U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres delivered a significant address to the Human Rights Council amid ongoing global tensions and a pressing human rights crisis. In his speech, marking the third anniversary of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Guterres articulated concerns about a global environment in which human rights are increasingly under threat. He condemned a climate ripe for division and anger, where such sentiments are seen as avenues to gain power and exploit for profit.
Guterres specifically denounced the war in Ukraine, appealed for a permanent ceasefire between Palestinian militants and Israel, and advocated for the respect of the territorial integrity of the Democratic Republic of Congo. He also outlined proposed initiatives aimed at enhancing stability in Haiti, where a multinational security support mission has been deployed to address escalating unrest.
In a stark declaration, Guterres described the current state of human rights as being “on the ropes and being pummeled hard,” influenced not only by conflict but also by a “morally bankrupt global financial system” that prioritises profits over protecting the planet. He attributed part of the resurgence of human rights violations to the misuse of artificial intelligence and the targeted demonisation of migrants, as well as restrictions on women’s rights.
He stated that human rights are “being suffocated by autocrats, crushing opposition because they fear what the truly empowered people would do.” According to Guterres, there are prominent voices within global discourse that view human rights “not as a boon to humanity, but as a barrier to the power, profit and control they seek.”
The backdrop of Guterres' address involves the recent decision by the U.S. government to withdraw from the Human Rights Council. Former President Donald Trump announced the withdrawal three weeks ago, although the Biden administration had already determined that the U.S. would not pursue membership when its current term expired at the end of the previous year.
The Human Rights Council is scheduled to meet three times this year, with the current session that commenced on Monday expected to run until April 4. This prominent gathering of representatives from 47 countries underscores ongoing efforts to address human rights violations worldwide amidst a backdrop of geopolitical tensions and societal unrest.
Source: Noah Wire Services