EU, PH reaffirm commitment to promoting and respecting human rights

Christian Mang

MANILA, Philippines — The European Union (EU) and the Philippines convened the fourth subcommittee meeting on Good Governance, Rule of Law, and Human Rights under the Philippines-EU, reaffirming their shared commitment to promoting, protecting, fulfilling and respecting human rights.

The meeting was co-chaired by European Affairs Assistant Secretary Maria Elena P. Algabre and it was attended by EU Member States and Philippine government agencies on October 30 in Manila.

In a statement, the EU said the co-chairs underscored that the meeting provides a valuable platform for dialogue on how to sustain and further strengthen cooperation between the EU and the Philippines in their mutual pursuit of peace and prosperity.

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“The EU and the Philippines reaffirmed their shared commitment to promoting, protecting, fulfilling and respecting human rights. Both sides recognized the achievements made in addressing human rights issues while acknowledging that challenges remain and must be tackled,” said EU.

In the same statement, the EU said the Philippines likewise reaffirmed its continued willingness to adhere to international standards of human rights and remains open to constructive engagements with international bodies of the UN, among others.

“The EU and the Philippines reaffirmed their commitment to the rule of law, due process, and human rights. They recognized the relevance of reported human rights violations and humanitarian laws globally and, in time[s] of rising geopolitical tensions, they stressed the collective responsibility to uphold and promote the principles of the UN Charter,” said EU.

It then added that both nations have signified their intent to ensure an end to violence and harassment and make certain that there would be a freedom to civil society.