‘Human rights are part of our DNA’: UN launches global alliance to counter rising threats

‘Human Rights are Intrinsic to Our Identity’: UN Unveils Global Initiative to Address Escalating Threats

Human rights are part of our DNA - The United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) has initiated the Global Alliance for Human Rights, a broad coalition intended to position human rights as a central pillar in global decision-making. This effort comes at a pivotal moment, as conflict intensifies to historically high levels, driven by deepening social inequalities and the accelerating impacts of climate change.

A Call to Action in a Fractured World

Volker Türk, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, announced the alliance in Geneva, emphasizing its role as a response to a world in crisis. “The core of our mission is to reignite the global commitment to human rights,” he stated during a press briefing. “The system is under strain, but the resolve of people worldwide remains unshaken.”

“The vast majority of people around the world want a better world – they want a fairer world, a more just world,” he said. “Human rights are part of who they are. They are part of our DNA.”

Türk highlighted the urgency of the moment, noting that the alliance would unite governments, non-governmental organizations, private sector entities, urban centers, religious leaders, creative professionals, scholars, and youth. “This is not a narrow project,” he explained. “It’s a movement that spans all sectors of society, grounded in three foundational ideas: envisioning a rights-based future, fostering open dialogue, and taking decisive action.”

Challenges to the Human Rights Framework

The alliance’s launch follows a concept note outlining the current state of the human rights system. According to the document, the system is encountering “unprecedented strain” due to systemic challenges. These include the frequent impunity granted to perpetrators of rights violations, the erosion of civic freedoms, the withdrawal of some states from international commitments, and chronic underfunding that jeopardizes the sustainability of human rights efforts globally.

Türk pointed to the role of technology as a critical factor in these challenges. “The rise of powerful tech corporations has created new risks,” he remarked. “They wield immense influence, and without clear human rights frameworks, their actions could undermine progress.” He stressed that the alliance aims to ensure these entities are held accountable, particularly in their operations that affect marginalized communities.

Concrete Steps to Strengthen the Movement

Several tangible initiatives are set to debut this month, forming the backbone of the alliance’s strategy. Among them is the establishment of a Global Helpdesk focused on business and human rights, designed to provide rapid support and guidance to organizations and individuals navigating ethical challenges. Another key component is the RightsX Summit, a platform for digital innovation that will explore how technology can both protect and advance human rights.

Additionally, the Human Rights in Every Classroom program will integrate rights education into school curricula at all levels, fostering a generation that values justice and equity. “These tools will empower citizens and institutions alike,” Türk noted. “They are not just symbolic—they are actionable.”

A Global Network for Human Rights

Türk also outlined an ambitious plan to expand the network of “human rights cities” from 104 to 1,000 by 2028. These cities will serve as hubs for local and international advocacy, promoting human rights through policy, education, and community engagement. “This expansion reflects the growing recognition that human rights must be embedded in every corner of society,” he said.

The alliance is structured as a long-term endeavor, with milestones aligned to the 80th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) on 10 December 2028. A Global Alliance Human Rights Forum will convene annually on that date, assessing progress and setting priorities for the future. “This is a living document, adaptable to the needs of the time,” Türk explained.

Voices of the Disenfranchised

Türk underscored the importance of amplifying the voices of those impacted by rights violations. “One of the most vital aspects is ensuring victims of conflict and injustice are heard,” he said. He cited civilians in regions like Ukraine, Gaza, Lebanon, Myanmar, Sudan, and Haiti, emphasizing their experiences as a catalyst for the alliance’s formation.

“Human rights must be more than a concept—they must guide how power is exercised,” he added. “Whether in war zones or through digital platforms, the right to dignity must be upheld.” The alliance seeks to bridge the gap between international commitments and on-the-ground realities, ensuring that marginalized groups are not left behind in the pursuit of global progress.

Geneva as a Launchpad, But a Global Movement

While Geneva was chosen as the headquarters for the alliance due to its concentration of human rights institutions, Türk made it clear that the initiative’s reach would extend far beyond the city. “This is not confined to one place—it lives in every conversation about justice,” he said. The headquarters will serve as a focal point, but the alliance’s spirit will resonate in communities, schools, and workplaces worldwide.

Türk’s vision for the alliance includes fostering collaboration between diverse actors, from grassroots activists to multinational corporations. “We need to transform human rights from a reactive measure into a proactive force,” he argued. “By uniting governments, businesses, and civil society, we can create a more resilient system that adapts to new threats.”

The alliance’s three principles—imagine, dialogue, and act—form its operational framework. The first, “imagine,” encourages envisioning a future where rights are universally respected. The second, “dialogue,” promotes open exchange between stakeholders to address challenges collectively. Finally, “act” emphasizes the necessity of translating ideas into measurable outcomes.

Looking Ahead: A Commitment to the Future

As the alliance begins its journey, Türk expressed confidence in its potential to drive change. “This is a new chapter in the history of human rights,” he said. “It’s a response to the crises we face today, and a foundation for the challenges of tomorrow.”

The launch of the Global Alliance for Human Rights marks a significant step in the UN’s ongoing efforts to protect and promote human rights. With its focus on inclusivity, innovation, and accountability, the initiative aims to inspire a global movement that prioritizes justice in an increasingly complex world. “The path will not be easy,” Türk acknowledged, “but the stakes are too high to do anything less than commit fully.”

For further insights, listen to the full interview with High Commissioner Volker Türk, where he elaborates on the alliance’s goals and the importance of collective action in safeguarding human rights.