Balanced News: Türk blasts ‘politics of repression and division’, stresses freedom and development link

UN rights chief Volker Türk addressed the Human Rights Council, condemning authoritarianism and the repression of dissent. He called for a reversal to civilian governance and the protection of civic space and fundamental rights. Türk highlighted the interlinked challenges faced by countries in the Sahel, including climate change, lack of investment, and weak governance, which contribute to violent extremism. He also emphasized the importance of objective information, criticized the failure to achieve development goals, and outlined steps to address inequality and climate change. Türk condemned the indifference towards migrant deaths, Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, and restrictions on fundamental rights in various countries.