Saudi Arabia & the UN Human Rights Council

Thank you for contacting me about Saudi Arabia’s bid for a seat on the UN Human Rights Council.

The UK Government does not disclose its voting positions on multilateral elections. However, please be assured that I, alongside the Government, expect all members elected to the Human Rights Council to uphold the highest standards in the promotion and protection of human rights.

In my view, I support the Government’s intention to use the UK’s unique position in NATO, the UN, the G7, the G20 and the Commonwealth to address the threats facing us, and to uphold human rights and international law. In recent times, the United Kingdom’s reputation between nations may have been damaged, but it is clear from the Foreign Secretary’s recent statements and visits to neighbouring countries that this Government is working tirelessly to restore the UK on the global stage.

I value international law because of the security it brings, and I know the UK Government takes it very seriously. I can also assure you that the UK will unequivocally remain a member of the European Convention on Human Rights.