39th Session of the Human Rights Council

Australia completed its third successful session as a member of the United Nations Human Rights Council (HRC) in Geneva on 28 September.

During the session, Australia delivered a strong statement highlighting the deeply disturbing situations in Myanmar's Rakhine, Shan and Kachin states and condemning the atrocities committed. We also supported a resolution to pursue accountability for serious international crimes.

Australia strongly condemned the ongoing human rights abuses in Syria, and expressed concerns for the situations in Burundi, Democratic People's Republic of Korea, Democratic Republic of Congo, Nicaragua, Somalia, South Sudan, Venezuela, and Yemen.

Australia led a successful resolution to recognise the vital role of National Human Rights Institutions that promote human rights, inclusive societies and sustainable development.

We also amplified voices in the Pacific by delivering a statement on behalf of 15 neighbouring countries on our collective resolve to tackle barriers faced by people living with disability.

Australia reaffirmed our commitment to promote and protect the rights of indigenous peoples, including indigenous human rights defenders. We also joined cross-regional partners to support a resolution that addressed preventable maternal mortality.

Australia will continue its efforts to advance human rights at the next session of the HRC in February 2019.