South Africa Doubles Down on Global South Priorities at HRC61 Launch
Images: DIRCO
South Africa’s Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola, has vigorously advanced the country’s diplomatic priorities on the opening day of the 61st session of the United Nations Human Rights Council (HRC61). In a packed schedule of engagements, Lamola delivered a national statement reaffirming Pretoria’s commitment to universal human rights and held bilateral meetings with key global figures. These interactions highlight South Africa’s re-election to the Council and its push for stronger multilateral cooperation amid rising geopolitical tensions.
National Statement at HRC61
Minister Lamola addressed the high-level segment, celebrating South Africa’s re-election to the 47-member body for the 2026-2028 term and marking the Council’s 20th anniversary. He voiced deep concern over “the attack on multilateralism, unpredictable geopolitical dynamics and the erosion of a rules-based international order.” Lamola renewed calls for implementing the Durban Declaration and Programme of Action on its 25th anniversary, while stressing the fight against extreme poverty, racism, and all forms of discrimination. He strongly reiterated South Africa’s solidarity with the Palestinian people, demanding an end to Israel’s “unlawful occupation” and “ongoing genocide” in Gaza and the West Bank, and urged recognition of Palestinian statehood.
Bilateral with UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk
Lamola met Volker Türk to discuss strengthening the international human rights architecture. The engagement focused on protecting civil society space, supporting Special Procedures mandate holders, and advancing economic, social and cultural rights—priorities South Africa will champion during its Council tenure.
Bilateral with Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez Parrilla
In a warm meeting with Cuba’s long-standing ally, discussions centred on shared values of solidarity, anti-imperialism and South-South cooperation. The two ministers explored ways to deepen bilateral ties and joint advocacy on global human rights issues within the Council.
Bilateral with Norwegian Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide
Lamola held talks with Norway’s Espen Barth Eide on multilateral reform and climate-related human rights challenges. The meeting underscored opportunities for collaboration between African and Nordic voices in promoting inclusive global governance.
Bilateral with Palestinian Minister Varsen Aghabekian
On the sidelines of the plenary, Lamola met Palestine’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates, Ms Varsen Aghabekian, to express unwavering support. The discussion reinforced South Africa’s call for an immediate ceasefire, humanitarian access and a just two-state solution, aligning directly with the national statement’s strong stance on Palestinian self-determination.
These engagements demonstrate South Africa’s proactive role in defending a rules-based order and amplifying Global South perspectives as HRC61 continues until 31 March.
