Joint Statement on Promoting Equality and Protection of Persons in Vulnerable Situations delivered at the ID with IE on international solidarity on June 23, 2021 delivered by Ambassador Chen Xu, Permanent Representative of the People’s Republic of China to the United Nations Office at Geneva.

Madam President, 

I have the honor to deliver this statement on behalf of a group of countries. Inequality is a major challenge faced by the international community. The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated inequality, gravely affecting the economy, society, and people’s livelihood in countries, in particular developing countries.  

The progress gained in implementing 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda risks being reversed. Over 100 million people may fall into poverty again, and the poor and persons in vulnerable situations are hit the hardest. 

We support the eradication of inequality be listed as a priority on the UN agenda and call on the Human Rights Council and the OHCHR to play an active role in this regard. 

International human rights mechanisms should attach greater importance to economic, social, and cultural rights as well as the right to development, work with other UN agencies to promote the implementation of the 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda, and step up efforts to eradicate poverty so as to realize people-centered development.  

In order to build back better, efforts should be made to strengthen social protection systems, protect rights regarding education, health, adequate housing, decent work among others. Rights of persons in vulnerable situations should be further protected. The development gains must be enjoyed on a larger scale and in a more equitable way by all members of the society, leaving no one behind.  

Thank you, Madam President.