HRC52 – Item 8: General debate on the follow-up to and implementation of the Vienna Declaration and Programme of Action
Geneva, 29 March 2023
 
National statement
delivered by
 
Ms. Amanda Vrana
First Secretary at the Permanent Mission of Albania in Geneva
 
 
Thank you, Mr. President,
 
The Vienna Declaration and Programme of Action was an historic document that helped to strengthen the international human rights system and advance the recognition of human rights as universal, indivisible, interdependent, and interrelated. Albania attaches great importance to these principles and is committed to uphold human rights and fundamental freedoms.
 
Albania has ratified and implemented treaties and international conventions on human rights within the UN system, it has established institutions that aim to protect and advance human rights and it continues to support the principles enshrined in the Declaration in its foreign policy and to actively promote human rights in international fora.
 
The VDPA has helped to promote and protect human rights over the past 30 years, including through the establishment of human rights mechanisms and the development of new legal standards. Albania appreciates the work of the OHCHRs and strongly support the mandate of the High Commissioner.
 
The VDPA was pivotal for recognizing women and girls’ rights as an inalienable, integral, and indivisible part of universal human rights. Gender equality, the empowerment of women and girls, the advancement of gender equality and combating violence and discrimination in all its forms remains Albania’s priority.
 
Albania fully endorses the VDPA recognition of the importance of promoting and protecting human rights and the critical role of civil society in these efforts.
 
This anniversary offers a good momentum to reflect and to work together in strengthening and advancing human rights. Albania will continue to raise its voice in addressing human rights violation throughout the world and to support international efforts in advancing human rights.
 
I thank you.