A/70/PV.80 General Assembly

Thursday, Dec. 17, 2015 — Session 70, Meeting 80 — New York — UN Document ↗ — OCR ✓ — ⓘ 105 unattributed speechs — ⚠ 8 duplicate speechs
▶ This meeting at a glance
128
Speeches
18
Countries
69
Resolutions
Resolutions: 31/37, 32/132, 31/125, 31/127, 31/37, 32/132, 31/125, 32/95, 31/37, 32/132, 31/37, 32/132, 31/37, 32/132, 31/37, 32/132, 31/125, 31/37, 32/132, 31/125, 32/95, 31/127, 32/97, 32/98, 32/99, 32/100, 32/101, 32/127, 32/128, 39/192, 34/131, 40/229, 40/230, 37//6/, 48/137, 40/233, 36/170, 48/140, 39/201, 56/169, 56/230, 56/170, 31/37, 32/132, 31/125, 32/95, 31/127, 32/97, 32/98, 31/37, 32/132, 70/183, A/RES/70/155, A/RES/70/139, A/RES/70/172, A/RES/70/168, A/RES/70/159, A/RES/70/156, A/RES/70/171, A/RES/70/140, A/RES/70/142, A/RES/70/161, A/RES/70/141, A/RES/70/152, A/RES/70/173, A/RES/70/137, A/RES/70/149, A/RES/70/151, A/RES/70/136
Topics
UN resolutions and decisions Human rights and rule of law Conflict-related sexual violence Economic development programmes Sustainable development and climate Arab political groupings

In the absence of the President, Mr. Abdrakhmanov (Kazakhstan), Vice-President, took the Chair.
Vote: A/RES/70/155 Recorded Vote
✓ 148   ✗ 6   33 abs.
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✓ Yes (148)
Vote: A/RES/70/139 Recorded Vote
✓ 133   ✗ 4   49 abs.
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✓ Yes (133)
Vote: A/RES/70/172 Recorded Vote
✓ 119   ✗ 19   48 abs.
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✓ Yes (119)
Vote: A/RES/70/168 Recorded Vote
✓ 168   ✗ 0   15 abs.
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✓ Yes (168)
Vote: A/RES/70/159 Recorded Vote
✓ 135   ✗ 53   1 abs.
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— Abstain (1)
✓ Yes (135)
Vote: A/RES/70/156 Recorded Vote
✓ 133   ✗ 54   0 abs.
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✓ Yes (133)
Vote: A/RES/70/171 Recorded Vote
✓ 184   ✗ 1   1 abs.
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— Abstain (1)
✓ Yes (184)
Vote: A/RES/70/140 Recorded Vote
✓ 133   ✗ 11   44 abs.
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✓ Yes (133)
Vote: A/RES/70/142 Recorded Vote
✓ 130   ✗ 53   6 abs.
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✓ Yes (130)
Vote: A/RES/70/161 Recorded Vote
✓ 127   ✗ 14   41 abs.
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✓ Yes (127)
Vote: A/RES/70/141 Recorded Vote
✓ 177   ✗ 7   4 abs.
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✓ Yes (177)
Vote: A/RES/70/152 Recorded Vote
✓ 134   ✗ 54   0 abs.
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✓ Yes (134)
Vote: A/RES/70/173 Recorded Vote
✓ 81   ✗ 37   67 abs.
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✓ Yes (81)
Vote: A/RES/70/137 Recorded Vote
✓ 141   ✗ 1   42 abs.
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✗ No (1)
✓ Yes (141)
Vote: A/RES/70/149 Recorded Vote
✓ 130   ✗ 53   5 abs.
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— Abstain (5)
✓ Yes (130)
Vote: A/RES/70/151 Recorded Vote
✓ 135   ✗ 54   0 abs.
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✓ Yes (135)
Vote: A/RES/70/136 Recorded Vote
✓ 121   ✗ 2   60 abs.
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✗ No (2)
✓ Yes (121)
The meeting was called to order at 3.10 p.m.

113.  Elections to fill vacancies in subsidiary organs and other elections (d) Election of two members of the Organizational Committee of the Peacebuilding Commission

The Acting President unattributed #83186
Members will recall that, in accordance with paragraphs 4 (a) to (e) of resolution 60/180, of 20 December 2005, the Organizational Committee shall comprise the following: seven members of the Security Council, including five permanent members; seven members of the Economic and Social Council, elected from regional groups; five top providers of assessed contributions to the United Nations budgets and of voluntary contributions to United Nations funds, programmes and agencies, including a standing peacebuilding fund; five top providers of military personnel and civilian police to United Nations missions; and seven additional members elected by the General Assembly, giving due consideration to representation from all regional groups in the overall composition of the Committee. Members will also recall that at the 69th plenary meeting of its sixty-eighth session, the Assembly elected Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Guatemala as members of the Organizational Committee of the Peacebuilding Commission for a two-year term of office, beginning on *1543461* 15-43461 (E) 1 January 2014; and that at the 81st plenary meeting of its sixty-ninth session, the Assembly elected Colombia, Egypt, Kenya, Malaysia and Morocco as members of the Organizational Committee of the Peacebuilding Commission for a two-year term of office, beginning on 1 January 2015. The General Assembly will now proceed to the election of two members of the Organizational Committee of the Peacebuilding Commission. By its resolution 60/261, of 8 May 2006, the Assembly decided that the members of the Organizational Committee shall serve for renewable terms of two years, as applicable. Accordingly, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Guatemala are eligible for immediate re-election. Regarding candidatures for the two seats, I should like to inform members that for the Eastern European States, the Group has endorsed Montenegro; and for the Latin American and Caribbean States, the Group has endorsed El Salvador. Members will recall that by its resolution 60/261, the General Assembly decided that the rules of procedure and established practice of the Assembly for the election of members of its subsidiary bodies shall apply to its election of members of the Committee. For this election, rules 92 and 94 shall be applicable. Accordingly, the election shall be held by secret ballot and there shall be no nominations. However, I should also like to recall paragraph 16 of General Assembly decision 34/401, whereby the practice of dispensing with the secret ballot for elections to subsidiary organs when the number of candidates corresponds to the number of seats to be filled should become standard, unless a delegation specifically requests a vote on a given election. In the absence of such a request, may I take it that the Assembly decides to proceed to the election on that basis?

28.  Social development Report of the Third Committee (A/70/481)

Vote: 31/37 Consensus

29.  Advancement of women Report of the Third Committee (A/70/482)

Vote: 31/37 Consensus

(a) Implementation of human rights instruments Report of the Third Committee (A/70/489/Add.1)

Vote: 31/37 Consensus

106.  Crime prevention and criminal justice Report of the Third Committee (A/70/490)

Vote: 31/37 Consensus

107.  International drug control
Report of the Third Committee (A/70/491)

Vote: 31/37 Consensus
It was so decided.

65.  Report of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, questions relating to refugees, returnees and displaced persons and humanitarian questions Report of the Third Committee (A/70/483)

Vote: 31/37 Consensus

70.  Elimination of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance Report of the Third Committee (A/70/487)

Vote: 31/37 Recorded Vote
✓ 133   ✗ 4   49 abs.
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✓ Yes (133)

71.  Right of peoples to self-determination Report of the Third Committee (A/70/488)

Vote: 31/37 Recorded Vote
✓ 177   ✗ 7   4 abs.
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✓ Yes (177)
The Acting President unattributed #83187
Since the number of candidates endorsed by the Group of Eastern European States and the Group of Latin American and Caribbean States corresponds to the number of seats to be filled, may I take it that the General Assembly decides to elect El Salvador and Montenegro as members of the Organizational Committee of the Peacebuilding Commission for a two-year term of office, beginning on 1 January 2016?
It was so decided.
Vote: 32/132 Consensus
Vote: 32/132 Consensus
Vote: 32/132 Consensus
Vote: 32/132 Consensus
Vote: 32/132 Consensus
The Acting President unattributed #83188
I congratulate El Salvador and Montenegro on their election as members of the Organizational Committee of the Peacebuilding Commission. May I take it that it is the wish of the General Assembly to conclude its consideration of sub-item (d) of agenda item 113?
Vote: 32/132 Consensus
It was so decided.
Vote: 32/132 Recorded Vote
✓ 133   ✗ 11   44 abs.
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✓ Yes (133)
Vote: 32/132 Recorded Vote
✓ 130   ✗ 53   6 abs.
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✓ Yes (130)

Reports of the Third Committee

The Acting President unattributed #83189
The General Assembly will consider the reports of the Third Committee on agenda items 28, 29, 65, 67 to 72, 106, 107,120 and 135. I request the Rapporteur of the Third Committee, Ms. Adele Li Wei of Singapore, to introduce in one intervention the reports of the Committee. Ms. Li (Singapore), Rapporteur of the Third Committee: It is a great privilege for me to introduce to the General Assembly the reports of the Third Committee, submitted under agenda items allocated to it by the General Assembly, namely, items 28, 29, 65, 67 to 72, 106, 107, 120 and 135. The reports, contained in documents A/70/481 to A/70/491 and documents A/70/522 and A/70/523, include the texts of draft resolutions and decisions recommended to the General Assembly for adoption. For the convenience of delegations, the Secretariat has issued document A/C.3/70/INF/1, which contains a checklist of actions taken on the draft proposals contained in the reports before this Assembly. Under agenda item 28, including sub-items (a) to (c), entitled “Social development”, the Third Committee recommends, in paragraph 40 of document A/70/481, the adoption of five draft resolutions, and, in paragraph 41, the adoption of one draft decision. Under agenda item 29, including sub-items (a) and (b), entitled “Advancement of women”, the Third Committee recommends, in paragraph 26 of document A/70/482, the adoption of four draft resolutions, and, in paragraph 27, the adoption of one draft decision. Under agenda item 65, entitled “Report of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, questions relating to refugees, returnees and displaced persons and humanitarian questions”, the Third Committee recommends, in paragraph 12 of document A/70/483, the adoption of two draft resolutions. Under agenda item 67, entitled “Report of the Human Rights Council”, the Third Committee recommends, in paragraph 10 of document A/70/484, the adoption of one draft resolution. Under agenda item 68, entitled “Promotion and protection of the rights of children”, the Third Committee recommends, in paragraph 30 of document A/70/485, the adoption of two draft resolutions. Under agenda item 69, entitled “Rights of indigenous peoples”, the Third Committee recommends, in paragraph 13 of document A/70/486, the adoption of one draft resolution. Under agenda item 70, entitled “Elimination of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance”, the Third Committee recommends, in paragraph 18 of document A/70/487, the adoption of two draft resolutions and, in paragraph 19, the adoption of one draft decision. Under agenda item 71, entitled “Right of peoples to self-determination”, the Third Committee recommends, in paragraph 22 of document A/70/488, the adoption of three draft resolutions. Under agenda item 72, entitled “Promotion and protection of human rights”, the Third Committee recommends, in paragraph 5 of document A/70/489, the adoption of one draft decision. Under agenda item 72 (a), entitled “Promotion and protection of human rights: Implementation of human rights instruments”, the Third Committee recommends, in paragraph 22 of document A/70/489/Add.1, the adoption of three draft resolutions. Under agenda item 72 (b), entitled “Promotion and protection of human rights: Human rights questions, including alternative approaches for improving the effective enjoyment of human rights and fundamental freedoms”, the Third Committee recommends, in paragraph 155 of document A/70/489/Add.2, the adoption of 25 draft resolutions. Under agenda item 72 (c), entitled “Promotion and protection of human rights: human rights situations and reports of special rapporteurs and representatives”, the Third Committee recommends, in paragraph 30 of document A/70/489/Add.3, the adoption of four draft resolutions. Under agenda item 72 (d), entitled “Promotion and protection of human rights: Comprehensive implementation of and follow-up to the Vienna Declaration and Programme of Action”, the Third Committee wishes to advise the Assembly that no action was required under the item. Under agenda item 106, entitled “Crime prevention and criminal justice”, the Third Committee recommends, in paragraph 35 of document A/70/490, the adoption of seven draft resolutions, and, in paragraph 36, the adoption of one draft decision. Under agenda item 107, entitled “International drug control”, the Third Committee recommends, in paragraph 15 of document A/70/491, the adoption of two draft resolutions, and, in paragraph 16, the adoption of one draft decision. Under agenda item 120, entitled “Revitalization of the work of the General Assembly”, the Third Committee recommends, in paragraph 5 of document A/70/522, the adoption of one draft decision. Finally, under agenda item 135, entitled “Programme planning”, the Third Committee wishes to advise the Assembly, in document A/70/523, that no action was required under the item. I would like to thank my fellow Bureau members: the Chair of the Committee, Ambassador Omar Hilale, Permanent Representative of Morocco; and the Vice-Chairs Ms. Tamta Kupradze of Georgia; Mr. Shiraz Arif Mohamed of Guyana and Mr. Gregory Dempsey of Canada, as well as the Secretary of the Committee, Mr. Moncef Khane, and his able team for their unwavering support and sound advice in the efficient management of the proceedings of the Third Committee. Finally, I am grateful to all Third Committee experts for their support to the Bureau and for their friendship. In conclusion, I should like to respectfully commend the reports of the Third Committee before the plenary of the General Assembly for its consideration.
Vote: 31/125 Consensus
Vote: 31/125 Consensus
Vote: 31/125 Consensus
Vote: 31/125 Consensus
The Acting President unattributed #83190
I thank the Rapporteur of the Third Committee. If there is no proposal under rule 66 of the rules of procedure, I shall take it that the General Assembly decides not to discuss the reports of the Third Committee which are before the Assembly today.
It was so decided.
Vote: 31/125 Consensus
The Acting President unattributed #83191
Statements will therefore be limited to explanations of vote. The positions of delegations regarding the recommendations of the Third Committee have been made clear in the Committee and are reflected in the relevant official records. May I remind members that under paragraph 7 of decision 34/401, the General Assembly agreed that: “When the same draft resolution is considered in a Main Committee and in plenary meeting, a delegation should, as far as possible, explain its vote only once, that is, either in the Committee or in plenary meeting, unless that delegation’s vote in plenary meeting is different from its vote in the Committee.” May I further remind delegations that, also in accordance with General Assembly decision 34/401, explanations of vote are limited to 10 minutes and should be made by delegations from their seats. Before we begin to take action on the recommendations contained in the reports of the Committee, I should like to advise representatives that we are going to proceed to take decisions in the same manner as was done in the Committee, unless the Secretariat is notified to the contrary in advance. This means that where recorded votes were taken, we will do the same. I should also hope that we will proceed to adopt without a vote those recommendations that were adopted without a vote in the Committee. Before proceeding further, I would like to draw the attention of members to a note by the Secretariat, entitled “List of proposals contained in the reports of the Third Committee”, which has been circulated, in English only, as document A/C.3/70/INF/1. This note has been distributed desk-to-desk as a reference guide for action on draft resolutions and decisions recommended by the Committee in its reports. In this connection, members will find, in the fourth column of the note, the symbols of the draft resolutions or decisions of the Committee, with the corresponding symbols of the reports for action in the plenary in the second column of the same note. For reports containing multiple recommendations, the draft resolution or decision number is contained in the third column of the note. Furthermore, members are reminded that additional sponsors are no longer accepted now that draft resolutions and decisions have been adopted by the Committee. Any clarification about sponsorship should be addressed to the Secretary of the Committee.
Vote: 31/127 Consensus
Vote: 32/95 Consensus
Vote: 32/95 Consensus
The Acting President unattributed #83192
The Assembly now has before it five draft resolutions recommended by the Third Committee in paragraph 40 of its report and a draft decision recommended by the Committee in paragraph 41 of the same report. Before proceeding further, I should like to inform members that action on draft resolution IV, entitled “Persons with albinism”, is postponed to a later date to allow time for the review of its programme budget implications by the Fifth Committee. The Assembly will take action on draft resolution IV as soon as the report of the Fifth Committee on its programme budget implications is available. We will now take a decision on draft resolutions I to III and V and on the draft decision, one by one. Draft resolution I is entitled “Promoting social integration through social inclusion”. The Third Committee adopted it. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do likewise?
Draft resolution I was adopted (resolution 70/126).
The Acting President unattributed #83193
Draft resolution II is entitled “Policies and programmes involving youth”. The Third Committee adopted it. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do likewise?
Vote: 31/127 Consensus
Draft resolution II was adopted (resolution 70/127).
The Acting President unattributed #83194
Draft resolution III is entitled “Cooperatives in social development”. The Third Committee adopted it. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do likewise?
Draft resolution III was adopted (resolution 70/128).

