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The United Nations General Assembly has approved a new four-year term for Volker Türk as High Commissioner for Human Rights, brushing aside strong opposition from the United States, Russia and Israel.
The resolution passed with 144 votes in favor, 10 against and 13 abstentions, extending Türk’s mandate from October 12, 2026, following a proposal by UN Secretary-General António Guterres.
Attempts to delay or shorten the extension failed. A Russian proposal to renew the mandate only until December 31, 2026, was overwhelmingly rejected, as was a US request to postpone the vote.
Speaking ahead of the decision, US Ambassador Jeff Bartos sharply criticized the process, accusing Guterres of rushing the timeline and undermining transparency. He warned Washington could reconsider its engagement and funding if procedural concerns were ignored.
In contrast, France strongly backed Türk’s leadership. Ambassador Jérôme Bonnafont praised him as “a voice of conscience,” citing his impartial and consistent defense of human rights during his first term.
Türk, an Austrian legal expert, has led the UN’s top human rights body since October 2022. He has consistently emphasized the universal application of international law and has spoken out on major global crises, including the wars in Ukraine and Gaza, as well as situations in Afghanistan, Sudan, Bangladesh, Myanmar and Nicaragua.
However, his tenure has also drawn criticism. Some governments and observers argue he has not taken firm enough positions on issues such as Cuba and the treatment of Uyghurs in China’s Xinjiang region. Others have faulted him for avoiding the term “genocide” in relation to Gaza—unlike several UN experts.
Russia and Israel reiterated their opposition during the session, arguing that with Guterres nearing the end of his term, the decision should have been left to the next secretary-general.
Despite the divisions, the strong majority vote signals continued backing for Türk’s approach as he prepares to begin his second term amid mounting global human rights challenges.