A/HRC/42/35
Islamic Republic of Iran called for accountability for those adopting unilateral coercive
measures, which might amount to economic terrorism and crimes against humanity and
might undermine sustainable development.
20.
Nigeria argued that a legally binding instrument on the right to development could
provide a comprehensive set of standards for the realization of the right to development.
Such a right was an overarching human right that deserved the international community’s
attention, given the impact of poverty and inequality on the enjoyment of human rights. The
realization of the right to development would ensure just and peaceful societies and
effective good governance. Nigeria underscored the importance of international solidarity
in efforts to realize the right to development, given its universality and applicability.
21.
South Africa argued that there was no peace without development, and no
development without peace, and that peace and development both required human rights.
The United Nations should continue to mainstream the right to development in policies and
programmes. Cooperation for development in developing countries without conditionalities
was imperative. South Africa concluded by assuring its cooperation in the discussions on a
legally binding instrument on the right to development.
22.
Ethiopia argued that, though like in the case of other rights, the primary obligation
rested on the States themselves, the international community had an obligation to work
together and cooperate with States for the realization of the right to development. Lack of
development was the root cause of many human rights violations, conflicts and migration
challenges. Ethiopia strove and worked with its neighbours to create mutual benefits and
peace. Poverty and inequality posed major threats to development. Ethiopia adopted
national strategies and plans for the realization of equality of opportunities for all in access
to basic resources and services, as well as gender equality.
23.
Cuba opposed attempts to reinterpret the right to development as human rights in the
context of development. The right was related to the institutionalization of policies and
activities by Governments and international organizations. Regrettably, many developed
countries imposed hurdles to the recognition of the right in international bodies. The
economic blockade imposed on Cuba by the United States of America was a major obstacle
to the realization of the right to development for Cubans. The recent illegal intensification
of the blockade included measures against companies based in third countries, as well as
restrictions on migrant remittances.
24.
Sri Lanka argued that, despite unparalleled advances in science and technology,
inequalities continued to hinder progress and development for present and future
generations. Sustainable development should be nationally owned and driven by national
needs and priorities. On the basis of its legacy of promoting development and social
policies, Sri Lanka had actively engaged with and implemented the 2030 Agenda. It had
also emphasized women’s empowerment and South-South cooperation as vital strategies
for promoting development.
25.
The Plurinational State of Bolivia considered that the right to development approach
established that all human rights could be gradually implemented. The right was essential to
achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, reducing poverty and hunger, combating
climate change, maintaining peace and creating prosperity. Unilateral coercive measures
had a negative impact on all human rights, including the right to development. The
Plurinational State of Bolivia recommended constructive dialogue with a view to the
adoption of a legally binding instrument on the right to development.
26.
The Holy See considered that development should meet both material and nonmaterial basic needs and should be people-centred. Alternative models of development
were necessary to address inequalities and the degradation of the environment. Respect for
human dignity was a precondition for promoting sustainable, integral human development.
Doing so required eradicating poverty by empowering marginalized peoples. Human
development should be rooted in fundamental ethical values, encompass an international
duty of solidarity and include a moral duty of reparation.
27.
Burkina Faso expressed regret that, 30 years after the adoption of the Declaration on
the Right to Development, that right had still not been fully implemented. The time had
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