The United Nations General Assembly has reappointed Volker Türk to a second four-year term as UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, despite opposition from the United States, Russia and Israel.
The 193-member assembly approved the appointment by 144 votes to 10, with 13 abstentions, after rejecting a US proposal to delay the vote and a Russian proposal to extend Türk’s current term only until the end of 2026.
Israel opposed the reappointment over Türk’s criticism of its military operations in Gaza, while Russia accused him of political bias and of advancing Western geopolitical interests, citing his criticism of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. The United States also criticised the appointment process, arguing it lacked sufficient transparency and review.
Secretary-General António Guterres defended the nomination, with UN spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric stating it complied with established UN procedures.
During his first term, Volker Türk frequently raised concerns over human rights issues in conflicts and domestic policies affecting countries including Russia, Israel, China, Myanmar and the United States, drawing both praise for his willingness to scrutinise major powers and criticism from governments that accused him of bias.
As he begins his second term, Türk is expected to continue overseeing the UN’s response to emerging human rights challenges, with armed conflicts, humanitarian crises and accountability likely to remain central priorities.
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