Congresswoman Barbara Lee Statement on U.S. Reengaging with UN Human Rights Council
Washington, D.C. –– Congresswoman Barbara Lee (CA-13) released a statement following U.S. Secretary of State Blinken’s announcement that the U.S. will reengage with the UN Human Rights Council:
“In reengaging with the UN Human Rights Council, the U.S. will play an active role in ensuring the Council serves its purpose in holding countries accountable for their human rights record and supporting the global fight against injustice.
“The UN Human Rights Council is, without a doubt, in need of reform. However, Trump’s decision to leave the council in 2018, only served to weaken American leadership on the world stage and isolate us from our allies.
“As Chair of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on State and Foreign Operations, I support the Administration’s decision to join the Council as an observer, hopefully as the first step toward full participation in, and influence over, the Council’s ability to address urgent human rights needs around the world. I look forward to working with Secretary Blinken and the Biden Administration to ensure the United States plays a leadership role in multilateral institutions in order to promote fundamental freedoms, protect the oppressed, and strengthen the rule of law.”