China and Hungary hold symposium on international human rights, civilizational dialogue

Experts, officials, and scholars from China and Hungary convened in Budapest on Tuesday for a symposium on international human rights, emphasizing the importance of dialogue among civilizations and the need for balanced, inclusive approaches to global human rights governance.

Held under the theme "Consensus on International Human Rights: Retrospect of the Past 80 Years and Prospects of the Future," the event reflected on the evolution of human rights since the founding of the United Nations eight decades ago.

Baima Chilin, president of the China Society for Human Rights Studies, emphasized the importance of learning from history while envisioning the future in a world of complex and shifting dynamics. He called for mutual respect, multilateralism, and cooperation as essential pillars for advancing human rights through development and fostering fair, just, and inclusive global governance.

Chinese Ambassador to Hungary Gong Tao reiterated that both China and Hungary uphold the core principles of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights while recognizing the significance of national traditions and sovereignty.

"Both countries firmly oppose the politicization of human rights issues and reject double standards," he said, adding that a new consensus is needed to address today's pressing global challenges.

Gyula Thurmer, president of the Hungarian Workers' Party, expressed strong support for China's six principles for interpreting human rights.

"We support China's efforts to build a new world order, one based on humanism, equality, mutual trust, non-interference in internal affairs, win-win cooperation, and shared development," he said.

Andras Bencsik, editor-in-chief of Magyar Demokrata, highlighted the right to a meaningful and harmonious life rooted in cultural diversity and human dignity.

"We may live differently and speak different languages, but we share respect, unity, and a belief in the power of love, the most essential human right that transcends all historical eras," he said.

The symposium was co-hosted by the China Society for Human Rights Studies, the Chinese Embassy in Hungary, and the Eurasia Center.