UN rights chief voices concern over efforts to silence critics in Russia
| Publisher | Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty |
| Publication Date | 14 September 2015 |
| Cite as | Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, UN rights chief voices concern over efforts to silence critics in Russia, 14 September 2015, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/561d0459e.html [accessed 1 June 2023] |
| Disclaimer | This is not a UNHCR publication. UNHCR is not responsible for, nor does it necessarily endorse, its content. Any views expressed are solely those of the author or publisher and do not necessarily reflect those of UNHCR, the United Nations or its Member States. |
September 14, 2015
The top United Nations human rights official has voiced concern at efforts by governments, including China and Russia, to silence critics.
Zeid Ra'ad al-Hussein criticized China's detention and interrogation of more than 100 lawyers in recent months and the "stigmatization" of foreign-funded activist groups under a new Russian law.
In a speech opening the UN Human Rights Council on September 14, Zeid welcomed Iran's deal with major powers to curb its nuclear program, adding: "I urge Iran to make commensurate progress in human rights."
Zeid told the 47-member state forum in Geneva that Europe needed to build on a surge of sympathy for refugees by setting up comprehensive policies to expand migration channels.
He called for a halt to detention and "ill-treatment" of asylum seekers, especially children, who are fleeing war and persecution in countries including Syria.
Based on reporting by Reuters
Link to original story on RFE/RL website
