Mr. President,
Cuba is aware of the financial and liquidity crisis currently facing the United Nations system, including this Council, largely due to the non-fulfillment of financial commitments by the United States, the organization's main debtor.
In this context, the Cuban delegation joins the consensus on document A/HRC/OS/19/L.1, as a demonstration of its commitment to the Council's institutional integrity and proper functioning.
At the same time, we believe that looking ahead, it is not possible to further rationalize the Council's work by emphasizing conference management measures. This approach has proven limited and insufficient and affects the rights of States. Other actions must be undertaken that would significantly reduce costs while simultaneously improving the Council's efficiency.
First, the current intrusive mechanisms imposed against countries without the consent of the nations concerned must be reduced, with a view to their eventual elimination.
These mechanisms consume millions in financial resources each year, as they employ large teams of experts and Office staff and frequently use conference services.
However, in practice, they are entirely inoperative and demonstrably ineffective, as they often have no concrete impact on the countries to which they are imposed.
These mechanisms have not worked and will not work because they do not promote respectful dialogue and constructive cooperation, essential tools for advancing the cause of human rights anywhere in the world.
Reducing the time allocated for interactive dialogues, restricting the right of States to speak in a national capacity and exercise their right of reply, and rationalizing speaking times, infringe on the rights of States and significantly affect the quality and inclusiveness of debates.
The United Nations is an intergovernmental organization. Nothing can go against the rights of its principal actors.
I conclude by emphasizing that the measures adopted under this Presidential Statement are exceptional, to address the current financial crisis situation, and do not constitute a precedent.
Cuba will always advocate for respect and full compliance with the provisions of the General Assembly's Rules of Procedure and the Institution-Building Package.
Thank you very much.