Cassis warns of negative dynamics in human rights worldwide
Published: Monday, Feb 26th 2024, 11:10
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At the opening of the Human Rights Council in Geneva, Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis called for a halt to the negative momentum in human rights in the world. In view of the increasing conflicts, "we have a responsibility" to work towards this, said Cassis.
In his speech in Geneva on Monday, the head of the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA) lamented the spread of autocracies in the world and the numerous current conflicts. In particular, he cited the conflicts in Ukraine, the Middle East and Sudan.
Human rights violations and wars fuel each other, said Cassis. "Our efforts to eliminate violence do not appear to be successful."
With dozens of elections coming up around the world this year, he emphasized the role of the UN in ensuring fair and free votes. Mr. Cassis called on all states to get involved and pointed out that Switzerland had applied this year for a seat on the Human Rights Council from 2025 to 2027.
Wars, conflicts and tensions took center stage at the start of the spring session of the UN Human Rights Council. The High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, spoke of "seismic global shocks".
"The world is drifting apart"
UN Secretary-General António Guterres warned of a dangerous drifting apart of the world into rival power blocs. He called on the global community to move closer together instead of continuing to give space to hatred and trampling human rights underfoot.
Difficult times also open up opportunities to show leadership and give justice a central place on the international stage, said Guterres. International humanitarian law, which applies worldwide and sets guidelines for conduct in conflicts and protects civilians, must be respected again, he said.
Many countries accuse the West of applying double standards: Although the West denounces oppression by the Muslim leadership of Iran, it does not take sufficient account of human rights violations against the Muslim population of the Gaza Strip.
Western states reject this. In his opening speech, Guterres emphasized that there should be no double standards.
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