New York:Angola reaffirmed its commitment to promoting and protecting human rights during an address at the United Nations, calling for enhanced international cooperation to support developing nations in building more inclusive and sustainable societies.
According to Angola Press News Agency, Angola's Permanent Representative to the UN, Francisco José da Cruz, spoke during the General Debate of the Third Committee of the UN General Assembly, which focuses on social, humanitarian, and human rights issues. Cruz emphasized the interconnected nature of peace, human rights, and sustainable development, stating, "Angola's experience demonstrates that peace, human rights, and sustainable development reinforce each other." He further stressed that public policies should prioritize human dignity and well-being.
Cruz highlighted Angola's achievements in healthcare since gaining independence in 1975. The country, which initially had just 19 doctors and about 320 health facilities, now operates 3,355 health units with 44,222 hospital beds, including 1,609 intensive care units. The government continues to focus on primary care, maternal and child health, and broader access to essential medical services, areas requiring expanded international cooperation in technical capacity, technology transfer, and sustainable funding.
In the education sector, Angola has enrolled more than 9.6 million students across 126,000 classrooms with 208,000 teachers for the 2026-2027 academic year. Higher education has expanded to 106 institutions across 19 of the country's 21 provinces. Cruz highlighted the state's ongoing investments in technical and vocational training, internships, entrepreneurship, and microcredit access, including through the Youth and Opportunities for Good Jobs in Angola (JOBE Angola) program.
Reflecting on the recovery following Angola's long-running armed conflict, Cruz detailed social programs aimed at reintegrating former combatants, resettling internally displaced persons, repatriating refugees voluntarily, clearing landmines, and supporting individuals with disabilities. Current priorities include strengthening integrated social action centers and broadening social safety nets for vulnerable families and the elderly.
Cruz also underscored gender equality as a pillar for economic growth and long-term stability, citing Angola's hosting of the Second International Women's Forum for Peace and Democracy in July 2026, in partnership with the African Union. The forum highlighted the critical role of women in conflict resolution, peacebuilding, and governance.
Concluding his remarks, Cruz referenced a statement by Angolan President João Lourenço during the High-Level Week of the 81st Session of the General Assembly: "Diplomacy must serve to unite, repair, build, and save lives." He urged the Third Committee to translate diplomatic commitments into tangible improvements for citizens worldwide, emphasizing that lasting peace requires social justice, reconciliation, and responsive governance.
