Published on: 2026-06-10
Source: United Nations – United Nations –
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Against the backdrop of riots in Northern Ireland and the start of the World Cup this week, the UN Human Rights Commissioner Volker Türk warned about the increase in global instability and the shrinking of civil space in many countries around the world. Speaking on Wednesday before journalists in Geneva, he called for the de-escalation of conflicts, protection of civilians, and respect for international law.
“We continue to move forward in a very difficult global context, overcoming currents of aggression, populism, one-sided actions, and withdrawal from international law. The consequences of these trends are visible everywhere—from battlefields to polling stations. Human rights movements, fueled by intolerance, polarization, and isolation of [population groups], are gaining strength,” he stated.
The Head of the UN Human Rights Office also noted the increase in inequality, insufficiently active measures to combat the climate crisis, and new challenges related to the digital environment.
Narrowing of the civil space
According to Tyurak, many countries still have restrictions on civil liberties.
“All over the world, we continue to observe a reduction in civil space, often with tragic consequences. We see repression, a rollback of democratic principles, and the search for “scapegoats” among minorities, marginalized groups, refugees, and migrants,” he said.
The regional commissioner reminded that dozens of armed conflicts around the world lead to enormous human suffering, massive population displacement, and the deaths of civilians. He noted the economic and ecological consequences of wars, which are felt far beyond the combat zones.
Mission in Lebanon
Türk emphasized the indispensability of de-escalation and responsibility for violations of international law.
According to him, it is necessary to conduct prompt and independent investigations of the alleged violations of international humanitarian law and human rights norms.
In this regard, the Special Representative reported on the agreement with the Lebanese government on conducting an independent and impartial assessment mission.
“In the near future, I am sending a group of specialists to collect information and evidence of alleged violations and abuses in the field of human rights, as well as violations of international humanitarian law and related norms committed by the parties to the armed conflict in the country since March 2 of this year,” he said.
Global Alliance for Human Rights
Despite numerous challenges, Türq declared that it still harbors hope.
According to him, most people do not want to live in an unjust, cruel, and repressive world. During his recent trips to countries in Africa, Asia, Europe, and America, he saw people’s commitment to the fundamental values of human rights.
First Commissioner announced the launch of a new initiative –Global Alliance for Human Rights.
“Under this new banner, we strive to unite representatives of different generations, regions, and sectors of society to place human rights at the center of global discussion and decision-making processes,” he stated.
According to Türkeş, the alliance should become a common platform of actions on the eve of the 80th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which will be celebrated in 2028.
“We hope to bring closer a future in which governments are accountable to society, societies are inclusive, the economy is fair, innovations serve people, and respect defines our relationships with each other and with the planet,” he emphasized.
About violence in the United Kingdom
In response to the question about recent attacks on people in the United Kingdom and the subsequent outbreak of violence, the Commissioner for Human Rights expressed solidarity with the victims and their families.
“At the same time, it is obvious that the dehumanization of any groups within society is absolutely unacceptable. What we are observing is frankly disgusting,” he said.
The Turk called the recent events in Northern Ireland and Southampton shocking and urged social networks to treat the spread of hate speech and incitement to violence more responsibly.
“We cannot come to terms with this in the modern world. The polarization we are witnessing causes deep concern,” he emphasized.
Football World Cup
Reminding about the upcoming start this week in the USA, Canada, and Mexico of the FIFA World Cup, the commissioner noted that major sporting events should unite people.
“Mega-events in sports were originally conceived as moments when the world unites in the atmosphere of peace and unity,” he noted.
According to Tyurk, such events must take place in a safe and decent environment both for athletes and for fans.
He expressed hope that issues of racial profiling, surveillance, and immigration control will not have a negative impact on the holding of the tournament.
“I hope that the dehumanization of the ‘other’, the dehumanization of migrants, refugees, and asylum seekers will come to an end, since no one benefits from divisive and polarizing narratives,” concluded the High Commissioner.
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