Translation. Region: Russian Federation –
Source: United Nations – United Nations –
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November 12, 2025 Human rights
UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk addressed the French Senate. He stated that the current human rights situation is challenging. He stated that the world is experiencing a moment when the fundamental freedoms for which the UN was founded are under threat.
Turk noted that millions of people around the world continue to defend the principles of equality and justice, but these values are simultaneously under attack.
Human rights in wartime
Turning to issues of war and violence, the High Commissioner stressed that the need to respect international humanitarian law is particularly evident in conflict situations.
Speaking about Sudan, he called the situation in El Fasher "absolutely devastating."
"We are receiving disturbing reports that the Rapid Action Force is committing atrocities, including summary executions, sexual violence and other abuses," he said.
Türk called on all states to respect the arms embargo in Darfur and stressed that the protection of civilians, humanitarian access, and a return to civilian rule remain priorities.
"All countries must comply with the Security Council arms embargo on Darfur, which should be extended to the entire country."
Turk drew attention to the situation in Gaza, as well as in the West Bank, where, according to him, violence by Israeli security forces and settlers continues.
"Over the past two years, more than 1,000 Palestinians have been killed [in the West Bank], the vast majority of whom died at the hands of Israeli security forces," Turk said.
He called for the ceasefire in Gaza to be observed: “All parties to the conflict in Gaza must faithfully implement the ceasefire… Israel must ensure a large-scale flow of humanitarian aid in accordance with its obligations.”
Speaking about Ukraine, Türk noted that the war is leading to an increasing number of civilian casualties, and attacks on energy infrastructure are especially dangerous as winter approaches.
"Peace is urgently needed – in accordance with the UN Charter, international law and General Assembly resolutions," the UN's top human rights official said.
Violations of rights are an alarm signal
The High Commissioner stressed that human rights violations often serve as "alarm signals" that foreshadow the outbreak of violence, and called on States to pay greater attention to conflict prevention.
He also expressed concern about the growing funding of anti-human rights groups and movements. According to him, in Europe alone, such groups received nearly $1.2 billion from 2019 to 2023.
"We're seeing similar trends in other regions. Some states are allocating significant resources to groups that oppose gender equality and human rights and operate abroad," Türk said.
“The consequences of this are already being felt by many, including women who have experienced gender-based violence, members of the LGBTIQ community, migrants and refugees,” he added.
Türk noted that the UN Human Rights Office (OHCHR), which he heads, remains a reliable partner of states and civil society, monitoring and documenting violations and collecting evidence.
Last year, the Office conducted 11,000 human rights monitoring missions in 92 countries, and in 2024, it facilitated the release of more than 3,000 unlawfully detained individuals.
He also emphasized the need to regulate artificial intelligence in accordance with human rights. According to the Commissioner, the UN is collaborating with states and IT companies to develop common principles in this area.
"We are working with governments, social media, and civil society to align laws and policies on new technologies, including artificial intelligence, with human rights," Türk said.
The desire for freedom will not disappear
Despite all the difficulties, the High Commissioner expressed confidence that people's aspirations for freedom and dignity will not disappear.
He called on members of the Senate to take action to encourage everyone to defend human rights, and noted the activism of youth movements around the world – from Ecuador and Peru to Kenya and Nepal.
In closing, Türk noted that this year marks the 80th anniversary of the founding of the UN and expressed hope that international cooperation can overcome current challenges.
He also noted that the OHCHR "is in an extremely difficult financial situation" and expressed hope that the United States would resume funding.
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