Sri Lanka is facing the heat at United Nations Human Right Council over human rights violations during the civil war with the LTTE.

Sri Lanka claims India's support at UNHRC

Sri Lanka is in a fix. This weekend, Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa spoke to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, just over a week before a crucial vote at United Nations Human Rights Council.

Colombo wants to avoid a defeat at the world stage and escape the global scrutiny on the issue of human rights. Especially after its recent decision to ban the burqa and close 1,000 Islamic schools. &nbsp;

A press release from New Delhi says, among other things, the two leaders discussed cooperation in multilateral fora.&nbsp;The&nbsp;statement says a lot more, but mention of 'multilateral forums' stands out. Next week, Sri Lanka faces a crucial vote at the UNHRC in Geneva and it's bad news for Colombo.&nbsp;

The resolution is backed by Canada and the UK. It says the human rights situation in Sri Lanka is deteriorating. The civilian government's functions are being militarised. Institutions like the judiciary are losing their independence, minorities are being marginalised and the civil society and media are facing intimidation.&nbsp;

When this scathing resolution comes up for a vote in Geneva, Sri Lanka reportedly wants India's support. Will they get it?&nbsp;

India can choose to abstain but Colombo cannot be sure.&nbsp;

A statement made by an Indian diplomat in Geneva signals that India is unhappy with Sri Lanka. Last month, India said the UN Human Rights chief's report on Sri Lanka raises ''important concerns''. There was also a mention of "respecting the rights of the Tamil community".&nbsp;

India was referring to the report from January released by the UN Human Rights chief. The report says Sri Lanka is on an alarming path towards the recurrence of grave human rights violations. It adds that,&nbsp;since taking power, the Sri Lankan president has appointed at least 28 serving or former military and intelligence personnel. They have been given key administrative posts in the government. This includes senior military officials, who were implicated by the United Nations in alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity during the civil war that ended nearly 12 years ago. &nbsp;

New Delhi has more reasons to be upset with Colombo. Sri Lanka recently refused to honour a port agreement with Japan and India and went ahead with an energy project with a Chinese company close to the coast of Tamil Nadu. The Rajapaksa government says it has offered an alternative terminal project with the vote at the UNHRC looming.&nbsp;

The Sri Lankan foreign secretary said last month in an interview, "India cannot abandon us". The Modi government has a choice to listen to that appeal and abstain from the vote but if it chooses to send a message, Sri Lanka might struggle to defend itself at the UN.&nbsp;

Sri Lanka is in a fix. This weekend, Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa spoke to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, just over a week before a crucial vote at United Nations Human Rights Council.

Sri Lanka is in a fix. This weekend, Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa spoke to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, just over a week before a crucial vote at United Nations Human Rights Council. Colombo wants to avoid a defeat at the world stage and escape the global scrutiny on the issue of human rights. Especially after its recent decision to ban the burqa and close 1,000 Islamic schools. A press release from New Delhi says, among other things, the two leaders discussed cooperation in multilateral fora. The statement says a lot more, but mention of 'multilateral forums' stands out. Next week, Sri Lanka faces a crucial vote at the UNHRC in Geneva and it's bad news for Colombo. The resolution is backed by Canada and the UK. It says the human rights situation in Sri Lanka is deteriorating. The civilian government's functions are being militarised. Institutions like the judiciary are losing their independence, minorities are being marginalised and the civil society and media are facing intimidation. When this scathing resolution comes up for a vote in Geneva, Sri Lanka reportedly wants India's support. Will they get it? India can choose to abstain but Colombo cannot be sure. A statement made by an Indian diplomat in Geneva signals that India is unhappy with Sri Lanka. Last month, India said the UN Human Rights chief's report on Sri Lanka raises ''important concerns''. There was also a mention of "respecting the rights of the Tamil community". India was referring to the report from January released by the UN Human Rights chief. The report says Sri Lanka is on an alarming path towards the recurrence of grave human rights violations. It adds that, since taking power, the Sri Lankan president has appointed at least 28 serving or former military and intelligence personnel. They have been given key administrative posts in the government. This includes senior military officials, who were implicated by the United Nations in alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity during the civil war that ended nearly 12 years ago. New Delhi has more reasons to be upset with Colombo. Sri Lanka recently refused to honour a port agreement with Japan and India and went ahead with an energy project with a Chinese company close to the coast of Tamil Nadu. The Rajapaksa government says it has offered an alternative terminal project with the vote at the UNHRC looming. The Sri Lankan foreign secretary said last month in an interview, "India cannot abandon us". The Modi government has a choice to listen to that appeal and abstain from the vote but if it chooses to send a message, Sri Lanka might struggle to defend itself at the UN.

Sri Lanka seeks India's help to save face at crucial UNHRC vote 

Ahead of a crucial vote at the UNHRC, Sri Lanka's President Gotabaya Rajapaksa spoke to India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi. At UNHRC, Sri Lanka faces a resolution on its human rights record. Which way will India vote? WION's Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Ahead of crucial UN vote, President Rajapaksa speaks to PM Modi

Srilanka is facing the heat at the united nations human rights council over human rights violations during the civil war with the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE). And ahead of that crucial vote at UNHRC, the Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa spoke with the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi seeking India support the telephonic conversation took place at the request of Sri Lanka which included discussion on the COVID-19 crisis and UNHRC.

Sri Lanka seeks India's support ahead of UNHRC vote

Ahead of a crucial vote at the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC), Sri Lanka has sought India's support and has dialled PM Narendra Modi. UNHRC vote was one of the key points discussed during the telephonic conversation between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa on Saturday. Voting will take place on the 22nd and 23rd of March on a resolution against Sri Lanka at the Human Rights Council.&nbsp;

Sri Lanka is facing the heat at UN HRC over human rights violations during the civil war with Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE). The 46th session of the UNHRC is underway and will continue till 23rd March and several times matters related to Sri Lanka have been raised.

Last month after the report of the office of the High commissioner for Human Rights on Sri Lanka was placed, India's envoy to UN in Geneva, Indra Mani Pandey said while, "assessment of the high commissioner...raises important concern" the "Sri Lankan govt has articulated its position" and the "evaluation of both of these, we should be guided by a commitment to find a lasting and effective solution".&nbsp;

During the same statement he called for respecting the "rights of the Tamil community, including through meaningful devolution" and said that this "contributes directly to the unity and integrity of Sri Lanka". This is not for the first time Sri Lanka has requested Indian support on UNHRC.

The telephonic conversation, that took place at the request of Sri Lanka also saw discussions on the COVID crisis. A statement by the Indian Prime Ministers' office said, that the leaders reviewed "topical developments and the ongoing cooperation between both countries in bilateral and multilateral forums". Both sides agreed to "maintain regular contact between relevant officials" which includes in the context of the "continuing COVID-19 challenges."

It further added, that, "Prime Minister reiterated the importance of Sri Lanka to India's Neighbourhood First policy."

India has so far sent Sri Lanka 12.64 doses of India-made COVID vaccines. Of these, 5 lakh doses have been gifted, 5 lakhs sent commercially, and 2.64 lakh via COVAX.

Ahead of a crucial vote at the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC), Sri Lanka has sought India's support and has dialled PM Narendra Modi. UNHRC vote was one of the key points discussed during the telephonic conversation between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa on Saturday.

Ahead of a crucial vote at the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC), Sri Lanka has sought India's support and has dialled PM Narendra Modi. UNHRC vote was one of the key points discussed during the telephonic conversation between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa on Saturday. Voting will take place on the 22nd and 23rd of March on a resolution against Sri Lanka at the Human Rights Council. Sri Lanka is facing the heat at UN HRC over human rights violations during the civil war with Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE). The 46th session of the UNHRC is underway and will continue till 23rd March and several times matters related to Sri Lanka have been raised. Last month after the report of the office of the High commissioner for Human Rights on Sri Lanka was placed, India's envoy to UN in Geneva, Indra Mani Pandey said while, "assessment of the high commissioner...raises important concern" the "Sri Lankan govt has articulated its position" and the "evaluation of both of these, we should be guided by a commitment to find a lasting and effective solution". During the same statement he called for respecting the "rights of the Tamil community, including through meaningful devolution" and said that this "contributes directly to the unity and integrity of Sri Lanka". This is not for the first time Sri Lanka has requested Indian support on UNHRC. The telephonic conversation, that took place at the request of Sri Lanka also saw discussions on the COVID crisis. A statement by the Indian Prime Ministers' office said, that the leaders reviewed "topical developments and the ongoing cooperation between both countries in bilateral and multilateral forums". Both sides agreed to "maintain regular contact between relevant officials" which includes in the context of the "continuing COVID-19 challenges." It further added, that, "Prime Minister reiterated the importance of Sri Lanka to India's Neighbourhood First policy." India has so far sent Sri Lanka 12.64 doses of India-made COVID vaccines. Of these, 5 lakh doses have been gifted, 5 lakhs sent commercially, and 2.64 lakh via COVAX.

