The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, recently publicly criticized Russia for its “extensive failure” to protect the safety and human rights of civilians in Ukraine. Türk’s criticisms were part of a speech at an interactive dialogue hosted by the UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR).
During his speech, Türk referenced an OHCHR report titled “Situation on human rights in Ukraine: 1 August to 30 November 2023.” According to the report, nearly one in four Ukrainian civilian casualties occurred due to ranged attacks such as missile strikes and away from the front line. The report also noted a roughly 50 percent decrease in civilian casualties compared to the same period in 2022.
The High Commissioner expressed concerns over the Russian targeting of civilian infrastructure and the arbitrary detentions and torture of local officials, journalists, and civil society activists. He also strongly condemned enforced disappearances, stating these practices “must end immediately.” Türk further highlighted his concerns about the ongoing occupation of the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant.
Türk also took a moment to comment on Ukraine’s human rights record during the war, voicing concerns about the freedom of religion. He discussed a proposed law in Ukraine that could lead to the dissolution of any religious organization with ties to Russia. These proposed restrictions, according to Türk, do not appear to align with international human rights law.
As a solution, Türk proposed a “just peace” in accordance with international law. He pointed out UN resolutions that condemn the Russian invasion and International Court of Justice orders demanding an end to Russia’s military operations in Ukraine. This comes as Ukraine recently criticized Russia’s decision to hold its presidential elections in occupied territory.
This situation continues to develop, and further updates can be found here.