GCC Affirms Commitment to Development Rights for Future Generations at UN Session

The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries have emphasized their commitment to addressing obstacles to the right to development, particularly concerning children and future generations. The statement was delivered by Dr. Hind Abdulrahman Al Muftah, Qatar’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations Office in Geneva, on behalf of the GCC countries during the 57th session of the Human Rights Council.

The GCC’s position aligns with the findings of the Special Rapporteur on the Right to Development, highlighting the need to overcome challenges that hinder the full realization of development rights. The statement emphasized the importance of distinguishing between the rights of children and those of future generations when formulating supportive policies, with a focus on fairness and inclusivity.

“The right to development is a priority for the GCC countries and serves as a fundamental guarantee for the full enjoyment of all other rights,” said Dr. Al Muftah. She further stressed the responsibility of current generations to ensure that their actions do not impede the development rights of future generations. This responsibility, she noted, is integral to the GCC’s long-term vision of sustainable development.

Dr. Al Muftah called for a forward-looking approach in setting policies and laws that safeguard the rights of future generations. The GCC countries, she added, are committed to facilitating the participation of representatives from younger generations in decision-making processes that affect their future, ensuring their voices are heard and their rights preserved.

In line with this commitment, the GCC has launched several initiatives to secure a sustainable future, with all member countries adopting national “visions” aimed at promoting long-term development. Dr. Al Muftah also pointed to the establishment of ministries dedicated to future planning, which focus on the rights and needs of future generations.

One of the key initiatives mentioned was the creation of “Future Generations Funds,” designed to safeguard the economic rights of future citizens and ensure their right to development. These funds reflect the measures recommended by the Special Rapporteur in his report and are part of the GCC’s broader efforts to integrate sustainable development into national policies.

The GCC countries reiterated their firm belief in the right to development, particularly in the context of creating a healthy environment that includes all components of sustainable development. The statement concluded by underscoring the GCC’s proactive role in shaping policies that ensure the prosperity and well-being of future generations.