In a decisive vote, the UN Human Rights Council has renewed Francesca Albanese’s tenure as Special Rapporteur for human rights in the Palestinian Territories until 2028, despite vocal objections from the US and numerous petitioners. Albanese confirmed the vote outcomes on her social media channels, heralding her reaffirmed role amidst growing tensions. Opposition intensified this week, with UN Watch presenting a petition signed by over 100,000 individuals urging against her reappointment, citing her alleged antisemitism and alignment with Hamas.
The US Mission to the UN clearly articulated its discontent in a letter to Secretary-General António Guterres, stating their opposition due to Albanese’s “virulent antisemitism” and claims she supports Hamas. They asserted that her conduct is inconsistent with the UN’s code of conduct, emphasizing she is unfit for her role. Brian Mast, chair of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, echoed these sentiments by urging the Human Rights Council President to reconsider Albanese’s renewal, illustrating her misalignment with UN ethical standards.
Albanese has faced multiple allegations ranging from accusing Israel of genocide to likening its government to the Third Reich. Critics assert her comments reflect a pattern of Hamas apologist behaviour, systematically undermining her credibility within the UN framework. Following the tragic events of October 7, she controversially suggested that violence should be viewed in context rather than an outright condemnation of the attacks, triggering further backlash.
A report by UN Watch titled “Wolf in Sheep’s Clothing” advocates for sanctions against Albanese, detailing various instances where she purportedly disseminated antisemitic rhetoric, including a dubious social media statement linking the US to a “Jewish Lobby”. The report criticizes her tendency to compare Israeli actions to those of the Nazis, which drastically escalates the call for her removal. Her characterisation of Gaza as a “concentration camp” has also drawn rebuke from several nations, with France branding these comments as scandalous.
The UN has reappointed Francesca Albanese as Special Rapporteur for human rights in Palestinian Territories until 2028, despite widespread criticism and petitions from the US and UN Watch. The US condemned her tenure based on accusations of antisemitism and supporting Hamas. Albanese’s history of controversial statements, including comparisons of Israel to Nazi Germany, has intensified calls for her removal and sparked debates on the effectiveness of UN mandates in upholding impartiality.
Despite significant opposition, Francesca Albanese’s appointment as UN Special Rapporteur has been renewed until 2028 amidst claims of antisemitism and a lack of impartiality. Opposition comes strongly from the US and UN Watch with calls for sanctions, citing a history of statements that align with antisemitic tropes and denials of violent acts against civilians. The situation reflects a growing divide in perceptions of human rights advocacy within international frameworks, highlighting the complexities of the role.
Original Source: www.jpost.com
