UN Rights Chief Warns Against Global Instability and Calls for Action
The world is currently facing increasing turbulence and uncertainty, which has led to growing conflicts and societal divisions, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk told the Human Rights Council.
“We cannot allow the carefully built global consensus on international norms and institutions to fall apart,” Türk emphasized.
The Devastating Impact of War
Presenting a report covering over 30 countries, Türk condemned the repeated disregard for legal protections of civilians.
“Civilians are deliberately targeted. Sexual violence and famine are being used as weapons of war,” he said. “Humanitarian access is being blocked, arms are flowing across borders despite sanctions, and aid workers are being attacked. In 2024 alone, 356 humanitarian workers lost their lives while trying to help people in dire crises.”
Unbearable Suffering in Sudan
Türk condemned the indiscriminate bombing of civilian areas in Sudan, calling it a blatant disregard for human life.
“The humanitarian crisis is worsening and threatens regional stability. Civilians are suffering immensely in a ruthless power struggle,” he said. “The international community must exert pressure on all involved parties to end the war, engage in inclusive dialogue, and work towards a civilian-led government.”
Ukraine’s Ongoing Struggles
Türk also addressed the situation in Ukraine, criticizing any attempts to reach a peace agreement without Ukrainian involvement.
“Three years after the full-scale Russian invasion, Ukrainians continue to endure immense suffering,” he stated. “Any discussions on ending the war must include Ukraine and respect human rights. Sustainable peace must be based on the UN Charter and international law.”
Civilian casualties in Ukraine increased by 30% between 2023 and 2024. He also accused Russian forces of deliberately targeting Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, causing widespread instability and fear.
“Indiscriminate missile and drone strikes have left civilians in constant fear,” he noted, adding that Ukrainian prisoners continue to face summary executions and systematic torture.
Pushing for a Gaza Ceasefire
Turning to the Occupied Palestinian Territory, Türk called for the ceasefire in Gaza to be upheld and serve as a foundation for lasting peace.
He urged Israel to allow immediate humanitarian aid to resume after it announced a halt in aid deliveries. UN humanitarian chief Tom Fletcher also called the decision alarming, stating, “International humanitarian law is clear: We must be allowed access to deliver lifesaving aid.”
Türk stressed, “Gaza has been devastated by relentless Israeli bombardment in response to the horrific Hamas-led attacks in October 2023. Any resolution to recurring violence must be rooted in human rights, the rule of law, and accountability. All hostages must be released, arbitrary detentions must end, and aid must resume.”
Concerns Over West Bank Developments
Türk also expressed deep concern over Israeli military raids in the West Bank, calling for an end to unilateral actions and annexation threats.
“Israel’s military tactics, including the use of tanks and airstrikes against Palestinians, must stop,” he said. He condemned the destruction of refugee camps, illegal settlement expansion, severe movement restrictions, and mass displacement.
Crisis in Eastern DR Congo
Focusing on the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Türk highlighted the devastation in North and South Kivu.
“In the past five weeks, thousands have been killed due to attacks by the M23 armed group, backed by Rwandan forces, in battles against the Congolese military and their allies,” he reported, citing numerous cases of rape, sexual slavery, and executions.
“Over half a million people have fled this year alone, adding to the 7.8 million already displaced. This violence must end, and all violations must be investigated.”
Myanmar’s Deadliest Year
Türk described 2024 as the most violent year for civilians in Myanmar since the military coup in 2021.
“The military has escalated brutal attacks as their grip on power weakens, launching airstrikes and artillery barrages while forcing thousands into conscription,” he stated. He urged an end to financial and military support for the junta.
Escalating Violence in Haiti
He also warned about worsening lawlessness in Haiti, where armed gangs have been recruiting children as young as eight.
“In 2023, more than 5,600 people were killed, with thousands more injured or kidnapped,” Türk said, urging full enforcement of the UN Security Council’s arms embargo and support for the Multinational Security Support Mission.
Continued Crisis in Yemen
Türk highlighted that nearly 20 million Yemenis require humanitarian aid amid ongoing hostilities.
He also condemned the recent death of a UN World Food Programme staff member in detention and demanded the immediate release of 23
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