Al-Banna: Kuwait's re-election to the Human Rights Council a diplomatic achievement

The Permanent Representative of the State of Kuwait to the United Nations, Ambassador Tariq Al-Banna, affirmed that Kuwait’s re-election to the membership of the Human Rights Council for the term (2027–2029) represents a diplomatic achievement and a renewal of international confidence in the country, as well as an appreciation of its foreign policy approach, which is based on moderation, balance, dialogue, adherence to international law, and commitment to the principles of the United Nations.

This statement came in an interview Ambassador Al-Banna gave to the Kuwait News Agency (KUNA) on Tuesday evening, following Kuwait’s re-election to the Human Rights Council. The United States secured 173 votes, achieving the second-highest vote count among the elected countries.

Ambassador Al-Banna conveyed his highest congratulations and best wishes to His Highness the Amir of Kuwait, Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, may God protect him; to His Highness the Crown Prince, Sheikh Sabah Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah, may God protect him; to the Kuwaiti government and the esteemed Kuwaiti people, regarding this diplomatic achievement that reflects the prominent standing Kuwait has achieved on the international stage and the trust, recognition, and appreciation it enjoys.

He stated that this achievement was realized by the grace and favor of God, and thanks to the steadfast support and continuous backing from the political leadership. He noted that it enables Kuwait to build upon its work in the Council and continue its role in supporting multilateral efforts to assist in international cooperation and humanitarian aid.

Kuwait has earned this international trust and shoulders responsibility and a heavy mandate, particularly because its membership comes at a delicate stage during which international human rights mechanisms face growing challenges in addressing armed conflicts, humanitarian crises, and the accompanying violations of human dignity and fundamental rights.

Ambassador Al-Banna emphasized that Kuwait, through its membership, is committed to fulfilling the pledges it made as part of its voluntary candidacy, including its contribution to international cooperation and its expanded efforts to protect human rights and dignity. He added that Kuwait will continue its struggle based on dialogue and cooperation with all member states and unified mechanisms, with special attention to women, children, and persons with disabilities, as well as development efforts. He also highlighted the importance of national initiatives in enhancing protection in areas that yield significant humanitarian benefits.

The Ambassador reiterated that the Palestinian issue will remain a top priority for Kuwait, rooted in its principled and steadfast stance in defending the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people, foremost among which is their right to self-determination, and in rejecting the aggression they face. He also affirmed respect for international law and accountability for serious human rights violations.

In this context, he stressed that the credibility of the Human Rights Council is measured by its ability to discharge its responsibilities objectively and fairly, free from politicization, selectivity, and double standards, ensuring that human rights are addressed according to fair and consistent standards applied to all without exception.

He added that the protection of human rights and the maintenance of peace are linked to social development and aim for a cohesive and integrated approach, noting that international cooperation in joining states and fulfilling international commitments represents a successful endeavor.

In summary, Ambassador Al-Banna stated that Kuwait’s re-election confirms the fruit of its voluntary efforts, coordinated by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Kuwait’s international missions, through effective engagement with countries and highlighting global priorities and commitments, including contributing to mobilizing broad international support for its candidacy.

For this reason, mutual cooperation with all countries that granted Kuwait their trust and support is essential, as it belongs to a broader framework of shared values and international solidarity.

The Pacific Asia countries in support of it. Ambassador Al-Bunai also expressed his hope that Kuwait’s membership (2027–2029) on the Council would constitute a significant and effective addition to the work of the Human Rights Council, and that international confidence would be translated into serious efforts to contribute to its agenda and achieve its policies, thereby entrenching the values of justice, human dignity, human rights, and fundamental freedoms for all without discrimination.