Incorporate human rights norms and principles in development and in the economic sphere

Despite very good economic performance, countries in West Africa continue to be touched by high levels of poverty, unequal distribution of wealth and a significantly high youth unemployment rate. Human development indicators remain among the lowest in the world. Access to education, health, water, sanitation and housing remain a major challenge for vulnerable groups. Beyond the need to protect human rights, the realization of economic, social and cultural rights should be ensured by targeting the poorest and most marginalized of society and by promoting the integration of human rights in humanitarian issues, in development and in efforts to reduce poverty. The principles of universality, indivisibility and interdependence of all human rights and basic freedoms are the guiding principles of this work. The United Nations country teams are committed to supporting national priorities and lobbying so that these priorities reflect the international commitments and obligations made by governments in terms of human rights and compliance with international standards.