EU Statement - Organisational Meeting about the Universal Periodic Review of the United States of America

Organisational Meeting about the Universal Periodic Review of the United States of America 

7 November 2025

EU statement

Mr. President,

I have the honour to speak on behalf of the EU member states that are members of this Council. This statement has been agreed by the EU as a whole.

From the onset, the European Union would like to reaffirm its steadfast support for the Universal Periodic Review: a vital and unique mechanism for promoting human rights globally. 

The UPR is effective precisely because it is universal. Preserving that universality is essential to safeguarding the UPR’s credibility and impact. 

The EU regrets any situation in which full engagement with the mechanism does not occur, including the decision by the United States not to participate in their review today. 

All states are subject to the scrutiny of their human rights situation by the international community. All states should therefore take advantage of the UPR to discuss their human rights situation with their peers.

The UPR provides a vital space for self-reflection and transparency by shedding light on potential blind spots and receiving recommendations for improvement. This process strengthens accountability, trust and fosters constructive dialogue among States.

We remain committed to ensuring that the UPR continues to be a constructive, inclusive, and fruitful platform for all. The EU will continue supporting this important mechanism and stresses the importance of all States’ full engagement with it. 

Thank you.