The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights has raised concerns regarding threats to UN special rapporteurs in Eritrea, Burundi, and the Philippines, emphasizing the need for state cooperation with human rights mechanisms. Specific instances included verbal attacks on Ms. Sheila Keetharuth, threats against a Commission of Inquiry in Burundi, and intimidation faced by Agnes Callamard in the Philippines.
The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights has voiced serious apprehensions regarding threats directed at its special rapporteurs in Eritrea, Burundi, and the Philippines. On November 21, a statement titled “Attacks / Threats by States against UN Human Rights Experts” highlighted concerns about efforts by specific states to undermine mechanisms established by the Human Rights Council. In Eritrea’s case, the statement expressed dismay over verbal assaults directed at human rights expert, Ms. Sheila Keetharuth, who recently reported deteriorating conditions regarding human rights in the nation. It noted that she has encountered significant hostility, including a personal attack from the Eritrean Ambassador during a Human Rights Council session, where the ambassador insultingly labeled her as a “naked Empress with no clothes” and accused her of conducting a “witch-hunt.” The UN reiterated that Ms. Keetharuth is fulfilling her mandate from the UN Human Rights Council and should not be subjected to such malicious attacks by government officials. Regarding Burundi, the UN has formally complained about threats made by the Burundian Ambassador against authors of a recent report by a Commission of Inquiry into human rights issues in the country. The High Commissioner rejected the threats as unacceptable and viewed them as a violation of the 1946 Convention on the Privileges and Immunities of the United Nations. The High Commissioner urged the Burundian government to reconsider its stance of non-cooperation with the International Commission of Inquiry and to halt the intimidation of its members. The Philippines was also mentioned, with reports indicating that President Duterte and his supporters have issued open threats against UN special rapporteur Agnes Callamard, responsible for investigating extrajudicial killings in the country.
The concerns raised by the United Nations stem from increasing hostility and threats faced by UN human rights experts. Such threats not only impede the work of these independent investigators but also undermine the international framework that upholds human rights standards. The High Commissioner’s statement underscores the need for cooperation between UN experts and state governments, reinforcing the importance of protecting individuals engaged in critical human rights investigations.
In conclusion, the threats against UN human rights experts in Eritrea, Burundi, and the Philippines represent a significant challenge to the functioning of international human rights mechanisms. The United Nations has urged these governments to respect the mandates of its rapporteurs and to foster a cooperative environment that ensures adherence to human rights standards.
Original Source: www.africanews.com
