The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights expressed significant concern over threats to its rapporteurs in Eritrea, Burundi, and the Philippines. Eritrea’s Ambassador attacked rapporteur Sheila Keetharuth, while Burundi’s government threatened authors of a human rights report, violating international conventions protecting UN experts. The threats undermine human rights oversight globally and highlight the precarious position of human rights defenders.
The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights has raised alarm concerning threats directed at its special rapporteurs in Eritrea, Burundi, and the Philippines, as articulated in a statement released on November 21. The statement condemns the ongoing efforts by certain states to undermine the critical mechanisms established by the 47 Member States of the Human Rights Council. In Eritrea, the statement specifically addresses the hostility faced by Ms. Sheila Keetharuth, the Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in the country. Her recent report indicated that there have been no improvements in the human rights situation. The Eritrean Ambassador publicly disparaged her during a Human Rights Council session, likening Ms. Keetharuth to a “naked Empress with no clothes” and accusing her of acting as a “Viceroy over Eritrea” and conducting a witch-hunt. The UN Commissioner reiterated that Ms. Keetharuth is fulfilling her mandate and should not be subjected to such derogatory personal attacks from government officials. Turning to Burundi, the UN has lodged a complaint regarding threats issued by government representatives against authors of a recent report from a Commission of Inquiry into the country’s human rights issues. The High Commissioner decried these threats, stating that they violate Article VI of the 1946 Convention on the Privileges and Immunities of the United Nations, which safeguards experts on UN missions. The Commissioner has urged the Burundian authorities to reconsider their non-cooperation stance with the International Commission of Inquiry and to cease any threats toward its members. In relation to the Philippines, President Duterte and his supporters have reportedly made open threats against UN special rapporteur Agnes Callamard regarding her inquiries into extrajudicial killings.
The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights oversees the implementation of international human rights standards and often sends special rapporteurs to various countries to investigate and report on human rights conditions. This particular incident highlights the increasing tensions between state authorities and international human rights observers, especially those investigating allegations of human rights violations. The threats faced by these rapporteurs not only undermine their work but also raise concerns about the protection of human rights defenders and the integrity of the UN’s human rights framework.
The threats against UN human rights experts in Eritrea, Burundi, and the Philippines signify a troubling trend towards hostility against international oversight of human rights practices. The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights emphasized the necessity of protecting those who are tasked with monitoring and reporting on human rights, urging states to ensure their cooperation rather than responding with punitive measures. The situation remains critical as the integrity and effectiveness of the UN’s human rights mechanisms hinge on the safety and freedom of its special rapporteurs.
Original Source: www.africanews.com
