The UN has chosen to extend Francesca Albanese’s role as Special Rapporteur on human rights in the occupied territories for another three years, despite widespread criticism regarding her anti-Israel bias. This decision was made with the backing of 47 Human Rights Council member states, even as Israel, Hungary, and Argentina sought to reject her appointment.
Throughout her tenure, Albanese has made inflammatory statements, including alleging that Israel and the CIA orchestrated the brutal 2015 attacks on Charlie Hebdo in Paris. She has compared Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to Hitler and expressed scepticism over reported sexual crimes committed by Hamas during the October 7 massacre, even after a UN report confirmed such acts took place.
Her impartiality is further questioned due to her husband’s role as an economic advisor to the Palestinian Authority, a conflict of interest she reportedly failed to disclose. Albanese also faced scrutiny for a trip to Australia funded by a Hamas-supporting group, prompting an investigation by international bodies.
In 2022, UN Watch described her appointment as inconsistent with the UN’s commitment to neutrality, highlighting that her comments downplayed the severity of the Hamas attacks, framing them instead as a reaction to Israeli oppression. During the violence on October 7, she noted the incident should be viewed in a broader context, which raised eyebrows about her objectivity as a UN representative.
The position Albanese retains carries the responsibility to deliver credible and objective reports to the UN and UNRWA. While previous holders of this role have critiqued Israeli actions, none faced accusations of antisemitism from nations like France or Germany, indicating a troubling precedent with her extension.
Francesca Albanese’s UN appointment renews controversy due to her anti-Israel bias and accusations of antisemitism. Critics highlight questionable statements and conflicts of interest, claiming her position undermines the UN’s objectivity. Her behaviour during the Hamas attacks raises further concerns about her credibility and the impartiality of her future reports.
In summary, Francesca Albanese’s continued role as the UN Special Rapporteur raises significant concerns regarding the accountability and integrity expected of such a position. Given her controversial comments and perceived biases, critics argue she undermines the UN’s principles of impartiality. As she embarks on another three years, the implications of her stance on human rights in the occupied territories remain to be seen.
Original Source: www.ynetnews.com
