HRC59 - Iceland EoV - A/HRC/59/L.2: IE SOGI

HRC59 adoptions: Explanation of vote delivered by Iceland on resolution A/HRC/59/L.2

Mandate of the Independent Expert on protection against violence and discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity

Mr. President,

Iceland reiterates its unwavering support for the mandate of the Independent Expert (on protection against violence and discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity) and its renewal. Since its establishment, the mandate has contributed to advancing equality in a meaningful and constructive manner.

Sadly, we continue to witness widespread and systematic occurrences of violence and discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. No person should have to live in fear of persecution and violence. Being who you are should never be considered a crime.

Iceland recalls that the mandate of the Independent Expert reduces the protection gap and deepens the understanding on ways to overcome violence and discrimination against persons on the basis of their sexual orientation and gender identity in all regions of the world, while contributing to the implementation of existing international human rights instruments.

The mandate does not seek to create new rights (as some states have claimed); instead it applies existing human rights standards to persons who continue to experience exclusion and abuse.

Iceland rejects violence and discrimination against persons on any grounds and will vote in favour of resolution L.2, and calls on all members of the Council to do the same.