Published on: 2026-10-29
Source: United Nations – United Nations –
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October 28, 2026 Human Rights
United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk spoke at a press conference at the UN headquarters on Wednesday, addressing a range of issues including the situation surrounding Ukraine. According to him, attacks affecting civilians have increased, and people are suffering the most severe hardships since the beginning of Russia’s full-scale invasion. Türk emphasized that human rights must be an integral part of any negotiations on a ceasefire and future peace.
Ukraine
He noted that the destruction of energy facilities especially harshly affects the elderly, people with disabilities, and the civilian population as a whole. Türk fears a worsening situation for civilians in the coming weeks and months, as he sees no change in this trend. He also mentioned that, in his view, the international community often lacks empathy for the people of Ukraine.
Middle East
At the press conference, Türk spoke about conflicts and human rights violations in Gaza, Sudan, Lebanon, Yemen, and other countries. He emphasized the importance of international law, protection of civilians, independent monitoring, and holding perpetrators accountable. The work of the UN Human Rights Office in monitoring the situation and documenting events in Gaza, the West Bank, Lebanon, and Syria helps to inform the world about what is happening.
In response to a question about the future government of Israel, the High Commissioner stated that the country should not continue the current course of military actions as if it is above international law. He recalled Israel’s obligations under international humanitarian law and international human rights law and expressed hope for a significant change in policy.
Türk reported that his Department is monitoring the actions of the Israeli authorities, Hamas, and the Palestinian authorities. He once again condemned the attacks on October 7 and expressed concern over the reports of Palestinians being executed by Hamas militants. He noted that killings without proper judicial procedures constitute extrajudicial executions. At the same time, Palestinians remain in a severely restricted part of the Gaza Strip, and deaths caused by Israeli forces continue.
Sudan
Sudan Turk called it one of the most severe humanitarian crises in the world. He mentioned the ongoing use of drones and noted that at the time of the press conference, such attacks accounted for the majority of civilian deaths. The High Commissioner also spoke about atrocities attributed to the Rapid Support Forces. In particular, he recalled the events at the Zamzam camp for displaced persons in April last year. People fleeing El Fasher told him about mass killings and executions without trial. Turk urged those who can influence the parties to the conflict to use that influence to stop the violence.
Yemen
Speaking about Yemen, the High Commissioner reported that the Houthis are holding 71 UN staff members, including eight from his Office. Some have been detained for several years. Türk called the detentions unacceptable and stated that they violate the privileges and immunities of the UN and constitute serious human rights violations. He demanded the immediate and unconditional release of the detainees.
International Criminal Court
Türk also opposed sanctions against the International Criminal Court and the UN Special Rapporteur Francesca Albanese. According to him, such measures are unacceptable and, from the perspective of his Office, run counter to international law. He called for the sanctions to be lifted and for accountability mechanisms not to be weakened.
Incitement to violence
The High Commissioner noted that sometimes, especially ahead of elections, his Office observes a rise in anti-Semitism, Islamophobia, attacks on women in politics, and members of the LGBTIQ+ community. He called for finding ways to stop manifestations of hatred and incitement to violence.
Global Alliance for Human Rights
At the beginning of the press conference, Türk said that most people around the world respect human rights, reject cruelty, and strive for a better future. However, many do not feel connected to others who share their views, including on social networks. The Global Alliance for Human Rights, launched by the UNHRC, is intended to help unite people and harness the power of human rights for change and public mobilization.
Freedom of the press
Türk also emphasized the importance of free and independent journalism. He expressed solidarity with journalists and other media workers who are subject to attacks, including in conflict zones, and called for continuing to raise questions about human rights throughout the UN system.
Financial crisis
According to the High Commissioner, the work of his Office is constrained by the financial crisis of the UN. In the past and current years, it has faced the risk of losing about 20 million dollars in budget funding. Due to a lack of funds, the treaty bodies of the UN, which oversee the implementation of states’ international obligations, hold fewer meetings, and fact-finding missions and investigation commissions operate at about 60 percent of the necessary capacity. The Office has also reduced activities in Colombia, Mexico, and a number of other countries. This means less monitoring of violations, less support for civil society, and less assistance to states.
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