Deeply honoured to be appointed High Commissioner for Human Rights. I feel a deep sense of responsibility & will give it my all to advance the promises of Universal Declaration of Human Rights for everyone, everywhere.
Volker Türk’s posts
Deeply grateful to Finland’s support for human rights and my Office, as expressed to PM of Finland today in Helsinki.
Feminism is not only about women. It’s about universal values of equality, dignity and justice. Gender equality means a better world for everyone. #16Days
I am honored to take up my functions today as Chief. At a time of growing challenges for human rights around the world, I will be guided by the impact we can have on people and their daily lives to fulfill the promise of the #UDHR.
Dear , we both care about free speech. Here's a thread with some thoughts on how you can protect #FreeSpeech (and other rights too!) on 👇
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As new owner of @Twitter, @ElonMusk has enormous responsibilities. UN Human Rights chief @volker_turk shares some thoughts on what Musk needs to do to protect #FreeSpeech and other rights too. (1/8)
Read 
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As announced today by the , I will start my official functions as High Commissioner for Human Rights on 17 October 2022. Until that date, will remain the Acting High Commissioner for Human Rights.
I hope the new year brings more compassion and support for victims of human rights violations. Let's not forget DRC, Myanmar, Haiti, Yemen, Syria, Somalia. Just because it's not in the news does not mean it's not happening.
#HopesFor2023
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Pleasure to meet , champion of our #FightRacism campaign, who spoke about the power of creative industries to dismantle biases. I support your call to advance racial equality thru inclusive representation, social attitudes, education & policy change. #LearnSpeakUpAct
Women and girls must have autonomy, agency and be able to make decisions about their own bodies – free from violence and coercion. #16Days
Every child deserves clean air, water, food & a thriving planet – now & in the future.
Today, their right to a healthy environment was recognised by UN Child Rights Committee.
Let's use this key tool to tackle environmental harms & ensure accountability by Govts & companies.
To memory of my father-in-law Trần Văn Côn who passed last night, beloved by his family, rich life of 90 yrs, born in🇻🇳 fled on boat in 70s, refugee camp in 🇲🇾 asylum in🇨🇭 & rebuilt new life with his amazing family. Symbol of kindness, resilience & light.
We must stand together against anti-rights and anti-gender narratives. Gender equality must be addressed holistically. Women’s rights are human rights. #16Days
As multiple crises compete for attention, I need to share the SOS cry of the much-beleaguered people of #Haiti. Solutions must be owned & led by Haitians but given the magnitude of problems, I urge intl community’s active attention & targeted support: ow.ly/HQsT50MPBX4
The UN Charter is crystal clear about vital importance of #HumanRights and fundamental freedoms for all without distinctions. It's on all of us to make this a reality every day everywhere.
#UNDay
#StanUp4HumanRights
War is so utterly destructive. I hope the coming year will bring an end to conflicts around the world.
People have a right to peace and security.
#HopesFor2023
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Gender equality can only be achieved if all women, in all their diversity, are included. With only 1/10 countries protecting trans people from discrimination, trans women face particularly high levels of violence. Protection starts with recognition.
#16Days #PushForward
Emotional day of good-byes to my dear colleagues in NY. Tomorrow = day of packing & off to Geneva later this week to take up my new functions as HC for #HumanRights on 17 October.
Delighted about today’s General Assembly decision to extend the tenure of as High Commissioner for Refugees. Warmest congratulations, dear Filippo, & looking forward to working with you & the #UNHCR team when back in Geneva by mid-October.
Meeting with human rights defenders in underground shelter in Kyiv as missiles strike & air raid sirens sound again. Unbelievable that this is happening almost daily in #Ukraine. This must not become a new normal.
Very much look forward to working with my colleagues to confront the many challenges ahead.
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Excited to welcome @volker_turk as our new High Commissioner. Many of us have worked closely with him in his various leadership roles @UN, incl on the Call to Action for Human Rights. We look forward to building on our efforts to #standup4humanrights globally under his leadership
Glad to engage with various civil society & victims’ groups on my very first day in #Venezuela. My visit is one of solidarity, dialogue and action. All countries need and deserve a free and vibrant civic space. #StandUp4HumanRights
Met with exiled justice officials from Guatemala today. Recognizing their important work to build a just and transparent society anchored in human rights and the rule of law.
Hate speech is a scourge. I hope we remember, again and again, we are all human beings born free and equal.
Hatred has no place in the 21st century.