Ahead of UNHRC vote, Sri Lanka seeks India's support

At the United Nations Human Rights Council, India has highlighted Pakistan is providing pensions to United Nations-listed terrorists even as New Delhi expressed concerns over Islamabad's continued support to cross border terror.&nbsp;

Indian diplomat at the Indian mission in UN, Geneva Pawan Badhe said, "The members of this Council are well aware that Pakistan has provided pensions to dreaded and listed terrorists out of state funds and has the dubious distinction of hosting the largest number of terrorists proscribed by the United Nations."&nbsp;

Pakistan approached United Nations Security Council for 'basic expense' for 26/11 mastermind Hafiz Saeed, Lakshar-e-Taiba's leader Zakiur Rehman Lakhvi and Mahmood Sultan Bashiruddin, a Pakistani nuclear engineer.&nbsp;

According to the security council resolution concerning its sanctions regime, asset freeze exemptions can be granted for what is called 'basic expenses'. These 'expense' or 'pensions' include provisions, such as payment for foodstuffs, rent or mortgage, medicines and medical treatment, taxes, insurance premiums. The 1267 sanctions regime of UNSC includes three main areas, assets freeze, travel ban, and arms embargo.&nbsp;

Pawan in India's right of reply after Pakistan raked up Kashmir at the council, pointed out, "Pakistani leaders have admitted the fact that it has become a factory for producing terrorists."&nbsp;

Adding," Pakistan has ignored that terrorism is the worst form of human rights abuse and the supporters of terrorism are the worst abusers of human rights."&nbsp;

Pakistani PM Imran Khan has publicly admitted in the past that his country has hosted terror groups and once even called Al Qaeda leader Osama Bin Laden as a 'Martyr'.&nbsp;

The Indian diplomat said, "Pakistan, a country in dire economic situation, will be well advised to ... stop state-sponsored cross-border terrorism and end institutionalised violation of human rights of its minority and other communities."&nbsp;

Islamabad's track record in protecting its minorities has been criticised several times, with Hindus, Sikhs and Christians facing regular discrimination.&nbsp;

"Council should ask Pakistan", Pawan said, "Why the size of its minority communities, such as Christians, Hindus and Sikhs has drastically shrunk since independence" and "why they and other communities, such as Ahmadiyyas, Shias, Pashtuns, Sindhis and Baloch, have been subjected to draconian blasphemy laws, systemic persecution, blatant abuses and forced conversions."&nbsp;

At the United Nations Human Rights Council, India has highlighted Pakistan is providing pensions to United Nations-listed terrorists even as New Delhi expressed concerns over Islamabad's continued support to cross border terror.

At the United Nations Human Rights Council, India has highlighted Pakistan is providing pensions to United Nations-listed terrorists even as New Delhi expressed concerns over Islamabad's continued support to cross border terror. Indian diplomat at the Indian mission in UN, Geneva Pawan Badhe said, "The members of this Council are well aware that Pakistan has provided pensions to dreaded and listed terrorists out of state funds and has the dubious distinction of hosting the largest number of terrorists proscribed by the United Nations." Pakistan approached United Nations Security Council for 'basic expense' for 26/11 mastermind Hafiz Saeed, Lakshar-e-Taiba's leader Zakiur Rehman Lakhvi and Mahmood Sultan Bashiruddin, a Pakistani nuclear engineer. According to the security council resolution concerning its sanctions regime, asset freeze exemptions can be granted for what is called 'basic expenses'. These 'expense' or 'pensions' include provisions, such as payment for foodstuffs, rent or mortgage, medicines and medical treatment, taxes, insurance premiums. The 1267 sanctions regime of UNSC includes three main areas, assets freeze, travel ban, and arms embargo. Pawan in India's right of reply after Pakistan raked up Kashmir at the council, pointed out, "Pakistani leaders have admitted the fact that it has become a factory for producing terrorists." Adding," Pakistan has ignored that terrorism is the worst form of human rights abuse and the supporters of terrorism are the worst abusers of human rights." Pakistani PM Imran Khan has publicly admitted in the past that his country has hosted terror groups and once even called Al Qaeda leader Osama Bin Laden as a 'Martyr'. The Indian diplomat said, "Pakistan, a country in dire economic situation, will be well advised to ... stop state-sponsored cross-border terrorism and end institutionalised violation of human rights of its minority and other communities." Islamabad's track record in protecting its minorities has been criticised several times, with Hindus, Sikhs and Christians facing regular discrimination. "Council should ask Pakistan", Pawan said, "Why the size of its minority communities, such as Christians, Hindus and Sikhs has drastically shrunk since independence" and "why they and other communities, such as Ahmadiyyas, Shias, Pashtuns, Sindhis and Baloch, have been subjected to draconian blasphemy laws, systemic persecution, blatant abuses and forced conversions."

At UNHRC, India highlights Pakistan providing 'pensions' to terrorists

Indian govt has questioned the silence of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet on red fort violence & the issue of terrorism even as the latter continues to rake Kashmir irking Delhi.

India questions UN High Commissioner's silence on terror, red fort violence

United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) has tabled a resolution expressing concerns about the forced cremation policy for coronavirus victims in Sri Lanka.

UNHRC calls for probe into Sri Lanka's conflict

Will India support Sri Lanka at UNHRC?

United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) has tabled a resolution expressing concerns about the forced cremation policy for coronavirus victims in Sri Lanka.&nbsp;

The government does not allow Muslims and Christians to be buried and they must all be cremated. Because it fears the buried victims will contaminate the soil with the virus. There is no scientific basis for it. &nbsp;

The UNHRC says this policy goes against the belief of minorities. 11 per cent of Sri Lankan population follows Islam. They have been demanding an end to forced cremations.&nbsp;

The resolution also calls upon Colombo to hold human rights abusers to account. At least 25 military officers accused of war crimes have been pardoned by the Rajapaksa government. The resolution urges Sri Lanka to bring them to justice. The Lankan govt has called the resolution politically motivated and Sri Lanka, a victim of an unprecedented propaganda campaign. &nbsp;

Meanwhile, in probe of Easter Bombings, where Sri Lanka witnessed one of the worst terror attacks in recent history on an easter Sunday around 21 months ago. Suicide bombers killed at least 253 people and some 500 others were injured. There were at least six coordinated blasts, targeting churches and top-end hotels, mostly in Colombo. A presidential commission investigated the attacks and now, the report has come out. There are a total of 10 conclusions. Two of them have raised eyebrows. &nbsp;

First, the commission has recommended criminal charges against the former President of Sri Lanka Maithripala Sirisena. It says there's evidence to prove criminal liability on his part and the second targets the former prime minister of Sri Lanka Ranil Wickremesinghe. It accuses him of a lax approach towards Islamic extremism. It says this was one of the primary reasons for the failure of the security apparatus.&nbsp;

United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) has tabled a resolution expressing concerns about the forced cremation policy for coronavirus victims in Sri Lanka. The government does not allow Muslims and Christians to be buried and they must all be cremated.

United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) has tabled a resolution expressing concerns about the forced cremation policy for coronavirus victims in Sri Lanka. The government does not allow Muslims and Christians to be buried and they must all be cremated. Because it fears the buried victims will contaminate the soil with the virus. There is no scientific basis for it. The UNHRC says this policy goes against the belief of minorities. 11 per cent of Sri Lankan population follows Islam. They have been demanding an end to forced cremations. The resolution also calls upon Colombo to hold human rights abusers to account. At least 25 military officers accused of war crimes have been pardoned by the Rajapaksa government. The resolution urges Sri Lanka to bring them to justice. The Lankan govt has called the resolution politically motivated and Sri Lanka, a victim of an unprecedented propaganda campaign. Meanwhile, in probe of Easter Bombings, where Sri Lanka witnessed one of the worst terror attacks in recent history on an easter Sunday around 21 months ago. Suicide bombers killed at least 253 people and some 500 others were injured. There were at least six coordinated blasts, targeting churches and top-end hotels, mostly in Colombo. A presidential commission investigated the attacks and now, the report has come out. There are a total of 10 conclusions. Two of them have raised eyebrows. First, the commission has recommended criminal charges against the former President of Sri Lanka Maithripala Sirisena. It says there's evidence to prove criminal liability on his part and the second targets the former prime minister of Sri Lanka Ranil Wickremesinghe. It accuses him of a lax approach towards Islamic extremism. It says this was one of the primary reasons for the failure of the security apparatus.

