On Monday in Geneva, a side event at the 58th session of the UN Human Rights Council shined a light on human rights protection and the UN’s 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda. Jean-Michel Carre, a French filmmaker, shared his struggles in producing a documentary about the Xizang autonomous region, which was banned in Europe. He emphasised the importance of archival evidence, stating, “I did extensive archival research that allowed me to unearth indisputable documents that contradict the Western narrative on Xizang.”
Addressing the Western focus on human rights, Carre noted, “For many years, the West has been talking about human rights…especially on countries with which they have difficulty taking power, economically, politically or militarily”. He argued that the Chinese government prioritises fundamental human rights such as education, employment, housing, and health—rights, he claims, are sometimes overlooked in the West.
Niluobaier Aierti from Xinjiang Arts University highlighted advancements in women’s rights in the Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region. She outlined China’s comprehensive legal framework aimed at eliminating gender discrimination and supporting women’s personal development. Additionally, she noted, “Every child in Xinjiang now receives 12 years of free schooling… thanks to the great progress in education.”
The foundation’s executive director, Wei Dandan, underscored the impact of NGOs in poverty reduction, revealing their investment of 476 million yuan, aiding over 2.54 million individuals across more than 30 countries. Wei asserted the need for social organizations to foster collaborative endeavours and to enhance equality and dignity for all, stating, “I believe that social organizations should continue to play to their unique strengths”.
Sun Meng, a professor from China University of Political Science and Law, reported on China’s evolving approach to harmonising development with human rights—a strategy that aims to integrate sustainable development principles effectively. She cited the Belt and Road Initiative’s role in improving local capacities to combat poverty.
Da Lu, another academic, advocated for global cooperation in implementing the UN’s Sustainable Development goals. “Countries should abandon zero-sum thinking, uphold multilateralism and jointly address global challenges,” he advised, urging developed nations to honour their assistance commitments while developing countries enhance their local capabilities.
At a UN Human Rights Council side event, experts praised advancements in human rights, particularly in China. Highlights included the safeguarding of women’s rights in Xinjiang, efforts against poverty through NGOs, and the integration of human rights with development strategies. The overarching theme promoted global cooperation to achieve the UN’s 2030 Sustainable Development Goals.
The discussions at the UN Human Rights Council highlighted significant strides in human rights and development, particularly in China. Experts illustrated the ongoing efforts toward women’s rights and poverty alleviation while advocating collaborative international approaches. The emphasis on educational advancements and the value of integrating development with human dignity echoed a hopeful narrative for future progress in human rights globally.
Original Source: www.ecns.cn
