Cuba defending the South at the UN Human Rights Council

The re-election of Cuba as a member of the UN Human Rights Council opens new opportunities for the defense of the interests of the South within the organization.

The general director of Multilateral Affairs and International Law of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Cuba, Rodolfo Benítez, confirmed the commitment in the defense, within the Council, of the interests of alliances such as the Movement of Non-Aligned Countries, the G77 and China, as well as those of other nations of the Global South; the right to development, education and health; the fight against racial discrimination and xenophobia and other forms of intolerance; access to food and the promotion of a democratic and equitable international order.

He added that Cuba has promoted in the Council the progressive development of third-generation rights, the promotion of a democratic and equitable international order as well as the issue of foreign debt, and has also opposed resolutions with politicized, punitive and selective approaches and mandates that do not have the support of the countries concerned.

Cuba has contributed with its experience as a developing country, as a firm defender of dialogue and cooperation in matters of human rights, with adherence to the principles of objectivity, non-selectivity and impartiality, the diplomat said.

Cuba’s re-election recognizes, among other aspects, its achievements in health, education, scientific research, culture and sports, despite the obstacles imposed to its development.

Next year, together with Cuba, Brazil, and the Dominican Republic, will occupy the three positions reserved for Latin America and the Caribbean.