In a solemn address opening a session of the Human Rights Council in Geneva, UN Secretary-General António Guterres raised alarm about the global state of human rights, stating that they are under systematic attack. He highlighted the extensive breaches of international law and the severe suffering inflicted on civilians in ongoing conflicts, particularly in Gaza, Sudan, and Ukraine. Guterres underscored the urgent need for the international community to address these crises and uphold human rights standards.

Guterres criticized the erosion of the rule of law, stating that it is being overtaken by the might of power, a shift that threatens the very foundations of justice and equity. He pointed out that many governments are deliberately and strategically undermining human rights protections, and in some cases, these actions are being undertaken with a sense of pride. This trend not only jeopardizes individuals' freedoms but also destabilizes societies and increases the potential for conflict and upheaval.

The UN Chief's remarks come at a critical time when global attention is focused on human rights abuses in various regions. With international bodies and civil society increasingly raising concerns about abuses, Guterres' statements serve as a crucial reminder of the ongoing struggles for human dignity and the responsibility of global leaders to protect and promote human rights as a fundamental part of governance and international relations.