ALWAGHT- United Nations officials caution that ongoing conflicts and reductions in funding are weakening the enforcement of international human rights.
The UN's top human rights official, Volker Türk, opened the Human Rights Council's 61st session in Geneva with a stark warning that international norms protecting civilians are being steadily undermined. He framed his address around the global pursuit of dignity and justice, which he said continues to challenge repression worldwide. This followed UN chief António Guterres's assertion that the "rule of force" is overtaking the rule of law, stressing that human rights are not a selective menu but binding obligations under growing pressure.
Türk highlighted several specific conflicts where this erosion is most devastating, pointing to intensifying geopolitical competition as a key driver. He called for accountability for war crimes in Sudan and described the catastrophic humanitarian situation in Gaza, raising concerns about ethnic cleansing and unlawful annexation.
Both officials warned that the human rights system itself is under severe financial and political strain. Guterres pointed to shrinking funding, political attacks on experts, and the United States' disengagement from key UN bodies as critical challenges. This is compounded by a UN liquidity crisis driven by unpaid dues, which is forcing discussions of spending cuts and raising concerns about new initiatives that might bypass traditional multilateral forums like the Security Council.
In conclusion, Türk defended international accountability structures like the International Criminal Court and urged states to renew their commitment to multilateral cooperation. He emphasized that human rights are not abstract ideals but binding obligations born from historic struggles. The collective remarks set a sobering tone for the Council's session, reflecting deep concern that the credibility of international law and civilian protection are facing their most serious test in years.
