United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk has warned that the world is facing increasing pressure from armed conflicts, political polarisation and rapid technological change during his oral update to the 63rd Session of the Human Rights Council in Geneva on Monday (7 Sep).
Türk said the international community was living through “an age of extremes”, with “raging wars, painful polarization, climate chaos, and head-spinning technological change” creating a sense of uncertainty. He added that more than 60 conflicts involving at least one state are ongoing, representing the highest level since the end of the Second World War.
The UN official also focused on the challenges posed by artificial intelligence (AI), calling for stronger global oversight and safety measures.
“The need for AI governance is widely acknowledged – but where is the action?” Türk said, warning that delays could increase risks associated with powerful AI systems.
He called for “cast iron guarantees” around AI safety, including international cooperation, independent verification and clearer safeguards for the development of emerging technologies.
In his remarks, Türk outlined wider priorities for the coming years, including strengthening accountability for human rights violations, protecting civic space, addressing inequality, tackling climate-related risks and expanding cooperation between governments, civil society and communities. He said human rights should remain “a compass in turbulent times”, arguing that international cooperation is essential to addressing global challenges.
ℹ️ UN Web TV
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