New York:United Nations Pakistan has called for the universal and equal application of human rights during a discussion at the United Nations.

According to Radio Pakistan, the appeal was made by Deputy Permanent Representative of Pakistan, Ambassador Usman Jadoon, during a general debate in the Third Committee of the 81st session of the UN General Assembly. He highlighted the importance of bridging the gap between human rights principles and their actual implementation to maintain the credibility of the international human rights system.

Ambassador Jadoon pointed to the ongoing suffering of the Palestinian people, especially in Gaza, as a critical challenge to the international community's commitment to human rights and international law. He advocated for the protection of civilians, the provision of unhindered humanitarian aid, adherence to international law, and accountability, while also reaffirming the Palestinians' right to self-determination.

The Ambassador also emphasized that the right to self-determination should extend to the people of Jammu and Kashmir, who have been waiting for nearly eight decades for the implementation of UN Security Council resolutions. These resolutions call for a free and impartial plebiscite to determine the territory's final status under UN auspices. Jadoon criticized India's actions since August 5, 2019, which he claimed have involved increased repression, restrictions on fundamental freedoms, and attempts to change the demographic and political landscape of the region.

He also discussed the need to address issues such as Islamophobia, racism, and xenophobia, insisting that human dignity should not be contingent on one's faith, nationality, or identity. Jadoon noted Pakistan's role in establishing March 15 as the International Day to Combat Islamophobia and the appointment of a UN Special Envoy on the issue.

Ambassador Jadoon concluded by reaffirming Pakistan's dedication to dialogue, cooperation, and peaceful dispute resolutions, asserting that the global community must work to narrow the gap between the rights proclaimed at the United Nations and the realities experienced by people worldwide.