Explanation of Vote on Resolution on Promotion of the Right to Peace
A/HRC/35/L.4
Promotion of the right to peace
Explanation of Vote by the United States of America,
as delivered by Jason Mack
UN Human Rights Council – 35th Session
Geneva, June 22, 2017
As we have stated previously, the United States does not agree with attempts to develop a collective “right to peace” – as human rights are universal and are held and exercised by individuals. In addition, we do not support efforts that would in any way modify or stifle the exercise of existing human rights. The United States voted against the Declaration on the Right to Peace presented at the General Assembly last year. The text before the Council today does not address our concerns and, therefore we must call a vote and vote against this resolution.