Italy aligns itself with the statement made by the European Union and would like to add some remarks in its national capacity.
We firmly believe that human rights are the cornerstone of peaceful, just, and inclusive societies. The promotion and protection of these rights are not only moral imperatives, but also essential tools to create more stable environments, reduce tensions and contribute to global peace, as well as foster sustainable development, stability, and the rule of law.
Italy is proud to play a proactive role in all multilateral fora and is committed to supporting the work of the United Nations in upholding human rights and ensuring accountability for violations and abuses.
Mister Chair,
we would like to take this opportunity to highlight some key issues that guide our commitment to the promotion and protection of human rights.
Italy remains steadfast in its support for the universal abolition of the death penalty. As a long-standing advocate of this cause, we firmly believe that the death penalty undermines the right to life and dignity of every individual. It is an irreversible punishment that offers no room for justice in cases of judicial error.
More than two-third of all countries have already abolished the death penalty in law or practice – States from all region of the world, with all kinds of different legal systems, traditions, cultures and religious background. The path towards abolition is indeed a global movement, with a universal character.
This year, we are proud to lead efforts within the General Assembly as co-facilitators of the resolution on a moratorium on the death penalty.
Combating violence against women remains a core priority for Italy. Gender-based violence, in all its forms, is a gross violation of human rights and a major obstacle to achieving gender equality. This includes addressing harmful practices such as female genital mutilation and forced marriage, which have long-lasting physical and psychological consequences for women and girls. We call on all States to implement comprehensive legal frameworks to protect women from violence, ensure access to justice for survivors, and address the root causes of such violence through education and awareness-raising efforts.
Italy reaffirms its strong support for initiatives that promote the full and meaningful participation of women in decision-making processes at all levels.
Italy is equally concerned with the plight of children in armed conflict. Children are among the most vulnerable members of society, and their involvement in conflicts, as both victims or participants, is one of the most tragic consequences of war. We support all efforts to protect children from recruitment, sexual exploitation, and other forms of abuse. Italy calls for increased international cooperation to hold accountable those responsible for violating children’s rights in conflict zones.
The fight against all forms of discrimination is also central to our human rights agenda. Whether it is discrimination based on race, ethnicity, religion, sex, or sexual orientation, Italy believes that human rights are universal and indivisible.
We remain committed to working with all partners to eliminate these scourges and to ensure that the rights and dignity of every individual are respected.
Finally, Italy would like to emphasize the crucial role of culture and dialogue in the protection and promotion of human rights.
Culture and dialogue are a powerful vehicle for fostering mutual understanding, respect, and tolerance.
We believe that cultural diversity should be embraced as a source of enrichment for humanity, while preserving the universality of human rights.
Cultural heritage must be preserved and protected, especially in conflict situations where it is often targeted. Italy continues to advocate for the safeguarding of cultural sites and traditions as a means of promoting peace and human rights worldwide.
Mister Chair,
we stand ready to work with all Member States in a spirit of dialogue and cooperation to address these pressing issues and to ensure that human dignity and rights are protected for all.
Thank you.
