(VOVWORLD) - The United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) opened its 49th session in Geneva on Monday, where UN Secretary-General Antonio Gutteres stressed the importance of equal access to COVID-19 vaccines, because an unequal approach demonstrates a disregard for human rights around the world.
 The United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) opens its 49th session in Geneva on February 28, 2022. (Photo: ohchr) |
Gutteres called on governments, pharmaceutical companies, and partners to provide political and financial support for the global vaccination strategy of the World Health Organisation to soon reach the goal of vaccinating 70% of the world’s population.
The UN chief called on countries to issue social policies that ensure rights and opportunities for all and focus on poverty reduction, investment in education, protection of the rights of women and children, and response to climate change, environmental pollution, and biodiversity loss.
The session was attended by leaders and representatives of 47 UNHRC countries and more than 100 observers and organisations headquartered in Geneva. Vietnam’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Bui Thanh Son attended the event for Vietnam.