Human Rights Council – 62nd Session
Item 2: Interactive Dialogue on the report of the Special Rapporteur on the right of everyone to the enjoyment of the highest attainable standard of physical and mental health

Statement delivered by Iceland on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic States
17 June 2026

President,

I have the honor to speak on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic States.

We thank the Special Rapporteur for her report and reaffirm our strong commitment to the right to health for all, without discrimination.

We welcome the report's focus on dignity as a cornerstone of the right to health. Respect for dignity should guide health policies and services, ensuring that every person can access care that respects their autonomy, privacy and individual circumstances.

The report rightly highlights that stigma, discrimination and exclusion continue to prevent many people from fully enjoying their right to health. These challenges affect many individuals and communities, including women and girls, persons with disabilities and persons of diverse sexual orientation and gender identity. Addressing these injustices is essential to ensuring equal access to healthcare and to protecting the rights of those most at risk of being left behind. Realizing the rights to health depends on strong, equitable and peoples-centred health system.

The emphasis on participation and accountability is welcomed. Meaningful engagement with affected communities is essential to building trust in health systems and ensuring that policies respond to people's needs.

The Nordic-Baltic States remain committed to promoting equitable and rights-based health systems, including through strong accountability mechanisms and meaningful engagement with civil society. We call on all States to translate these principles into concrete policies and investments.

I thank you.