HRC61 General Debate on Item 10

61st Session of the United Nations Human Rights Council: Item 10 General Debate. Delivered by Ambassador Heidi Schroderus-Fox, Permanent Representative of Finland on 27th of March 2026.

Mr./Ms Vice-/President,

Finland aligns itself with the EU statement.

Finland supports the essential work of the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, and pays tribute to the excellent contributions of the Deputy High Commissioner and wishes her all the best in the future.

We commend all the states that have taken steps towards promoting and protecting human rights – we all have our responsibility to advance these universal rights without discrimination of any kind.

Mr/Ms Vice-/President,

We remain deeply concerned about the growing attacks on the rights of women and girls, as well as on gender equality and human rights more broadly. We must ensure that the hard‑won gains in the protection and promotion of these rights are upheld and for this we need the OHCHR.

Regarding the UN80 reform, Finland is strongly committed to defending the underfunded human rights pillar. While increasing wars and conflicts are causing immense suffering and severe human rights violations and abuses, the work of the OHCHR at the country level becomes even more crucial.

Respect for human rights fosters stability, supports economic growth, and – most importantly – ensures both our security and human dignity.

Thank you.