#HopesFor2023
At today’s opening of the #UN General Assembly, SG made a strong call that no major global challenge can be solved by a coalition of the willing. We need a coalition of the world.
Good to meet briefly with Chilean President & Minister of Foreign Affairs , recalling Chile’s contribution to #UDHR75 and importance of #HumanRights for all aspects of our lives.
Rape, sexual slavery, forced marriage & all forms of conflict related sexual violence must be banished to history.
I urge all actors: STOP using women's & girls’ bodies as battlefields.
This scourge must end now.
And it starts with justice + services for victims & survivors.
My message to govts at #CND66:
#WarOnDrugs has become a war on people, failing us all
Punitive drug policies destroy lives, public health & security by driving people underground & discriminatory incarceration
We need rights-based drug policies that save lives, not criminalise
In 1948, the world came together to say "never again". It was no accident that the Genocide Convention & the Universal Declaration of Human Rights were written at the same time. Human rights protection is the best vanguard against the worst crimes. #GenocidePreventionDay #UDHR75
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Lack of respect for international human rights law and humanitarian law is appalling. Denying other people's rights is denigrating humankind. I hope respect for human dignity is put at the forefront of global action.
#HopesFor2023
With all my warmest wishes for a peaceful 2023, full of hope for a better world!
As our new year resolution, let's make the world more dignified - where everyone's human rights are respected. See my full message here: vimeo.com/785203485/590a
We must unite. Violence against women cannot be tolerated, in any form, in any context, in any circumstance, by any religion, by any political leader, or by any government. #PushForward for the Elimination of Violence against Women. #16Days
Today, I honour the #Holocaust’s victims as we mark 78 yrs since Auschwitz's liberation. Growing up in post-war Austria, these horrific crimes deeply shaped me. In memory of the victims, I urge us all to unite behind the #UDHR so we can fight genocide & hate now & in the future.
Shaken by the murder of human rights advocate #EdwinChiloba, fills me with deep sadness, standing in solidarity with #LGBTQI+ activists around the world. Urgent need to redouble efforts for their protection.
Historic win for 🌍 & humanity w/ UN States agreeing to 1st treaty to protect #HighSeas.
Key step to reversing #PlanetaryCrisis as #oceans provide oxygen, vital ecosystem, livelihoods & absorb CO2. And victory for intl cooperation.
Let's now push for adoption & implementation.
Human rights violations are often at the root of conflict & insecurity:
❌ Unaddressed grievances
❌ Inequality
❌ Exclusion
My message is simple: Respect human rights.
Ensure accountability, equality & anti-discrimination, participation and open civic space.
#GenevaPeaceWeek
I honour the historic and ongoing struggle of people of #AfricanDescent for racial justice.
It is high time to confront the past and dismantle systemic racism in all its forms. #FightRacism
People demanding #climatejustice, pushing to end #discrimination & standing up for their rights do work that benefits us all. When they are imprisoned for their activities, we all suffer. Stand with them & call for the release of all those detained for defending our #humanrights.
We need young people to be the driving force behind transformative change. I hope they are empowered and continue to #StandUp4HumanRights.
#HopesFor2023
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Feminist movements are the engine behind global human rights progress. At the forefront of the fight for equality and justice for all, feminists have worked to end discrimination and violence against women & girls, while also defending the rights of every human being. #16Days
2023 marks 75th anniversary of Universal Declaration of Human Rights. 75yrs of progress towards freedom, equality & justice. But it's time to go faster/further.
I call on nations, cities, youth & all to join #HumanRights75 & pledge for concrete change by end of yr at Dec's event
Inspired by recent meetings with #IndigenousPeoples who often risk it all to protect the #Amazon - their home and our future. Let's not forget that it regulates 🌍's climate, oxygen and provides water to millions. We must push together for environmental justice!
Our #HumanRights journey reminds me of hiking up a mountain (which I love), it’s step by step, never giving up & being rewarded at the end when you reach the goal. #HumanRightsDay & #InternationalMountainDay have more in common than one would think.
Wonderful to catch up last night with two ex-Presidents & Ruth Dreifuss, love their wisdom, humour and insights.
Each and every threat to a journalist; each and every impediment to do their work in safety is a threat to the #HumanRights of all.
Let us commit to make the safety and protection of journalists a priority – not just in words but in action.
#ProtectJournalists
Universal Periodic Review is a unique opportunity for countries to get feedback from other States on #HumanRights.
I encourage everyone participating in this #UPR session to go into it with an open and free mind.
#StandUp4HumanRights for everyone, everywhere.
