“Technical cooperation for the prevention of attacks against persons with albinism”
Explanation of Position
Statement of the Delegation of the United States of America
UN Human Rights Council – 24th Session
Geneva
September 27, 2013
The United States joins the sponsors of the resolution in condemning all forms of violence against persons with albinism. We note the relevance of international instruments, including the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, in addressing issues of stigma and violence against persons with disabilities.
We believe that States must take effective measures to protect the human rights and fundamental freedoms of all persons with disabilities, such as those with albinism, including the right to a standard of living adequate for the health and well-being of oneself and one’s family and the right to education as enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. We understand the references in preambular paragraph 5 to refer to economic, social, and cultural rights as enshrined in the UDHR and articulated in treaties to which a State is a party.
Future discussions on how to prevent attacks against persons with albinism can be greatly informed by examining the root causes of discrimination against persons with disabilities. Thank you.