The U.N. human rights chief, Volker Türk, urged voters to be cautious of “strongman” politicians who use flashy tactics during election seasons. He did not mention any specific leaders or countries but alluded to upcoming elections in places like Georgia, Tunisia, and the United States. Türk emphasized the importance of choosing political platforms that prioritize human rights for everyone and warned against falling for empty promises and illusions offered by certain candidates.
Türk criticized politicians who scapegoat migrants, refugees, and minorities during electoral periods, mentioning countries such as France, Germany, Hungary, the United Kingdom, and the U.S. He expressed concern about the impact of conflicts on civilians, particularly in the Middle East, referencing the recent attacks in Israel and the ongoing violence in Gaza. Türk also highlighted the plight of Ukrainian civilians trapped in terror due to military strikes by Russian forces in Ukraine, as well as the lack of access his team has been granted to assess the human rights situation in the southwestern Kursk region.
The rights chief spoke about a humanitarian crisis in Sudan, where an estimated 20,000 people have been killed, calling on the world to take action to prevent further atrocities. Türk noted both positive and concerning trends globally, including progress in abolishing the death penalty and decriminalizing same-sex relations in some regions, as well as setbacks such as restrictions on freedom of expression and arrests of journalists and opposition leaders in countries like Azerbaijan, Tunisia, and China. He criticized attempts to suppress freedoms of assembly and the press.
In addition to discussing various human rights situations around the world, the U.N. Human Rights Council faced challenges due to a liquidity crisis affecting the organization. The council’s president, Omar Zniber, noted a 60% budget shortfall for the United Nations, impacting activities such as the council’s sessions. Zniber highlighted the need for additional funding to extend the current session and address postponed activities from previous sessions. The lack of liquidity has hindered the council’s ability to carry out its functions effectively.
Overall, the U.N. human rights chief’s message emphasized the importance of prioritizing human rights in political decision-making, urging voters to be vigilant against populist leaders who may not have the best interests of all citizens at heart. The ongoing conflicts and humanitarian crises in various regions require global attention and action to prevent further suffering and violations of human rights. As the world faces new challenges and uncertainties, it is crucial for international bodies like the U.N. Human Rights Council to have the necessary resources and support to address human rights violations and promote a more just and equitable world.
