HRC61 - EU Statement - Item 6

HRC61 - EU Statement - Item 6

European Union

UNITED NATIONS HUMAN RIGHTS COUNCIL

61^st Session

(23 February - 31 March 2026)

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Item 6

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Statement by

H.E. Ms. Deike Potzel

Ambassador, Permanent Representative of the European Union

Geneva, 23 March 2026

HRC61: Item 6 General debate; Universal Periodic Review

EU statement

Mr./Ms. President/Vice-president,

I have the honour to speak on behalf of the European Union.

Albania, Armenia, Georgia, Liechtenstein, Moldova (Republic of), Montenegro, North Macedonia, Serbia and Ukraine align themselves with this statement.

The EU reaffirms its unwavering support for the Universal Periodic Review, a unique peer-review mechanism for promoting and protecting human rights globally.

In every UPR cycle, civil society plays a key role in preparing for UPR sessions through submitting information, observing sessions, engaging during the adoption of UPR outcomes, and monitoring the implementation of the outcomes. The EU therefore urges all States to ensure the safe, meaningful and unhindered participation of civil society, free from intimidation, reprisals, or undue restrictions -whether at home or abroad, online or offline. Civil society actors should be supported, not penalized and heard, not silenced.

Within the UPR process, we all have work to do, including EU Member States. The UPR provides a vital space for dialogue and self-reflection, and an opportunity to move forward with ambition through concrete implementation.

Universality has proven to be the UPR's biggest asset over the last 20 years but is now at risk. At a time when the UN system and its human rights pillar face mounting pressure, we must safeguard the UPR as inclusive, constructive and fruitful platform that continues to serve all.

The EU remains fully committed to strong, effective and genuinely universal UPR.

Thank you.