Ethiopia affirms human rights and sustainable dev’t commitments at UNHRC Session

Addis Ababa, October 9, 2025 (FMC) – Ethiopia reinforced its dedication to human rights, inclusive governance, and sustainable development during the 60th Regular Session of the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC), held from September 8 to October 8 at the UN Office in Geneva.

The session brought together member states, observer delegations, civil society organizations, and international bodies for 46 formal meetings across 22 working days to address pressing global, regional, and national human rights challenges.

At the session, the Council adopted 36 resolutions, 29 by consensus, covering issues such as the right to development, climate justice, racial equality, and the protection of vulnerable groups, including older persons, peasants, and people of African descent.

Ethiopia used the platform to highlight its commitment to multilateralism and rights-based governance, emphasizing the link between human rights, sustainable development, and peace.

Ethiopia stressed the importance of a fair and equitable international order and showcased national initiatives, including the Green Legacy program, sustainable water and energy development, and the equitable management of transboundary water resources.

The country also highlighted ongoing reforms in maternal health, efforts to promote human rights-centered drug policies, and measures to combat racism, racial discrimination, and human trafficking while urging cooperative international action to protect victims.

During the General Debate, Ethiopia’s Permanent Representative to the UN in Geneva, Ambassador Tsegab Kebebew Daka, reaffirmed the country’s readiness to engage in constructive dialogue and rejected politically motivated narratives that threaten national sovereignty.

He highlighted key domestic reforms, including the adoption of a national Transitional Justice Policy, the launch of a National Dialogue to address historical grievances, legal reforms to strengthen civil society and press freedom, and continued cooperation with the UN Human Rights Office in line with Ethiopia’s national priorities.

Ethiopia also reiterated its support for the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, advocating for the rights to water, food, health, energy, and development.

The country called for enhanced international cooperation, capacity-building support, and equitable financing mechanisms to promote sustainable resource management and advance human dignity, the Ethiopian Permanent Mission in Geneva told Fana Media Corporation.