HRC62 - EU Statement - Interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the right to health

HRC62 - EU Statement - Interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the right to health

UNITED NATIONS HUMAN RIGHTS COUNCIL

62^nd session

Interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the right to health

17 June 2026

EU statement

Thank you, Mr. President.

The European Union thanks the Special Rapporteur for her report and welcomes its focus on human dignity as a foundational principle of the right of everyone to the enjoyment of the highest attainable standard of physical and mental health.

The EU reaffirms that all human rights derive from the inherent dignity and equal worth of every human being. Human dignity must therefore be reflected in health legislation, policies and systems, and in their implementation.

We strongly support a human rights-based approach to health and share the Special Rapporteur's concern that discrimination, stigma and social exclusion continue to undermine the enjoyment of the right to health, particularly for persons in vulnerable situations.

We also underline the importance of addressing the social determinants of health, including education, housing, social protection, and others, and promote policies and assist national authorities and interested parties to take measures to reduce them.

The EU welcomes the report's emphasis on participation, autonomy, informed consent and accountability. Health systems should ensure that no one is left behind. Under the Global Gateway the EU mobilises public and private investments to strengthen healthcare capacities around the world to facilitate investment in infrastructure and the regulatory environment.

Madame Special Rapporteur,

Which measures have proven most effective in translating the principle of human dignity into practice within health systems?

Thank you.