Zambia has been elected to the United Nations Human Rights Council (HRC) for a three-year term covering the period 2027–2029.
Lusaka intends to use this responsibility to strengthen the protection of vulnerable populations and promote the links between human rights, sustainable development, and climate resilience.
The election took place on Tuesday at the United Nations headquarters in New York, during the 81st session of the General Assembly. The announcement was made by Zambia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Mulambo Haimbe.
In a statement, the Foreign Minister stressed that this mandate will enable his country to contribute more actively to international initiatives aimed at promoting and protecting human rights, while strengthening cooperation among member states.
Among the announced priorities is the protection of the rights of women, children, and vulnerable people, particularly persons with disabilities. Zambia also intends to promote the right to development and encourage stronger links between human rights protection, efforts to combat the effects of climate change, and the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals.
On the diplomatic front, Lusaka plans to prioritize dialogue and consensus-building within the Council. The country also intends to uphold the principles of equality, justice, democracy, and the rule of law, while paying particular attention to the concerns of developing countries.
Mulambo Haimbe also highlighted the human rights reforms undertaken by Zambia, particularly the abolition of the death penalty and the strengthening of mechanisms to protect women, children, and persons with disabilities.
The Minister also mentioned initiatives aimed at expanding access to education and social protection programs, as part of public policies designed to improve the population’s living conditions.
According to the Foreign Minister, this election is in line with the “Grow Zambia” agenda championed by President Hakainde Hichilema, which places citizens at the center of national development priorities.
Finally, Mulambo Haimbe expressed his country’s gratitude to the United Nations member states that supported its candidacy for the Human Rights Council.
