World Leaders Gather in Geneva as Human Rights Face ‘Full-Scale Attack’
The United Nations Human Rights Council today opened its sixty-first regular session, with dignitaries from around the globe gathering to reaffirm the importance of human rights and multilateral cooperation. The session began with a moment of silence in memory of victims of human rights violations worldwide.
Sidharto Reza Suryodipuro, President of the Human Rights Council, highlighted the presence of over 120 high-level representatives from all regions as a powerful signal of the Council’s relevance.
He emphasised that the session should serve as a renewed call to listen, cooperate, and act, marking the Council’s rise to the challenges of the moment.
United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres warned that human rights were under “full-scale attack” globally, with the rule of law being undermined by the rule of force. In his final address to the Council, Mr. Guterres stressed the need for political engagement to translate into tangible action, highlighting conflicts in Ukraine, Palestine, Sudan, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
He called on the international community to defend the universality and indivisibility of human rights and to ensure that power does not determine who is protected.
United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk described a “worrying trend” of domination and supremacy returning worldwide. He criticised tech monopolies and corporate and state exploitation of resources, while also recognising global resistance from individuals asserting their rights.
Mr. Türk announced the forthcoming launch of a Global Alliance for Human Rights, bringing together States, businesses, civil society, and other stakeholders to defend human rights “every time, everywhere.”
President of the General Assembly Annalena Baerbock called the session a “call to action” for all, stressing that inaction and silence were choices with consequences. She highlighted the ongoing erosion of women’s rights, the urgency of protecting education and safety for children, and the risks posed by emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence.
Ms Baerbock urged coordinated engagement across Geneva and New York, as well as global commitment to human rights reform through the UN80 process.
Ignazio Cassis, Head of the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs of Switzerland, reflected on the Council’s 20-year history at the Palais des Nations. He noted that human rights were not a luxury but a necessity and a compass amid growing crises, technological risks, and diminishing trust between States.
He emphasised the need for clarity, discipline, and genuine impact in Council deliberations, guided by the “spirit of Geneva” rooted in respect, listening, and pragmatism.
The high-level segment of the session began at 10 a.m., with the Council set to continue discussions on pressing human rights challenges and the strengthening of international mechanisms for accountability and protection.
