Clustered Interactive Dialogue on Independence of Judges and Lawyers / Right to Health
Statement by the United States of America
UN Human Rights Council – 29th Session
As Delivered by Leslie Marks
Geneva
June 17, 2015
Special Rapporteur on the Independence of Judges and Lawyers
Thank you, Madam/Mister Chair.
The United States thanks Special Rapporteur Gabriela Knaul for her report. Child-sensitive justice is justice that respects and protects the rights of children. We agree that its importance cannot be overemphasized. We also agree that judges, prosecutors, and other lawyers can play a critical role in upholding children’s human rights. In the United States, due process rights for children are protected by our Constitution. Our justice system includes child-sensitive measures that allow for children’s best interests to be a primary consideration where appropriate.
We support Ms. Knaul’s efforts to ensure children’s human rights are upheld and are given serious consideration in justice systems globally.
QUESTION: The Special Rapporteur’s report describes some of the challenges present in parts of the world where informal justice systems are often relied upon. What does Ms. Knaul view as the best way to ensure that children’s human rights are understood and adequately protected in these areas?
Special Rapporteur on the Right of Everyone to the Enjoyment of the Highest Attainable Standard of Physical and Mental Health
The United States thanks Mr. Dainius Pūras for his report.
The United States appreciates the Special Rapporteur’s focus on mental health and well-being. We are also concerned that the stigma surrounding mental health issues in many societies result in them not being raised or addressed.
QUESTION: How does Mr. Pūras plan to address the stigma surrounding mental health issues?