Geneve, July 7, 2025

Statement delivered by Ambassador Vasilika Hysi, Permanent Representative

Thank you, Mr. President,

Albania would like to thank core group of the draft – resolution on “Civil Society Space”, Ireland (as penholder), Chile, Japan, Sierra Leone and Tunisia for their outstanding efforts to have a balanced draft resolution, which reaffirm the important role of civil society in the protection and promotion of human rights.

Threats against civil society are on the rise globally and therefore require a global response, including from the HRC. As a member of the HRC, Albania reaffirms its unwavering commitment to the promotion and protection of the human rights and fundamental freedoms.

We recognize that a vibrant, diverse, and independent civil society is essential to the realization of these rights.

Civil society plays a vital role in fostering accountability, transparency and good governance. It contributes meaningfully to the prevention of human rights violations, the promotion of the rule of law, and the advancement of inclusive and sustainable development.

The draft resolution rightly acknowledges these contributions and calls on States to create and maintain a safe and enabling environment in which civil society can operate freely, both online and offline.

Albania strongly supports the call for a follow-up report by High Commissioner to assess progress and identify emerging challenges to civil society space. We believe this would be a valuable tool for all stakeholders in strengthening civic space globally.

We welcome the balanced and inclusive approach taken by the Core Group during the consultations. We urge all members of this Council to join us in sending a strong and united message: that civil society in not only a partner but a cornerstone of our collective efforts to uphold human rights.

Mr. President

Albania supports the consensual adoption of this draft resolution and calls on all delegation to vote against any amendment that would weaken the text.

If a vote is called, Albania will vote in favour of the draft resolution.

I thank you.