For many workers, protecting human rights is not just a job, but a calling. As he pointed out, many people “work from a deep sense of service to others and a desire to make a meaningful impact.”
From conflict zones to post-war societies, they provide critical support to detainees and victims of torture, provide emergency relief, document violations and uncover the root causes of conflict.
“Human rights defenders are key to conflict resolution. They are messengers of dignity, justice and peace,” Türk said.
But despite their valuable work, human rights defenders face “unacceptably high” threats, including attacks that amount to war crimes.
increasing risk
For journalists and humanitarian workers, the prospect of being killed, kidnapped, harassed and detained is an increasingly real possibility.
Women are particularly vulnerable and are often targeted for sexual violence, online threats and risks to their families.
Mr. Turk stressed the importance of ensuring the security of the garrison, calling it a legal obligation and an important step towards achieving justice and peace.
global backlash
Turk cited the criminalization of dissent, the violent repression of peaceful protests and restrictions on non-governmental organizations as worrying developments.
These events often force human rights defenders into exile and expose them to new forms of persecution and repression, including online surveillance.
“We still do not know the full extent of the impact that digital technologies will have on the work and safety of human rights defenders,” he warned, underscoring the urgency to address these modern threats.
Concrete action required
Mr. Turk called on governments to take decisive action, including establishing well-resourced civil protection systems and supporting civil society networks to provide protection across borders. He also noted the importance of responding quickly to new threats.
“The risks of this activity should not be borne solely by defenders,” he said, calling for support for NGOs at risk and resisting labeling defenders as terrorists, foreign agents or traitors. emphasized the need.
“We have to do everything we can to ensure that (defenders) can operate safely wherever they are,” he concluded.
