In a compelling address at the 55th Session of the Human Rights Council, the Holy See's Permanent Observer to the United Nations and Other International Organisations in Geneva raised urgent concerns regarding the widespread violations of human rights, particularly freedom of religion, across the globe. Archbishop Ettore Balestrero underscored the alarming increase in discrimination and persecution faced by believers worldwide, citing data from the Pontifical foundation Aid to the Church in Need which revealed that religious freedom is infringed upon in nearly one third of the world's countries, affecting a staggering 4.9 billion individuals.

Archbishop Balestrero lamented the concerning trend where even in some Western nations, religious discrimination and censorship are masked under the guise of 'tolerance and inclusion'. He cautioned against the misuse of legislation ostensibly targeting hate speech, which often leads to censorship and encroachment upon the fundamental rights of thought, conscience, and religion.

Furthermore, Archbishop Balestrero emphasized the necessity for enhanced international cooperation to safeguard the dignity of every human being, a principle reiterated by Pope Francis. He stressed the importance of upholding values rooted in human dignity as the foundation for peace and underscored the imperative of rebuilding a shared vision of our inherent nature.

In addressing the development and utilization of artificial intelligence (AI), the Vatican Observer emphasized the paramount importance of respecting fundamental human rights and ensuring that AI serves to augment rather than undermine human potential. Archbishop Balestrero cautioned against reducing the uniqueness of individuals to algorithms or data sets, asserting that AI must be governed by principles that uphold human dignity.

Moreover, Archbishop Balestrero warned against the introduction of 'new rights' that may undermine human dignity and fraternity, echoing Pope Francis' concerns about ideological colonization. He stressed the essential need for universal fraternity as a prerequisite for the realization of human rights in today's interconnected world, highlighting the repercussions of failing to acknowledge our interconnectedness.

In conclusion, the Holy See's Permanent Observer called for concerted efforts to combat violations of human rights, especially freedom of religion, and to promote universal fraternity and respect for the sacredness of every human life as foundational principles for a just and peaceful world.