Explanation of Position: Human Rights Education and Training
Geneva,
September 27, 2012
The United States is pleased to join consensus on the resolution on the World Program for Human Rights Education. This resolution underscores the critical role human rights education plays in promoting all human rights and fundamental freedoms. We note, however, that the United States is not a party to the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, and emphasize that states are generally not “duty-bound” to take measures provided for in international instruments to which they are not a party. We nevertheless strongly encourage efforts “to ensure that education is aimed at strengthening the respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms.”