UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk. The UN’s top human rights activist called on the world community to “mobilize everyone to defend human rights” Human rights
UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk spoke at a meeting of the French Senate. He said that the situation in the field of human rights today is difficult. According to him, the world is at a moment when the fundamental freedoms for which the UN was created are under threat.
Türk noted that millions of people around the world continue to defend the principles of equality and justice, but these values are simultaneously under attack.
Human rights in war
Turning to issues of war and violence, the High Commissioner emphasized that the need to respect international humanitarian law is especially evident in the context of conflict.
Speaking of Sudan, he called the situation in El Fasher “absolutely devastating.”
“We are receiving disturbing reports that the Rapid Action Force is committing atrocities, including mass executions, sexual violence and other abuses,” he said.
Turk called on all states to respect the arms embargo on Darfur and stressed that the protection of civilians, humanitarian access and a return to civilian rule remain priorities.
“All countries must comply with the Security Council arms embargo on Darfur, which should be extended to the entire country.” 1,000 Palestinians, the vast majority of whom died at the hands of Israeli security forces,” Turk said.
He called for a ceasefire in Gaza: “All parties to the Gaza conflict must faithfully comply with the terms of the ceasefire… Israel must ensure a large-scale influx of humanitarian aid in accordance with its obligations.”
Speaking of Ukraine, Turk noted that the war is leading to an increasing number of civilian casualties, and attacks on energy infrastructure are especially dangerous as it approaches winter.
“Peace is urgently needed – in accordance with the UN Charter, international law and General Assembly resolutions,” said the UN’s chief human rights defender.
Rights violations are a wake-up call
The High Commissioner stressed that violations human rights rights often serve as a “red flag” that heralds the outbreak of violence, and called on states to pay greater attention to conflict prevention.
He also expressed concern about the growing funding of anti-human rights groups and movements. In Europe alone, such groups received almost $1.2 billion from 2019 to 2023, he said.
“We’re seeing similar trends in other regions. Some states provide significant funds to groups that oppose gender equality and human rights and operate abroad,” Turk said.
“The consequences of this are already being felt by many, including women survivors of gender-based violence, members of the LGBTIQ+ community, migrants and refugees,” he added.Türk noted that the UN Human Rights Office (OHCHR), which he heads, remains a reliable partner to states and civil society, monitoring and documenting violations, as well as collecting evidence. persons.
He also emphasized the need to regulate artificial intelligence in accordance with human rights. According to the commissioner, the UN is working with states and IT companies to develop common principles in this area. freedom will not disappear
Despite all the difficulties, the High Commissioner expressed confidence that people’s desire for freedom and dignity will not disappear.
He called on members of the Senate to take action that would encourage everyone to defend human rights, and noted the activity of youth movements around the world – from Ecuador and Peru to Kenya and Nepal.
Concluding his speech, Türk recalled that this year marks the 80th anniversary of the founding of the UN, and expressed hope that international cooperation can overcome current problems.
He also noted that OHCHR “is in an extremely difficult financial situation,” and expressed hope that the United States will resume funding.