68.  Promotion and protection of the rights of children Report of the Third Committee (A/70/485)

Vote: 31/37 Recorded Vote
✓ 141   ✗ 1   42 abs.
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✗ No (1)
✓ Yes (141)
Vote: 32/97 Consensus
The Acting President unattributed #83195
Draft resolution V is entitled “Integrating volunteering into peace and development: the plan of action for the next decade and beyond”. The Third Committee adopted it. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do the same?
Draft resolution V was adopted (resolution 70/129).
The Acting President unattributed #83196
We shall now turn to paragraph 41 of the report to take action on the draft decision entitled “Documents considered by the General Assembly in connection with the question of social development”. May I take it that it is the wish of the Assembly to adopt the draft decision as recommended by the Third Committee?
Vote: 32/132 Consensus
Vote: 32/95 Consensus
Vote: 32/98 Consensus

125.  Global health and foreign policy Note by the Secretary-General (A/70/389)

Vote: 70/183 Consensus
The draft decision was adopted (decision 70/530).
The Acting President unattributed #83197
The General Assembly has thus concluded this stage of its consideration of agenda item 28.
The Acting President unattributed #83198
The Assembly has before it four draft resolutions recommended by the Third Committee in paragraph 26 of its report and a draft decision recommended by the Committee in paragraph 27 of the same report. We will now take a decision on draft resolutions I to IV and on the draft decision, one by one. We first turn to draft resolution I, entitled “Violence against women migrant workers”. The Third Committee adopted it. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do the same?
Draft resolution I was adopted (resolution 70/130).
Vote: 31/127 Recorded Vote
✓ 135   ✗ 54   0 abs.
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✓ Yes (135)
The Acting President unattributed #83199
Draft resolution II is entitled “Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women”. The Third Committee adopted it. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do likewise?
Draft resolution II was adopted (resolution 70/131).
The Acting President unattributed #83200
Draft resolution III is entitled “Improvement of the situation of women and girls in rural areas”. The Third Committee adopted it. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do the same?
Draft resolution III was adopted (resolution 70/132).
Vote: 32/97 Recorded Vote
✓ 134   ✗ 54   0 abs.
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✓ Yes (134)
The Acting President unattributed #83201
Draft resolution IV is entitled “Follow-up to the Fourth World Conference on Women and full implementation of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action and the outcome of the twenty-third special session of the General Assembly”. The Third Committee adopted it. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do likewise?
Draft resolution IV was adopted (resolution 70/133).
The Acting President unattributed #83202
We shall now turn to paragraph 27 of the report to take action on the draft decision entitled “Documents considered by the General Assembly in connection with the advancement of women”. May I take it that it is the wish of the Assembly to adopt the draft decision as recommended by the Third Committee?
Vote: 32/98 Consensus
The draft decision was adopted (decision 70/531).
The Acting President unattributed #83203
May I take it that it is the wish of the Assembly to conclude its consideration of agenda item 29?
It was so decided.
Vote: 32/99 Consensus
The Acting President unattributed #83204
The Assembly has before it two draft resolutions recommended by the Third Committee in paragraph 12 of its report. We will now take a decision on draft resolutions I and II, one by one.
The Acting President unattributed #83205
Draft resolution I is entitled “Assistance to refugees, returnees and displaced persons in Africa”. The Third Committee adopted it. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do likewise?
Draft resolution I was adopted (resolution 70/134).
The Acting President unattributed #83206
Draft resolution II is entitled “Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees”. The Third Committee adopted it. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do the same?
Vote: 32/100 Recorded Vote
✓ 148   ✗ 6   33 abs.
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✓ Yes (148)
Draft resolution II was adopted (resolution 70/135).
The Acting President unattributed #83207
May I take it that it is the wish of the General Assembly to conclude its consideration of agenda item 65?
It was so decided.

