Who is the High commissioner of the Office of the 'United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights'?

The correct answer is Volker Turk.

Key Points

• Volker Turk was appointed as the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights in September 2022.
• He succeeded Michelle Bachelet, who held the position from September 2018 to August 2022.
• Prior to his appointment, Turk had an extensive career with the UN, holding key roles in the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR).
• His appointment was made by the United Nations Secretary-General, António Guterres.
• Volker Turk is an Austrian national with a distinguished record in human rights and humanitarian work.

Additional Information

• United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (UNHCHR)
  • The UNHCHR is responsible for promoting and protecting human rights globally.
  • The office was established in 1993 by the UN General Assembly.
  • It operates under the principles of universality, impartiality, objectivity, and non-selectivity.
  • The High Commissioner is the principal human rights official of the United Nations.
  • The office works closely with governments, civil society, and other UN entities to address human rights issues.
• Role of the High Commissioner
  • The High Commissioner heads the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR).
  • The role involves advocating for international human rights laws and standards.
  • The High Commissioner engages in dialogue with governments and provides technical assistance.
  • They report to the UN General Assembly and the Human Rights Council on human rights issues.
  • The position requires a commitment to addressing human rights violations globally.
• Human Rights Council
  • The Human Rights Council is an intergovernmental body within the United Nations system.
  • It is responsible for strengthening the promotion and protection of human rights around the globe.
  • The Council addresses human rights violations and makes recommendations.
  • It was created by the UN General Assembly on March 15, 2006, replacing the UN Commission on Human Rights.
  • The Council has 47 elected member states, serving for three-year terms.