UN urges end to reprisals against human rights collaborators

The United Nations has urged an end to intimidation and reprisals against individuals who collaborate with the organization on human rights matters, emphasizing the necessity for their protection and accountability. This plea emerged in a report by the UN Secretary-General, which detailed instances of such intimidation occurring in 32 countries.

The report highlighted abuses such as arbitrary detention, physical assaults, surveillance, threats, online harassment, travel bans, passport confiscation, and the intimidation of families of those cooperating with the UN.

Moreover, the UN warned of the growing misuse of digital technologies and legislation concerning counterterrorism, cybercrime, and national security to hinder civil society activities and silence those working alongside international human rights mechanisms. It stressed that safeguarding the well-being of these individuals, as well as their families, is critical for continued collaboration with civil society and for fulfilling the UN's mandate.

Consequently, the UN called upon states to enhance protection measures and create a secure environment for human rights defenders.