UNHRC resolution accuses Sri Lanka of human rights violations

In a strong message to Turkey, India on Wednesday reminded Turkey of United Nations Security Council or UNSC resolutions on Cyprus after the latter raked UNSC resolutions on Kashmir.

India's Second Secretary, Permanent Mission of India to UN, Geneva, Seema Pujani said, "As far as the subject of UN Resolutions is concerned, we would advise Turkey to practise what it preaches by first implementing those UN Resolutions that apply to it."

UNSC resolution on Cyprus has been a cause of embarrassment to Turkey even as it continues to occupy the northern part of the island nation in the Mediterranean Sea. Turkey in the past, especially after India removed special status for the erstwhile state for Jammu and Kashmir has been supporting Pakistani "cause" at various multilateral organizations especially UN.&nbsp;

Pujani, hitting out at Turkey said "we find them completely unacceptable", pointing out, "it is ironical for a country which has trampled upon its own civil society to pass unjustified comments on other’s internal matters."

Pakistan was the key focus of India's right of reply at the council, which out of habit raises Kashmir, irking New Delhi. For the first time, India raised the issue of acquittal of Omar Saeed, key accused in the killing of US Journalist Daniel Pearl and Islamabad's support to "state-sponsored terrorism".

Pujani said,"The recent acquittal of Omar Saeed Sheikh, the al-Qaeda terrorist and murderer" of Daniel Pearl by the Pakistani Supreme Court is a "clear example of the Pakistani establishment’s nexus with such entities and, as the US Secretary of State said, it is "an affront to terrorism victims everywhere.”

The young Indian diplomat listed out the "institutionalized discrimination and persecution" faced by the minorities in the country, along with "instances of repression" of journalists and civil society activists giving the example of Pakistani human rights defender Gulalai Ismail, Idris Khattak.

Gulalai Ismail is right now in the US and as retribution, her father Muhammad Ismail has been arrested under "terror" charges by Pakistan. Idris Khattak, who was doing a report on enforced disappearances in Pakistan’s Federally Administered Tribal Areas has been missing since November 2019.

In a strong message to Turkey, India on Wednesday reminded Turkey of United Nations Security Council or UNSC resolutions on Cyprus after the latter raked UNSC resolutions on Kashmir.

In a strong message to Turkey, India on Wednesday reminded Turkey of United Nations Security Council or UNSC resolutions on Cyprus after the latter raked UNSC resolutions on Kashmir. India's Second Secretary, Permanent Mission of India to UN, Geneva, Seema Pujani said, "As far as the subject of UN Resolutions is concerned, we would advise Turkey to practise what it preaches by first implementing those UN Resolutions that apply to it." UNSC resolution on Cyprus has been a cause of embarrassment to Turkey even as it continues to occupy the northern part of the island nation in the Mediterranean Sea. Turkey in the past, especially after India removed special status for the erstwhile state for Jammu and Kashmir has been supporting Pakistani "cause" at various multilateral organizations especially UN. Pujani, hitting out at Turkey said "we find them completely unacceptable", pointing out, "it is ironical for a country which has trampled upon its own civil society to pass unjustified comments on other’s internal matters." Pakistan was the key focus of India's right of reply at the council, which out of habit raises Kashmir, irking New Delhi. For the first time, India raised the issue of acquittal of Omar Saeed, key accused in the killing of US Journalist Daniel Pearl and Islamabad's support to "state-sponsored terrorism". Pujani said,"The recent acquittal of Omar Saeed Sheikh, the al-Qaeda terrorist and murderer" of Daniel Pearl by the Pakistani Supreme Court is a "clear example of the Pakistani establishment’s nexus with such entities and, as the US Secretary of State said, it is "an affront to terrorism victims everywhere.” The young Indian diplomat listed out the "institutionalized discrimination and persecution" faced by the minorities in the country, along with "instances of repression" of journalists and civil society activists giving the example of Pakistani human rights defender Gulalai Ismail, Idris Khattak. Gulalai Ismail is right now in the US and as retribution, her father Muhammad Ismail has been arrested under "terror" charges by Pakistan. Idris Khattak, who was doing a report on enforced disappearances in Pakistan’s Federally Administered Tribal Areas has been missing since November 2019.

At UNHRC India reminds Turkey of UNSC resolutions on Cyprus, raises Omar Saeed's acquittal

The United States is seeking to return to the UN Human Rights Council, three years after former president Donald Trump's administration withdrew.

"I'm pleased to announce the United States will seek election to the Human Rights Council for the 2022-24 term," US Secretary of State Antony Blinken told the council in a video message. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/why-do-chronic-violators-of-human-rights-like-china-pak-want-a-seat-at-the-unhrc-335063">Also read: Why do chronic violators of human rights like China &amp; Pak want a seat at the UNHRC?</a>

"We humbly ask for the support of all UN member states in our bid to return to a seat in this body."

The United States announced earlier this month that it would re-engage with the 47-member council after Trump's administration pulled the country out in June 2018.

Blinken also complained about its "unrelenting bias" against Israel and the "hypocrisy" of allowing rights-abusing nations a seat at the table.&nbsp;

The US departure left a void that China and others have been eager to fill at the council.

While Washington has vowed to begin active participation in the council's activities immediately, it could not automatically regain the membership it walked away from three years ago.

Elections for the next term will be held towards the end of this year.

While the US under new President Joe Biden is eager to return to the fold of the council, Blinken stressed that the country still agrees with some of the criticisms lobbed by the previous administration.

"Institutions are not perfect," he said, adding, "as the United States reengages, we urge the Human Rights Council to look at how it conducts its business. That includes its disproportionate focus on Israel."

The United States has long complained that prominent rights abusers are given seats on the council.

Currently, the membership includes China, Russia, and Venezuela, along with Cuba, Cameroon, Eritrea and the Philippines.

"Those with the worst human rights records should not be members of this council," Blinken said.

The council, set up in 2006, has a stand-alone item on the Palestinian territories on its agenda every session - the only issue with such treatment - which both Democratic and Republican administrations have opposed.

It routinely adopts resolutions condemning alleged violations by Israel in Gaza and the occupied West Bank.

Blinken reiterated the US call on Russia to release opposition figure Alexei Navalny as well as hundreds of others detained during protests.

He said Washington would denounce atrocities in Xinjiang, China's western region where activists and UN experts say 1 million Muslim Uighurs are held in camps. And he acknowledged rights issues at home, saying the United States would work to combat both systemic racism and economic injustice.

(with inputs from agencies)

The United States is seeking to return to the UN Human Rights Council, three years after former president Donald Trump's administration withdrew. "I'm pleased to announce the United States will seek election to the Human Rights Council for the 2022-24 term," US Secretary of State Antony Blinken told the council in a video message.

The United States is seeking to return to the UN Human Rights Council, three years after former president Donald Trump's administration withdrew. "I'm pleased to announce the United States will seek election to the Human Rights Council for the 2022-24 term," US Secretary of State Antony Blinken told the council in a video message. Also read: Why do chronic violators of human rights like China & Pak want a seat at the UNHRC? "We humbly ask for the support of all UN member states in our bid to return to a seat in this body." The United States announced earlier this month that it would re-engage with the 47-member council after Trump's administration pulled the country out in June 2018. Blinken also complained about its "unrelenting bias" against Israel and the "hypocrisy" of allowing rights-abusing nations a seat at the table. The US departure left a void that China and others have been eager to fill at the council. While Washington has vowed to begin active participation in the council's activities immediately, it could not automatically regain the membership it walked away from three years ago. Elections for the next term will be held towards the end of this year. While the US under new President Joe Biden is eager to return to the fold of the council, Blinken stressed that the country still agrees with some of the criticisms lobbed by the previous administration. "Institutions are not perfect," he said, adding, "as the United States reengages, we urge the Human Rights Council to look at how it conducts its business. That includes its disproportionate focus on Israel." The United States has long complained that prominent rights abusers are given seats on the council. Currently, the membership includes China, Russia, and Venezuela, along with Cuba, Cameroon, Eritrea and the Philippines. "Those with the worst human rights records should not be members of this council," Blinken said. The council, set up in 2006, has a stand-alone item on the Palestinian territories on its agenda every session - the only issue with such treatment - which both Democratic and Republican administrations have opposed. It routinely adopts resolutions condemning alleged violations by Israel in Gaza and the occupied West Bank. Blinken reiterated the US call on Russia to release opposition figure Alexei Navalny as well as hundreds of others detained during protests. He said Washington would denounce atrocities in Xinjiang, China's western region where activists and UN experts say 1 million Muslim Uighurs are held in camps. And he acknowledged rights issues at home, saying the United States would work to combat both systemic racism and economic injustice. (with inputs from agencies)

US aims to return to UN Human Rights Council, Secretary of State confirms

India's External Affairs Minister Dr&nbsp;S Jaishankar has pointed out how terrorism is a "crime against humanity" at the United Nations Human Rights Council, calling for a "clear realization" in the body that "terrorism can never be justified".&nbsp;

Speaking at the high-level segment of the body, EAM said, "terrorism continues to be one of the gravest threats to humankind. It is a crime against humanity and violates the most fundamental human right - namely ‘the Right to Life’".&nbsp;

He explained, "As a long-standing victim, India has been at the forefront of the global action against terrorism. This is possible only when there is a clear realization, including in bodies dealing with human rights, that terrorism can never be justified, nor its perpetrators ever equated with its victims."

