Engaging EU Leaders on Human Rights Priorities

During his visit, High Commissioner Türk met with key EU officials, including High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas, as well as European Commission Vice-Presidents Teresa Ribera and Executive Vice-President for Tech Sovereignty, Security and Democracy Henna Virkkunen. Discussions spanned a range of critical issues, from advancing human rights-based migration policies to strengthening accountability and addressing the global climate crisis. Meetings with Commissioners Dubravka Šuica, Magnus Brunner, and Hadja Lahbib further emphasized the importance of human rights to respective portfolios.

Addressing the European Parliament on International Holocaust Remembrance Day

In a keynote speech to the Sub-Committee on Human Rights (DROI) and the Committee on Foreign Affairs (AFET) on 27 January—International Holocaust Remembrance Day—Türk reflected on the lessons of history. He urged newly elected Members of the European Parliament to champion human rights amid rising global challenges. His broadcasted address highlighted the enduring need for vigilance against hate, discrimination, and authoritarianism, building on his recent stance against antisemitism. He addressed a wide range of issues, from the ongoing crises and conflicts in Ukraine, Occupied Palestinian Territories and Syria, which he recently visited, climate change, digital and Artificial Intelligence, divisive narratives against migrants, or LGBTIQ+.

“Out of the ashes of the Second World War, a new world took shape, based on the United Nations Charter and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Europe was at the forefront of the movement for a world based on human rights and human dignity, helping to shape norms and standards.” Türk said. “Today, we need European leadership more than ever, to find solutions to the conflicts and crises that surround us.”

Engaging with Civil Society and partners

On 28 January, Türk engaged with over 50 civil society representatives and human rights defenders at the European Economic and Social Committee. The discussions focused on safeguarding democracy, enhancing accountability, and promoting inclusive migration policies that respect human dignity.

The High Commissioner also shared his thoughts on trends and challenges to human rights in 2025 during a conversation held at the UN House. The meeting welcomed around 60– ambassadors, EU directors and head of units, UN heads of agencies – for an open exchange on paths forward.

Outcomes and the Road Ahead

The High Commissioner’s strategic mission to Brussels represents the highest level of UN Human Rights’ engagement with EU institutions and its Member States. His visit reaffirmed the shared commitment of the UN and the EU to address global and regional human rights challenges together and on the basis of common values. Key outcomes included strengthened dialogue on migration and climate justice, emphasis on the Second International Decade on People of African Descent, commitments to uphold democratic principles, and renewed focus on integrating human rights into technology and security policies.

Looking forward, the High Commissioner and EU leaders agreed on the importance of sustained collaboration to address emerging threats to human rights.