Statement by Deputy Permanent Representative Dmitry Chumakov presenting Russia's Proposal regarding UNGA Draft decision on the Appointment of UN High Commissioner for Human Rights
Madam President,
Distinguished Colleagues,
Today, the United Nations stands at a critical juncture. On 31 December 2026, the term of office of Secretary-General António Guterres will expire. His successor will serve as the chief administrative officer of the Organization, vested with the full authority to shape the leadership of the Secretariat, as provided for in Article 101 of the UN Charter.
Yet, the General Assembly is considering a proposal to appoint Mr. Volker Türk as the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights for a four-year term, ending October 11, 2030. An appointment for such a lengthy period on the eve of a change in the UN leadership has no analogues in the more than thirty-year history of this mandate.
Thus, the General Assembly is set today to do more than merely approve a technical formality. Rather, it is supposed to appoint one of the Under-Secretaries-General to lead the Organization’s work in the critically important field of human rights without considering the views of the future Secretary-General. Thereby, the incoming leader of the UN will be deprived of the opportunity to pursue their own vision and form a team of their choice for years to come.
We are convinced that decisions on such sensitive matters must be governed by the need to preserve the institutional integrity of the Organization.
It is for this reason that the Russian Federation has submitted a draft decision to extend the mandate of the current High Commissioner until 31 December 2026, thus aligning it with the term of office of the current Secretary-General.
This is a pragmatic step. It spares Member States the need to take politically sensitive decisions during a period of transition in the leadership of the United Nations, ensuring an orderly and seamless transition.
It will enable the incoming Secretary-General to fully assume his responsibilities under Articles 97 and 101 of the UN Charter and to shape the human rights track within the UN with due regard for the will of the Member States.
Distinguished Colleagues,
We urge you to support the draft decision we have submitted.
Thank you.
