Original Source: www.ekathimerini.com
The indifference of political leaders to those most affected by globalization has fueled the rise of populism, warned Volker Turk, the UN’s high commissioner for human rights, during his recent visit to Athens. Turk emphasized the urgent need for adequate funding for the UN to operate effectively and address pressing human rights issues.
During his visit, Turk discussed Greece’s upcoming role as a Security Council member, underscoring the connection between human rights and global peace. He expressed hopes for close collaboration with Greece, especially considering the impact of austerity measures on vulnerable populations.
Addressing migration, Turk reflected on Greece’s challenges as a frontline EU nation handling asylum seekers. He stressed the necessity for strong national systems and collaboration with European partners to manage reception and integration effectively while learning from past tragedies, such as the shipwreck near Pylos.
Regarding humanitarian crises in Gaza and Ukraine, Turk insisted on the importance of establishing facts and applying international law effectively. Despite criticisms from various parties, he defined his mission as ensuring accountability through the lens of human rights and international frameworks.
Amid global challenges, Turk pointed out the urgency for heightened multilateral cooperation. He highlighted the existential threats posed by climate change, wars, and migration, advocating that international collaboration is indispensable for addressing these multifaceted issues.
Turk lamented that the political elite often overlook those hurt by globalization, creating fertile ground for populism. Exploiting sentiments of neglect, populist rhetoric often misleads the public by proposing easy answers to complex problems, which calls for a reassessment of political accountability steeped in human rights principles.
He affirmed the need for discussions on minority rights, emphasizing that protecting minorities—from ethnic to religious—is crucial for preventing conflict. He underscored that a legal framework exists to safeguard cultural and linguistic diversity and that doing so promotes peace and stability.
Volker Turk, as the UN high commissioner for human rights, sheds light on the crucial intersection between human rights, political accountability, and global challenges. His visit to Greece highlighted the pressures of austerity, migration, and the urgent need for enhanced multilateral cooperation to tackle systemic issues stemming from globalization and inequality. He addresses the role of political leaders in alleviating public grievances and the necessity for compassionate policies that prioritize human rights.
The rise of populism is rooted in the neglect of vulnerable populations by political elites, necessitating a renewed focus on human rights and international collaboration. The obstacles posed by climate change, migration, and conflict require decisive action and a commitment to solidarity. Protecting the rights of minorities is not only a legal obligation but also a pathway to preventing conflict and fostering peace in a troubled world.
