India has been elected unopposed to the United Nations Human Rights Council (HRC) for the seventh time, securing a three-year term starting next year.
In a post on X, Permanent Representative P. Harish said the election “reflects India’s unwavering commitment to human rights and fundamental freedoms.” He added that India looks forward to serving this objective during its tenure.
In its nomination, India said the candidature “reflects our dedication to advancing the principles of human rights globally, fostering dialogue, and bridging divides to achieve collective progress.”
“India’s philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam (‘The world is one family’) underscores our commitment to global unity, openness and mutual respect,” the statement sai. India also highlighted that its Constitution “guarantees the fundamental rights of its citizens and promotes the ideals of justice, liberty and equality.”
The Geneva-based 47-member HRC is the main UN body promoting and protecting human rights worldwide. It reviews situations in member countries and provides a forum for discussion on human rights issues.
Seats are distributed by region, with Asia-Pacific nations allotted 17 seats. Four of these were up for election this year. Although India was unopposed for one of the Asia-Pacific group seats, it received 177 votes out of 188 cast in proforma voting.
India last served on the HRC in 2024, completing a second consecutive term. As countries cannot serve more than two consecutive terms, India took a break this year before contesting for the term starting next year.
The other 13 countries elected on Tuesday were Angola, Britain, Chile, Ecuador, Egypt, Estonia, Iraq, Italy, Mauritius, Pakistan, Slovenia, South Africa, and Vietnam.
India said the polarisation that plagues the UN system reflects in the HRC as well, and pledged to work towards bridging divisions.
US President Donald Trump had announced in February that the United States would no longer engage with the HRC.
—IANS
