagement remain key components to defeating the increasing threat of terrorism. They are also essential to help address the long-term drivers of terrorism.
The UK also believes in the importance of the sanctions regime to deter those who wish to undertake terrorist activity and do us harm.
The protection of human rights and the rule of law should be at the forefront of our efforts. The UK therefore supports the extension of the Special Rapporteur’s mandate for another three years. We continue to stand ready to engage with the Council, and build capability and capacity to counter terrorism, while protecting and promoting human rights around the world.
Special Rapporteur, the UK notes the recommendations in your report and asks: what more could be done by States in the counter-terrorism sphere to support wider engagement to ensure human rights, fundamental freedoms and the rule of law are respected?
Thank you.