In its first of its fully virtual meeting, a record number of dignitaries from States, International Organizations, and other stakeholders are in attendance.

A high-level delegation of Ethiopia led by Demeke Mekonnen, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs is participating in the meeting.

Demeke is scheduled to address the Council on the 24th of February 2021. At the top of its focus for the Ethiopian delegation are themes of both national and international importance.

Late in the afternoon, the Council will hold the annual high-level panel discussion on human rights mainstreaming under the theme, ‘the state of play in the fight against racism and discrimination 20 years after the adoption of the Durban Declaration and Plan of Action and the exacerbating effects the COVID-19 pandemic has had on these efforts.’

During the panel, Ethiopia will deliver a statement to renew the call for the international community’s solidarity, mutual respect, and understanding.

The Council will convene until 23 of March 2021 and is expected to adopt resolutions on several matters, according to Permanent Mission of Ethiopia in Geneva.

FBC