GENEVA, Feb 24 (Alliance News): United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres warned on Monday that human rights are being “suffocated” worldwide due to wars, autocratic regimes, and growing intolerance.
Speaking at the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva, Guterres described human rights as “the oxygen of humanity” but lamented that they are being stifled by oppressive rulers, gender discrimination, and disregard for international law.
He criticized warmongers for violating international humanitarian laws and condemned a “morally bankrupt global financial system” that exacerbates inequality.
He also raised concerns over artificial intelligence, warning that while it holds promise, it also has the potential to violate human rights instantly. Guterres called out increasing intolerance against marginalized groups, including Indigenous communities, migrants, and refugees, and cautioned against divisive narratives that view human rights as obstacles to power and profit.
The UN chief stressed that these threats endanger decades of progress in human rights and urged global action to safeguard fundamental freedoms.
