Geneva (Eurotoday) – The U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights has expressed serious concerns about a “fundamental shift in direction” in the U.S. under President Donald Trump, warning that divisive rhetoric is being used to mislead and polarize people.
In a speech that did not mention Trump by name, U.N. rights chief Volker Turk stated,
“We have enjoyed bipartisan support from the U.S. on human rights over many decades … I am now deeply worried by the fundamental shift in direction that is taking place domestically and internationally.”
“Policies intended to protect people from discrimination are now labelled as discriminatory… Divisive rhetoric is being used to distort, deceive, and polarize. This is generating fear and anxiety among many,”
he added.
Turk’s address to the U.N. Human Rights Council in Geneva marks his strongest statement so far on the impact of the new U.S. administration’s policies.
Why did Trump criticise the United Nations?
A month ago, U.S. President Donald Trump criticized the United Nations as
“not being well run,”
although he acknowledged its potential. Meanwhile, he limited U.S. engagement with the U.N. Human Rights Council, halted funding for the Palestinian relief agency UNRWA, and called for a review of the U.N. cultural agency UNESCO.
“It’s got great potential and based on the potential we’ll continue to go along with it, but they got to get their act together,”
Trump told journalists.
“It’s not being well run, to be honest, and they’re not doing the job.”
“A lot of these conflicts that we’re working on should be settled, or at least we should have some help in settling them. We never seem to get help. That should be the primary purpose of the United Nations,”
Trump added.
How did the U.N. respond to Trump’s remarks?
In response, the U.N. pushed back against Trump’s statements. U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres
“has worked tirelessly to implement many reforms … to increase efficiency and innovation,”
U.N. spokesperson Stephane Dujarric stated.
“U.S. support for the United Nations has saved countless lives and advanced global security,”
Dujarric added.
“The Secretary-General looks forward to continuing his productive relationship with President Trump and the U.S. Government to strengthen that relationship in today’s turbulent world.”
Comments
One response to “U.N. Human Rights Chief Voices Concerns Over Trump’s Policies”
-
Isn’t it adorable how the U.N. thinks a stern letter from the High Commissioner will make any difference? Next, they’ll be sending a fruit basket to cheer him up! 🍏✉️
Last News
“EU Integration: A Major Responsibility – Insights from EU Enlargement Commissioner Marta Kos”
EU Enlargement Commissioner Marta Kos addressed reporters from various member agencies of the European Newsroom (ENR) about significant milestones and challenges facing countries seeking to join the European Union, particularly in the context of escalating geopolitical tensions.
The Commissio
Increase in Attacks on Civilians in South Sudan
A new report by the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) reveals a disturbing surge in violence against civilians last year, including a sharp rise in conflict-related sexual violence (CRSV). The findings are based on firsthand accounts from victims and witnesses, as well as insights gathered during field missions and fr
Herent Implements Signage and Truck Imagery to Prevent Bridge Collisions
Herent (Eurotoday) – Herent is dealing with regular incidents of trucks getting stuck under low bridges on Bijlokstraat—possibly several times a month. To tackle the issue, local leader Simon Pardon is turning to visual cues and enhanced signage.
The town of Herent, located in the province of Flemish Brabant, Belgium, is taking new steps to prevent trucks from crashing into low-clearance bridges
Italy to Meet NATO Spending Goal This Year Ahead of Meloni-Trump Meeting
Italy is under growing pressure to boost its defense spending as global tensions escalate and NATO allies prepare to raise expectations for military investment.
“In light of current tensions, we are fully aware of the need to increase such spending in the coming years,” said Italian Defense Minister Guido Crosetto.
In 2024, Ita
European Parliament Members Encounter Hostile Environment During Hungary Mission
Achieving Natural Wellness: Daily Tips for a Balanced Lifestyle
Just like a finely tuned instrument produces beautiful melodies, living a balanced lifestyle enables individuals to experience natural wellness every day. By making small yet impactful changes to daily routines—including diet, activity levels, and mental health care—people of all backgrounds can enhance their overall well-being. Prioritizing self-
Funeral for Denny Verbiest Scheduled in Aalst on April 19, 2025
Aalst (Eurotoday) – Denny Verbiest, the creator of Samson, will be laid to rest at the Siesegem crematorium in Aalst on Saturday, April 19, 2025. Due to the expected large turnout, local police will deploy additional officers to manage traffic and ensure public safety.
Originally from Dilbeek, Verbiest was initially to be buried there. However, the funeral home in Dilbeek decided to relocate the
Slovakia Implements Law Mirroring Russian Legislation Targeting NGOs
“This law is a direct copy of Russian legislation, which has
Plenković and Duda Discuss Collaboration in the EU and NATO
Plenković highlighted the significance of maintaining their partnership, given the cur
New European Bauhaus Advances to Next Phase with EIT Backing and Released Roadmap
Disclaimer: The views and opinions shared in the articles are solely those of the authors expressing them, and they bear full responsibility for their content. The European Times publishes these opinions to support freedom of expression, but this does not imply endorsement or agreement with the viewpoints presented.
Translation Notice: All original articles on this website are written and publis
Leave a Reply