STATEMENT BY MR GILBERT OH, DELEGATE TO THE 67TH UNITED NATIONS GENERAL ASSEMBLY, ON AGENDA ITEM 69, ON PROMOTION AND PROTECTION OF HUMAN RIGHTS, THIRD COMMITTEE, 8 NOVEMBER 2012

Mr Chairman,

1                      Thank you for giving me the floor.  Singapore aligns itself with the statement made by Malaysia on behalf of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations on this agenda item.

Mr Chairman,

2                      Over the past few days, the Committee has had extensive discussions on human rights questions and the situation of human rights in various parts of the world.  We have heard statements highlighting the steps taken by member states to protect and promote human rights.  The Committee has also debated on the observance or violations of human rights by some member states.  

3                      From the wide spectrum of views expressed during the course of the Committee’s discussions on this agenda item, it is not difficult to conclude that the international consensus on human rights remains fragile.  While the ideal of human rights has enjoyed universal support, we cannot deny that views on this issue still remain highly diverse in our pluralistic world.  The diversity of the UN’s membership is a reality that we have to acknowledge.  My delegation is, therefore, of the view that in our work towards finding common ground on the issue of promotion and protection of human rights, we must give due respect to the historical and cultural differences of various nations, and recognise their aspirations and developmental needs.   

Mr Chairman,

4                      As a young city-state with a multi-racial, multi-religious and multi-lingual population, Singapore is a strong proponent of the rule of law to ensure stability, equality and social justice. Stability and security are the prerequisites of economic growth, which in turn enable Singaporeans to be fed, housed and educated.  As a result of our unique circumstances, we believe in the need to strike a balance between the exercise of rights and the shouldering of responsibilities.  We place an equal emphasis on the protection of societal rights, and not just individual rights.  Singapore recognises that it is ultimately accountable to its own citizens.  We, therefore, do not attempt to impose our views on other nations.  

5                      In this regard, my delegation firmly believes that no country or grouping has the right to impose its position on the rest of the world.  Doing so will only further divide rather than unite member states, and impede our efforts in finding common ground.  The manner in which all rights are attained and implemented must take into account specific national circumstances and aspirations.  This of course does not mean that such circumstances and aspirations should be used as an excuse to commit gross violations of human rights. 

Mr Chairman,

6                      To conclude, my delegation is of the view that we should always remind ourselves that a key purpose of this Committee is to work for the general welfare of mankind.  It will be regrettable if the Committee ends up with resolutions that we merely pay lip service to.  We should embrace the spirit of cooperation and work closely with one another to broaden consensus on very difficult issues. We should be open to the views and concerns of other nations, and recognise and respect their unique circumstances.  Only with greater understanding and accommodation will we be able to pursue our common objective of deepening and expanding international consensus on human rights issues. 

7                      Thank you, Mr Chairman.