Our commitment
Video greeting by the Prime Minister of Finland, HE Sanna Marin:
Finland’s Membership in the UN Human Rights Council
Finland is honoured to serve as a member of the Human Rights Council from 2022 to 2024. This will be our first three-year term on the Council.
As a member of the Council, we will work to defend and promote human rights worldwide.
We have a deep conviction that an inclusive society is also a successful one. Respect for universal human rights is the best guarantee of peace, security and sustainable development
As a member of the Council, Finland will work for women’s full and meaningful participation in all sectors of society. Our right to make informed decisions about our own bodies is a human right.
We place the rights of people in vulnerable situations at the forefront.
- Human rights defenders and journalists must be able to work without fear of reprisal.
- Indigenous peoples have the right to participate in decision-making in matters affecting them, including climate change.
- The return to school after the COVID-19 pandemic must be inclusive. Children with disabilities must have full access to quality education.
- LGBTIQ+ persons must enjoy a life without discrimination and harassment.
Nobody can make changes alone. With this in mind, Finland will cooperate with all stakeholders.
We attach great importance to the independent work of the UN’s human rights experts. Members of civil society, including human rights defenders, are valuable partners for Finland. We will ensure that their voices are heard.
We look forward to engaging with everyone to make a lasting, positive impact on human rights.
–Sanna Marin, the Prime Minister of Finland