Statement 69 - Australian Permanent Mission and Consulate-General

Australian Permanent Mission and Consulate-General

Geneva, Switzerland

Address: Chemin des Fins 2, Case Postale 102, 1211 Geneva 19 - Telephone: 022 799 9100 - Fax: 022 799 9178

Human Rights Council – 12th Session

Report of the High Commissioner for Human Rights

Item 2, Australian statement
H.E. Caroline Millar, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Australia to the United Nations
15 September 2009

Australia thanks the High Commissioner for her report.

The High Commissioner and her Office play an invaluable role in the protection and promotion of human rights internationally. Australia appreciates the commitment of the High Commissioner to the impartiality and independence of her Office. It is essential that the Office has the freedom and flexibility to respond effectively to violations of human rights.

I wish to express Australia’s appreciation for the ongoing work of the Office in the Asia Pacific region. We look forward to the opening of a regional office in South and West Asia.

One of the key issues touched upon in the High Commissioner’s report was the need to eliminate the scourge of discrimination. Australia supports this stand wholeheartedly, and also notes the importance of eliminating discrimination on the grounds of gender identity or sexual orientation.

I would also like to comment briefly on some of the issues raised in the High Commissioner’s report on the human rights system. Australia agrees that the work of Special Procedures mandate holders is of great value in raising awareness of human rights issues. We also support the High Commissioner’s call for the strengthening of national human rights institutions.

Finally, Australia strongly believes that the credibility of the Council depends on its preparedness to confront violations of human rights wherever and whenever they take place. We urge the Council not to resile from this responsibility.