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Item 8: U.S. Explanation of Vote on the Traditional Values Resolution
2 MINUTE READ
March 23, 2011

L.6 Traditional Values, under Item 8

U.S. Explanation of Vote

Human Rights Council

Geneva, Switzerland
March 23, 2011

Thank you. The United States approached the Traditional Values resolution with an open mind. We listened carefully to arguments of other delegations who spoke in favor of or against the resolution.

The concept of  Traditional Values, without reference to human rights law, can undermine the universal principles enshrined in international human rights instruments with regard to the rights of women, minorities, LGBT individuals, and other vulnerable groups.

We are also concerned that the term “Traditional Values” has no internationally agreed upon definition. The term has thus far been so vague and open-ended that it could be used to legitimize human rights abuses.

For these reasons, the United States will vote NO on this resolution.