reaffirms existing commitments to the UN Charter and the Universal Declaration of Human
Rights. It also underlines the imperative of a human rights based approach in its implementation.
The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) lays out to leave no one behind — and moreover, to
reach those furthest behind first. This is a stark reminder of the need to address development
imperatives also in crises settings, in particular as crises becomes protracted with those in need,
both as displaced and in host communities, requiring support beyond what more traditionally is
referred to as life-saving humanitarian aid, like public services, schooling, health, employment and
a meaningful participation in community life. Over time, to be deprived of these can also become
a threat to family as well as personal life.
Excellencies, this is a key entry point to further the promotion and protection of human rights of
minorities.
UNDP is committed to working with the range of humanitarian and development actors to help
deliver on these commitments. As highlighted during the WHS, a range of interventions are
needed in crises settings in this regard that requires joint analysis and longer-term joined up
planning; local solutions with local partners including civil society organizations and local authorities;
flexible multi-year financing; and strengthened policy and legal frameworks to protect and foster
inclusion of displaced people. Let me note however that UNDP has neither a normative nor
monitoring mandate on human rights. Our efforts in advancing human rights are anchored in the
principle of national ownership and is demand driven. Since 2009, UNDP has responded to such
demand from around 100 countries to help bring human rights standards and principles more fully
into their policies, laws and national development frameworks.
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