NNA - United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk opened the 58th session of the Human Rights Council with a stark warning about the erosion of human rights worldwide, citing conflicts, social inequalities, and authoritarianism as pressing challenges.  

Türk highlighted the third anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, condemning the ongoing civilian casualties and destruction. He stressed that any sustainable peace must be anchored in accountability and the principles of the UN Charter and international law.  

On Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territory, Türk reiterated his call for an independent investigation into violations of international law by all parties, emphasizing that any suggestion of forcing people from their land is completely unacceptable.  

Beyond these conflicts, he pointed to crises in Sudan, the DRC, Haiti, Myanmar, and Afghanistan, rising economic inequalities, and the climate crisis as major human rights concerns. He also warned of the misuse of digital technologies,  particularly AI and social media, to spread disinformation and suppress freedoms.  

Türk called for urgent action, stating: Human rights are a winning proposition for humanity. We must protect and defend them with determination and hope.

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