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For Immediate Release: June 2, 2025
Contact: David Danzig (212) 845 5252

U.N. Needs a Full-Time High Commissioner for Human Rights and a Full-Time Representative in Iraq

The recent appointment of U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights Sergio Viera de Mello to serve a four month term as the U.N. special representative for Iraq is "neither in the best interest of the Iraqi people nor the effectiveness of the UN's human rights program," according to the Lawyers Committee for Human Rights. The Lawyers Committee is urging Secretary-General Kofi Annan to reconsider this decision.

“We are concerned that the UN needs a full-time permanent High Commissioner for Human Rights. The escalating human rights crisis in the Congo, Liberia, Aceh and elsewhere, and the ongoing human rights challenges in many other places throughout the world make it essential that the work of the High Commissioner's office be given the highest priority,” said Michael Posner, the Executive Director of the Lawyers Committee. “The post of High Commissioner needs to be filled by a senior figure, with stature and access, who will give these issues the attention they deserve both within the UN system and in the broader international debate.”

With respect to Iraq it is clear that Mr. de Mello has the diplomatic and operational skills and experience to make a very positive contribution in a number of areas. The Lawyers Committee is concerned that given the evolving nature of the UN's role in Iraq, Mr. de Mello's ability to build a strong working relationship with the occupying authority will be critical. "Real progress in Iraq will require sustained UN presence and leadership, a process that will be enhanced by continuity in the UN's leadership team and early signals of the UN's long-term commitment. For these reasons the appointment of Mr. de Mello to a short-term assignment as the UN's special representative in Iraq is inadequate."


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