Switzerland's work at 59th session of the Human Rights Council focused on women's rights and non-discrimination
Bern, 08.07.2025 — In a global context where the rule of law is being undermined, Switzerland is working hard to defend human rights. Promoting women's rights, gender equality and the rights of LGBT people were some of the key issues addressed at the 59th session of the UN Human Rights Council (HRC). The work of the session, which closed today following three and a half weeks of debates, has been affected by the budget cuts imposed across the UN system.
The rights of women and girls are currently under siege, or even regressing in some parts of the world. They are disproportionately affected by the consequences of conflict, violent extremism, food insecurity, and inadequate healthcare. Discrimination against women and girls, who often face unequal access to resources, means that they are more likely to be impacted by poverty. Yet the full participation of women and girls and respect for their rights are essential to achieving sustainable development and a more equal society.
Problematic situations in various countries have been reported to the HRC. Switzerland has condemned the systematic violations of women's rights in Afghanistan: exclusion from public life, denial of access to education and employment, restrictions on freedom of movement.
LGBT people also continue to suffer violence and discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity.
Switzerland is committed to changing this and has a long track record in promoting the principle of non-discrimination. It helped to extend the mandates of the Special Rapporteur on violence against women and girls and the Independent Expert on sexual orientation and gender identity, who are responsible for documenting violations and reporting on developments concerning the status of women and girls and LGBT people.
Civic space, minorities and respect for international law
Another key action area for Switzerland during the 59th session was ensuring civic space and the HRC adopted a resolution on the right to peaceful assembly and association. Switzerland stated the importance of protecting civil space and highlighted the need to ensure safety for journalists. A healthy civic space is essential if democracy is to work properly, enabling citizens to participate actively in public life.
Switzerland also spoke in defence of the Rohingya and other ethnic and religious minorities in Myanmar, and reaffirmed its commitment to upholding international humanitarian law and human rights in Ukraine.
Budgetary constraints
The 59th session made efforts to streamline the HRC's programme of work due to the budget cuts imposed. Swiss Ambassador Jürg Lauber, President of the Human Rights Council, was the main sponsor of a resolution, which was adopted by the HRC, concerning a package of measures to adjust the HRC's work and bring it into line with available resources. Both speaking time in debates and the duration of the session were reduced.
Switzerland supports these measures, while stressing the necessity to preserve space for civil society.
Civil society's inclusion in multilateral work is one of Geneva's strengths, as are the contributions made by academia and the private sector.