Geneva: The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Turk, has urged all parties involved to ensure that human rights are central to the recovery and peacebuilding processes in Gaza.
According to Kuwait News Agency, Turk emphasized that human rights are intrinsically linked to accountability for the severe human rights and international humanitarian law violations witnessed over the past two years. He advocated for a transformation of the ceasefire in Gaza into lasting peace, underscoring that human rights are essential to enabling Palestinians in Gaza and the West Bank to have their voices heard and to participate in decision-making processes regarding their governance and right to self-determination.
Turk highlighted the necessity of establishing inclusive political processes that pave the way for a two-state solution. This should align with the resolutions of the Security Council, the General Assembly, the Human Rights Council, and the New York Declaration endorsed by the General Assembly, along with the advisory opinions and interim measures issued by the International Court of Justice.
The UN official also emphasized that any forthcoming international stabilization mission must include a dedicated human rights component, along with capacity-building for security forces in the realm of human rights. He pointed out several key areas where human rights should be the cornerstone of the next phase of the comprehensive process, including truth, justice, and accountability, acknowledgment of atrocities, and efforts to end impunity and prevent future violations.
Turk called for the establishment of a democratic, legitimate, and accountable governance system that guarantees economic, social, cultural, civil, and political rights for all. He also advocated for full and unhindered access to humanitarian aid and the protection of humanitarian workers, international journalists, and human rights monitors. Ensuring that journalists can operate freely throughout the Gaza Strip is crucial, he noted.
He further remarked that opening Gaza to the world would act as a safeguard against relapse and a preventive measure to deter violations.