Much appreciate your warm greetings & support following the announcement of my new position. Let me say to each of you – Thank you, Merci, Gracias, شكراً , Спасибо, 谢谢, Vielen Dank!
Walking in Geneva's heat wave, I’m reminded of trees' vital role in cooling cities, purifying our air & protecting the vulnerable.
After earth's hottest week on record, it’s clear: cities must scale up planting & revamp urban development
We need greener & safer cities for all🌳
The climate crisis is a human rights crisis.
That’s clear in the photo exhibit that marked #HumanRightsDay in #NewYork. In partnership with , the photos are a strong call for climate justice.
#StandUp4HumanRights
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Paying highest tribute to Ben Ferencz - towering figure of human rights, rule of law and accountability.
May your legacy be a continuing inspiration for justice and peace.
The whole cycle of plastics is now a global threat to human rights. We must ensure free, active, meaningful and informed participation in the new #PlasticsTreaty negotiations. We need clear boundaries on conflict of interest to ensure the new Treaty puts people before profits.
Important meeting w/ - head of Climate Action Team - on strengthening human rights & civic space to accelerate climate action. Those on frontlines of #ClimateCrisis must be at centre of all upcoming #COP28 discussions if we're to drive real change. #ClimateJustice
There is one universal truth: violence against women is never acceptable, never excusable, never tolerable. Stand up together with the courageous women human rights defenders who have helped shape a freer and more equal world for all. #16Days
Leaving Venezuela, important discussions with President Maduro and members of his Cabinet, encouraged by the extension of my office’s presence.
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#Venezuela: UN Human Rights chief concludes visit after meeting w/ authorities & 125+ civil society reps.
High Commissioner @volker_turk welcomes extension of our Office’s presence & calls #UDHR75 “real chance" to tackle long-standing issues.
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Hoy recibí a funcionarios exiliados del sector justicia de Guatemala. Reconociendo su labor importante para construir una sociedad justa y transparente fundamentada en derechos humanos y el estado de derecho.
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Met with exiled justice officials from Guatemala today. Recognizing their important work to build a just and transparent society anchored in human rights and the rule of law.
Mandela’s legacy is a reminder to Govts everywhere: shackling rights defenders does not silence human rights.
Their voices & fight for freedom always live on.
And we will never give up their cause.
On #MandelaDay, join my call to #FreeAllPoliticalPrisoners arbitrarily detained
Without human rights, there can be no sustainable development - no real progress to stop #ClimateChange, poverty, conflict nor any global crisis
To change course, we need policies & investments that counter inequalities & prioritise sustainability
We need a human rights economy
Delighted to engage with our 150 leaders of Office’s work around the world.
We need to infuse our collective work with the human rights spirit and human rights knowledge that really makes a difference in the lives of people.
#StandUp4HumanRights
8 billion reasons why #HumanRights matter. As our world grows, let's unite for rights and commit to build a safe, clean & healthy planet for all. We are #8BillionStrong
Back to basics. History teaches us that #HumanRights, and the fundamental values behind them, can provide a response to crises: #StandUp4HumanRights
Powerful discussions at the Chief Executives Board of leaders.
Violence is never a solution.
I call for open dialogue and an end to the use of force against protesters.
We need to renew the social contract and rebuild societies with a healthy civic space where people can express grievances without fear of repression.
Wishing all Muslims a #Ramadan Mubarak!
May this holy month inspire spiritual renewal, foster greater peace and unity, and bring us closer to our shared humanity.
What a pleasure to see my dear friend and to have a HC to HC discussion about areas of mutual interest and concern.
Deep gratitude towards feminist movements for defending the rights of every human being. Your colossal contribution to ending discrimination and violence against women globally, in all their diversity, can never be erased.
#16days #OrangeTheWorld
Plastics pollute all aspects of our lives: our homes, food, water, bodies,🌍
We must end their unsustainable production, use & disposal.
And now we have chance to do so & #BeatPlasticPollution as Govts develop #PlasticsTreaty at #INC2
I urge them to put our rights & planet 1st
Delighted to sit down with the 1st High Commissioner for Human Rights Ayala Lasso in Quito tonight. He negotiated the mandate of the Office in 1993.
It's 1st of June & beginning of Pride Month. Let's celebrate the richness & diversity of the LGBTIQ+ community and honour their immense contributions to the human rights movement.
It is the “disregard & contempt for human rights” that “have resulted in barbarous acts which have outraged the conscience of mankind”. This is what the #UDHR states, it is what I believe, and it is what I hear from human rights defenders around the world. #UDHR75 #HumanRightsDay
Too many people today can't afford basic needs, get social care or escape poverty because of inequalities.