67.  Report of the Human Rights Council Report of the Third Committee (A/70/484)

The Acting President unattributed #83208
The Assembly has before it a draft resolution recommended by the Third Committee in paragraph 10 of its report. I give the floor to the representative of South Sudan in explanation of vote before the voting.
Vote: 32/101 Recorded Vote
✓ 133   ✗ 54   0 abs.
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✓ Yes (133)
Mr. Madut SSD South Sudan on behalf of Group of African States #83209
I have the honour, on behalf of the Group of African States, to make a statement concerning the draft resolution on this item, as it has been the traditional practice of the African Group to do in the Third Committee. I would like to reiterate the importance the African Group attaches to this draft resolution and to framework resolution 60/251, including its subsequent institution-building package, which marked the foundation of the Human Rights Council and its mandate. The Group is mindful that the Human Rights Council was created as a subsidiary body of the General Assembly; hence the imperative need for the Council to report on an annual basis to the universal membership of the Assembly. In this context, the Group remains firmly committed to ensuring that the provisions of sub-paragraphs (c), (i) and (j) of paragraph 5 of resolution 60/251 are adhered to. The African Group subscribes to the principles of constructive and genuine dialogue and cooperation, as contained in the framework of resolution 60/251. The Group considers the establishment of the Human Rights Council to be a milestone in the global efforts aimed at the promotion and protection of all human rights for all, based on a constructive and cooperative approach that avoids selectivity and double standards and promotes human rights and fundamental freedoms through a better understanding of traditional values of all humankind. Since its establishment, the Human Rights Council has witnessed serious developments that have contributed to furnishing a suitable foundation for overcoming the obstacles that have shackled past international efforts aimed at consolidating universal respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms. This has become possible as a result of the adoption of a constructive and cooperative approach in dealing with human rights question that rests on the provision of advice and necessary technical and financial support at the request of national Governments, given their primary responsibility to promote and protect the human rights of all their citizens. The reports of the Human Rights Council address issues and recommendations that are of the utmost importance to the members of the African Group, as well as to many other Member States, including, inter alia, the right to development, the protection of the family, the elimination of female genital mutilation, the impact of toxic waste on human rights, the effects of the non-repatriation of funds of illicit origin on the enjoyment of human rights, fighting racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and other forms of related intolerance, and migrants. However, the African Group believes that the principles of non-discrimination and equality are two faces of the same coin. They are indeed cross-cutting principles in the vast areas related to the full realization of all human rights and fundamental freedoms for all. Such principles are well entrenched in the Charter of the United Nations and the internationally agreed human rights instruments, as they all reaffirm faith in fundamental human rights, the dignity and the worth of the human person, and the equal rights of men and women, without distinction. They also reaffirm article 29 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the right of Member States to enact laws that meet the just requirements of morality, public order and general welfare in a democratic society. The African Group is strongly concerned about attempts to introduce and impose new notions and concepts, such as sexual orientation and gender identity, that are not referenced in international human rights laws. It strongly rejects any attempt to undermine the international human rights system by seeking to impose concepts and notions pertaining to social matters, including private individual conduct that falls outside internationally agreed human rights legal framework, taking into account that such attempts constitute an expression of disregard for the universality of human rights. Our alarm does not arise merely from concerns about the lack of legal grounds or that the said statement delves into matters that fall essentially within the domestic jurisdiction of States, counter to their commitment under the Charter of the United Nations to respecting the sovereignty of States and the principle of non-intervention. We believe that people are not inherently vulnerable, but that some individuals and groups find themselves in vulnerable situations due to a number of factors, including the socioeconomic setting in which they live. The Group is therefore concerned that non-internationally-agreed notions are given attention to the detriment of issues of paramount importance, such as the right to development and the racism agenda. In conclusion, the African Group presents this draft resolution to express its continued support for the important work of the Council, and it looks forward to the adoption of the draft resolution by consensus, a matter that will provide a message of strong support to the Council. We invite all Member States to sponsor the draft resolution.
The Acting President unattributed #83210
We will now take a decision on the draft resolution. A recorded vote has been requested. [Subsequently, the delegation of Spain informed the Secretariat that it had intended to abstain.]
A recorded vote was taken.
Vote: 32/127 Consensus
The draft resolution was adopted by 121 votes to 2, with 60 abstentions (resolution 70/136).
The Acting President unattributed #83211
The Assembly has thus concluded this stage of its consideration of agenda item 67.
The Acting President unattributed #83212
The Assembly has before it two draft resolutions recommended by the Third Committee in paragraph 30 of its report. We will now take a decision on draft resolutions I and II, one by one. Draft resolution I is entitled “Rights of the child”. We shall first consider two draft amendments to draft resolution I, contained in documents A/70/L.35 and A/70/L.36. I now give the floor to the representative of South Sudan to introduce the draft amendment contained in document A/70/L.35.
Vote: 32/128 Consensus
Mr. Madut SSD South Sudan #83213
The Group of African States takes the floor before the adoption of draft resolution I, contained in document A/70/485 and entitled “Rights of the Child” to present a draft amendment to replace paragraph 49 (u) by the following paragraph: “To develop, where appropriate with the support of international organizations, civil society and non-governmental organizations, policies and programmes, giving priority to formal, informal and non-formal education programmes, including age-appropriate sex education, with appropriate direction and guidance from parents and legal guardians, that support adolescents and enable them to acquire relevant and adequate knowledge and information in a manner consistent with their evolving capacities, develop self-esteem and take responsibility for their own lives, and to place special focus on programmes to educate women and men, especially parents, about the importance of children’s physical and mental health and well-being and the need to develop and maintain respectful relationships between girls and boys.” This paragraph has the same language as paragraph 6 of draft resolution A/C.3/70/L.29/Rev.1, entitled “The girl child”, previously adopted by the Third Committee. This language was carefully crafted and negotiated among Member States until consensus was reached on it. The elements in paragraph 49 (u) go against the spirit and the letter of the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC), which is the most universally agreed international human rights instrument and the basis of the draft resolution on the rights of the child. The language in paragraph 49 (u) calls upon States to develop educational programmes and teaching materials, including on comprehensive evidence-based human sexuality, in order to, inter alia, modify the social and cultural patterns of conduct of men and women of all ages. The purposes of education programmes being called upon by this paragraph are not in line with the obligations of Member States set forth in articles 28 and 29 of the CRC on children’s education. The adoption of the language in paragraph 49 (u) sets a very negative precedent for the work of the United Nations, as certain Member States seek, for the second time, to impose their cultural and social preferences on others. This imposition goes against the principles and purposes of the Charter of the United Nations, which include respect for the sovereign right of all States and the need for international cooperation in addressing all issues. The African Group has made it clear that the draft resolution on the rights of the child should never be voted on, but when such a resolution does not uphold the very Convention it seeks to implement, then the Group cannot take a backseat position and thereby undermine the well-being of all our children. The Group therefore reiterates its commitment to upholding the Convention on the Rights of the Child, which is also in line with the African Union Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child. In conclusion, the Group urges Member States to vote in favour of the draft amendment on the draft resolution on the rights of the child. The General Assembly’s unequivocal support will send a strong message to the international community that the issues contained in paragraph 49 (u) of draft resolution I are neither universally acceptable nor reflected in any international human right instrument that has been negotiated and adopted by consensus.
The Acting President unattributed #83214
I shall now give the floor to the representative of Luxembourg, who wishes to speak in explanation of vote on the two draft amendments contained in documents A/70/L.35 and A/70/L.36.
Mr. Maes LUX Luxembourg #83215
I am speaking on behalf of the European Union and the Group of Latin American and Caribbean States on the draft amendment that has just been introduced to alter the language in paragraph 49 (u) of draft resolution I, recommended in the report of the Third Committee (A/70/485) and entitled “Rights of the child”. We are surprised to learn that the same draft amendment has been proposed again after it was previously rejected in the Third Committee. The result of the voting in the Third Committee demonstrated the support of a clear majority of Member States for the original text. I would like to reiterate that the European Union and the Group of Latin American and Caribbean States carried out an inclusive, transparent and open dialogue with all interested delegations throughout several rounds of informal negotiations over several weeks. The language in the text reflects a delicate balance of the various concerns. It is regrettable to the sponsors of the draft resolution that issues regarding the rights of the child, which should be at the core of the work of the Organization, are proving challenging to be agreed by consensus. I would also recall that this year’s theme is the right to education and that, in this context, the importance of paragraph 49 (u) is clear. It is important to address the issue of comprehensive evidence-based education on human sexuality in this draft resolution. The provision in the draft resolution on comprehensive, evidence-based education on human sexuality based on full and accurate information for all adolescents and youth in a manner consistent with their evolving capacities and with appropriate direction and guidance from parents and legal guardians will positively impact their life-long well-being. It will help them to make informed decisions, avoid unwanted pregnancies and improve their health, including by increasing protection against sexually transmitted infections, such as HIV/ AIDS. In summary, it will have a positive impact on the realization of their rights. As the draft amendment would delete several important elements, the members of the European Union and the Group of Latin American and Caribbean States will vote against it, and we strongly encourage everyone else to do the same.
The Acting President unattributed #83216
The Assembly will now take a decision on the draft amendment to sub-paragraph (u) of paragraph 49 of draft resolution I, as contained in document A/70/L.35. A recorded vote has been requested.
Vote: 39/192 Recorded Vote
✓ 135   ✗ 53   1 abs.
Show country votes
✓ Yes (135)
A recorded vote was taken.
The amendment to draft resolution I contained in document A/70/L.35 was rejected by 86 votes to 73, with 18 abstentions.
The Acting President unattributed #83217
The Assembly will next take action on the second draft amendment to sub-paragraph (u) of paragraph 49 of draft resolution I. I give the floor to the representative of the Secretariat.
Vote: 34/131 Consensus
Mr. Botnaru Department for General Assembly and Conference Management #83218
I should like to announce that since the submission of the draft amendment to draft resolution I contained in document A/70/L.36, in addition to those countries listed in the document, Oman has become a sponsor.
The Acting President unattributed #83219
The Assembly will now take a decision on the draft amendment to draft resolution I, as contained in document A/70/L.36. A recorded vote has been requested.
A recorded vote was taken.
The amendment to draft resolution II contained in document A/70/L.36 was rejected by 92 votes to 61, with 16 abstentions.
Vote: 40/229 Recorded Vote
✓ 127   ✗ 14   41 abs.
Show country votes
✓ Yes (127)
The Acting President unattributed #83220
I shall now give the floor to the representative of Burkina Faso, who wishes to speak in explanation of vote before the voting on draft resolutions I, contained in document A/70/485.
Ms. Soulama BFA Burkina Faso [French] #83221
I am speaking in explanation of vote before the voting on draft resolution I. Burkina Faso regrets the fact that we are voting on a draft resolution on such an important issue relating to one of the most vulnerable sectors of our population. This draft resolution is being submitted to a vote in the General Assembly for the first time in its history. As it happens, on the day following its adoption in the Third Committee — in which there were no votes against it — there was visible uneasiness in the room. Burkina Faso was hopeful that, based on that precedent, various efforts would be made to ensure that the draft resolution would be adopted by consensus. However, once we knew we were going to have to go through this exercise once again, an alternative was offered that replaced the controversial language in one paragraph of the draft resolution. For that reason, while Burkina Faso has resolved to vote in favour of the draft resolution, we would like to express reservations about the controversial paragraph.
The Acting President unattributed #83222
We shall now proceed to take a decision on draft resolution I, entitled “Rights of the child”. A recorded vote has been requested. [Subsequently, the delegations of Botswana and the United Republic of Tanzania informed the Secretariat that they had intended to abstain.]
Vote: 40/230 Consensus
A recorded vote was taken.
Draft resolution I was adopted by 141 votes to 1, with 42 abstentions (resolution 70/137).
The Acting President unattributed #83223
We now turn to draft resolution II, entitled “The girl child”. The Third Committee adopted it. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do likewise?
Vote: 37//6/ Consensus
Draft resolution II was adopted (resolution 70/138).
The Acting President unattributed #83224
I shall now give the floor to the representative of Saudi Arabia, who wishes to speak in explanation of vote on the resolutions just adopted.
Ms. Al Shubaili SAU Saudi Arabia on behalf of countries of the Gulf Cooperation Council [Arabic] #83225
I am speaking in explanation of vote on behalf of the countries of the Gulf Cooperation Council. We would first like to thank the delegations that introduced the resolution in the Third Committee on the promotion and protection of the rights of children under agenda item 68. In that regard, we would like to express our regret that the sponsors of the resolution did not respect the terms used internationally, particularly concerning human sexuality, in particular in paragraph 49, which is incompatible with articles 28 and 29 of the Convention on the Rights of the Child. Our countries therefore abstained in the voting on the resolution.
Vote: 48/137 Consensus
The Acting President unattributed duplicate #83226
May I take it that it is the wish of the General Assembly to conclude its consideration of agenda item 68?
It was so decided.

69.  Rights of indigenous peoples Report of the Third Committee (A/70/486)

The Acting President unattributed #83233
Before proceeding further, I should like to inform members that action on the draft resolution, entitled “Rights of indigenous peoples”, is postponed to a later date to allow time for the review of its programme budget implications by the Fifth Committee. The Assembly will take action on the draft resolution as soon as the report of the Fifth Committee on its programme budget implications is available. The General Assembly has thus concluded this stage of its consideration of agenda item 69.
Vote: 40/233 Consensus
The Acting President unattributed #83234
The Assembly has before it two draft resolutions recommended by the Third Committee in paragraph 18 of its report, and one draft decision recommended by the Committee in paragraph 19 of the same report. We will now take a decision on draft resolutions I and II and on the draft decision, one by one. We turn first to draft resolution I, entitled “Combating glorification of Nazism, neo-Nazism and other practices that contribute to fuelling contemporary forms of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance”. A recorded vote has been requested.
A recorded vote was taken.
Draft resolution I was adopted by 133 votes to 4, with 49 abstentions (resolution 70/139).
Vote: 36/170 Consensus
The Acting President unattributed #83235
We now turn to draft resolution II, entitled “A global call for concrete action for the total elimination of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance and the comprehensive implementation of and follow-up to the Durban Declaration and Programme of Action”. A recorded vote has been requested.
A recorded vote was taken.
Draft resolution II was adopted by 133 votes to 11, with 44 abstentions (resolution 70/140).
Vote: 48/140 Consensus
The Acting President unattributed #83236
We shall now turn to paragraph 19 of the report (A/70/487) to take action on the draft decision entitled “Documents considered by the General Assembly in connection with the elimination of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance”. May I take it that it is the wish of the General Assembly to adopt the draft decision as recommended by the Third Committee?
The draft decision was adopted (decision 70/532).
The Acting President unattributed duplicate #83237
May I take it that it is the wish of the General Assembly to conclude its consideration of agenda item 70?
It was so decided.
Vote: 39/201 Consensus
The Acting President unattributed #83254
The Assembly has before it three draft resolutions recommended by the Third Committee in paragraph 22 of its report. We will now take a decision on draft resolutions I to III, one by one. We first turn to draft resolution I, entitled “The right of the Palestinian people to self-determination”. A recorded vote has been requested.
A recorded vote was taken.
Draft resolution I was adopted by 177 votes to 7, with 4 abstentions (resolution 70/141).
Vote: 56/169 Consensus
The Acting President unattributed #83255
We now turn to draft resolution II, entitled “Use of mercenaries as a means of violating human rights and impeding the exercise of the right of peoples to self-determination”. A recorded vote has been requested.
A recorded vote was taken.
Draft resolution II was adopted by 130 votes to 53, with 6 abstentions (resolution 70/142).
Vote: 56/230 Consensus
The Acting President unattributed #83256
Draft resolution III is entitled “Universal realization of the right of peoples to self-determination”. The Third Committee adopted it. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do likewise?
Draft resolution III was adopted (resolution 70/143).
The Acting President unattributed duplicate #83257
May I take it that it is the wish of the General Assembly to conclude its consideration of agenda item 71?
It was so decided.
Vote: 56/170 Recorded Vote
✓ 184   ✗ 1   1 abs.
Show country votes
✓ Yes (184)