India had presented an 8-point agenda at the United Nations security council last month that calls for dealing with&nbsp;terrorism. The plan including proposals like preventing terrorists from accessing financial resources by strengthening FATF, objectively listing terrorists etc.

The comments come even as in the past there have been numerous&nbsp;run-ins between the Indian Govt and UNHRC even as the latter has been seen silent on the issue of cross-border terror.&nbsp;The Chief of Geneva-based body has been critical of New Delhi on Citizenship Amendment law, Kashmir but has skirted around the issue of terror from Pakistan.

EAM during his statement also highlighted India's covid vaccine outreach by sending vaccines to many countries in form of gifts and commercial deals.&nbsp;

He said,"&nbsp;From Bangladesh to Brazil and from Morocco to Fiji, the pharmacy of the world is today supplying millions of vaccine doses to more than 70 countries."

Last year, amid the pandemic, India sent&nbsp;essential medicines and equipment to more than 150 countries. He pointed out that,&nbsp;&nbsp;India’s "abiding commitment to promotion and protection" of "basic human rights has been manifest in our strategy" to deal with COVID 19 pandemic, by giving direct food support to 800 million Indians and financial support to 400 million.

India's External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar has pointed out how terrorism is a "crime against humanity" at the United Nations Human Rights Council, calling for a "clear realization" in the body that "terrorism can never be justified".

India's External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar has pointed out how terrorism is a "crime against humanity" at the United Nations Human Rights Council, calling for a "clear realization" in the body that "terrorism can never be justified". Speaking at the high-level segment of the body, EAM said, "terrorism continues to be one of the gravest threats to humankind. It is a crime against humanity and violates the most fundamental human right - namely ‘the Right to Life’". He explained, "As a long-standing victim, India has been at the forefront of the global action against terrorism. This is possible only when there is a clear realization, including in bodies dealing with human rights, that terrorism can never be justified, nor its perpetrators ever equated with its victims." India had presented an 8-point agenda at the United Nations security council last month that calls for dealing with terrorism. The plan including proposals like preventing terrorists from accessing financial resources by strengthening FATF, objectively listing terrorists etc. The comments come even as in the past there have been numerous run-ins between the Indian Govt and UNHRC even as the latter has been seen silent on the issue of cross-border terror. The Chief of Geneva-based body has been critical of New Delhi on Citizenship Amendment law, Kashmir but has skirted around the issue of terror from Pakistan. EAM during his statement also highlighted India's covid vaccine outreach by sending vaccines to many countries in form of gifts and commercial deals. He said," From Bangladesh to Brazil and from Morocco to Fiji, the pharmacy of the world is today supplying millions of vaccine doses to more than 70 countries." Last year, amid the pandemic, India sent essential medicines and equipment to more than 150 countries. He pointed out that, India’s "abiding commitment to promotion and protection" of "basic human rights has been manifest in our strategy" to deal with COVID 19 pandemic, by giving direct food support to 800 million Indians and financial support to 400 million.

Terror is a crime against humanity, India's External Affairs Minister Jaishankar tells UNHRC

Sri Lanka has officially sought India's support ahead of next week's UNHRC sessions on the island nation's rights and accountability record, a top foreign ministry bureaucrat told a state-run channel here on Friday.

Speaking to Hitu TV, Foreign Ministry Permanent Secretary Jayanath Colombage said India was the first country that Sri Lanka had turned to for support.

During the UN Human Rights Council (UNHRC) session in Geneva next week, Sri Lanka's record in human rights and related accountability will be probed.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-to-procure-10-million-doses-of-covid-19-vaccine-from-india-official-364808" hreflang="en">Sri Lanka to procure 10 million doses of COVID-19 vaccine from India: Official</a>

"We sent a special communique to the Honourable Indian Prime Minister seeking his help... ," Colombage said.

The senior foreign ministry official's comments came after the UNHRC Core Group on Sri Lanka, in a joint statement earlier in the day, said a resolution would be moved next week to focus on Sri Lanka's rights accountability.

The Sri Lanka Core Group consists of the UK, Germany, Canada, Malawi, North Macedonia and Montenegro.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/is-sri-lanka-falling-to-chinese-debt-trap-364624" hreflang="en">Is Sri Lanka falling to Chinese debt trap?</a>

"The Core Group restates the ongoing importance of addressing Sri Lanka in the Human rights Council. Informed by the report the core group intends to present a resolution to promote reconciliation accountability and human rights in Sri Lanka," the statement read.

Colombage expressed confidence that India would support Sri Lanka for the sake of regional solidarity.

"This is unwanted interference by powerful countries, still talking about the war time in Sri Lanka when our country is now a peaceful democratic nation," Colombage said.

Colombage said he was expecting support from Russia and China as well.

The previous Sri Lankan government, headed by the Sri Lanka Freedom Party, had co-sponsored the resolution in 2013, calling for accountability in alleged war crimes committed by the government forces and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam during the final phase of the near-three-decade-long civil war in May 2009.

The current government, led by Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna, has officially withdrawn from the resolution.

Sri Lanka has officially sought India's support ahead of next week's UNHRC sessions on the island nation's rights and accountability record, a top foreign ministry bureaucrat told a state-run channel here on Friday.

Sri Lanka has officially sought India's support ahead of next week's UNHRC sessions on the island nation's rights and accountability record, a top foreign ministry bureaucrat told a state-run channel here on Friday. Speaking to Hitu TV, Foreign Ministry Permanent Secretary Jayanath Colombage said India was the first country that Sri Lanka had turned to for support. During the UN Human Rights Council (UNHRC) session in Geneva next week, Sri Lanka's record in human rights and related accountability will be probed. Also read| Sri Lanka to procure 10 million doses of COVID-19 vaccine from India: Official "We sent a special communique to the Honourable Indian Prime Minister seeking his help... ," Colombage said. The senior foreign ministry official's comments came after the UNHRC Core Group on Sri Lanka, in a joint statement earlier in the day, said a resolution would be moved next week to focus on Sri Lanka's rights accountability. The Sri Lanka Core Group consists of the UK, Germany, Canada, Malawi, North Macedonia and Montenegro. Also read| Is Sri Lanka falling to Chinese debt trap? "The Core Group restates the ongoing importance of addressing Sri Lanka in the Human rights Council. Informed by the report the core group intends to present a resolution to promote reconciliation accountability and human rights in Sri Lanka," the statement read. Colombage expressed confidence that India would support Sri Lanka for the sake of regional solidarity. "This is unwanted interference by powerful countries, still talking about the war time in Sri Lanka when our country is now a peaceful democratic nation," Colombage said. Colombage said he was expecting support from Russia and China as well. The previous Sri Lankan government, headed by the Sri Lanka Freedom Party, had co-sponsored the resolution in 2013, calling for accountability in alleged war crimes committed by the government forces and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam during the final phase of the near-three-decade-long civil war in May 2009. The current government, led by Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna, has officially withdrawn from the resolution.

Sri Lanka seeks Indian support ahead of key UNHRC sessions

United Nations human rights council held a special session to address the crisis in Myanmar. The 47 member geneva forum adopted a resolution unanimously without a vote with Russia and China disassociating themselves from the consensus.

UNHRC holds special session on Myanmar

India has called for release of detained political leaders and upholding of "democratic processes" in Myanmar in the aftermath of a military coup in the country.

India's envoy to UN in Geneva Indra Mani Pandey, while addressing the UN Human Rights Council, said, "Unfortunately, the hopes and aspirations of the people of Myanmar have been dealt with a blow by the latest developments. We strongly believe that the rule of law and democratic processes must be upheld and the detained political leaders released."

"The right to protest peacefully is an integral part of the democratic ethos," he added.

This is the third such official statement by India in the aftermath of the February 1 coup. The first two statements were made by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).

