In many places around the world, human rights and democracy are under threat. While we combat the global pandemic, multiple challenges are mounting in particular for the most vulnerable communities. As we celebrate Human Rights Day, the EU re-commits to stand and speak out for the oppressed and those under threat, wherever they may live.

The Council of the EU adopted the EU annual report on human rights and democracy in the world for 2020. The report found that in 2020, the erosion of rights and freedoms, that were meant to be protected until at least 2047, accelerated in Hong Kong.

We welcome the release of the joint WHO-China study entitled “WHO-convened Global Study of Origins of SARS-CoV-2: China Part”.