It's unjust, erodes public trust, holds back economies & is entirely preventable.
We must invest in inclusive & sustainable work for all to change course #SocialJusticeDay
On #HumanRightsDay, we launch our year-long campaign to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Join my call for 🌍 solidarity & action to advance the human rights cause for everyone, everywhere: canva.me/UNHRO1
#UDHR75
This #HumanRightsDay, I am launching the #UDHR75 initiative, as an opportunity to recall the consensus the UDHR envisaged. To reset and ensure the light of the Declaration can shine in our daily lives, all over the world.
Wishing all those who celebrate Orthodox Christmas today happiness and peace
Behind every humanitarian emergency, there is a human rights crisis. We must address the human rights challenges we face globally to prevent them from turning into full-fledged catastrophes and ensure that no one is left behind. #Investinhumanity
Shrinking civic space globally is threatening human rights defenders worldwide. I hope they are more included and heard.
#HopesFor2023
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Uplifting start to the day - meeting with detective Miss, the happiest staff of the UN :)
Inspiring meeting w/ 13yr old environmental & human rights defender !
Your commitment to #ClimateJustice, amplifying children's voices & promoting environmental peace fills me with hope.
Honoured to join forces for #HumanRights75 & push for bolder #ClimateAction
Racism is a #humanrights violation, not just a social issue.
To #FightRacism in the present, we must address legacies of the past.
Reparatory justice is key for governments seeking to fulfil their human rights obligations towards people of #AfricanDescent.
It's time for a reset. Humanity first, human rights first, people first. Net-zero is possible with a complete transformation of the way we live, the way we consume and the way we produce.
#COP27 #ClimateAction
👇🏼this morning in Geneva, feels like calm after the tempest, resonating with me after 1st week of #HRC52
Women human rights defenders and feminist movements must have access to safe spaces online and offline. Women, in all their diversity, must have their voice heard loud & clear to shape stronger, more inclusive and just societies. #16Days
There’s no excuse for holding #education hostage. It's a basic #humanright - NOT a privilege - and a powerful investment for ending poverty, promoting justice, driving sustainable development & building🌍peace. On #EducationDay, I urge govts to ensure inclusive education for all.
Today’s #IPCC report is our last wakeup call before the curtain drops on irreversible climate disaster.
And its survival guide is clear:
We must radically cut emissions by 2030. And protect, resource & heed the calls of those most impacted by #ClimateChange
It's now or never.
Women human rights defenders are a powerful force. They challenge patriarchal sociocultural norms, harmful stereotypes, and promote their equal status in the family and in society. I admire their resolve and their courage. #16Days
Children must participate meaningfully in shaping decisions affecting their lives. They have proven they are a driving force for change.
Children have the power to make the world a better place. We need to listen to them.
#WorldChildrensDay
Important meeting today on the protection of human rights of #olderpersons. In line with SG C2A for Human Rights, intergenerational solidarity & mutual respect for the human rights of all generations hold the key to a better future for all.
#HumanRights are for all of us.
Access to health is a human right.
We cannot wait for the next pandemic to hit before making sure everyone has healthcare coverage.
#HealthForAll is a priority.
There is no acceptable justification for putting on hold the elimination of discrimination against women & girls and, its worst manifestation, gender-based violence. This long overdue political commitment must be fulfilled without delay.
#16Days #HumanRightsDay
Let’s all strive to make the death penalty a relic of the past. I will work hard throughout my mandate to promote the abolition of the #DeathPenalty.
#CulturalDiversity is what makes us human. It’s our beauty, our wisdom, our collective strength
When all voices/differences are celebrated not feared, we bridge divides & grow stronger
Let's open our hearts/minds & remember united - not divided- builds peace+development for all
Hate is terribly contagious.
It’s a virus that grows & feeds on violence & abuse.
And triggers horrific atrocities.
We must build networks & amplify voices that cut through hate.
And we all must recognise, reject & say #NoToHate.
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On the Intl Day for Countering #HateSpeech, @volker_turk calls for each of us to say #NoToHate & push for effective action to end hate speech.
"Rather than criminalise protected speech, we need Govt's & companies to take urgent steps to address incitement to hate & violence."… Show more
We need honesty and integrity to overcome divisions. #UDHR75 is the guide we must follow to realize the universality of the shared values and principles we stand for as human beings.
#HopesFor2023
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