72.  Promotion and protection of human rights Report of the Third Committee (A/70/489)

The Acting President unattributed #83294
The Assembly has before it a draft decision recommended by the Third Committee in paragraph 5 of its report (A/70/489). We will now take action on the draft decision, entitled “Documents considered by the General Assembly in connection with the question of the promotion and protection of human rights”. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to adopt the draft decision as recommended by the Third Committee?
The draft decision was adopted (decision 70/533).
The Acting President unattributed duplicate #83297
The Assembly has before it three draft resolutions recommended by the Third Committee in paragraph 22 of its report. We will now take a decision on draft resolutions I to III, one by one. Draft resolution I is entitled “International Covenants on human rights”. The Third Committee adopted it. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do likewise?
Draft resolution I was adopted (resolution 70/144).
The Acting President unattributed #83299
Draft resolution II is entitled “Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and the Optional Protocol thereto”. The Third Committee adopted it. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do the same?
Draft resolution II was adopted (resolution 70/145).
The Acting President unattributed #83301
Draft resolution III is entitled “Torture and other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment”. The Third Committee adopted it. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do the same?
Draft resolution III was adopted (resolution 70/146).
The Acting President unattributed #83304
May I take it that it is the wish of the General Assembly to conclude its consideration of sub-item (a) of agenda item 72? (b) Human rights questions, including alternative approaches for improving the effective enjoyment of human rights and fundamental freedoms Report of the Third Committee (A/70/489/Add.2)
It was so decided.
The Acting President unattributed #83306
The Assembly has before it 25 draft resolutions recommended by the Third Committee in paragraph 155 of its report. We will now take a decision on draft resolutions I to XXV, one by one. After all the decisions have been taken, representatives will have the opportunity to explain their vote. We turn first to draft resolution I, entitled “Protection of migrants”. The Third Committee adopted it. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do the same?
Draft resolution I was adopted (resolution 70/147).
The Acting President unattributed #83307
We now turn to draft resolution II, entitled “Protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms while countering terrorism”. The Third Committee adopted it. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do the same?
Draft resolution II was adopted (resolution 70/148).
The Acting President unattributed #83310
We turn now to draft resolution III, entitled “Promotion of a democratic and equitable international order”. A recorded vote has been requested.
A recorded vote was taken.
Draft resolution III was adopted by 130 votes to 53, with 5 abstentions (resolution 70/149).
The Acting President unattributed #83312
Draft resolution IV is entitled “Strengthening United Nations action in the field of human rights through the promotion of international cooperation and the importance of non-selectivity, impartiality and objectivity”. The Third Committee adopted it. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do the same?
Draft resolution IV was adopted (resolution 70/150).
The Acting President unattributed #83313
We now turn to draft resolution V, entitled “Human rights and unilateral coercive measures”. A recorded vote has been requested.
A recorded vote was taken.
Draft resolution V was adopted by 135 votes to 54 (resolution 70/151).
The Acting President unattributed #83314
We turn to draft resolution VI, entitled “Promotion of equitable geographical distribution in the membership of the human rights treaty bodies”. A recorded vote has been requested.
A recorded vote was taken.
Draft resolution VI was adopted by 134 votes to 54 (resolution 70/152).
The Acting President unattributed #83315
Draft resolution VII is entitled “Enhancement of international cooperation in the field of human rights”. The Third Committee adopted it. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do the same?
Draft resolution VII was adopted (resolution 70/153).
The Acting President unattributed #83317
Draft resolution VIII is entitled “The right to food”. The Third Committee adopted it. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do the same?
Draft resolution VIII was adopted (resolution 70/154).
The Acting President unattributed #83319
Draft resolution IX is entitled “The right to development”. A recorded vote has been requested. [Subsequently, the delegation of Japan informed the Secretariat that it had intended to abstain.]
A recorded vote was taken.
Draft resolution IX was adopted by 148 votes to 6, with 33 abstentions (resolution 70/155).
The Acting President unattributed #83321
Draft resolution X is entitled “Human rights and cultural diversity”. A recorded vote has been requested. [Subsequently, the delegation of Madagascar informed the Secretariat that it had intended to vote in favour.]
A recorded vote was taken.
Draft resolution X was adopted by 133 votes to 54 (resolution 70/156).
The Acting President unattributed #83325
Draft resolution XI is entitled “Combating intolerance, negative stereotyping, stigmatization, discrimination, incitement to violence and violence against persons, based on religion or belief”. The Third Committee adopted it. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do the same?
Draft resolution XI was adopted (resolution 70/157).
The Acting President unattributed #83327
We turn to draft resolution XII, entitled “Freedom of religion or belief”. The Third Committee adopted it. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do the same?
Draft resolution XII was adopted (resolution 70/158).
The Acting President unattributed #83330
Draft resolution XIII is entitled “Globalization and its impact on the full enjoyment of all human rights”. A recorded vote has been requested.
A recorded vote was taken.
Draft resolution XIII was adopted by 135 votes to 53, with 1 abstention (resolution 70/159).
The Acting President unattributed #83333
Draft resolution XIV is entitled “International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance”. The Third Committee adopted draft resolution XIV. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do the same?
Draft resolution XIV was adopted (resolution 70/160).
The Acting President unattributed #83334
Draft resolution XV is entitled “Human rights defenders in the context of the Declaration on the Right and Responsibility of Individuals, Groups and Organs of Society to Promote and Protect Universally Recognized Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms”. A recorded vote has been requested. [Subsequently, the delegation of Mauritania informed the Secretariat that it had intended to abstain.]
A recorded vote was taken.
Draft resolution XV was adopted by 127 votes to 14, with 41 abstentions (resolution 70/161).
The Acting President unattributed #83335
Draft resolution XVI is entitled “The safety of journalists and the issue of impunity”. The Third Committee adopted it. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do the same?
Draft resolution XVI was adopted (resolution 70/162).
The Acting President unattributed #83336
Draft resolution XVII is entitled “National institutions for the promotion and protection of human rights”. The Third Committee adopted it. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do the same?
Draft resolution XVII was adopted (resolution 70/163).
The Acting President unattributed #83337
Draft resolution XVIII is entitled “Measures to enhance the promotion and protection of the human rights and dignity of older persons”. The Third Committee adopted it. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do the same?
Draft resolution XVIII was adopted (resolution 70/164).
The Acting President unattributed #83339
Draft resolution XIX is entitled “Protection of and assistance to internally displaced persons”. The Third Committee adopted it. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do the same?
Draft resolution XIX was adopted (resolution 70/165).
The Acting President unattributed #83341
Draft resolution XX is entitled “Effective promotion of the Declaration on the Rights of Persons Belonging to National or Ethnic, Religious and Linguistic Minorities”. The Third Committee adopted it. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do the same?
Draft resolution XX was adopted (resolution 70/166).
The Acting President unattributed #83342
Draft resolution XXI is entitled “Subregional Centre for Human Rights and Democracy in Central Africa”. The Third Committee adopted it. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do the same?
Draft resolution XXI was adopted (resolution 70/167).
The Acting President unattributed #83345
Draft resolution XXII is entitled “Strengthening the role of the United Nations in enhancing periodic and genuine elections and the promotion of democratization”. A recorded vote has been requested. [Subsequently, the delegation of the United Republic of Tanzania informed the Secretariat that it had intended to vote in favour.]
A recorded vote was taken.
Draft resolution XXII was adopted by 168 to none, with 15 abstentions (resolution 70/168).
The Acting President unattributed #83347
Draft resolution XXIII is entitled “The human rights to safe drinking water and sanitation”. The Third Committee adopted it. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do the same?
Draft resolution XXIII was adopted (resolution 70/169).
The Acting President unattributed #83350
Draft resolution XXIV is entitled “Towards the full realization of an inclusive and accessible United Nations for persons with disabilities”. The Third Committee adopted it. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do the same?
Draft resolution XXIV was adopted (resolution 70/170).
The Acting President unattributed #83352
Draft resolution XXV is entitled “United Nations Human Rights Training and Documentation Centre for South-west Asia and the Arab Region”. A recorded vote has been requested.
A recorded vote was taken.
Draft resolution XXV was adopted by 184 votes to 1, with 1 abstention (resolution 70/171)
The Acting President unattributed #83354
I now give the floor to the representative of El Salvador.
Mr. Rivas SLV El Salvador on behalf of 21 members of the Group of Friends of Older Persons #83359
I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the 21 members of the Group of Friends of Older Persons. We express our appreciation for the adoption by consensus of resolution 70/164, entitled “Measures to enhance the promotion and protection of the human rights and dignity of older persons”. We acknowledge the effort of Argentina, and particularly the leadership of the facilitator. We highlight the constructive consultations and the flexibility shown by all delegations during the negotiation process. We are aware of the different views on the measures to enhance the promotion and protection of the human rights and dignity of older persons, but we recognize the importance of strengthening the implementation of current provisions, as well as of a specific international legal instrument fundamentally necessary to guarantee the rights and dignity of older persons. Full guarantee includes monitoring for the realization and fostering of national laws and policies to better define the responsibility of States in the crucial areas of rights that we should all enjoy as we age. As stated in the resolution, we encourage Member States to continue contributing to the work of the Open-ended Working Group on Ageing, in particular by presenting at its next session measures to enhance the promotion and protection of the human rights and dignity of older persons, such as best practices, lessons learned and possible content for a mutual legal instrument. We undertook a similar exercise during the last session of the Open-ended Working Group on Ageing. Action will be required at the 2016 session. It is not enough to just visualize the existing gaps and challenges that affect the rights of the older persons. We are repeating and presenting the same identification of gaps at each session of the Open-ended Working Group. Once these gaps have been identified  — and they have been over six working sessions — it is the responsibility of Member States to provide a path to change. We emphasize the need for a constructive proposal for international action, and we hope that the outcome of those discussions will be more fruitful. The Group of Friends of Older Persons will engage constructively on all those activities, and we will continue advocating for better and universal protection and promotion of the rights of older persons through an international legal instrument.
The Acting President unattributed duplicate #83360
May I take it that it is the wish of the General Assembly to conclude its consideration of sub-item (b) of agenda item 72? (c) Human rights situations and reports of special rapporteurs and representatives Report of the Third Committee (A/70/489/Add.3)
It was so decided.
The Acting President unattributed #83362
The Assembly has before it four draft resolutions recommended by the Fifth Committee in paragaph 30 of its report. Action on draft resolution II, entitled “Situation of human rights in Myanmar”, and on draft resolution IV, entitled “Situation of human rights in the Syrian Arab Republic”, is postponed to a later date to allow time for the review of the programme budget implications by the Fifth Committee. The Assembly will take action on draft resolutions II and IV as soon as the report of the Fifth Committee on the programme budget implications is available. I now give the floor to those delegations that wish to speak in explanation of vote before the voting.
Mr. Ri PRK Democratic People's Republic of Korea #83365
The delegation of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea categorically rejects draft resolution I, on the situation of human rights in the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, submitted by the European Union and Japan, as contained in document A/70/489/Add.3. The draft resolution has no relevance to the genuine promotion and protection of human rights, as it is the product of hostile policies, political plots and sinister conspiracies against the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea on the part of the United States, Japan and other forces in their attempt to break down the State and social system of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea. The draft resolution pursues political objectives to eliminate the socialist system that is the cradle of life of a people, while denying their sovereign equality. It is based on all sorts of distortions and fabrications, including the sheer lies of so-called defectors and criminals who abandoned and fled the motherland that gave birth to them and raised them. Despite the continuing sanctions and pressure imposed by the United States and other hostile forces, the Government of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea takes responsibility for the promotion and protection of human rights of the popular masses, and concentrates all its efforts on providing them with enhanced livelihoods and ensuring a better future. Our people take immense pride and confidence in the socialist system and the mechanisms for the protection and promotion of their human rights established in the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, while enjoying a full range of human rights in all fields of social life. The Democratic People’s Republic of Korea advocates for genuine dialogue and cooperation in the field of international human rights, but it will strongly respond to the end to the confrontation and pressure aimed at stifling its system. My delegation requests a recorded vote on the draft resolution, and expects that all Member States will vote against it, in conformity with the true spirit of the Charter of the United Nations and the principles of non-politicization, non-selectivity and impartiality that are enshrined in the final document of the Non-Aligned Movement Summit. In conclusion, my delegation strongly rejects the country-specific draft resolutions on the Islamic Republic of Iran, the Syrian Arab Republic and Myanmar, proceeding from its principled position on the discussion of human rights issues.
Mrs. Vadiati IRN Islamic Republic of Iran #83368
The biased and non-constructive draft resolution III, on which the General Assembly is about to take action, is an insincere and indefensible political move. It marks selective and politicized distortion of the facts in the consideration of issues relating to Iran and only reminds the Iranian people of the deliberate hostile policy of incitement to Iranophobia. Iran clearly has rejected this draft resolution since it was first introduced, like other country-specific resolutions under this agenda item. On repeated occasions, it has called upon its initiator to engage in a respectful and equitable dialogue, instead of trying to exert pressure and adopt coercive measures. The majority of Member States have repeatedly rejected the manipulation of human rights for political objectives, and have insisted on the imperative of the promotion and protection of human rights in all countries through constructive dialogue, engagement and cooperation. Unfortunately, in many cases these principles are not upheld, and these important mechanisms have not been successful or effective in fulfilling their duties. One example is the way that they have ignored the context of inaction in some countries for years and even decades, and the rise of the extreme barbaric takfiri ideology, which has led in turn to the creation of violent extremist groups such as Daesh, which are now wreaking havoc in our region and threatening the peace and security of the whole world. The disastrous outcome of these ideologies for the Middle East and beyond should serve as a clarion call for those self-proclaimed advocates of human rights to avoid working only on the basis of their narrowly defined political interests. The introduction of draft resolution III is taking place at a time in which Iran is pursuing a policy of constructive engagement with the world. In addition, the Iranian Government has endeavoured to create a new environment by adopting meaningful, substantive confidence-building measures that cover all areas, including human rights. Furthermore, with a focus on human rights, my Government is also fulfilling its obligations within the framework of the Universal Periodic Review mechanism. It is pushing through a citizen-rights charter through its legislature and has declared its readiness to engage in a serious and a genuine human rights dialogue with interested countries. Looking at the future, we can commence a process of constructive engagement on human rights, instead of insisting on the outdated policy of politicizing human rights, using dialogue instead of confrontation, so as to depart from the path travelled during the last years, give diplomacy a chance and end the resort to counterproductive and coercive approaches that sap the energy we need to stand up to the challenges of our time and our world. In the light of the foregoing, I would like to ask for a recorded vote on draft resolution III, in the sincere hope that representatives here today will choose the right path by saying no to it.
The Acting President unattributed #83370
We will now take a decision on draft resolutions I and III, one by one. Draft resolution I is entitled “Situation of human rights in the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea”. A recorded vote has been requested.
A recorded vote was taken.
Draft resolution I was adopted by 119 votes to 19, with 48 abstentions (resolution 70/172).
The Acting President unattributed #83373
Draft resolution III is entitled “Situation of human rights in the Islamic Republic of Iran”. A recorded vote has been requested.
A recorded vote was taken.
Draft resolution III was adopted by 81 votes to 37, with 67 abstentions (resolution 70/173).
The Acting President unattributed #83375
The General Assembly has thus concluded this stage of its consideration of sub-item (c) of agenda item 72. (d) Comprehensive implementation of and follow-up to the Vienna Declaration and Programme of Action Report of the Third Committee (A/70/489/Add.4)
The Acting President unattributed #83379
May I take it that the Assembly wishes to take note of the report of the Third Committee?
It was so decided.
The Acting President unattributed duplicate #83380
May I take it that it is the wish of the General Assembly to conclude its consideration of sub-item (d) of agenda item 72?
It was so decided.
The Acting President unattributed #84910
The Assembly has before it seven draft resolutions recommended by the Third Committee in paragraph 35 of its report, as well as a draft decision recommended by the Committee in paragraph 36 of the same report. We will now take a decision on draft resolutions I to VII and on the draft decision, one by one. Draft resolution I is entitled “Thirteenth United Nations Congress on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice”. The Third Committee adopted it. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do likewise?
Draft resolution I was adopted (resolution 70/174).
The Acting President unattributed #84913
Draft resolution II is entitled “United Nations Standard Minimum Rules for the Treatment of Prisoners (the Nelson Mandela Rules)”. The Third Committee adopted it. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do the same?
Draft resolution II was adopted (resolution 70/175).
The Acting President unattributed #84915
Draft resolution III is entitled “Taking action against gender-related killing of women and girls”. The Third Committee adopted it. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do likewise?
Draft resolution III was adopted (resolution 70/176).
The Acting President unattributed #84921
Draft resolution IV is entitled “Technical assistance for implementing the international conventions and protocols related to counter-terrorism”. The Third Committee adopted it. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do the same?
Draft resolution IV was adopted (resolution 70/177).
The Acting President unattributed #84927
Draft resolution V is entitled “Strengthening the United Nations crime prevention and criminal justice programme, in particular its technical cooperation capacity”. The Third Committee adopted it. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do the same?
Draft resolution V was adopted (resolution 70/178).
The Acting President unattributed #84930
Draft resolution VI is entitled “Improving the coordination of efforts against trafficking in persons”. The Third Committee adopted it. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do likewise?
Draft resolution VI was adopted (resolution 70/179).
The Acting President unattributed #84932
Draft resolution VII is entitled “United Nations African Institute for the Prevention of Crime and the Treatment of Offenders”. The Third Committee adopted it. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do the same?
Draft resolution VII was adopted (resolution 70/180).
The Acting President unattributed #84934
We shall now turn to paragraph 36 of the report to take action on the draft decision entitled “Reports considered by the General Assembly in connection with the question of crime prevention and criminal justice”. May I take it that it is the wish of the Assembly to adopt the draft decision as recommended by the Third Committee?
The draft decision was adopted (decision 70/535).
The Acting President unattributed duplicate #84938
May I take it that it is the wish of the General Assembly to conclude its consideration of agenda item 106?
The Acting President unattributed #84953
The Assembly has before it two draft resolutions recommended by the Third Committee in paragraph 15 of its report, as well as a draft decision recommended by the Committee in paragraph 16 of the same report. We will now take a decision on draft resolutions I and II and on the draft decision, one by one. Draft resolution I is entitled “Special session of the General Assembly on the world drug problem to be held in 2016”. The Third Committee adopted it. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do likewise?
Draft resolution I was adopted (resolution 70/181).
The Acting President unattributed #84956
Draft resolution II is entitled “International cooperation against the world drug problem”. The Third Committee adopted it. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do the same?
Draft resolution II was adopted (resolution 70/182).
The Acting President unattributed #84957
We now turn to paragraph 16 of the report to take action on the draft decision entitled “Report considered by the General Assembly in connection with the question of international drug control”. May I take it that it is the wish of the Assembly to adopt the draft decision, as recommended by the Third Committee?
The draft decision was adopted (decision 70/536).
The Acting President unattributed #84961
The General Assembly has thus concluded this stage of its consideration of agenda item 107.

