Geneva: We are on an indefensible path of escalating conflict and open disregard for international human rights and humanitarian law, said Volker Trk, addressing the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva. Offering a global overview, he painted a stark picture of a world in crisis – with surging armed conflict, deepening climate disruption, emerging technological threats, and a worrying rise in authoritarianism.

According to United Nations, Trk highlighted the situation in Gaza, where Israel has weaponised food and blocked lifesaving aid, calling for an immediate ceasefire leading to a two-State solution, with Gaza as an integral part of a Palestinian State. He described the military escalation between Israel and Iran as deeply worrying and appealed for de-escalation and urgent diplomatic negotiations to end these attacks.

In his address, Trk also shed light on the global threats faced by civil society, reporting that at least 625 human rights defenders and media workers were killed or disappeared in 2024. This statistic translates to one every 14 hours, underscoring the vital role of civil society and the media in holding power accountable. He expressed deep concern over attacks on international institutions, including the International Criminal Court, viewing sanctions against judges and prosecutors as an assault on the rule of law.

Trk further addressed the issue of discrimination targeting minorities, noting that one in five people across 119 countries reported experiencing discrimination in the past year. He emphasized that discrimination is widespread, with women facing it at double the rate experienced by men. In Afghanistan, the ongoing war on women and girls by the de facto authorities was also highlighted as a significant concern. Trk concluded by urging governments and societies to uphold human rights in both word and deed during these troubled times.