The Indian envoy in his statement expressed deep concerns, and called on "the leadership of Myanmar to work together to resolve their differences in a peaceful and constructive manner" and that "restoring democratic order should be the priority of all stakeholders in Myanmar."

Also, India lauded the "progress achieved on the path to democracy, over the last decade or more" which was "impressive".

India and Myanmar have good bilateral relations, including high level engagement. Last year, Indian Army Chief General MM Naravane and Foreign Secretary Harsh Shringla visited Myanmar.

Pandey, to this end, said, "India shares a land and maritime border with Myanmar. We have direct stakes in the maintenance of peace and stability and the development of the country and we propose to continue with our developmental efforts so that people on the ground do not suffer."

New Delhi had earlier sent 1.5 million India-made vaccines to Myanmar. India is also engaged in number of connectivity projects with the country, including operationalisation of Sittwe project.&nbsp;

India has called for release of detained political leaders and upholding of "democratic processes" in Myanmar in the aftermath of a military coup in the country.

India has called for release of detained political leaders and upholding of "democratic processes" in Myanmar in the aftermath of a military coup in the country. India's envoy to UN in Geneva Indra Mani Pandey, while addressing the UN Human Rights Council, said, "Unfortunately, the hopes and aspirations of the people of Myanmar have been dealt with a blow by the latest developments. We strongly believe that the rule of law and democratic processes must be upheld and the detained political leaders released." "The right to protest peacefully is an integral part of the democratic ethos," he added. This is the third such official statement by India in the aftermath of the February 1 coup. The first two statements were made by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). The Indian envoy in his statement expressed deep concerns, and called on "the leadership of Myanmar to work together to resolve their differences in a peaceful and constructive manner" and that "restoring democratic order should be the priority of all stakeholders in Myanmar." Also, India lauded the "progress achieved on the path to democracy, over the last decade or more" which was "impressive". India and Myanmar have good bilateral relations, including high level engagement. Last year, Indian Army Chief General MM Naravane and Foreign Secretary Harsh Shringla visited Myanmar. Pandey, to this end, said, "India shares a land and maritime border with Myanmar. We have direct stakes in the maintenance of peace and stability and the development of the country and we propose to continue with our developmental efforts so that people on the ground do not suffer." New Delhi had earlier sent 1.5 million India-made vaccines to Myanmar. India is also engaged in number of connectivity projects with the country, including operationalisation of Sittwe project.

At UNHRC, India calls for release of political detainees in Myanmar

The United States has moved to rejoin the UN Human Rights Council, nearly three years after former president Donald Trump's administration withdrew the country from body. The move marks yet another reversal by Biden of his predecessor's policies.

In a statement issued as the UN's top rights body was conducting an organisational meeting in Geneva, US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken Monday said President Joe Biden had ordered his department to "re-engage immediately and robustly with the UN Human Rights Council."

Trump's administration pulled the country out of the 47-member council in June 2018, complaining about its "unrelenting bias" against Israel and "hypocrisy" of allowing rights-abusing nations a seat at the table.

At the time, the United States was a member of the council.

It, hence, cannot now automatically regain membership. It will need to wait for elections towards the end of the year for the seats becoming available in 2022.&nbsp;

Blinken acknowledged that in the immediate term, "the United States will engage with the council as an observer," stressing that it "in that capacity will have the opportunity to speak in the council, participate in negotiations, and partner with others to introduce resolutions."

Blinken said the United States still recognised the rights council is a "flawed body, in need of reform to its agenda, membership, and focus, including its disproportionate focus on Israel."

But, he stressed, "our withdrawal in June 2018 did nothing to encourage meaningful change, but instead created a vacuum of US leadership, which countries with authoritarian agendas have used to their advantage."

"To address the council's deficiencies and ensure it lives up to its mandate, the United States must be at the table using the full weight of our diplomatic leadership. It is our view that the best way to improve the council is to engage with it and its members in a principled fashion," he said.

"We strongly believe that when the United States engages constructively with the council, in concert with our allies and friends, positive change is within reach."

The United States has moved to rejoin the UN Human Rights Council, nearly three years after former president Donald Trump's administration withdrew the country from body.

The United States has moved to rejoin the UN Human Rights Council, nearly three years after former president Donald Trump's administration withdrew the country from body. The move marks yet another reversal by Biden of his predecessor's policies. In a statement issued as the UN's top rights body was conducting an organisational meeting in Geneva, US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken Monday said President Joe Biden had ordered his department to "re-engage immediately and robustly with the UN Human Rights Council." Trump's administration pulled the country out of the 47-member council in June 2018, complaining about its "unrelenting bias" against Israel and "hypocrisy" of allowing rights-abusing nations a seat at the table. At the time, the United States was a member of the council. It, hence, cannot now automatically regain membership. It will need to wait for elections towards the end of the year for the seats becoming available in 2022. Blinken acknowledged that in the immediate term, "the United States will engage with the council as an observer," stressing that it "in that capacity will have the opportunity to speak in the council, participate in negotiations, and partner with others to introduce resolutions." Blinken said the United States still recognised the rights council is a "flawed body, in need of reform to its agenda, membership, and focus, including its disproportionate focus on Israel." But, he stressed, "our withdrawal in June 2018 did nothing to encourage meaningful change, but instead created a vacuum of US leadership, which countries with authoritarian agendas have used to their advantage." "To address the council's deficiencies and ensure it lives up to its mandate, the United States must be at the table using the full weight of our diplomatic leadership. It is our view that the best way to improve the council is to engage with it and its members in a principled fashion," he said. "We strongly believe that when the United States engages constructively with the council, in concert with our allies and friends, positive change is within reach."

US moves to rejoin UN Human Rights Council

There have been several accusations against China regarding the inhumane treatment of the Uighur minority group in the area Xinjiang.&nbsp;

Now the UK, too, has once again urged China to allow the UN rights inspectors to visit Xinjiang and investigate the "appalling" allegations being raised against the human rights abuse the minority group is being subjected to in the area.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-accused-of-trading-uighurs-for-chinese-covid-19-vaccine-357132">Turkey accused of trading Uighurs for Chinese covid-19 vaccine</a>

This has come a week after the Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab introduced import controls on firms that get their resources — raw or finished products — from the northwest Chinese region.&nbsp;

Raab took the decision to make sure the UK does not enable the forced labour the Uighur community is being subjected to in Xinjiang — a claim that China has repeatedly denied.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/why-erdogan-has-decided-to-extradite-uighurs-to-china-316326">Also read| Why Erdogan has decided to extradite Uighurs to China</a>

"Whether or not it amounts to genocide has to be determined by a court. The bar has been set incredibly high," Raab said. "And frankly we shouldn't be engaged in free-trade negotiations with countries abusing human rights well below the limit of genocide."

While Raab himself has introduced the import controls, he has been vocal for the view that the UK government or the courts should not be given the sole power to decide whether or not a genocide is taking place against the mainly Muslim community in Xinjiang.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-brushes-aside-fears-of-uighur-deportations-to-china-353427">Also read| Turkey brushes aside fears of Uighur deportations to China</a>

"What China says is this is all lies cooked up by the West, and Britain a leading member amongst them," he said.

However, he proposed letting the UNHRC inspectors visit and carry out investigations in the area to put all accusations to rest. "What we say is if you dispute the allegations and the claims and the reports, there's a simple way to clear this up: allow the UN Human Rights Commissioner to visit and access and see these sites," Raab said.

China, on the other hand, has warned Raab to stop meddling in its internal affairs. The UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson, meanwhile, believes, "speaking frankly and calling out human rights abuses should not stop us from having a productive relationship, where that is possible."

There have been several accusations against China regarding the inhumane treatment of the Uighur minority group in the area Xinjiang. Now the UK, too, has once again urged China to allow the UN rights inspectors to visit Xinjiang and investigate the "appalling" allegations being raised against the human rights abuse the minority group is being subjected to in the area.

