Press. voanews.com
The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Zeid Ra’ad
al Hussein warns the entire human rights system is under attack, stoked by
fears of terrorism, and xenophobic rhetoric by populist politicians. The High
Commissioner presented his annual report on the state of human rights around
the world to the UN Human Rights Council.
Human Rights chief, Zeid Ra’ad al Hussein highlighted
recent developments in more than 40 countries. Among this group, he notes only
four countries—Gambia, Uzbekistan, Tunisia, and Greece—have made some
improvements in human rights. Otherwise, his appraisal of the human rights
situation globally is uniformly bleak.
South Sudan, Burundi
For example, he deplores the violence and destruction
in South Sudan, where famine is spreading. He accuses the warring parties of
repeatedly engaging in alleged war crimes, including killings, rape and sexual
violence, disappearances and pillage.
He says he is very concerned about the situation in
Burundi where the democratic space now has been virtually extinguished.
“Grave human rights violations and abuses by security
forces and the Imbonerakure militia continue to be reported, including
increasing allegations of enforced disappearances, torture and mass arbitrary
arrests,” said Zeid.
Turkey
Turning to the Middle East, he condemns the bombs and
other shocking terrorist attacks against civilians in Turkey, but expresses
concern about government measures under the state of emergency, which appear to
target criticism, not terrorism.
“The fact that tens of thousands of people have been
dismissed, arrested, detained or prosecuted following the attempted
coup—including numerous democratically elected representatives, judges and
journalists—raises serious alarm about due process guarantees being met,” said
Zeid.
The High Commissioner also finds fault with several of
the world’s super powers. He criticizes China for detaining lawyers and
activists who fight for the rights of others. He deplores Russia’s curbs on
political dissent, freedom of expression and religion.
In the United States, he expresses concern about
President Trump’s vilification of entire groups such as Mexicans and Muslims.
He warns the collective expulsions and deportations of immigrants could be in
breach of international law, if undertaken without due process guarantees.