Statement during general debate under item 5 (24.3.2022)

"Greece aligns with the EU statement. We remain committed to the multilateral human rights system, and to supporting the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights.

Human rights play a crucial role in the achievement of all UN pillars’ goals.

The Human Rights Council is in a unique position to contribute to the effectiveness of the UN’s work, including through its prevention mandate.

Greece welcomes the efforts of the Special Procedures’ Coordination Committee for constant dialogue with States and other stakeholders. We support the Special Procedures system and their independence, and condemn all threats, acts of intimidation and reprisals against individuals for working with and providing information to the OHCHR and its mechanisms.

With regard to the report of the Forum on Minority issues, we agree that States should develop reconciliation and remembrance policies that address past intergroup violence and State oppression of minorities, including historical cases of genocide.

In conclusion, we would like to stress that, especially in the current context, it is essential that the importance and necessity of the OHCHR’s work be adequately reflected in the resources allocated to it."