EXPLANATION OF POSITION BY MS DHIVYA RAJANDRAN, FIRST SECRETARY (POLITICAL AFFAIRS), AFTER THE ADOPTION OF THE RESOLUTION ENTITLED “OFFICE OF THE UNITED NATIONS HIGH COMMISSIONER FOR REFUGEES”, THIRD COMMITTEE, UNITED NATIONS, NEW YORK 14 NOVEMBER 2023

Mr Chair,

1 Singapore appreciates the important work that is led by the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). It is in this spirit that we joined consensus on this resolution, reaffirming our support for the UNHCR’s mandate and role.

2 While we note that there was only a thematic reorganisation of the text in this year’s resolution and while we appreciate the efforts in exploring language to accommodate our interests, we regret that this resolution continues to deplore the denial of access to asylum without taking into consideration the different contexts that States face.

3 As a small country with limited land and a high population density, Singapore is not in a position to accept any person seeking refugee or asylum status, regardless of background. States have the sovereign right and must have the ability to control their borders and manage migration flows in accordance with their domestic laws, policies, and circumstances.

4 However, we stand ready to collaborate with the international community and support the work of the UNHCR wherever else possible. Despite not agreeing with some parts of this resolution, Singapore joined consensus on this resolution in the spirit of compromise. We will continue to engage constructively with the UNHCR and will revisit the text when it is tabled for discussion again next year.

5 Thank you.

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