Press Release: On the U.S. Withdrawal from the UN Human Rights Council

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Date: February 11, 2024

Justice For All is deeply concerned by the United States’ withdrawal from the United Nations Human Rights Council (HRC), a decision that weakens global efforts to safeguard human rights and hold perpetrators accountable for violations worldwide. At a time when human rights abuses are escalating—especially against marginalized ethnic and religious minorities—the need for strong multilateral cooperation has never been more urgent.

The UN Human Rights Council plays a crucial role in investigating and exposing human rights violations, applying international pressure on governments, and amplifying the voices of victims. Despite criticism, the HRC has been instrumental in addressing atrocities against Palestinians, Uyghurs, Rohingya, Kashmiris, and other persecuted groups. By stepping away from this platform, the U.S. is not only abandoning a key mechanism for global human rights advocacy but also signaling a troubling retreat from its longstanding commitment to international justice.

This withdrawal is part of a broader pattern of disengagement from multilateral institutions under the Trump Administration, including the devastating decision to cut funding to UNRWA and USAID. These reckless actions exacerbated the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, leaving millions of displaced Palestinians without essential aid, food, and medical care. Furthermore, the U.S. departure undermines the HRC’s ability to hold powerful states accountable, including those facing rulings from the International Court of Justice (ICJ) and the International Criminal Court (ICC) for war crimes and genocide.

Justice For All remains committed to supporting the vital work of the UN Human Rights Council. Our advocacy continues through submissions to the Council’s Special Rapporteurs and Working Groups on behalf of vulnerable communities worldwide. We urge the United States to reconsider its decision and to re-engage with the HRC, recognizing that human rights are not a political bargaining chip but a universal obligation.

As human rights defenders, we reaffirm our commitment to holding violators accountable and standing in solidarity with all oppressed communities. The fight for justice requires strong, principled engagement—not abandonment.

For media inquiries, please contact:

Saffet Catovic

Director of UN Operations

saffet@justiceforall.org

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