At the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva, Secretary-General António Guterres condemned global “warmongers,” placing particular emphasis on the ongoing crisis in Ukraine, which marks three years since Russia’s full-scale invasion. He cited the staggering toll of over 12,600 civilian deaths and stressed the urgent need for a resolution that aligns with international law and the UN Charter. Guterres passionately urged a collective effort to halt the violence and foster a sustainable peace.
Guterres also voiced his concerns about the undermining of civil rights by authoritarian regimes that fear empowered populations. He highlighted how wars cause immense suffering, stripping communities of essential needs such as food, water, and education. His comments served as a powerful reminder of the human cost of global conflict amidst rising tyrannies and oppression.
Addressing the fragile ceasefire in Gaza, Guterres advocated for an immediate cessation of hostilities to protect civilians from ongoing violence. He called for the dignified release of hostages, substantial moves towards a two-state solution, and the establishment of an independent Palestinian state, integrating Gaza fully within it. This dialogue echoed a desperate plea for diplomatic measures to restore peace in a torrid region.
Furthermore, Guterres emphasised the alarming rise of intolerance against society’s most vulnerable groups including indigenous peoples, refugees, and the LGBTQI+ community. He condemned the sentiments of division and anger that prioritise power over human rights, indicating a troubling trend in global politics that risks erasing decades of hard-fought progress in human rights advocacy.
Echoing the UN Secretary-General’s concerns, human rights chief Volker Türk warned of an unprecedented strain on the global human rights framework, citing the suffering of both Israelis and Gazans amidst the violence ignited by the Hamas attacks. Türk reiterated calls for independent investigations into violations of international law by both sides in the conflict, highlighting a critical moment for accountability and justice in an increasingly fraught environment.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres addressed the Human Rights Council, condemning the ongoing conflicts, especially in Ukraine. He urged an end to military aggression and highlighted the erosion of human rights globally, exacerbated by autocratic rule. Guterres also called for a permanent ceasefire in Gaza and underscored the plight of marginalized communities. Human rights chief Volker Türk echoed these sentiments, stressing the need for accountability in conflict situations.
In a stirring plea, UN chief António Guterres implored global leaders to curtail military aggression, particularly in Ukraine, where human suffering has reached alarming levels. His remarks underscore the dire consequences of persistent conflict on human rights and urge a shift towards lasting peace and security. Both Guterres and human rights chief Volker Türk spotlighted the urgent need for unity, compassion, and a recommitment to international humanitarian standards to protect the most vulnerable populations.
Original Source: news.un.org
