New Resolution on Local Government and Human Rights: What Impact?

The resolution, “Local Government and Human Rights” (A/HRC/RES/57/12), adopted on 10 October 2024 under the leadership of the Republic of Korea, Chile, Egypt, and Romania, will be the focus of this discussion. Since first being tabled in 2013 in the Human Rights Council, the resolution has underscored the critical role of local governments in promoting and protecting human rights at the local level. It focuses on setting a collaborative framework between states, local governments, and other stakeholders, advocating a whole-of-government approach to human rights.

The discussion will also address the resolution’s focus on the digitalization of cities, including smart city projects, and the role of local governments in ensuring that that the rights of individuals, not other values such as corporate profit or technological innovation alone, are prioritized. Key policy recommendations, such as enhancing data protection, controlling the quality of data used for public services, and ensuring equal access to public services, will also be explored. The discussion will also address the resolution’s focus on the digitalization of cities, including smart city projects, and the role of local governments in ensuring that that the rights of individuals, not other values such as corporate profit or technological innovation alone, are prioritized. Key policy recommendations, such as enhancing data protection, controlling the quality of data used for public services, and ensuring equal access to public services, will also be explored.

Date: 29 October 2024
Time: 15:00 – 16:00
Location: Online
Format: Online
Language: English