Maka Botchorishvili delivers speech at the High-Level Segment of the 58th Session of the UN Human Rights Council
On 24 February 2025, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Georgia, Maka Botchorishvili, delivered a speech at the high-level segment of the 58th session of the UN Human Rights Council.
At the outset of her address, Minister Botchorishvili marked the third anniversary of the Russia-Ukraine war, emphasizing its devastating consequences.
She highlighted the grave humanitarian situation in Georgia’s occupied regions, drawing attention to human rights violations, including killings, torture, abductions, restrictions on freedom of movement, ethnic discrimination, and the challenges faced by internally displaced persons in returning to their homes. She underscored that Russia continues to disregard its international obligations, including the rulings of the European Court of Human Rights and the International Criminal Court.
Minister Botchorishvili stressed that the annual resolution "Cooperation with Georgia" will once again be presented at the UN Human Rights Council, expressing hope for the continued support of Georgia’s international partners.
Addressing Georgia’s recent elections, she noted that two million citizens exercised their right to vote freely. She emphasized that speculations surrounding the electoral process must cease, and all parties should respect the democratic choice made by the people.
In her speech, Minister Botchorishvili also addressed issues related to peace, the rule of law, and economic development, highlighting the progress Georgia has achieved in these areas.
The Minister further underscored Georgia’s contribution to the work of the Human Rights Council and stressed the importance of fully utilizing its mandate to protect the rights of women, children, persons with disabilities, internally displaced persons, and conflict-affected populations.
Concluding her address, Minister Botchorishvili reaffirmed the Georgian government's commitment to close cooperation with the United Nations.
