Wang Yi Stresses the Need for a People-Centered Approach and Rejects Double Standards in Human Rights
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi emphasized China’s commitment to reforming global human rights governance during a video address at the 58th session of the United Nations Human Rights Council. Wang stressed that China is willing to work with all countries to uphold a fair and correct view of human rights, ensuring that governance systems focus on the people’s needs.
He reiterated the importance of adhering to the original mission of human rights governance, which should prioritize people’s well-being above all. “Fairness and justice must be upheld, and the right to subsistence and development should be prioritized as fundamental human rights,” Wang said, rejecting double standards in human rights discussions. He also condemned attempts to interfere in other countries’ internal affairs under the guise of human rights concerns, emphasizing that such actions disregard national sovereignty and security.
Wang made it clear that China firmly rejects any efforts to politicize or weaponize human rights. “We must insist on exchanges and mutual learning while rejecting actions that seek to impose one’s own models and preferences on others,” he stated. He called for greater cooperation between nations to promote a modern world characterized by peaceful development, shared prosperity, and mutually beneficial collaboration.
Wang expressed China’s commitment to improving global human rights governance, engaging in international cooperation, and supporting the well-being of all nations. He reaffirmed China’s dedication to promoting civilizational exchange and helping build a community with a shared future for humankind. He highlighted that China will continue to actively participate in global human rights efforts to create a better future for human rights worldwide.
In a separate event, Chen Xu, China’s permanent representative to the UN Office in Geneva, urged the international community to engage actively in the International Humanitarian Law (IHL) Initiative. The initiative, co-launched by China, emphasizes the importance of upholding humanitarian principles and protecting civilians in conflict zones. Chen pointed to the ongoing global humanitarian crisis and stressed that promoting effective compliance with IHL remains a “pressing challenge.”
He highlighted China’s continued commitment to peace talks, humanitarian assistance, and efforts to alleviate suffering in conflict zones, particularly in Africa and other developing regions. Through its participation in these global initiatives, China aims to further contribute to international peace and human dignity.