Geneva: Switzerland has expressed concern over the decision of some countries to withdraw from the United Nations Human Rights Council, referencing the decision by U.S. President Donald Trump to exit the council, which has influenced other nations to consider similar actions.
According to Kuwait News Agency, this concern was articulated by Swiss Foreign Minister Ignazio Cassis during his opening speech at the high-level segment of the 58th session of the UN Human Rights Council, which is ongoing in Geneva until April 4th. Cassis emphasized that human rights are a collective responsibility and cautioned that diminishing trust in international institutions could exacerbate humanitarian crises globally.
The Foreign Minister also conveyed his concern about the worsening situation in Gaza, highlighting that the ongoing conflict increases civilian suffering and destabilizes the region. Cassis condemned the targeting of civilians and infrastructure in Gaza, describing the severe humanitarian situation as a clear indicator of the urgent need to protect human rights in conflict zones. He also warned about the deteriorating war in Ukraine, now in its third year, and stressed that it is unacceptable for civilians to continue bearing the brunt of the conflict.
Cassis called for a coordinated international response to global crises and reaffirmed Switzerland's commitment to supporting international humanitarian law. He underscored Switzerland's dedication to strengthening international cooperation to address global challenges and seek lasting solutions to ongoing crises, particularly during Switzerland's presidency of the UN Human Rights Council in 2025.
Last December, the UN Human Rights Council elected Ambassador Jurg Lauber, the Permanent Representative to the UN in Geneva, as president of the council for the current year.