Switzerland is voicing its unease concerning the withdrawal of certain nations from the UN Human Rights Council, with Foreign Minister Ignazio Cassis at the forefront. Notably, both the United States and Israel have recently pulled out of this Geneva-based assembly, raising alarms about the diminishing commitment to global human rights advocacy.
During the opening session of the Human Rights Council, which will run until April 4, Cassis emphasised that the universal protection of human rights is a collective responsibility. Without directly referencing the Trump administration, he urged, “Every member of the United Nations must assume its responsibilities.” His remarks reflect a broader concern about eroding democratic principles and escalating authoritarianism currently affecting many nations.
Cassis highlighted alarming trends, such as rising political tensions and distrust towards leadership, stemming from the growing influence of radicalism and populism among youth. He noted, “Voters have expressed widespread distrust of their leaders,” pointing to social media’s role in amplifying these divisions without any checks or filters.
While acknowledging that globalisation has alleviated poverty on one hand, Cassis warned about its fallout, including de-industrialisation in Western economies. He also addressed how digitalisation transforms work dynamics and claimed identity-related conflicts continue to strain societal cohesion, exacerbated by climate change.
He expressed a sense of pride over Switzerland’s recent seat at the Council, asserting, “Here in Geneva, we have the responsibility and the means” to tackle these pressing issues. He reaffirmed the importance of Switzerland’s leadership role within the Council, highlighting the appointment of Jürg Lauber as its chair this coming year.
Switzerland expresses concern about the US and Israel’s disengagement from the UN Human Rights Council, according to Foreign Minister Ignazio Cassis. At the Council’s opening session, he urged every UN member to embrace their responsibilities in promoting human rights. Cassis highlighted growing international tensions, distrust in governments, and the challenges posed by globalization and digitisation, while also taking pride in Switzerland’s renewed leadership role in the Council.
In summary, Switzerland’s Foreign Minister Ignazio Cassis has raised alarms about the disengagement of countries, especially the US and Israel, from the UN Human Rights Council. He stressed the need for collective responsibility in upholding human rights amidst rising authoritarianism and social discontent. Cassis remains optimistic about Switzerland’s leadership role in addressing these global challenges, reinforcing the idea that every nation must contribute to safeguarding democracy and human rights.
Original Source: www.swissinfo.ch
