U.N. Chief Antonio Guterres Urges Respect for Human Rights Amid Growing Global Crisis

U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has issued a strong plea for the respect of international law and human rights in conflict zones around the world. During the opening of the latest session of the U.N.'s top human rights body, Guterres highlighted the increasing disregard for human rights and the growing number of conflicts, which he believes are making the world "less safe by the day."

Highlights of Antonio Guterres' Address

Guterres emphasized the alarming trend of combatants in regions such as Congo, Gaza, Myanmar, Ukraine and Sudan turning a "blind eye" to international law. He stressed the need for greater respect for human rights and peace in these areas, where unprecedented suffering is being caused by the multiplication of conflicts.

The U.N. chief addressed the various forms of attacks on human rights and reiterated his calls for debt relief for the world's poorest countries, as well as increased efforts to combat climate change. Furthermore, he defended the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA), labeling it as the "backbone" of aid efforts in Gaza, amid calls from Israeli authorities for its dismantling.

Support from U.N. Human Rights Chief

Volker Türk, the U.N. human rights chief, also condemned the "attempts to undermine the legitimacy and work" of the U.N. and its affiliates. Türk criticized the use of manipulative propaganda and scapegoating of the U.N., describing it as "profoundly destructive of the common good," and a betrayal of many people who rely on its assistance.

Challenges Faced by the Human Rights Council

The Human Rights Council embarked on a six-week session against a backdrop of widespread human rights crises. The recent death of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny while in prison and the council's expanding agenda, including rights violations in conflict, repression by governments, religious hatred, racial discrimination, the right to food, and the rights of children and people with disabilities were also discussed.

Assessment of the Council's Achievements

Ambassador Omar Zniber of Morocco, the current rotating council presidency, underscored the need to evaluate the council's accomplishments since its inception nearly 18 years ago. He highlighted growing "polarization" among member states, particularly regarding the balance between national sovereignty and intervention in domestic affairs, and the accountability of governments to uphold their responsibilities before the council.

Challenges Faced by the Council

The 47-member-state council, with annual rotating membership, has encountered controversy over the years, including Russia's response to its invasion of Ukraine, China's objections to criticism of its domestic affairs and the United States' concerns about the focus on Israel. The intensifying conflicts and human rights violations in various parts of the world have heightened the significance of the council's role in addressing these critical issues.