Geneva, 25 February 2025

High Level Segment of the 58th Session of the Human Rights Council

Statement by Mr. Endrit YZEIRAJ
Deputy Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs of Albania

Mr. President,
Secretary General,
High Commissioner,
Excellences,
Ladies and Gentlemen,

It is a pleasure to be here, and I would like to express my gratitude for the opportunity to speak at this High-Level Segment of the 58th Session of the Human Rights Council. Allow me also to congratulate Ambassador Lauber on his assumption of office as President of the 19th cycle of the Human Rights Council.
The Universal Declaration of Human Rights, adopted 77 years ago, stands as a remarkable achievement, reflecting shared values of equality, dignity, and justice.
However, conflict, violence, discrimination and inequality persist in many parts of the world, where people’s fundamental rights are constantly violated. Now more than ever, it is crucial to ensure that the principles enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights are upheld and transformed into meaningful actions.
The third anniversary of Russia’s full-scale illegal invasion of Ukraine marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing fight for freedom, sovereignty, and the protection of democratic values and fundamental human rights.
The human cost of this brutal aggression is staggering, thousands of lives have been lost, and millions have been displaced. Russia’s actions have been marked by deliberate attacks on civilians and critical infrastructure, use of torture, extrajudicial executions, arbitrary detentions, sexual and gender-based violence, war crimes and violations of international law.
At this pivotal moment, Albania praises the resilience and courage demonstrated by the Ukrainian people in the face of this relentless aggression, and as a member of the Human Rights Council, will continue to uphold the principle of accountability as one of its main priorities, together with fighting impunity and preventing further violations of fundamental rights.
Mr. President,
Albania is deeply concerned by the ongoing conflicts and crises affecting various regions across the globe, as these situations not only threaten regional stability, but also result in widespread violations of human rights.
In Afghanistan, the situation of human rights continues to deteriorate. The systematic oppression of women and girls, the shrinking of civic space and the marginalization of minorities are alarming developments that require immediate international attention.
In Iran, women and girls continue to be deprived of their fundamental rights and freedoms and are subject to laws that restrict their autonomy and dignity. We stand in solidarity with the brave Iranian women and girls as they continue to fight for equality and justice – we reiterate our call that this oppression must end.
After decades of suffering, the Syrian people deserve justice, dignity and the restoration of their fundamental rights. We all have a crucial role to play in ensuring that the atrocities committed against the Syrian people are punished and that their rights are respected and protected.
Other conflicts in many parts of the world – in Gaza, Sudan, South Sudan, Yemen, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Myanmar and Haiti – have worsened the already dire humanitarian crises and led to widespread human rights abuses, with millions of people lacking access to basic necessities, including food, clean water, healthcare, and safety.
Albania has always been, and will remain, a strong advocate for the peaceful resolution of conflicts and the protection of human rights in regions where they are under threat. We will continue to play an active role in promoting democracy, the rule of law and good governance in areas affected by conflict or authoritarian regimes.

Mr. President,
Albania is a strong supporter of multilateralism and international cooperation, as demonstrated by our active participation in the United Nations, the Security Council, the Human Rights Council, the OSCE and regional and international organizations.
In a world where human rights violations persist and authoritarianism is on the rise, Albania is convinced that human rights mechanisms—such as the Human Rights Council, special procedures, and treaty bodies— along with the vital role of the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, are essential tools for safeguarding human rights, ensuring accountability and promoting justice and equality.
Mr. President,
At the national level, Albania has taken significant steps to strengthen the protection of human rights and align its legal framework with international standards. We have adopted policies that respect the rights of all individuals, regardless of origin, nationality, ethnicity, gender, religion, belief, or other status.
Gender equality has been a key priority, with significant progress in empowering women, young women and girls, placing them at the core of sustainable development. In the Human Rights Council, Albania will continue advocating for gender equality and fighting violence and discrimination.
We are equally committed to defending minority rights and promoting social inclusion, while also safeguarding their cultural heritage. Our dedication extends to protecting freedom of expression and assembly, essential pillars of any democracy.
We remain steadfast in supporting civil society and human rights defenders, recognizing their critical role in driving positive change.
We remain committed to promoting, protecting and fulfilling the rights of the child at home and abroad, determined to eliminate all forms of violence, protect all children and create child and adolescent-friendly systems and services.
Albania will continue to advocate for the protection of refugees, migrants and stateless persons, emphasizing the importance of treating them with dignity, safeguarding them from exploitation, and providing them with opportunities to rebuild their lives.
We must also ensure that older persons are not left behind. It is our responsibility to ensure that they enjoy the same rights, dignity and respect as everyone else.

Mr. President,
Albania firmly believes that human rights are the cornerstone of peace, stability, and development. We will continue to be a strong and active partner in multilateral forums, advocating for the principles of universality, non-discrimination, and respect for human rights, dignity, and fundamental freedoms to remain at the forefront of international dialogue and cooperation. We will continue to work with all our partners to ensure that human rights are promoted, protected and respected for all individuals.
Thank you.