120.  Revitalization of the work of the General Assembly Report of the Third Committee (A/70/522)

The Acting President unattributed duplicate #84967
The Assembly has before it a draft decision recommended by the Third Committee in paragraph 5 of its report. We will now take action on the draft decision entitled “Programme of work of the Third Committee for the seventy-first session of the General Assembly”. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to adopt the draft decision, as recommended by the Third Committee?
The draft decision was adopted (decision 70/537).
The Acting President unattributed #84974
The General Assembly has thus concluded this stage of its consideration of agenda item 120.

135.  Programme planning Report of the Third Committee (A/70/523)

The Acting President unattributed #84977
May I take it that the General Assembly wishes to take note of the report of the Third Committee?
It was so decided.
The Acting President on behalf of General Assembly unattributed #84979
The Assembly has thus concluded this stage of its consideration of agenda item 135. On behalf of the General Assembly, I would like to thank His Excellency Mr. Omar Hilale, Permanent Representative of Morocco to the United Nations and Chair of the Third Committee, the members of the Bureau, the Secretary of the Committee and representatives for a job well done. The General Assembly has thus concluded its consideration of all the reports of the Third Committee before it today, with the exception of document A/70/481, concerning draft resolution IV; document A/70/486, concerning draft resolution I; and document A/70/489/Add.3, concerning draft resolutions II and IV. As noted earlier, the Assembly will take action on those draft resolutions as soon as the reports of the Fifth Committee on their programme budget implications are available.
The Acting President unattributed #84982
I now give the floor to the representative of Senegal to introduce draft resolution A/70/L.32.
Mr. Faye SEN Senegal [French] #84984
On behalf of the core members of the Foreign Policy and Global Health Initiative — Brazil, France, Indonesia, Norway, Thailand, South Africa and my own delegation, Senegal — I have the honour to introduce draft resolution A/70/L.32, entitled “Global health and foreign policy: strengthening the management of international health crises”. In 2014, the world experienced the Ebola epidemic that assailed West Africa, which was considered by the World Health Organization (WHO) to be an international public health emergency and by the Security Council to be a threat to international peace and security. Accordingly, the Oslo group, in renewing its commitment to the integration of health challenges in defining the foreign policy of States, in accordance with the Oslo Ministerial Declaration adopted in 2007, decided to focus this year on the urgent need to strengthen the management of international health crises through synergy and collaboration among Member States, the World Health Organization, international organizations and all stakeholders in area of health. In doing so, this year’s draft resolution calls for the creation and strengthening by Member States of flexible and sustainable health systems in order to effectively respond to outbreaks and other health emergencies. For that reason, the World Health Organization is invited to provide technical support to Member States, upon their request, so as to enhance their capacity to deal with such emergencies and implement the International Health Regulations, with a particular focus on developing countries, in order to improve the resilience of their health systems and strengthen surveillance measures and preparation, especially with regard to infectious diseases. The text also urges Member States to strengthen, where appropriate, the capacity of countries and regions in the field of disaster risk reduction in accordance with the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015-2030, bearing in mind the importance of having adequate and available financial resources to respond to outbreaks and other health emergencies. The draft resolution invites Member States in a position to do so to support the World Bank initiative aimed at setting up a financing mechanism for fighting pandemics so as to ensure that the world has the financial resources to deploy quickly trained health workers with the equipment, drugs and other necessities to meet health emergencies as a supplement to the World Health Organization reserve fund. Welcoming the decisions taken by the special session of the WHO Executive Board on the Ebola virus and by the one hundred and eighth World Health Assembly to strengthen the international response to health emergencies, the text welcomes regional efforts to implement an action plan to contain disease, and it commends the current process of creating the African Centre for Disease Control and Prevention and other similar initiatives around the world pursuant to the International Health Regulations. The resolution also welcomes the establishment by the Secretary-General of a high-level panel focused on global response to health crises, whose report is before the Assembly. In order to make accessible, affordable and available medication, vaccines and diagnostics for the Ebola virus and other emerging and neglected tropical diseases, the draft resolution reiterates its call on Member States to continue to collaborate, as appropriate, on models and approaches that support the delinkage of the cost of research and development from the prices of such health services. Building on the recent adoption of 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development (resolution 70/1), the draft resolution calls on the international community, particularly Member States, to duly take into account the importance of the management of international health crises in defining policies aimed at the implementation of such progammes. Moreover, in the interest of bolstering awareness, engagement and political leadership regarding antimicrobial resistance, the draft resolution decides to hold in 2016, at the request of the World Health Assembly, a high-level meeting of the General Assembly on antimicrobial resistance. The options and modalities for the holding of such a meeting are to be determined by the Secretary-General, in collaboration with the Director-General of WHO and in consultation with Member States. The text also requests the Secretary-General to submit a report on the lessons learned from actions conducted to contain public-health emergencies and on the management of previous international crises that have had health consequences, and to transmit in 2016 and 2017 reports provided by WHO on the state of health security. Finally, the draft resolution submitted for the consideration of the General Assembly, in addition to drawing the attention of the international community to the socioeconomic, political and security impact of international health crises, calls for the bolstering of international cooperation for the improvement of public health-care services and the coordination of interventions leading to national health-care systems becoming more resilient. Those are the goals of this draft resolution. Against that backdrop, it is a pleasure for me to invite Member States that have not yet done so to co-sponsor the draft resolution, which I hope will adopted by consensus, as was the case in previous years, as it is the fruit of the collective efforts of Member States, but also the proof of the unswerving commitment of the international community to provide an appropriate response to the challenges that the management of international health crises continue to pose.
Mr. Raja Zaib Shah MYS Malaysia #84987
It gives me great honour to speak on behalf of the member States of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), namely, Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia, the Lao People’s Democratic Republic, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Viet Nam and my own country, Malaysia. We express our sincere appreciation to the Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO) for her report on the protection of health workers (see A/70/389), which encompasses aspects ranging from violence experienced in armed conflict to violence experienced in the workplace. Ensuring the capability of health systems to be able to respond to health emergencies, and even to meet routine healthcare needs, is an imperative. The increasing number of attacks on medical personnel, health-care facilities, vehicles and patients is particularly alarming. The international community must act decisively to address that issue. In that regard, we are pleased to note that WHO is currently developing methodology and tools to systematically collect data on attacks against health facilities, health workers, health transport and patients in complex humanitarian emergencies in the field. We hope that the data collected will serve to further promote the safety and protection of health facility personnel and patients. ASEAN recognizes that instituting a resilient health system and advancing the attainment of universal health coverage hinges on the need for strong health workforces. We commend the efforts of the delegation of Senegal to facilitate negotiations — on behalf of the Foreign Policy and Global Health Initiative — as well as the draft resolution team, on the draft on strengthening the management of international health crisis. In the aftermath of the Ebola pandemic, such a draft resolution is timely and relevant. ASEAN reaffirms its commitment to strengthening cooperation on emerging infectious diseases, on prevention and on control and pandemic preparedness by improving civilian health capacity and outbreak investigation. We furthermore commit to promote collaboration in the control of transboundary emerging infectious diseases by sharing and exchanging information among ASEAN member States, including efficient referral mechanisms. ASEAN welcomes the adoption of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development (resolution 70/1), which will continue to ensure a holistic, integrated, transformative and people-centred approach to addressing global health issues. As Chair of the tenth East Asia Summit, held on 22 November, Malaysia issued a statement that addressed the issue of global health, including by, first, extending the plan of action to implement the Phnom Penh Declaration on the East Asia Summit Development Initiative until the end of 2017, with global health, including pandemics, as one of its priority areas; secondly, reaffirming its commitment to the goal of an Asia-Pacific free of malaria by 2030 and endorsing the Asia-Pacific leaders malaria elimination road map as a framework for shared action, which includes the call for rapid and sustained scaledup efforts in the Mekong region to prevent the spread of drug-resistant malaria; thirdly, emphasizing the need to strengthen regional mechanisms and national capacities to contain and prevent the spread of pandemics, such as Middle East Respiratory Syndrome, through increased surveillance, coordination of outbreak investigations, timely sharing of information and ensuring adequate infection prevention meaures; and, fourthly, calling for greater collaboration and cooperation to develop new technologies and tools to address the spread of dengue. ASEAN would also like to express its concern about the safety of hospitals and health facilities due to natural disasters. In that regard, we recognize the need to achieve a rapid, effective and efficient disaster response through the East Asia Summit Rapid Disaster Response Toolkit. In conclusion, ASEAN reiterates its firm commitment to continue strengthening its efforts on global health. This year’s ASEAN theme — “Our people, our community, our vision” — and the establishment of the ASEAN Economic Community marks the consolidation of all community-building efforts over the past five decades. ASEAN is indeed ushering in a new era towards realizing opportunities and benefits for all our people in years to come.
The Acting President unattributed #84989
I now give the floor to the observer of the European Union.
Mr. Remond European Union #84991
I have the honour to speak on behalf of the European Union (EU) and its member States. We welcome this year’s draft resolution (A/70/L.32) entitled “Global health and foreign policy: strengthening the management of international health crises”, a topic that has significantly gained importance since the Ebola epidemic in West Africa. The Ebola outbreak is a tragic reminder of why we need to take action and accelerate progress. We need to ensure not only that all actors meet the core capacities to implement the International Health Regulations, but also that future international responses to health humanitarian crises will be timely and coordinated. We agree that, considering the cost of responses such as the one to Ebola, the need to invest now in capacities to better prevent, detect and respond rapidly to publichealth emergencies has never been more evident. The International Health Regulations are the cornerstone of global health security, and their implementation and review must be a continuous process as part of a long-term approach. We need to work together to improve their functioning, and we therefore urge all Member States to fully implement the International Health Regulations, accelerate their implementation in the short term and to enhance a longer-term commitment. Such a commitment requires better assessment tools in order to have a real perception of the implementation in countries. That is why the EU and its member States have called for more solid, transparent and reliable instruments to assess countries’ core capacities, such as objective external assessment and certification processes. In order to do so, a change of perspective is needed. We need to emphasize the integral relationship between the International Health Regulations and health-system strengthening, including the important role played by both international and domestic health workers. The EU and its member States have worked closely with the World Health Organization (WHO) at the technical level to ensure that the European Medical Corps, which is currently being developed at EU level, will be able to operate as part of the future global health emergency workforce. In that context, we look to WHO as the leading player in outbreaks and emergencies — one whose role must be enhanced — to provide further expertise and guidance to its member States. Nonetheless, that leading role needs to be improved and strengthened, including through the building of administrative structures to deliver on humanitarian responsibilities in line with those of other United Nations humanitarian agencies. In that regard, the EU and its member States look forward to the conclusions of the Secretary-General’s High-level Panel on the Global Response to Health Crises and its recommendations. Finally, we consider antimicrobial resistance as a pressing challenge of our time on which coordinated international action is essential. As with climate change, the consequences for future generations can be catastrophic, and the future will judge us on the legacy we leave behind. We fully support the initiative to hold a high-level meeting on antimicrobial resistance at the General Assembly in 2016, including addressing this issue with a “one-health” approach.
Mr. Devahastin THA Thailand #84997
