UPDATE: On December 10, 2023, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk warned that fundamental human rights are under siege in Europe during his address for International Human Rights Day. His urgent message calls for a global “reclaim” of these essential rights, highlighting concerning trends within the European Union.
Latest reports confirm that nearly 50% of EU member states have witnessed a significant decline in civic space, a critical element for democracy and free expression. Türk stated, “Civic space is what makes us thrive,” emphasizing the need for open dialogue and the freedom to protest. He expressed deep concern over political discussions that threaten to restrict this space, particularly regarding pressing issues like climate change and migration.
In his analysis, Türk pointed to the EU’s pivotal regulations, namely the Digital Market Act and the Digital Services Act, which serve as models for global standards. He cautioned against any movement to lower these standards, stating, “Europe is really a leading example when it comes precisely to the digital space.” He urged the 27 Member States to uphold these rights, as many businesses advocate for strong human rights due diligence.
Moreover, Türk addressed the troubling trend of dehumanizing migrants and refugees in political discourse. “We should never start with dehumanizing any group,” he warned, stressing the importance of a fact-based debate on migration policies. He called for a shift away from polarized discussions in favor of sustainable solutions that respect human dignity.
The theme for this year’s International Human Rights Day is “Our Everyday Essentials,” highlighting connections between human rights and daily needs, including the right to food, water, sanitation, and education. Türk aims to remind the public of the tangible reality of these rights: “It’s important to go back to the basics of what human rights are and to fight for the rights of others in Europe and elsewhere.”
As the discourse around human rights continues to evolve, Türk’s call to action serves as a crucial reminder of the ongoing struggles faced by individuals across the continent. The implications of these discussions resonate far beyond Europe, affecting global human rights advocacy.
Moving forward, observers will be watching closely to see how the EU and its member states respond to Türk’s urgent plea and whether they will take significant measures to protect and promote human rights for all.
