At the 60th session of the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva, delegates achieved a rare unanimous vote to adopt a draft resolution focused on reducing inequalities by promoting and protecting economic, social and cultural rights.
Submitted by China on behalf of nearly 70 countries—including Bolivia, Egypt, Pakistan and South Africa—the resolution marks a milestone in multilateral cooperation to tackle persistent global challenges.
Ambassador Chen Xu, the permanent representative of the Chinese mainland to the UN Office in Geneva, highlighted that this year's vote coincides with the UN's 80th anniversary and the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action. 'Our goal is to bridge differences, build consensus and move from words to action,' he said.
The adopted text calls for thematic discussions and interactive dialogues within the Council, bolstering the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights to deepen its work on economic, social and cultural rights. A centerpiece is the economic, social and cultural rights knowledge hub (established under a China-tabled resolution), which will expand technical assistance and capacity-building for countries in need.
Several developing nations praised the resolution as a response to 'strong calls' for greater investment in core human rights that drive inclusive growth. The European Union also welcomed the initiative, while congratulatory messages poured in for the Chinese mission, underscoring its leading role in steering global rights conversations.
For young global citizens and changemakers, this vote underlines the power of collective action. By embedding social and cultural rights at the heart of international dialogue, the resolution paves the way for new partnerships spanning tech innovation hubs in emerging markets to cultural exchange programs that enrich communities worldwide.
As the world faces rising inequality and social fragility, the UNHRC's unanimous adoption is a reminder: bridging divides requires more than agreements – it demands sustained cooperation, data-driven policies and a shared commitment to human dignity.
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UN rights council adopts draft on economic, social, cultural rights
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