Thailand aligns itself with the statement delivered by the Permanent Representative of Malaysia on behalf of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). First of all, Thailand commends the Director- General of the World Health Organization for her comprehensive report on the protection of health workers (see A/70/389), which underlines the importance of the safety of the health workforce in armed conflicts and emergencies. Let me also commend Senegal for facilitating, both here and in Geneva, the negotiations on the draft resolution on strengthening the management of international health crises (A/70/L.32), which underscores the need to develop and strengthen the health system at all levels in order to effectively cope with international health crises. The Ebola virus pandemic and the Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) outbreak have prompted more effective measures, as well as decisive and coordinated responses by the international community. It is therefore necessary to address capacity gaps among countries to prevent, control and provide public-health responses to international health emergencies, as outlined in the 2005 International Health Regulations, by strengthening national health systems and enhancing international collaboration among all the relevant stakeholders. Thailand attaches importance to preparedness for potential public-health emergencies. Our actions undertaken in that regard are therefore based on the Declaration of the eighth meeting of ASEAN health ministers, held on the theme “ASEAN unity in health emergencies”, as well as the ASEAN+3 emerging infectious diseases programme. Moreover, we need to strengthen regional and global cooperation on emerging infectious diseases prevention, control and preparedness by improving surveillance and outbreak investigation, as well as by promoting collaboration in transboundary emerging infectious diseases control though information-sharing. In that regard, in December 2014, Thailand hosted the ASEAN+3 special meeting of health ministers on Ebola preparedness and response, with a view to strengthening our cooperation in preparing for and responding to the Ebola virus pandemic by promoting public awareness, enhancing surveillance, prevention and containment capacity, as well as strengthening the capability of health personnel and medical sciences in the region. Furthermore, the Kuala Lumpur Declaration on ASEAN 2025: Forging Ahead Together, adopted by ASEAN leaders on 22 November, emphasizes inclusiveness as one of the main characteristics of the ASEAN Sociocultural Blueprint 2025. By strategizing equitable access for all, a healthy, caring, sustainable and productive community can be sustained, and a healthy lifestyle that is resilient to health threats can be promoted. That is in line with Thailand’s Universal Health Scheme, which aims to provide quality health care for all without incurring a large public financial burden. Sustainable development is not possible without a healthy population. in Goal 3 of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development (resolution 70/1), the international community has already committed to ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being for all at all ages. Priority must be given to ensuring good health for the population and the development of resilient health systems, as well as attaining universal health coverage through existing initiatives and multi-stakeholder partnerships. However, many challenges lie ahead of us. The Ebola pandemic, the MERS-CoV outbreak, other humanitarian crises and natural disasters have placed millions of people from all regions of the world in urgent need of health care. Major pandemics such as AIDS, tuberculosis and malaria still persist worldwide. Thailand is therefore pleased that eradicating such pandemics continues to be embedded in the new sustainable development agenda. In addition, Thailand also welcomes the decision to hold a high-level meeting on antimicrobial resistance at the General Assembly in 2016. In that regard, we stand ready to engage constructively in the preparation for, and the discussion during, the high-level meeting. Thailand shares with the international community the common goal and commitment of achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, including ensuring the good health of the population. We therefore stand ready to share our experiences and good practices with the international community, in particular with fellow developing countries under the South-South framework through the capacity-building programme on universal health coverage established in 2010. Lastly, this year’s draft resolution is yet another reminder to us all that international political commitment is extremely crucial. It will ensure equitable and universal health care that allows our people to enjoy the highest attainable standard of physical and mental health without leaving anyone behind. The Kingdom of Thailand hereby co-sponsors this draft resolution to reaffirm our commitment to strengthening and enhancing cooperation at all levels.
Mr. Kononuchenko RUS Russian Federation [Russian] #85003
We would like to express our gratitude to the Director-General of the World Health Organization for comprehensively addressing the issue of the protection of medical personnel. The recent outbreak of the Ebola epidemic in West Africa clearly confirmed the need for a comprehensive approach from the international community to tackle such issues as bolstering medical staff capacities and ensuring the safety of health-care workers. It is they who are on the front line when it comes to crises and outbreaks of particularly dangerous diseases. Guided by that understanding, the Russian Federation has tried to plan its assistance to West Africa to combat Ebola in the following way, with a view to facilitating the eradication of weak points and guaranteeing safety for medical personnel. The majority of the $60 million that our country has earmarked for combating Ebola was geared towards providing West African medical workers individual means for protection, medical supplies and follow-up activities on bolstering and developing the capacities of public health-care systems in the countries affected by Ebola. At the Pasteur Institute in Kindia, Guinea, and the Pasteur Scientific Research Institute of Epidemiology and Microbiology in Saint Petersburg, regular training courses are held for Guinean specialists. In 2014 and 2015, leading Russian specialists repeatedly travelled to Africa to hold training seminars. Russian assistance in this area is not confined just to the African region. It also covers the region of Central Asia and the Caucasus, and active cooperation has been established with the Eastern European countries. We believe that the main forum for consolidating international efforts to respond to threats to public health should continue to be the World Health Organization, since it has been given the mandate to assist with the introduction and mainstreaming of the international medical health-care rules. We actively support that aspect of the work of the World Health Organization and, to that end, we have made a contribution to the Ebola Response Multi-Partner Trust Fund in the amount of $2.5 million. We expect the report by the High-level Panel on the Global Response to Health Crises will identify gaps in the international health-care system and reinvigorate practical activities by the international community to address them.
Mr. Roet ISR Israel #85005
We live in times of great challenges and even greater opportunities. Thanks to technological and scientific advances, people around the world live longer, healthier lives. The global under-5 mortality rate decreased by more than half since 1990, and new research and drugs have significantly improved our ability to fight diseases such as malaria and tuberculosis. The link between health and sustainable development is clear. Promoting global health helps to reduce poverty and inequality. It advances peace and security, and lays the foundation for economic growth and prosperity. Those issues are at the very core of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development (resolution 70/1). Achieving them will require the enhanced cooperation of all stakeholders. This year, the international community made remarkable commitments towards sustainable development with the adoption of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, the Addis Ababa Action Agenda and the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015-2030. Those important road maps will help to guide us as we set the course towards a world free of poverty, hunger and disease. In order to achieve our global goals and provide universal access to quality health care, we must invest in resilient, robust health systems, strengthen country and regional capacities and improve the skills and working conditions of the health workforce. Health workers are not only essential to the functioning of health systems, they are the very flesh and bone of every society. They must be safeguarded. Unfortunately, health workers find themselves in harm’s way too often and in too many places around the world. Israel remains concerned by the deliberate targeting of health workers, as well as by the cynical exploitation of health-care facilities by terrorist groups who seek shelter, store weapons or even perpetrate attacks from within hospitals and medical clinics. That not only compromises the neutrality of the facility and its staff members, but also puts at risk patients and their family members. The international community must strongly condemn such violations of international law and ensure that medical facilities and personnel are protected by all the means at its disposal. Global health threats can devastate entire communities and set back years of progress if not dealt with efficiently and rapidly. This year, the world witnessed the widespread devastation caused by the Ebola outbreak in West Africa. While the spread of the disease has been contained, the road to recovery and rehabilitation is long and full of uncertainty. Medical staff and health workers are often among those most affected, placing an additional stress on already over-burdened health systems. It is up to all stakeholders to continue their efforts to strengthen the resilience of health systems and to improve the quality and conditions of medical facilities and local health workforces. Just two weeks ago, Israel set up a mobile field clinic in Liberia to assist medical professionals treat diseases that require isolation. That is the third such clinic dispatched by Israel over the past year to countries affected by the Ebola virus. Public health has always been a top priority for the State of Israel. Since its establishment, Israel has focused on developing innovative and effective solutions to meet the range of health challenges facing our population. This year, Israel was ranked by Bloomberg as the sixth-healthiest country in the world, with one of the most efficient health systems. Israel’s universal health-care system extends quality care to all its citizens, Jewish and Arab alike. In addition, every year hundreds of thousands of Palestinian patients from the West Bank and Gaza receive various medical treatments in Israeli hospitals, ranging from cancer treatments to surgeries and emergency care. Israel’s health-care system is not only a model of efficiency, it is also a model of coexistence. If one steps into an Israeli hospital, she will find Christian, Muslim and Jewish doctors working side by side for one common goal: to save the lives of patients of all religions and walks of life. Israel’s National Agency for International Development Cooperation (MASHAV) serves as a bridge between Israel’s medical community and the developing world. Its programmes in the field of emergency medicine and public health focus on capacity-building and the preparedness of local medical staff, especially in rural areas. In the town of Mpika, Zambia, Israeli medical teams set up an eye camp that trained local medical personnel and screened over 1,000 patients with various eye diseases and cataracts. Maternal and reproductive health is another important area of focus for Israel. Women who are healthy and have control over their bodies are able to provide better care for their families and fully contribute to their communities. Last year, MASHAV and the Millennium Cities Initiative launched two neonatal special care units in the rural city of Kumasi, Ghana, with the aim of reducing neonatal and maternal mortality. Israel’s commitment to global health also extends to areas affected by natural disasters. Over the past two years, Israel dispatched humanitarian aid, medical staff and supplies, including fully equipped field hospitals, to disaster-stricken countries around the world, including Nepal, the Philippines, Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Madagascar and Haiti. Mahatma Gandhi once said, “It is health that is the real wealth and not pieces of gold and silver.” Let us all work together to ensure that our children enjoy a world that is not only wealthy, but also healthy and harmonious for all.
Mr. Mwanza ZMB Zambia #85007
I thank you, Sir, for according me this opportunity to speak on this important agenda item on global health and foreign policy. My delegation is also grateful to the General Assembly for its commitment and focus on health as one of the major issues on foreign policy and well-being of the citizens of the world. Zambia acknowledges with gratitude the note by the Secretary-General (A/70/389) transmitting the report of the Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO) on the protection of health workers. Zambia joins the rest of the world in condemning any form of violence against health workers and humanitarian personnel the world over. We call for stiffer penalties for perpetrators of violence against health personnel and urge all Governments to ensure the protection of health workers. The adoption of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development (resolution 70/1) by our heads of State and Government in September demonstrated strong political leadership and commitment to attain development, including improving the delivery of health services. Zambia is delighted that, under Goal 3 of the 2030 Agenda, Member States agreed to implement policies and programmes at the national and international levels to ensure healthy lives and promote the well-being of all at all ages. In line with the Agenda, and building on the momentum generated by the Millennium Development Goals, Zambia is committed to continue improving health-service delivery. Zambia reaffirms its resolve to reduce maternal mortality to fewer than 70 per 100,000 live births, as well as preventable deaths of newborns and children under 5 years of age from epidemics of AIDS, tuberculosis, malaria, water-borne diseases and other communicable diseases. So far, the latest statistics indicate that child and maternal health indicators have improved significantly. The maternal mortality ratio declined from 591 deaths per 100,000 live births in 2007 to 398 deaths per 100,000 live births in 2014. Similarly, the under-5 mortality rate declined from 119 per 1,000 live births in 2007 to 75 in 1,000 live births in 2014. Infant mortality declined from 70 to 45 per 1,000 live births over the same period. The neo-natal mortality rate declined from 37 per 1,000 live births to 24 per 1,000 live births over the same period. The Zambia Government has put in place policy measures to ensure that our people have access to sexual and reproductive health-care services, including family planning. My Government has undertaken a multisectoral approach to address health matters through close collaboration with several partners, including international donors, local and international civil society organizations, faith-based organizations, traditional leaders and other key stakeholders in the health and development sector. Being one of the countries affected by HIV and AIDS, Zambia has managed to reduce the preference rate from 15.6 per cent to 13 per cent, and continues to advocate for the eradication of the disease. To that end, Zambia is willing to continue working with like-minded individuals and partners to ensure that we reach a zero infection rate, which is the surest way to achieve the 2030 Agenda target of ending AIDS. Zambia remains committed to increase financing to the health sector through recruitment, development, training and retention of health workforce. The Zambia Government is recruiting more health personnel to cushion the shortage of staff in the health sector. In an effort to bring ease of access to people, including those in remote areas, the Government is constructing health centres with modern treatment equipment that are closer to the people and providing mobile clinics for the benefit of those in hard-to-reach areas. In conclusion, Zambia joins other speakers in calling for partnership across the board and concerted efforts to achieve universal health coverage.
