UK Explanation of Vote on the draft resolution on the Right to Development. Delivered at the 63rd Human Rights Council in Geneva.
Mr President.
The United Kingdom thanks the delegation of Uganda on behalf of the NAM (Non Aligned Movement) for their engagement on this resolution. The UK remains firmly committed to sustainable development, poverty reduction and the promotion and protection of all human rights. We recognise that sustainable development plays an important role in enabling individuals to enjoy their human rights and fulfil their potential.
It is the UK’s longstanding position that the right to development is best realised through the implementation of existing international human rights obligations. We are therefore concerned that this resolution seeks to advance the development of a new legally binding instrument on the right to development. We do not consider such an instrument necessary, given the extensive existing international human rights framework.
Further, we are clear that it is individuals who are rights holders and States who are duty bearers. We are concerned that this resolution places increasing emphasis on obligations and processes between States rather than on the individual as the holder of the right to development.
While we appreciate the engagement of the NAM throughout informals these concerns, unfortunately, remain unresolved.
For these reasons, the United Kingdom will call a vote on this resolution and will vote against.
Thank you.