China calls for 'concrete actions' to promote and protect human rights at UNHCR

A Chinese envoy called on the international community to revisit the original purpose of promoting and protecting human rights as the Human Rights Council marks the 20th anniversary of its establishment, urging concrete action over politicization.

Li Xiaomei, deputy head of the Chinese delegation, made the remarks at a recent general debate on human rights situations during the 61st regular session of the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva, Switzerland.

Li said multilateralism and the global human rights cause are facing unprecedented challenges. She added that regional situations are profoundly impacting international peace and security, bringing human rights and humanitarian disasters.

The politicization, instrumentalization and double standards on human rights are intensifying, said the Chinese envoy.

Noting that all 13 country-specific mechanisms of the Human Rights Council target developing countries, Li said these mechanisms consume tens of millions of US dollars while real human rights issues deserving priority are not given sufficient attention.

Noting this year marks the 20th anniversary of the UN Human Rights Council, Li called on all relevant parties to take the opportunity to revisit the original purpose of promoting and protecting human rights, conduct dialogue and cooperation on the basis of equality and mutual respect, and do tangible things to advance the human rights cause.

The 61st regular session of the UN Human Rights Council is scheduled to run from February 23 to March 31, 2026.