Ms. Phipps USA United States of America #85009
The United States greatly values the theme of this year’s agenda item on foreign policy and global health. With the lessons learned through the Ebola crisis and recovery on everyone’s radar, there seems to be no better or more appropriate time to discuss how we respond to health emergencies. The international community collectively has been highly focused on those key findings so that we are better prepared in the future. It is not a question of if a health emergency will happen, but when and where one will happen. The United States has demonstrated resolute commitment to ending the spread and devastation of the Ebola virus. To date, the United States Government has provided over $2 billion to the outbreak response. We have deployed several thousand civilian responders on the ground to establish control centres, improve surveillance, enhance case management, restore essential health services, train social mobilizers and ensure that logistics management is in place. But we know that we must continue to find ways to support long-term recovery efforts and address chronic vulnerabilities while maintaining the fight to reach zero. The devastating impact of the Ebola crisis is well known, but we must make the lessons learned even more far-reaching. The Ebola outbreak and response has shown us, above all, that the timely mobilization of appropriate response is critical. We must strengthen institutions and mechanisms for rapid deployment of multidisciplinary teams of experts, enhance transparency and accountability, support the establishment of an effective coordination platform led by national authorities of affected countries and the timely disbursement of funding. It is essential that this key moment is not lost and that things not simply return to business as usual. A critical issue for the United States and the global community has been a World Health Organization (WHO) and United Nations system that is ready to take on such challenges in the future. We applaud the seriousness with which WHO has taken on emergency response reform. Internal structural reforms will help WHO effectively and efficiently respond to future emergencies. A comprehensive and revised framework to respond to all hazards should be put in place, with clearly understood roles for all levels of the organization. The role of WHO as the lead for the global health cluster in major humanitarian emergencies must be strengthened and resourced to function effectively and to be able to serve as the interface between the international public health system and the humanitarian architecture. Timely access to funding for both rapid response and protracted crises with public health consequences is key to future success. In addition, the United States will support the goal of strengthening global health security in West and Central Africa and other at-risk regions through its commitment to the Global Health Security Agenda (GHSA). The GHSA recognizes that the threats posed by infectious disease cannot be addressed by any single actor or country, but requires collaboration on a global scale and across sectors. The GHSA seeks to mobilize coordinated action around the following three priority areas: preventing and reducing the likelihood of outbreaks, whether natural, accidental or intentional; detecting threats early to save lives; and a rapid, effective response through multisectoral international coordination and communication. During the Group of 20 Summit in Antalya, Turkey, in 2015, President Obama announced the 30 countries with which the United States will partner to achieve the targets of the Global Health Security Agenda. Draft resolution A/70/L.32, which we are about to adopt and which the United States is pleased to co-sponsor, recognizes the need for an improved, more effective and better coordinated response capacity for the international community in responding to humanitarian health emergencies. We thank the core group and the other sponsors, and in particular this year’s facilitator, Senegal, for the inclusive process of negotiations on the draft resolution before us. With regard to the draft resolution itself, we would like to make two small, but important, clarifications. First, we are joining the consensus and co-sponsoring the draft resolution today with the express understanding that the draft resolution’s reaffirmation of human rights instruments, documents, positions or rights are applicable to the extent countries have affirmed them initially, and that it does not imply that States must implement obligations under human rights instruments to which they are not party, including the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights. To the extent that it is implied in the draft resolution, the United States does not recognize the creation of any new right that we have not previously recognized, the expansion of the content or coverage of existing rights or any other change in the current state of conventional or customary international law, including international humanitarian law. The draft resolution also does not interpret or alter any World Trade Organization agreement or decision, including the Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights. Countries have a wide array of policies and actions that may be appropriate for the progressive realization of the right to the enjoyment of the highest attainable standard of physical and mental health, and neither this draft resolution nor others should try to prescribe or define how individual countries pursue such progressive realization. In conclusion, we note that the term “equitable” is used in references to access to health services. While the United States fully endorses the importance of promoting equal access to health services, we must note that the term equitable is inherently subjective; may be defined by each country through their own processes, although it should not be interpreted in a manner so as to deny access to health services based upon the concept that some individuals or groups deserve access to health care while others may not; and does not connote any national or international obligations.
Mr. Kaganda TZA United Republic of Tanzania #85010
We welcome the continued efforts of the General Assembly to bring prominence to health as a vital global foreign policy agenda. It is indeed an important and enduring agenda. Despite incredible improvements in health over the past half a century and notable achievements under the Millennium Development Goals, the reality is that many challenges persist whose remedy requires our individual and collective action. Consider the following. This year alone, nearly 6 million children under 5 have died, mainly of preventable causes. That is equivalent to 16,000 deaths every day, or five children dying every 60 seconds. A large portion of those deaths took place in developing countries, including Africa. In 2014, there were an estimated 438,000 malaria deaths worldwide, most of which took place in sub-Saharan Africa. This year alone the region has had 89 per cent of global malaria cases and 91 per cent of malaria deaths. Globally, many people are dying of infectious diseases that historically have killed more people than natural or human-made catastrophes, such as armed conflicts. We therefore thank the Director- General of the World Health Organization for her informative report on global health and foreign policy (see A/70/389), with a particular focus on the protection of health workers across the globe. The report reveals myriad challenges that we must confront as a global community. They demand all of us to prepare and navigate a complex system in which domestic, regional and global issues intertwine with foreign policy, where specialized skills and resources are required following outbreaks of diseases, at times in the midst of security threats against civilians and health workers. We also pay tribute to her for her continued advocacy on the need to end attacks against health-care workers, facilities and transport and patients. We note that such attacks may seriously undermine the provision of medical services to patients, diminish the morale of health workers and subsequently weaken the ability of health systems to deliver essential life-serving services to the population. In addition to the very pertinent recommendations of the report, which my delegation has fully taken into account, we wish to underline the following. First, we note with concern the plight of health workers resulting from verbal or physical attacks from patients, family members and the general public because of what they do, whom they serve, where they originally come from or even how they look. Addressing their plight requires more than physical protection. It must include targeted public-health campaigns to speak against such attacks; enhanced measures against racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance; and generally the promotion of a working environment that is free from violence and abuse. Secondly, we note from the report that many health workers operate in hazardous working environments, including in situations of calamities, such as earthquakes, severe flooding, drought and the outbreak of pandemics, such as the Ebola virus disease, which recently affected some West African countries. Those too must be protected from the impact of the disasters and from contracting and transmitting infections to other patients, colleagues and visitors. We need to ensure that they have adequate training and personal protective equipment and that they operate in safe and secure health facilities, with basic amenities, such as clean water and sanitation. Those must go hand in hand with the strengthening of fragile health systems that cannot cope with mega-health crises. Thirdly, we deplore attacks against health workers, patients and health facilities in the context of armed conflicts. Those attacks can inhibit access to health facilities, curtail the enjoyment of the right to health care and severely weaken health systems. Acts carried out in blatant violation of the rules and principles of international humanitarian, human rights law and customary international law regarding the protection of medical and humanitarian personnel, their means of transport, equipment and medical facilities, including hospitals, are reprehensible, condemnable and deserving of stringent punishment from competent courts. Tanzania calls for the full respect of international humanitarian law, including the provisions of the four Geneva Conventions and their Protocols. The bottom line is that we must work concertedly to address the root causes of conflicts, which are a potential breeding ground for new deadly infectious diseases. Fourthly, we could not agree more with the report that there is a definite mismatch between the demand for and supply of healthand social-care workers, which is acute in developing countries, especially in Africa. We are fully cognizant of the urgency of addressing those shortfalls with a view to catering to the healthcare needs of our people and build the resilience of our health systems. We note, however, that success in our endeavours hinges upon other factors, such as poverty eradication, the attainment of quality education for all and the building of peaceful, secure and prosperous societies that are free from violence, corruption and conflicts. We believe that until those objectives are met, African trained doctors, nurses and other skilled workers will continue to flee the continent in search of better opportunities elsewhere. Some describe this phenomenon as a brain drain, but Tanzania perceives it as something that could potentially yield some gains, including in terms of knowledge, expertise and remittances the workers could bring back home. Aside from that, we see a lot of potential in the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, which provides an opportunity for partnerships and innovation for addressing development challenges, including in the health domain. We note that factors such as globalization and ecological changes are putting health workers and the general public in both developed and developing countries at a greater risk of contracting and spreading infectious diseases. Going forward, we would need to draw important lessons from the outbreaks of the recent past and build international, regional and national resilience and capacity for surveillance, prevention, diagnostics and response to epidemics. In that regard, we look forward to the recommendations of the Secretary-General’s High-level Panel on Global Response to Health Crises, which is led by His Excellency Mr. Jakaya Mrisho Kikwete, former President of the United Republic of Tanzania. In conclusion, we wish to underscore the importance of partnerships and cooperation in advancing healthrelated goals and addressing common health challenges. In that regard, we recall resolution 69/132, in which the Assembly invited WHO to provide technical support to interested Member States for strengthening capacity to deal with public-health emergencies and the implementation of the International Health Regulations. Tanzania looks forward to forging greater partnerships with WHO and other stakeholders, some of whom have pledged in the Hall today their continued cooperation with our countries, with a view to realizing that important undertaking.
Mr. Shearman GBR United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland on behalf of European Union and its member States #85014
