Italy is strongly committed to protecting and promoting human rights in the world, in the belief that they are essential to guarantee justice, peace and international security. Our approach, based on dialogue and openness, is inspired by the principles of the universality, indivisibility and interdependence of human rights. Italy’s action is articulated in some priorities, including the abolition of the death penalty and the establishment of a moratorium on capital punishment, the defense of freedom of religion and the protection of religious minorities, the respect for the rights of the child, the protection of women’s rights and the fight against harmful practices such as female genital mutilation, the commitment to combat intolerance and racial discrimination and xenophobia, the promotion of democracy and of the rule of law, as well as freedom of expression and opinion.
From January 1st 2019 to December 31st 2021 Italy was a member of the Human Rights Council (“Voluntary Pledges and Commitments“ – presented by Italy for its membership in the Human Rights Council), during a particularly intense phase of activity, taking into account that 5 Special Sessions of the HRC were held in 2021, the highest number since its creation in 2006. This was the third mandate for our country after those of 2007-2010 and 2011-2014.
Italy supports the role and activity of the High Commissioner for Human Rights and his Office (OHCHR), contributing financially to their programs, and collaborates with Independent Experts and UN Special Rapporteurs on thematic and country-related issues about human rights in the world.