Mon Feb 24 13:40:12 UTC 2025: ## UN Chief Condemns Global Human Rights Crisis, Highlights Ukraine, Palestine, and DRC Abuses

**Geneva/New York –** UN Secretary-General António Guterres delivered a stark warning on Monday, characterizing the state of global human rights as “on the ropes and being pummelled hard.” Speaking at the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva, Guterres highlighted alarming abuses in Ukraine, Palestine, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), blaming “warmongers and authoritarians” for the escalating crisis.

Guterres specifically condemned the ongoing war in Ukraine, marking its third anniversary, urging the international community to work towards “a just and lasting peace.” He described the Gaza ceasefire as precarious and warned against renewed hostilities. He expressed grave concern over escalating violence in the occupied West Bank, citing violence by Israeli settlers and calls for annexation as alarming developments. In the DRC, he denounced horrific human rights abuses perpetrated by Rwanda-backed M23 rebels.

Beyond specific conflicts, Guterres broadened his critique to encompass a “morally bankrupt global financial system” prioritizing profit over planetary well-being. He also warned against the potential misuse of artificial intelligence and the demonization of migrants and restrictions on women’s rights. His comments came ahead of a critical UN General Assembly debate on a US resolution urging Russia’s withdrawal from Ukraine, a proposal facing opposition from a rival Ukrainian-backed text. The US, notably absent from the Human Rights Council session, continues to navigate its relationship with the body following previous decisions to withdraw. Guterres’ address underscored the urgent need for global action to protect human rights amid a multitude of interconnected challenges.

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