There have been several accusations against China regarding the inhumane treatment of the Uighur minority group in the area Xinjiang. Now the UK, too, has once again urged China to allow the UN rights inspectors to visit Xinjiang and investigate the "appalling" allegations being raised against the human rights abuse the minority group is being subjected to in the area. Also read| Turkey accused of trading Uighurs for Chinese covid-19 vaccine This has come a week after the Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab introduced import controls on firms that get their resources — raw or finished products — from the northwest Chinese region. Raab took the decision to make sure the UK does not enable the forced labour the Uighur community is being subjected to in Xinjiang — a claim that China has repeatedly denied. Also read| Why Erdogan has decided to extradite Uighurs to China "Whether or not it amounts to genocide has to be determined by a court. The bar has been set incredibly high," Raab said. "And frankly we shouldn't be engaged in free-trade negotiations with countries abusing human rights well below the limit of genocide." While Raab himself has introduced the import controls, he has been vocal for the view that the UK government or the courts should not be given the sole power to decide whether or not a genocide is taking place against the mainly Muslim community in Xinjiang. Also read| Turkey brushes aside fears of Uighur deportations to China "What China says is this is all lies cooked up by the West, and Britain a leading member amongst them," he said. However, he proposed letting the UNHRC inspectors visit and carry out investigations in the area to put all accusations to rest. "What we say is if you dispute the allegations and the claims and the reports, there's a simple way to clear this up: allow the UN Human Rights Commissioner to visit and access and see these sites," Raab said. China, on the other hand, has warned Raab to stop meddling in its internal affairs. The UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson, meanwhile, believes, "speaking frankly and calling out human rights abuses should not stop us from having a productive relationship, where that is possible."

UK's Dominic Raab urges China to let UN investigate Xinjiang camps

Sri Lanka's minority Tamil political parties and civil society groups have urged the UN Human Rights Council to establish an international independent investigatory mechanism with a strict time frame to ensure accountability from the island nation on the alleged human rights abuses during the nearly three-decades-long civil war.

In a letter dated January 15 addressed to the missions of the 47 member states of the UNHRC, they called on to establish an evidence-gathering mechanism such as the one on Syria with a strict one-year time frame.

They urged for a new resolution on Sri Lanka's accountability.

Sri Lanka faced three consecutive UNHRC resolutions since 2013 which called for an independent international investigation into alleged war crimes committed by both government troops and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) during the final phase of the civil war back in 2009.

The Tamil and civil society groups in the letter recalled that the then UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon in 2009 after his tour to Sri Lanka's battle zones had said that the Sri Lankan government had agreed to investigate violations of rights and international humanitarian law.

The groups say that UNHRC is due to meet next month and in March to evaluate Sri Lanka's commitments made.

They called for a fresh resolution, saying Sri Lanka has failed and that resolution must stipulate that the UN Security Council must take up the matter and take suitable action through the International Criminal Court and an effective international accountability mechanism to inquire into Sri Lanka's alleged abuses of human rights.

The current government had already withdrawn from the resolution co-sponsored by Sri Lanka in 2015, 2017 and 2019 under the previous government.

According to the UN figures, up to 40,000 civilians were killed by the security forces during Mahinda Rajapaksa's regime that brought an end to nearly three-decades-long civil war in Sri Lanka with the defeat of LTTE in 2009.

Government troops and the Tamil Tiger rebels are both accused of war crimes.

Sri Lanka's minority Tamil political parties and civil society groups have urged the UN Human Rights Council to establish an international independent investigatory mechanism with a strict time frame to ensure accountability from the island nation on the alleged human rights abuses during the nearly three-decades-long civil war.

Sri Lanka's minority Tamil political parties and civil society groups have urged the UN Human Rights Council to establish an international independent investigatory mechanism with a strict time frame to ensure accountability from the island nation on the alleged human rights abuses during the nearly three-decades-long civil war. In a letter dated January 15 addressed to the missions of the 47 member states of the UNHRC, they called on to establish an evidence-gathering mechanism such as the one on Syria with a strict one-year time frame. They urged for a new resolution on Sri Lanka's accountability. Sri Lanka faced three consecutive UNHRC resolutions since 2013 which called for an independent international investigation into alleged war crimes committed by both government troops and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) during the final phase of the civil war back in 2009. The Tamil and civil society groups in the letter recalled that the then UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon in 2009 after his tour to Sri Lanka's battle zones had said that the Sri Lankan government had agreed to investigate violations of rights and international humanitarian law. The groups say that UNHRC is due to meet next month and in March to evaluate Sri Lanka's commitments made. They called for a fresh resolution, saying Sri Lanka has failed and that resolution must stipulate that the UN Security Council must take up the matter and take suitable action through the International Criminal Court and an effective international accountability mechanism to inquire into Sri Lanka's alleged abuses of human rights. The current government had already withdrawn from the resolution co-sponsored by Sri Lanka in 2015, 2017 and 2019 under the previous government. According to the UN figures, up to 40,000 civilians were killed by the security forces during Mahinda Rajapaksa's regime that brought an end to nearly three-decades-long civil war in Sri Lanka with the defeat of LTTE in 2009. Government troops and the Tamil Tiger rebels are both accused of war crimes.

Sri Lanka Tamils appeal to UNHRC for rights accountability

In an unprecedented move, the UN Watch took a scathing dig at Prime Minister Imran Khan for his intolerant views and Pakistans inclusion in the UN Human Rights Council (UNHRC). Pakistan was recently re-elected to the UNHRC even as the country's human rights record is one among the worst in the world.

Two weeks ago, a French teacher was beheaded by an Islamist in Paris for exhibiting Charlie Hebdo cartoons in a class on the idea of freedom of expression. While President Emmanuel Macron has made it clear that Islamic radicalism and terrorism will not be tolerated in France, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan justified the brutal act of beheading by arguing that the teacher had committed "blasphemy" by showing the cartoons of the Islamic Prophet.

The official Twitter handle of the government of Pakistan had quoted Khan saying, "Blasphemy in garb of freedom of expression is intolerable."

The Geneva-based rights group, which is the only UN-accredited watchdog of the global body, on Twitter rebutted Prime Minister Khan said, "Your presence on the UN Human Rights Council is intolerable."

In its response, the Pakistan government accused the UN Watch of being a pro-Israel Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) with evident bias against Muslims. Arslan Khalid, the digital media adviser to Prime Minister Khan on Twitter alleged that the NGO had nothing to do with the UN.

The NGO countered the Khan government saying that Pakistan pretended to be a defender of Muslims and yet takes an apathetic stand on the human rights abuse of over one million Uyghur Muslims. The UN Watch pointed out that the Pakistan government instead of supports and praises the Chinese government which is perpetrating genocide against Uyghur Muslims in Xinjiang province.

In an unprecedented move, the UN Watch took a scathing dig at Prime Minister Imran Khan for his intolerant views and Pakistans inclusion in the UN Human Rights Council (UNHRC).

In an unprecedented move, the UN Watch took a scathing dig at Prime Minister Imran Khan for his intolerant views and Pakistans inclusion in the UN Human Rights Council (UNHRC). Pakistan was recently re-elected to the UNHRC even as the country's human rights record is one among the worst in the world. Two weeks ago, a French teacher was beheaded by an Islamist in Paris for exhibiting Charlie Hebdo cartoons in a class on the idea of freedom of expression. While President Emmanuel Macron has made it clear that Islamic radicalism and terrorism will not be tolerated in France, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan justified the brutal act of beheading by arguing that the teacher had committed "blasphemy" by showing the cartoons of the Islamic Prophet. The official Twitter handle of the government of Pakistan had quoted Khan saying, "Blasphemy in garb of freedom of expression is intolerable." The Geneva-based rights group, which is the only UN-accredited watchdog of the global body, on Twitter rebutted Prime Minister Khan said, "Your presence on the UN Human Rights Council is intolerable." In its response, the Pakistan government accused the UN Watch of being a pro-Israel Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) with evident bias against Muslims. Arslan Khalid, the digital media adviser to Prime Minister Khan on Twitter alleged that the NGO had nothing to do with the UN. The NGO countered the Khan government saying that Pakistan pretended to be a defender of Muslims and yet takes an apathetic stand on the human rights abuse of over one million Uyghur Muslims. The UN Watch pointed out that the Pakistan government instead of supports and praises the Chinese government which is perpetrating genocide against Uyghur Muslims in Xinjiang province.

UN watchdog says Pakistan doesn't deserve to be in UNHRC

The fight between China and the United States is only intensifying. The<a href="https://www.wionews.com/us-election"> presidential election</a> is barely weeks away but that hasn't stopped the Trump administration from taking on China. Perhaps the election is the reason <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a> is going after China so strongly.

Whatever be the reason, the relationship is going downhill. The latest point of contention is Tibet. The United States has appointed a Tibet coordinator — a senior human rights official.

He will "promote a dialogue between the Dalai Lama and China."

The post is not new but&nbsp;it's been lying vacant since Trump came to power.&nbsp;Now, in the thick of the election, he has filled the vacancy.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-china-is-trying-repair-the-damage-done-by-its-wolf-warriors-335570">Also read|&nbsp;How China is trying repair the damage done by its wolf warriors</a>

The message is clear, America doesn't want to leave any opportunity to pull China down.&nbsp;

Robert Destro, the assistant secretary of state for democracy, human rights and labour will take this job. The announcement comes right after China's re-election to the UN Human Rights Council — a&nbsp;council that America left two years ago.

