Minister Fajon: Effective multilateralism is based on respect for human rights

During the meeting with High Commissioner Türk, Minister Fajon expressed Slovenia's full support for the High Commissioner and for the work and independence of the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights. "At a time when serious conflicts are taking place around the world and people have been suffering for too long, respect for human rights is all the more important. Human rights, which protect human dignity, are one of the fundamental norms on which the modern international community stands or falls," Minister Fajon emphasised. They confirmed the good cooperation between their two countries within the UN Security Council during Slovenia's non-permanent membership from 2024 to 2025 and within the UN Human Rights Council. Slovenia is running for a seat on the Council for the 2026–2028 term in elections taking place next week. They also discussed issues that Slovenia is particularly engaged with, such as the rights of older persons, human rights and the environment, gender equality and the increasingly relevant topics of digitalisation and human rights.

Organised by the Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs, the Bled Strategic Forum, the United Nations Association of Slovenia and the Faculty of Law at the University of Ljubljana, and moderated by Dr Maša Kovič Dine, the discussion took place in light of the complex crises and challenges facing the international community and the UN 80 years after the commitment to protect humanity from the horrors of war was adopted.

"Growing conflicts, disregard for international law, great inequality, the rapid rise of new technologies and the climate crisis all challenge the functioning of the UN around the world. Public confidence in international organisations and their ability to operate effectively is also being tested. Nevertheless, multilateralism, with the UN at its core, remains the best way to address global challenges. The UN is the bedrock of international cooperation and the guardian of our shared values: peace, justice, human rights and sustainable development," said Minister Fajon during the debate.

She highlighted the role of women and young people in the multilateral system and the pivotal role of human rights in the UN reform process. She also called for trust in the 80-year-old system to be restored so that it can benefit future generations. "It is the younger generations who will have to live with the consequences of the decisions we make today. Their energy and desire to change the world are vital to tackling the challenges of today, which is why young people must be recognised as equal partners in decision-making processes," concluded Minister Fajon.