UAE pledges $25,000 to back participation of LDCs and SIDS in Human Rights Council

Jamal al-Musharakh has announced a pledge of $25,000 to support the participation of the Least Development Countries (LDCs) and Small Island Developing States (SIDS) in the Human Rights Council through a voluntary trust fund.

The UAE’s permanent representative to the UN and other international organisations in Geneva noted that the contribution seeks to ensure that all countries across the globe have a voice in international and multilateral fora and to provide technical assistance.

UAE’s deep role in global humanitarian assistance

Jamal al-Musharakh emphasised in a statement carried by the UAE Foreign Ministry that the $25,000 pledge to back the participation of LDCs and SIDS is an investment for a more inclusive, equitable and prosperous future for all.

This contribution also highlights the UAE’s prominent role in offering humanitarian assistance to people in different regions. The Gulf state is committed to reducing poverty and promoting peace and prosperity, besides addressing challenges such as climate change.

Established in 2012, the Voluntary Technical Assistance Trust Fund is funded through voluntary contributions from member states. It provides training programs for delegates, seeking to enable LDCs and SIDS to participate in the Human Rights Council.

Managed by the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), this Trust Fund offers funding for a range of activities, such as targeted training courses and capacity-building activities, and induction training sessions for government officials of LDCs/SIDS.

The Human Rights Council is responsible for strengthening the promotion and protection of human rights across the globe and for addressing situations of human rights violations. The Council holds three regular sessions annually.

LDCs and SIDS are susceptible to numerous challenges

Some 45 countries are categorised as LDCs as of January 1, 2024. Since 1971, the UN has recognised these nations as the poorest segment of the international community. These countries are susceptible to social-economic and environmental shocks.

The Small Island Developing States (SIDS), on the other hand, are a distinct group of developing countries that face particular situations of social, economic and environmental vulnerabilities and constraints. They face challenges in their sustainable development efforts, too.