Universal principles of human rights are increasingly challenged today – not only due to conflicts and occupations, but also due to attempts to use international organizations as instruments of political pressure and politicize human rights for narrow goals, - Minister of Foreign Affairs Maka Bochorishvili said in her speech at the high-level segment of the 61st session of the UN Human Rights Council.

The Minister spoke about the dynamics of Georgia’s democratic development and the process of institutional strengthening.

“Despite difficult security challenges, over the past decade, Georgia has strengthened democratic institutions, the rule of law and fundamental freedoms, which is reflected in the relevant international rankings and an 85% reduction in the number of cases filed with the European Court of Human Rights,” Bochorishvili said.

She also focused on the country's socio-economic situation, noting that "human dignity begins with ensuring economic opportunities and social justice. Over the past decade, the poverty level in Georgia has decreased from 30% to 10%, which is the result of sustainable economic growth and the implementation of targeted social programs for vulnerable groups.

Speaking about the reforms implemented in the field of women's rights, the head of the department noted that mechanisms to combat violence have been strengthened. In the same context, she spoke about strengthening the rights of persons with disabilities and autism issues, focusing on inclusiveness, dignity and equality.

A significant part of the speech was devoted to the situation in the occupied regions of Georgia. According to the Minister, “integral parts of the territory of Georgia - Abkhazia and the Tskhinvali region - are still occupied by the Russian Federation”.

According to her, the population in these territories has limited fundamental freedoms, and cases of illegal detentions, ill-treatment and ethnic discrimination continue.

According to the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Georgia firmly supports the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine and is committed to the rules-based international order, which is based on the UN Charter.

In conclusion, Maka Bochorishvili confirmed Georgia’s unwavering support for the principle of the universality and interdependence of human rights and noted that Georgia continues to strengthen democratic governance within the country and support common efforts aimed at protecting human dignity at the international level.

Maka Bochorishvili’s statement was disseminated by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Georgia.