This statement was delivered by Human Rights Watch at the 61st regular session of the UN Human Rights Council during a general debate on human rights bodies and mechanisms held on March 18, 2026.
As attacks on human rights and multilateralism intensify, and atrocities are committed amid proliferating global crises and conflicts, it is more important than ever for states to stand together to protect and bolster the international human rights system and its mechanisms.
Investment in human rights is an investment in stable, resilient societies, which can help build and preserve durable peace, and prevent conflict and crises. Consistent application of international law, and accountability where grave breaches occur, is key to prevention.
And yet, we have heard throughout this session how the financial crisis is grinding the work of this Council's mechanisms to a halt - reducing their capacity to prevent and respond to violations; help countries strengthen national protection systems; and advance accountability for atrocity crimes.
It is time to address the root cause of the current crisis: chronic underfunding of the human rights pillar, compounded by the failure of many states to pay their dues in full and on time.
While the US is most responsible in absolute terms for the current shortfall, 42 countries did not pay their membership dues in 2025, including 8 members of this Council.
Rather than continuing to simply slash budgets and activities of a system already operating on a shoestring, states committed to human rights and multilateralism should mobilise to reverse the trend.
They should pay membership fees in full, increase penalties for non and late payment, address counterproductive rules that reward late payment, and work towards adequate funding for the human rights pillar commensurate with its status as one of three UN pillars, including for emergency response. Those able to should step up voluntary support.
UN leadership should protect the integrity of the human rights pillar - defending and supporting the complementary work of independent mechanisms, and ensuring accessibility for all without discrimination.
Thank you.
