HRC57 - Biannual panel on the right to development

57^th Session of the Human Rights Council

Biannual panel on the right to development

18 September 2024

EU statement

Mr President,

As in 2022, and in previous Biennial Panel discussions, the EU maintains its collaborative approach and constructive spirit notwithstanding our concerns with duplications of work.

The EU and its Member States are committed to promoting a human-rights-based approach to sustainable development and in delivering on the 2030 Agenda, encompassing all human rights. This means we have a strong focus on promoting efforts that reduce inequalities in accordance with the principles of meaningful and inclusive participation and access to decision-making; non-discrimination and equality; accountability and rule of law for all; transparency and access to information, and non-discrimination. The full and non-discriminatory realisation of all human rights – be they civil, cultural, economic, political or social – is a pre-condition to achieving inclusive and sustainable development.

Sustainable development should not be undermined by tax avoidance, evasion or due to tax-related illicit financial flows. Economic and fiscal policies are inextricably linked to reducing poverty and inequalities and the 2030 Agenda.

Let us reiterate that the EU and its Member States remain strongly committed to achieving all aspects of sustainable and inclusive development including fiscal policy through the protection and fulfilment of all human rights. Reaching the Goals of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development remains our goal. 

I thank you.