60th session of the United Nations Human Rights Council, Item 2: ID on HC annual report. Statement by Estonia delivered by H.E. Ambassador Riia Salsa-Audiffren, 9 September 2025
Mr. President,
High Commissioner,
Estonia aligns with the EU statement.
We thank the High Commissioner for the update and for his unwavering commitment to upholding human rights, even in these increasingly challenging times.
In moments of crisis – political, moral or financial – the focus often falls on numbers: budget gaps, staffing cuts, and implementation challenges. Yet behind these figures lies the fragile foundation of trust, accountability, and hope that sustains the human rights system.
We are witnessing troubling trends like rising authoritarianism, and shrinking civic space, while attacks on women’s rights and independent media intensify. The erosion of international humanitarian law and human rights law continues, and there is a trend of normalization of violence.
High Commissioner, you stated: it is time to act.
You also underlined coordinated efforts to undermine human rights and the rule of law around the world. We share your analyses and stand strong behind global principles and values. We would also like to emphasize the need to avoid, at any price, that the ongoing financial and liquidity crisis within the UN system does not weaken the essential Human Rights mechanisms and increase fragmentation.
Estonia, as a candidate to the Human Rights Council, is committed to contributing to the effectiveness, stronger impact and higher visibility of the Human Rights system.
Thank you!