Eritrea’s Closing Statement during the consideration and adoption of the Universal Periodic Review outcomes 26 September – 1 October 2024

Madam Vice President,

Excellencies,

Ladies and Gentlemen,

I would like to express my sincere appreciation to the 15 delegations who took the floor for their thoughtful and constructive remarks. I also extend my gratitude to the 27 delegations who were inscribed to speak but did not get the opportunity to do so, we also thank you all present in this room today.

We believe that our comprehensive National Report, our active engagement in the interactive dialogue in May, the Addendum we submitted, and the comments and concerns raised today amply illustrate the importance all of us attach to the UPR process. We believe that the focus should remain on the constructive exchange of best practices, mutual learning, and the collective goal of improving human rights conditions for all.

As we continue to engage in this crucial process, we emphasize the importance of maintaining a non-politicized, objective, and respectful dialogue. It is essential that all stakeholders adhere to these foundational principles. In this spirit, we urge all participants to uphold the integrity of the UPR process, ensuring that discussions remain centered on the objective evaluation of human rights practices and constructive recommendations.

Madam Vice President, Excellencies,

As we conclude this session on the adoption of the UPR report on Eritrea, it is imperative to recognize the significance of this moment. The report’s adoption is not just a procedural milestone but a reaffirmation of our unwavering commitment to the promotion and protection of human rights. The adoption of this report marks the beginning of a process towards the  implementation of the recommendations we have accepted.

We welcome this moment with a renewed sense of responsibility and commitment. This pivotal moment reflects our dedication to advancing human rights and addressing the challenges identified with the utmost diligence.

Today as before, we are ready to work with all stakeholders to ensure the effective implementation of these recommendations. Our legal frameworks are continuously being enhanced, institutional mechanisms strengthened, and policies adjusted to better support our efforts in fulfilling our human rights obligations.

As the reviewed state, we are dedicated to implementing the necessary measures and fostering an inclusive environment where every individual can thrive. The journey ahead may be demanding, but we are determined to create a country where human rights are fully realized for all.

We express our sincere gratitude for the constructive dialogue and valuable insights shared throughout the Universal Periodic Review process. Our work to improve human rights must be constant and continuous. We look forward to continuing this constructive dialogue at the Fifth Review of Eritrea.

In closing, I should take advantage of this occasion to thank the nine-strong Eritrean delegation present in this room today. By the way, six out of the nine are young Eritrean women, who made the biggest contribution and made the delegation’s work all too interesting.

I thank you.