The US Secretary of State, Mike Pompeo briefed the press yesterday. He used the opportunity to once again criticise China on its human rights violations.

"Whether it's Xinjiang, what's taking place there, whether it's Tibet, we've talked about that a little bit here this morning, whether that's in inner Mongolia and the inner Mongolians simple desire to live in freedom and exercise their own understandings of what freedom and human dignity look like. In each of those places and in Hong Kong, in each of those places, we simply are demanding of the chinese communist party what we ask of every nation is to preserve basic freedoms, human dignity, religious freedom for every one of their citizens," Pompeo said.

Clearly, the United States wanted to make a statement. They wanted to highlight China's persecution of minorities&nbsp;on a day when China was re-elected to the Human Rights Council.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-city-where-china-welcomed-the-world-xi-prepares-for-a-colder-one-335458">Also read|&nbsp;In city where China welcomed the world, Xi prepares for a colder one</a>

So what will America's new appointee do?

Beijing has never dealt with the special coordinator for Tibet and it won't deal with this one either. China criticised the appointment and said the US&nbsp;is meddling in its internal affairs.

Zhao Lijian, spokesperson of Chinese ministry of foreign affairs said,&nbsp;"The establishment of the so-called 'special coordinator for tibetan issues' by the US is totally out of political manipulation and aiming to interfere in China's internal affairs and undermine the development and stability of Tibet. China always firmly opposed it and has never recognized it."

Such statements may not make any difference to America's approach. This month, the United States, alongside 39 other countries, raised China's rights violations at the United Nations.

A joint statement was presented to the General Assembly. It demanded that independent observers including the UN Human Rights Chief must have unfettered access to Xinjiang where more than one million muslims are facing persecution.

Last month, Mike Pompeo led a campaign to the Vatican. He urged the Pope to condemn China's human rights abuses. He was denied a meeting with the Pope, but Pompeo did communicate his stand to the Vatican's top officials.

In July, the US state department&nbsp;barred the Chinese officials who restrict access to Tibet.

Chinese authorities who have restricted journalists, tourists, diplomats or American officials won't be able to get an American visa now.

The US has taken a tough stand against China on the issue of human rights.

What it needs is global consensus and the support, at least of the quad — Australia, Japan and India — to counter China on this.

The fight between China and the United States is only intensifying. The presidential election is barely weeks away but that hasn't stopped the Trump administration from taking on China.

The fight between China and the United States is only intensifying. The presidential election is barely weeks away but that hasn't stopped the Trump administration from taking on China. Perhaps the election is the reason Donald Trump is going after China so strongly. Whatever be the reason, the relationship is going downhill. The latest point of contention is Tibet. The United States has appointed a Tibet coordinator — a senior human rights official. He will "promote a dialogue between the Dalai Lama and China." The post is not new but it's been lying vacant since Trump came to power. Now, in the thick of the election, he has filled the vacancy. Also read| How China is trying repair the damage done by its wolf warriors The message is clear, America doesn't want to leave any opportunity to pull China down. Robert Destro, the assistant secretary of state for democracy, human rights and labour will take this job. The announcement comes right after China's re-election to the UN Human Rights Council — a council that America left two years ago. The US Secretary of State, Mike Pompeo briefed the press yesterday. He used the opportunity to once again criticise China on its human rights violations. "Whether it's Xinjiang, what's taking place there, whether it's Tibet, we've talked about that a little bit here this morning, whether that's in inner Mongolia and the inner Mongolians simple desire to live in freedom and exercise their own understandings of what freedom and human dignity look like. In each of those places and in Hong Kong, in each of those places, we simply are demanding of the chinese communist party what we ask of every nation is to preserve basic freedoms, human dignity, religious freedom for every one of their citizens," Pompeo said. Clearly, the United States wanted to make a statement. They wanted to highlight China's persecution of minorities on a day when China was re-elected to the Human Rights Council. Also read| In city where China welcomed the world, Xi prepares for a colder one So what will America's new appointee do? Beijing has never dealt with the special coordinator for Tibet and it won't deal with this one either. China criticised the appointment and said the US is meddling in its internal affairs. Zhao Lijian, spokesperson of Chinese ministry of foreign affairs said, "The establishment of the so-called 'special coordinator for tibetan issues' by the US is totally out of political manipulation and aiming to interfere in China's internal affairs and undermine the development and stability of Tibet. China always firmly opposed it and has never recognized it." Such statements may not make any difference to America's approach. This month, the United States, alongside 39 other countries, raised China's rights violations at the United Nations. A joint statement was presented to the General Assembly. It demanded that independent observers including the UN Human Rights Chief must have unfettered access to Xinjiang where more than one million muslims are facing persecution. Last month, Mike Pompeo led a campaign to the Vatican. He urged the Pope to condemn China's human rights abuses. He was denied a meeting with the Pope, but Pompeo did communicate his stand to the Vatican's top officials. In July, the US state department barred the Chinese officials who restrict access to Tibet. Chinese authorities who have restricted journalists, tourists, diplomats or American officials won't be able to get an American visa now. The US has taken a tough stand against China on the issue of human rights. What it needs is global consensus and the support, at least of the quad — Australia, Japan and India — to counter China on this.

US appoints Tibet coordinator to send a message to China

Countries infamous for human rights abuse - China, Pakistan, Russia have been elected to the U.N. Human Rights Council. Who voted for them? Palki Sharma Upadhyay has the details.

Gravitas: Why UNHRC votes should be transparent

China and Russia were elected to the United Nations Human Rights Council on Tuesday (Oct. 13), but support for Beijing dropped by more than 20% compared with a 2016 vote and Saudi Arabia failed in its bid to win a seat on the Geneva-based body.

UNHRC Elections 2020: China, Russia elected to U.N. rights council; Saudi Arabia fails

Some of the world's biggest violators of human rights have won seats at the UN Human Rights Council. This includes countries like Burundi and China. Palki Sharma Upadhyay tells you how rights violators are weakening the UNHRC from inside.

Gravitas: Why the world's biggest violators of rights want a UNHRC membership

China, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and Cuba could be elected to the board of the UN Human Rights Council. Will the countries labeled as the biggest violators of rights now dictate the global rules for human rights? Palki Sharma Upadhyay tells you more.

Gravitas: Rights violators takeover UN Human Rights Council

Pakistan on Tuesday was re-elected as a member of the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) for the next 3 years.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/why-do-chronic-violators-of-human-rights-like-china-pak-want-a-seat-at-the-unhrc-335063">Also Read:&nbsp;Why do chronic violators of human rights like China &amp; Pak want a seat at the UNHRC?</a>

The country will be a member of the UN council for 2021-23 period. Pakistan garnered 169 out of 194 votes for the seat

Meanwhile, Nepal's foreign minister Pradeep Gyawali said, "Nepal is re-elected in UN Human Rights Council for the second term with 150 votes."

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Nepal is re-elected in UN Human Right Council for second term with 150 votes. We are grateful to the friendly nations for their support. Thanks to the Nepali Missions in New York and Geneva for hard work.
— Pradeep Gyawali (@PradeepgyawaliK) <a href="https://twitter.com/PradeepgyawaliK/status/1316086795973521410?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 13, 2020</a></blockquote>
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China, Cuba and Russia were also elected to the UNHRC while Saudi Arabia failed in its attempt to become the member of the Rights council winning just 90 votes.

Fifteen countries were elected to the council which comprises of 47 nations.

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Members to the UNHRC are elected directly by secret ballot by UN General Assembly members who are distributed geographically. The members to the council have a three-year term with a maximum of two terms.

The regions for UNHRC membership are divided into Africa, Asia-Pacific, Latin America and Caribbean, western Europe and eastern Europe.

Pakistan on Tuesday was re-elected as a member of the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) for the next 3 years. Also Read: Why do chronic violators of human rights like China & Pak want a seat at the UNHRC?

Pakistan on Tuesday was re-elected as a member of the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) for the next 3 years. Also Read: Why do chronic violators of human rights like China & Pak want a seat at the UNHRC? The country will be a member of the UN council for 2021-23 period. Pakistan garnered 169 out of 194 votes for the seat Meanwhile, Nepal's foreign minister Pradeep Gyawali said, "Nepal is re-elected in UN Human Rights Council for the second term with 150 votes." Nepal is re-elected in UN Human Right Council for second term with 150 votes. We are grateful to the friendly nations for their support. Thanks to the Nepali Missions in New York and Geneva for hard work. — Pradeep Gyawali (@PradeepgyawaliK) October 13, 2020 × China, Cuba and Russia were also elected to the UNHRC while Saudi Arabia failed in its attempt to become the member of the Rights council winning just 90 votes. Fifteen countries were elected to the council which comprises of 47 nations. × Members to the UNHRC are elected directly by secret ballot by UN General Assembly members who are distributed geographically. The members to the council have a three-year term with a maximum of two terms. The regions for UNHRC membership are divided into Africa, Asia-Pacific, Latin America and Caribbean, western Europe and eastern Europe.

