Media Statement
27 February 2017
Deputy Minister Landers to participate in the High-Level Segment of the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva, Switzerland
International Relations and Cooperation Deputy Minister Luwellyn Landers will participate in the High-Level Segment of the 34th session of the United Nations Human Rights Council (HRC34), scheduled for 27 February – 01 March 2017 in Geneva, Switzerland.
Deputy Minister Landers will make an intervention in an interactive dialogue within the framework of the High Level Panel on Human Rights Mainstreaming under the theme: “The contribution of human rights to peace-building through the enhancement of dialogue and international cooperation for the promotion of human rights”, on Monday, 27 February 2017.
The Deputy Minister is also expected to deliver South Africa’s statement at the High Level Segment of the Council on Tuesday, 28 February 2017, which will outline South Africa’s continued implementation of its international human rights commitments. This year marks the 11th anniversary of the establishment of United Nations Human Rights Council. In this regard, the Deputy Minister will also highlight South Africa’s role as a committed founding member of the Council since its creation in 2006.
South Africa was elected four times to the Human Rights Council. South Africa served a one-year term from 2006-2007 and was then re-elected for a three-year term from 2007-2010. South Africa was once again elected to serve on the Council from 2014-2016 and was re-elected to serve for another three-year term from 2017-2019.South Africa has consistently participated in all previous High-level Segments, thus confirming the seriousness with which South Africa regards the work of the HRC as one of the key UN bodies.
The thematic focus of the 34th Session will be on vulnerable groups, in particular the empowerment of women and gender equality, the rights of the child, as well as the promotion and the protection of the rights of persons with disabilities, including persons with albinism.
Enquiries: Mr Clayson Monyela, Spokesperson for the Department of International Relations and Cooperation, 082 884 5974
ISSUED BY THE DEPARTMENT OF INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND COOPERATION
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