The United Nations Human Rights Council also “strongly urged” Russian officials to adhere to all of the country’s duties under global human rights regulations.

The statement also emphasized the importance of protecting basic liberties, such as freedom of thought, opinion, and expression, as well as the right to peaceful assembly. This can be achieved by eliminating limitations on diverse perspectives, criticism, and dissent, and ensuring the associated rights to personal liberty, a fair trial, and freedom from torture.

In the aftermath of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, the role of Special Rapporteur was established to investigate human rights within Russia. This agreement was reached for the first time in the past year.

On Tuesday, the United Nations General Assembly rejected Russia’s attempt to rejoin the Council, resulting in the vote.

A resolution was passed to extend the decision, with 18 Council members in favor and seven (Bolivia, China, Cuba, Eritrea, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Viet Nam) against. Twenty-two members chose not to vote.

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The Human Rights Council also urged Russia to fully and impartially engage with all UN human rights mechanisms, engage in constructive communication, and fully cooperate with the Special Rapporteur’s mandate.

It also demanded that the mandate holder be allowed to freely enter the country and hold meetings with key individuals, such as members of civil society and advocates for human rights, as well as those who are currently detained.

The Council also advised the Russian government to avoid using any methods of intimidation or retaliation against individuals and organizations who have collaborated with these bodies.

on extreme poverty and human rights

The Special Rapporteur on extreme poverty and human rights has been given the responsibility to address issues related to extreme poverty and human rights.

In October 2022, the Council created the position of Special Rapporteur to focus on the human rights situation in Russia. This position is responsible for observing, evaluating, and communicating about the state of human rights in the country.

In a report issued last month, the independent expert observed a notable decline in human rights in Russia since its invasion of Ukraine in February of last year. The report also highlighted a systematic suppression of civil society.

The current mandate holder – appointed by the Council to serve in an individual capacity, independent of any country or the UN Secretariat – is Mariana Katzarova of Bulgaria. She was appointed on 4 April and assumed her functions on 1 May.

Ms. Katzarova is not employed by the United Nations and does not receive a salary from the organization.

Source: news.un.org