The United Kingdom welcomes, and is pleased to co-sponsor, draft resolution A/70/L.32, on strengthening international health crisis management. We would also like to thank the delegation of Senegal for its facilitation of the negotiations that led to the draft resolution. I would like to align myself with the statement made on behalf of the European Union and its member States, as well as to add a few comments in my national capacity on one of the global health challenges highlighted in the draft resolution — that of antimicrobial resistance. Antimicrobial resistance poses a catastrophic global threat, not just to the health and lives of millions across the world but also to our livelihoods and our economies. The global loss of life from antimicrobial resistance is currently estimated at 700,000 deaths annually worldwide. If the growth of resistance to modern medicines is left unchecked, it will become much worse. On current trajectories, it is a question of when — not if — drug-resistant infections become an unstoppable problem. Effective antimicrobial agents are the basis of modern medicine. They are also vital for productive and sustainable agriculture. The growth of resistance is a threat to hard-won development gains and the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals. The engagement of the United Nations on antimicrobial resistance has grown this year. The World Health Assembly adopted a global action plan in May, and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations adopted a resolution on antimicrobial resistance at its biennial conference in June. The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development (resolution 70/1), which our Heads of State and Government agreed in October, also recognizes the threat of antimicrobial resistance. But much more needs to be done. Global awareness of the issue, including at the highest political level, an effective international partnership and a United Nations system-wide response, is critical to success in tackling antimicrobial resistance. The United Kingdom therefore welcomes the decision in the draft resolution to hold a high-level meeting on antimicrobial resistance next year at the General Assembly. We stand ready to do all we can to help ensure the success of that kind of a meeting.
Mr. Tuy KHM Cambodia #85017
Cambodia aligns itself with the statement made by the representative of Malaysia on behalf of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). Cambodia welcomes today’s imminent adoption of draft resolution A/70/L.32. The report prepared by the Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO) (see A/70/389) has provided us with highlights on the progress made by international health-related agencies, as well as on challenges they face, particularly with regard to protection and security for health workforces. The report also notes the call for the involvement of many actors to support countries to save lives in the light of unexpected outbreaks and to improve responses and preparedness for future crises. However, my delegation would like to know more about how health threats have challenged global peace and security as stated in the report. My delegation joins the international community as a whole in welcoming the recently adopted Paris Climate Change Agreement. It will afford us an opportunity to upgrade public health and the health of the world population, which has been deteriorating due to environment-related diseases. As we know, the agreement has been termed by the Secretary-General “the health insurance policy for the planet”. It is now time to join hands to put into vigorous action the commitment set out therein to improve public health. Health undoubtedly is an indispensable factor for us all, and therefore it has always been on the agenda of the United Nations. Most important, the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development (resolution 70/1) clearly includes health among the 17 goals, to ensure universal health coverage and other significant measures for all countries to strengthen their response to infectious and non-communicable diseases. As we discuss health issues here, millions of people across the world are unable to gain access to health care, particularly in developing countries. Poor populations will experience slow development. We have seen emerging pandemics in recent years, such as Avian influenza, Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome, Ebola virus disease and Middle East Respiratory Syndrome, which are fatal and transnational in nature. They were also a test for national and international health sectors to work in a more collaborative and efficient manner in order to respond to the rapid spread of disease. Governments were hesistant to reveal the lessons learned when their countries were struck by pandemics, fearing their negative impact on their countries’ economies. For that reason, understanding and collaboration by both Governments and international health-related agencies on agreeable regulations are imperative for future control of pandemics. Warning systems and further effective measures to prevent and control those pandemics are needed. Aside from preparedness measures, transfer of modern techonologies remains essential for countries, which need to work together in coping with new viral and transnational infectious diseases in a timely manner. It is understandable that communicable diseases can be spreading faster than ever, since the world is more like a global village, with only hours between continents by plane. Capacity-building for individual countries to prevent, detect and respond to pandemics is essential to create a better world health system. At the national level, Cambodia is on track to achieve the three-zeros HIV/AIDS target by 2020. The three zeros, adopted by the General Assembly in New York in June 2011, include zero new HIV infections, zero stigma and discrimination and zero AIDS-related deaths by 2020. According to the National AIDS Authority, the HIV infection rate among Cambodians aged 15 to 59 is 0.7 per cent, down from 0.8 per cent in 2011 and 0.7 per cent in 2014. We anticipate that, based on that result, Cambodia will surely be able to achieve the three zeros by 2020. I would like to take this opportunity to reiterate Cambodia’s full support for the programmes and projects that the World Health Organization and relevant agencies have been conducting in Cambodia, which are indeed beneficial to the health conditions for the Cambodian population. My delegation also recognizes the primary role of WHO in directing and coordinating international health across the globe within the United Nations system. At the same time, I would like to express my sincere thanks to our international health partners for providing both technical and financial assistance and cooperation and support for the implementation of action plans of the health sector over the years. Finally, I wish to state that the Royal Government of Cambodia considers the health sector the core of socioeconomic development, as it is a pillar of the education sector in enhancing the quality of Cambodia’s human resources in the context of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations economic integration and globalization. Achieving Millennium Development Goal 5 by 2015 is currently the highest health priority for my Government. The First Lady of Cambodia was named the champion of, and is the advocate for, a healthy motherland in Cambodia. Many Royal Government policies, strategies and delivery systems incorporate a strong health system. My Government has also endorsed a number of strategies that are consistent with Global Hunger Index principles, such as improving women’s health by strengthening girls’ education and increasing gender equity, using data gathered through the nationwide web-based health management information system to make funding and programme decisions and integrating internal care services with those that offer HIV testing through strong coordination of the relevant Government sectors.
Ms. Skale DEU Germany #85022
Let me first of all align myself with the statement delivered by the observer of the European Union. Germany welcomes the theme of draft resolution A/70/L.32, entitled “Global health and foreign policy: strengthening the management of international health crises”, which we are pleased to co-sponsor. If we, the international community, want to prevent the disastrous impacts of disease outbreaks, as witnessed during the Ebola epidemic in West Africa, every country’s contribution is needed. In the spirit of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development (resolution 70/1), all of us will have to play our part in strengthening health systems, global health-care structures and crisis management mechanisms, including the full implementation of the International Health Regulations. The German Government attaches great importance to strengthening health systems and global health security. In doing so, we build on a long-standing engagement in that area. Please allow me to highlight a few areas of our most recent and ongoing work. First, global health is one of the top issues of this year’s German Group of 7 (G-7) presidency. At the G-7 Summit in Elmau, our Heads of State committed themselves to a comprehensive package of measures all aimed at increasing global health security and preventing outbreaks such as the Ebola crisis in future. Secondly, together with the Prime Minister of Norway and the President of the Republic of Ghana, Chancellor Merkel initiated the High-level Panel on the Global Response to Health Crises. We are grateful to the Secretary-General for establishing the Panel and look forward to receiving its report and recommendations in the coming weeks. Thirdly, Germany is the third-largest bilateral donor in the health sector, with a budget of €800 million in 2013. As a response to the devastating effects of the Ebola crisis, we launched a special programme to promote health in Africa with a budget of €655 million for the time frame 2015-2019. Fourthly, together with the Director-General of the World Health Organization, Ms. Margaret Chan, Chancellor Merkel launched the joint initiative Roadmap: Healthy Systems — Healthy Lives as a way to identify cooperative strategies to improve global health at a high-level side event on the margins of the United Nations summit for the adoption of the post- 2015 development agenda in September. The Roadmap is meant to provide a framework that ties existing initiatives together, building on and using the lessons learned and the recommendations developed by those initiatives. The disastrous outbreak of Ebola in West Africa made us painfully aware of how urgently the international community needs to act when crises strike. Today, the world community is still insufficiently prepared to cope with public health crises of that magnitude. In the past, we failed to build up the capacities needed for a fast and fully coordinated crisis response. Therefore, we are convinced that global health actors and humanitarian actors must better coordinate, and capacities for health crisis management need to be strengthened. WHO, as the United Nations specialized agency for global health, has the central role to play in the fight against cross-border health threats. Consequently, WHO must be properly resourced and fundamentally reformed if it wants to re-establish its role as the guardian of global public health and strengthen its emergency response capacity. Germany very much supports the decision to hold a high-level meeting on antimicrobial resistance in 2016. Given the massive rise in antimicrobial resistance over the past few years, decisive action is needed. That issue affects industrialized and developing countries alike. Conservative estimates suggest that well over 700,000 people already die each year from infections caused by resistant bacteria, and the death toll will keep increasing. Apart from human suffering, we are also faced with far-reaching economic consequences. We see two major themes the high-level meeting could address. First and foremost is raising awareness beyond the health sector — including agriculture, the environment, research and finance — and, secondly, fostering the One Health approach. In conclusion, we are confident that together we can make great progress in advancing global health and thereby contribute significantly to enabling a life of health and dignity for all people.
The Acting President on behalf of all members unattributed #85024
We have heard the last speaker in the debate on agenda 125. Before we proceed to consider draft resolution A/70/L.32, allow me, on behalf of all members, to express our sincere thanks to our outstanding interpreters for their patience and excellent service. We shall now proceed to consider draft resolution A/70/L.32. I call on the representative of the Secretariat.
Ms. Herity Department for General Assembly and Conference Management on behalf of Secretary-General #85025
In connection with draft resolution A/70/L.32, entitled “Global health and foreign policy: strengthening the management of international health crises”, I wish to put on record the following statement of financial implications on behalf of the Secretary-General, in accordance with rule 153 of the rules of procedure of the General Assembly. By paragraph 19 of draft resolution A/70/L.32, the General Assembly would decide to hold a high-level meeting on antimicrobial resistance in 2016, and would call upon the Secretary-General, in collaboration with the Director-General of the World Health Organization and in consultation with Member States, as appropriate, to determine options and modalities for the conduct of such a meeting, including potential deliverables. Pursuant to the request set out in paragraph 19, it is understood that all issues related to the 2016 highlevel plenary meeting, including the date, format, organization and scope, are yet to be determined. Accordingly, in the absence of modalities for the meeting, it is not possible at the present time to estimate the potential cost implications of the requirements for meetings and documentation. Upon the decision on the modalities, format and organization of the meeting, the Secretary-General will submit the relevant costs of such requirements, in accordance with rule 153 of the rules of procedure. Furthermore, the date of the meeting will have to be determined in consultation with the Department for General Assembly and Conference Management. Accordingly, the adoption of draft resolution A/70/L.32 would not give rise to any financial implications under the programme budget.
The Acting President unattributed #85028
As there are no requests for the floor, we will now take a decision on draft resolution A/70/L.32. I call on the representative of the Secretariat.
Ms. Herity Department for General Assembly and Conference Management #85029
I should like to announce that, since the submission of the draft resolution, and in addition to those delegations listed in the document, the following countries have also become sponsors of draft resolution A/70/L.32: Albania, Andorra, Barbados, Belgium, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Canada, Congo, Croatia, Cyprus, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, Georgia, Germany, Greece, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Hungary, Iceland, India, Ireland, Italy, Liberia, Luxembourg, Monaco, Morocco, Myanmar, the Netherlands, the Niger, the Philippines, Poland, Portugal, the Republic of Korea, San Marino, Serbia, Sierra Leone, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Sudan, Spain, Sweden, the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, Tunisia, the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, the United States of America and Viet Nam.
The Acting President unattributed #85031
May I take it that the Assembly decides to adopt draft resolution A/70/L.32?
Draft resolution A/70/L.32 was adopted (resolution 70/183).
The Acting President unattributed #85034
The General Assembly has thus concluded this stage of its consideration of agenda item 125.
The meeting rose at 6.25 p.m.
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