Geneva: The United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed deep concern on Monday over the escalating violence in the West Bank and called for respect for international law, an end to the Israeli occupation, and the establishment of an independent Palestinian state. This was in his opening speech at the 58th session of the United Nations Human Rights Council held in Geneva. According to Kuwait News Agency, Guterres stated that ongoing conflicts around the world such as the war in Ukraine, the occupied Palestinian territories, Sudan, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the Sahel region, Myanmar, and Haiti are "serious sources of concern" as human rights violations intensify and civilian casualties increase. The UN chief emphasized that "human rights are the oxygen of humanity yet they are being increasingly suffocated." He pointed out that repressive regimes, armed conflicts, economic crises, climate change, and unregulated technological advancements all contribute to the erosion of fundamenta l rights for individuals and communities. Guterres warned that the world faces "unprecedented challenges" threatening human rights and urged intensified international efforts to protect them. He also highlighted the critical role played by the Human Rights Council in exposing violations and promoting accountability. He called on governments and the international community to redouble efforts to protect human rights and ensure justice for all victims. Guterres mentioned the "Pact for the Future" saying it provides a roadmap for strengthening human rights through peace, development, and the rule of law stressing the importance of collective action to address global challenges. The UN General Assembly established the Human Rights Council, comprised of 47 member states responsible for promoting and protecting human rights worldwide. The State of Kuwait has been elected as a member of the UN Human Rights Council for the 2024-2026 term.
