UN Secretary-General António Guterres on Monday warned that human rights are being “suffocated” globally, criticizing voices of division and anger that view human rights as obstacles to their pursuit of power and profit.
In his address to the Human Rights Council, Guterres condemned Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine, marking its third anniversary, called for a permanent cease-fire between Palestinian militants and Israel, and stressed the need to respect Congo’s territorial integrity, among other issues, according to AFP.
Reiterating his concerns about global conflict and climate change, Guterres also announced plans to propose new ideas to the Security Council aimed at bringing greater stability and security to Haiti, which is currently supported by a multinational security mission.
He painted a grim picture of a world where human rights are “on the ropes,” under attack by warmongers, a “morally bankrupt global financial system” that prioritizes profit over environmental protection, those exploiting artificial intelligence for harm, and leaders seeking to demonize migrants and limit women’s rights.
Human right are being “suffocated by autocrats,” who crush opposition for fear of empowered people, and by “voices of division and anger,” who see human rights not as a benefit to humanity, but as a hindrance to the power, profit, and control they desire, he said.
Three weeks ago, US President Donald Trump announced that the United States would withdraw from the council, although the Biden administration had already decided not to seek re-election for a seat on the 47-member body when its current term ended last year.
The council convenes three times a year, with the current session running until April 4.
