As the UN Human Rights Council commemorates its 20th anniversary this year, Chinese envoy Li Xiaomei has called for renewed global commitment to human rights protection, emphasizing action over politicization during the 61st regular session currently underway in Geneva.
Li, deputy head of China's delegation, addressed the council on March 20, 2026, stating: "Multilateralism faces unprecedented challenges, with regional conflicts exacerbating humanitarian crises worldwide." She highlighted concerns about disproportionate focus on developing nations through country-specific mechanisms that consume millions in funding while urgent issues remain unaddressed.
The Chinese representative criticized what she described as "increasing politicization and double standards" in human rights discussions, urging members to refocus on the council's founding principles of equality and mutual respect. The current session, which began February 23, is scheduled to conclude March 31 with debates on global human rights priorities.
