49th Regular Session of the Human Rights Council (HRC49) from 28 February to 1 April 2022
The 49th Regular Session of the Human Rights Council (HRC49) concluded on 1 April 2022, after five weeks of deliberations since the session opened on 28 February 2022. For Malaysia, this is the first HRC session since its election as a Member of the Council for a three-year term until 2024.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs, YB Dato’ Saifuddin Abdullah delivered Malaysia’s national statement during the High-Level Segment (HLS) on 1 March 2022. YB Foreign Minister highlighted Malaysia’s concerns and positions on vaccine equity, mental health, and sustainable environment. On the situation in Ukraine, YB Foreign Minister called on all concerned parties to urgently take steps to de-escalate hostilities and prevent further loss of lives and devastation
Throughout the HRC49, Malaysia had been the voice of reconciliation and consensus builder on various human rights issues. Malaysia advocated on pertinent human rights issues through 35 national statements, 2 General Comments, 1 Right of Reply and 1 Explanation of Vote. Among the issues advocated by Malaysia were the long-standing humanitarian and human rights challenges involving the plight of the Palestinians and the Rohingyas, human rights-based approach in COVID-19 recovery efforts, adequate housing, rights of persons with disabilities and violence against children.
Malaysia had co-sponsored 14 resolutions on critical issues, among others concerning vaccine equity, right to food, development, cultural heritage and human rights defenders. As part of the side events held during the HRC49, Malaysia co-organised and facilitated discussions on the Palestinian cause and Cairo Declaration on human rights.
Due to COVID-19 pandemic and related restrictions, HRC49 was held in a hybrid format with online and in-person modalities for interactive dialogues, panel discussions, informal discussions and side events.
