UNITED NATIONS HUMAN RIGHTS COUNCIL

33^rd session of the Human Rights Council Advisory Committee

(17-21 February 2025)

EU Statement – Opening session

Mr Chair,

The European Union welcomes the members of the Advisory Committee. We look forward to interesting discussions and presentations throughout the week, building on the exchanges from last December.

Once again, the EU welcomes the focus of the Advisory Committee on discussions and studies related to new and emerging technologies. The democratic backsliding across the world, the persistent erosion of human rights, disinformation and the malign use of rapidly evolving technologies confirm the need for resolute, effective and coherent action to uphold and advance human rights and democratic principles and values.

In that respect, the EU and its Member States have consistently emphasised their support for a human-rights based approach to the whole life-cycle of new and emerging technologies, including Artificial Intelligence systems and neurotechnology. We believe that strong safeguards are needed to guarantee the protection of human rights, including in multilateral and multi-stakeholder fora.

Building on the Global Digital Compact, the EU calls on all States to protect online civic space and prevent internet shutdowns and online censorship, unlawful surveillance, hate speech online, technology-facilitated gender-based violence, information manipulation, disinformation and cybercrime, in full compliance with international human rights law.

We also continue to welcome the initiative on the implications of plastic pollution for the full enjoyment of human rights, given the importance of the subject and the global scale of plastic pollution, addressing the full life cycle of plastic. A global agreement on plastics is a high priority for the EU, as it is clear that addressing the plastic pollution crisis requires an international response.  

Thank you.