Pakistan, Nepal re-elected as UNHRC members; China also elected

China, Russia, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Cuba, Nepal and Uzbekistan are among the candidates vying for four seats on the&nbsp;UN human rights council on Tuesday.

If the countries get elected, the move is bound to leave human right campaigners in the countries aghast and they might plead to European&nbsp;Union States as a last resort.

''The situation is equivalent of allowing five convicted arsonists to join the fire brigade,'' said NGO UN Watch.

With the seats grouped into five regions, the UN has 15 three-year term vacancies. However, due to secretive back room deals, the only regional group in which the seats are being contested are in the Pacific and Asia.

A country gets defeated if it gets the votes of less than 97 countries in a secret ballot at the UN general assembly in New York.

A briefing was organised by UN Watch before the voting took place. Human right campaigners of the candidates spoke out against the atrocities they have been subjected to.

“China was involved in the annihilation of&nbsp;political freedom in Hong Kong. By any standards China has grossly abused the UN human rights founding principles,'' said&nbsp;Yang Jianli, the president of Citizen Power Initiatives for China and a former political prisoner.

''If this were an election for a UN human rights abusers council, it would be more than proper to vote for China, since it leads the world in violating human rights.”

''Regimes in Libya, Sudan and in Saddam Hussein’s Iraq had in the past been elected to the council,'' said&nbsp;Vladimir Kara-Murza, a Russian dissident who was twice poisoned.

“Yet we still find it astonishing that Russia is considered a legitimate candidate let alone that it is likely to be elected,” he said.&nbsp;

He also pointed out that “It has … been confirmed … that [the Russian opposition leader]&nbsp;Alexei Navalny has been poisoned&nbsp;by a highly controlled military grade nerve agent produced by the Russian state that has been used for years by the Russian security services, leaving no doubt who was behind this attack.”

US President Donald Trump had withdrawn from the council two years ago. Campaigners believe that it has strengthened the authoritarian view that human rights should be measured not only on the criteria on economics but also on the grounds of personal freedom.

China, Russia, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Cuba, Nepal and Uzbekistan are among the candidates vying for four seats on the UN human rights council on Tuesday. If the countries get elected, the move is bound to leave human right campaigners in the countries aghast and they might plead to European Union States as a last resort.

China, Russia, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Cuba, Nepal and Uzbekistan are among the candidates vying for four seats on the UN human rights council on Tuesday. If the countries get elected, the move is bound to leave human right campaigners in the countries aghast and they might plead to European Union States as a last resort. ''The situation is equivalent of allowing five convicted arsonists to join the fire brigade,'' said NGO UN Watch. With the seats grouped into five regions, the UN has 15 three-year term vacancies. However, due to secretive back room deals, the only regional group in which the seats are being contested are in the Pacific and Asia. A country gets defeated if it gets the votes of less than 97 countries in a secret ballot at the UN general assembly in New York. A briefing was organised by UN Watch before the voting took place. Human right campaigners of the candidates spoke out against the atrocities they have been subjected to. “China was involved in the annihilation of political freedom in Hong Kong. By any standards China has grossly abused the UN human rights founding principles,'' said Yang Jianli, the president of Citizen Power Initiatives for China and a former political prisoner. ''If this were an election for a UN human rights abusers council, it would be more than proper to vote for China, since it leads the world in violating human rights.” ''Regimes in Libya, Sudan and in Saddam Hussein’s Iraq had in the past been elected to the council,'' said Vladimir Kara-Murza, a Russian dissident who was twice poisoned. “Yet we still find it astonishing that Russia is considered a legitimate candidate let alone that it is likely to be elected,” he said. He also pointed out that “It has … been confirmed … that [the Russian opposition leader] Alexei Navalny has been poisoned by a highly controlled military grade nerve agent produced by the Russian state that has been used for years by the Russian security services, leaving no doubt who was behind this attack.” US President Donald Trump had withdrawn from the council two years ago. Campaigners believe that it has strengthened the authoritarian view that human rights should be measured not only on the criteria on economics but also on the grounds of personal freedom.

China, Russia and Pakistan set to join UN human rights council

Britain called on China to uphold rights and freedoms guaranteed in the Sino-British Joint Declaration on Hong Kong, and maintain the independence of the former British colony's judiciary.

Global outcry over China's UNHRC candidacy, row over mistreatment of Uighurs

India on Wednesday highlighted Pakistan's hate speeches against Indian leadership and the situation of minorities in the country at the United Nations Human Rights Council.

India's first secretary at United Nations in Geneva, Pawan Badhe said, "We are not baffled that Pakistan does well when it comes to inciting hatred against religious minorities and targeting our leadership with hate speeches."

"It’s well cherished and inherited culture of hatred makes it the perfect candidate for carrying forward the legacy of intolerance against anybody having modern views on human rights," he added.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan and other members of the ruling PTI have been making remarks about Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and India. Infact, Khan mentioned India 20 times during his United Nations General Assembly speech last week.

The Indian diplomat said, "No fabricated words against India are going to change the fact that Pakistan and territories under its control are deathtraps for journalists, human rights defenders, social activists and religious and ethnic minorities.

"Perennial India bashing project of Pakistan in the UN system is also not going to change the fact that hundreds of journalists and human rights defenders die each year in Pakistan due to systematic killings including extrajudicial ones. Incessant attempts to malign India in all international forums is not going to change the fact that tens of thousands of minorities would not stop fleeing Pakistan."

A number of reports of minority Hindu and Sikh girls have been converted in the country. Recent abduction and conversion of Jagjit Kaur to Ayesha Bibi has been dominating the news on both sides of the border with a number of Sikh groups protesting against it near Pakistani High Commission in Delhi.

To this end, Pawan said, "While the world has progressed well, Pakistan is still at the crossroads to understand the real meaning of modern laws, democracy and human rights. The language of accountability, civic space, fundamental freedoms, public participation is yet to find resonance with the authorities of Pakistan."

India on Wednesday highlighted Pakistan's hate speeches against Indian leadership and the situation of minorities in the country at the United Nations Human Rights Council.

India on Wednesday highlighted Pakistan's hate speeches against Indian leadership and the situation of minorities in the country at the United Nations Human Rights Council. India's first secretary at United Nations in Geneva, Pawan Badhe said, "We are not baffled that Pakistan does well when it comes to inciting hatred against religious minorities and targeting our leadership with hate speeches." "It’s well cherished and inherited culture of hatred makes it the perfect candidate for carrying forward the legacy of intolerance against anybody having modern views on human rights," he added. Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan and other members of the ruling PTI have been making remarks about Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and India. Infact, Khan mentioned India 20 times during his United Nations General Assembly speech last week. The Indian diplomat said, "No fabricated words against India are going to change the fact that Pakistan and territories under its control are deathtraps for journalists, human rights defenders, social activists and religious and ethnic minorities. "Perennial India bashing project of Pakistan in the UN system is also not going to change the fact that hundreds of journalists and human rights defenders die each year in Pakistan due to systematic killings including extrajudicial ones. Incessant attempts to malign India in all international forums is not going to change the fact that tens of thousands of minorities would not stop fleeing Pakistan." A number of reports of minority Hindu and Sikh girls have been converted in the country. Recent abduction and conversion of Jagjit Kaur to Ayesha Bibi has been dominating the news on both sides of the border with a number of Sikh groups protesting against it near Pakistani High Commission in Delhi. To this end, Pawan said, "While the world has progressed well, Pakistan is still at the crossroads to understand the real meaning of modern laws, democracy and human rights. The language of accountability, civic space, fundamental freedoms, public participation is yet to find resonance with the authorities of Pakistan."

At UNHRC, India highlights Pakistan's 'hate speeches'

A political activist from Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK) has rebuked Pakistan & China at the 45th Session of UN Human Rights Council in Geneva. In his address the activist, Nasir Aziz Khan sharply criticised both countries for constructing mega dams in the occupied territories.

Political activist rebukes Pak & China at UN over illegal construction of dams in PoK

China was called out at the UNHRC by the West to restore basic legal rights in Hong Kong and open up to scrutiny its remote Xinjiang region where more than one million ethnic Uighurs are held.

China faces criticism at UNHRC over Hong Kong, Tibet & Xinjiang

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