At the recent High-Level Segment of the Human Rights Council in Geneva, U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres voiced serious concerns regarding the stifling of human rights globally. He highlighted the detrimental effects of autocratic regimes and opportunistic leaders who diminish human rights as they pursue their ambitions. Guterres specifically condemned the ongoing war in Ukraine and urged a ceasefire in the conflict between Israel and Palestinian militants, while also emphasising the need to respect Congo’s territorial integrity.
Guterres painted a stark picture of a world where human rights appear battered and bruised. He lamented that these rights are mercilessly crushed by warmongers, a biased global financial system prioritising profit over people, and leaders who exploit the plight of migrants and restrict women’s rights. He remarked that autocrats are, at their core, terrified of the people’s empowerment and therefore seek to dismantle the mechanisms of opposition.
As he urged for change, Guterres vowed to introduce fresh proposals to the Security Council to enhance stability and security, particularly in Haiti, where international support is crucial. He passionately described how human rights are perceived not as a blessing but rather as impediments to the power and control sought by those driven by division and hostility.
In a backdrop marked by disarray, the U.N. chief’s remarks underscore the pressing need for a collective response to defend rights across the globe. The council meeting continues until April 4, representing a critical platform for dialogue and action in the face of escalating challenges. Guterres’s persistent call for recognition of human rights as foundational to peace and justice resonates louder than ever.
U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres condemned the global repression of human rights at the Human Rights Council in Geneva. He spoke against autocrats and warmongers, calling for a ceasefire in Ukraine and respect for Congo’s sovereignty. Guterres underscored the urgent need for international cooperation to protect human rights amidst growing global unrest, particularly in contexts like Haiti.
Antonio Guterres’s address at the Human Rights Council revealed urgent warnings about the global state of human rights. He pinpointed both autocrats and hostile leaders as significant threats to these liberties, highlighting their willingness to sacrifice human dignity for power. The appeal for a ceasefire in ongoing conflicts, respect for nations’ sovereignty, and fresh initiatives for stability demonstrates a determined commitment to combat the ever-increasing challenges to human rights worldwide.
Original Source: apnews.com
