Presenting his first annual report today, the Council of Europe Commissioner for Human Rights, Michael O’Flaherty, warns that we stand at an inflection point for human rights and urges member states to renew their commitment to human rights.
Addressing members of national parliaments from the 46 member states gathered for the spring session of the Parliamentary Assembly, the Commissioner encourages state authorities to be “sturdier in their defence of human rights.”
He identifies the priority areas that have shaped his first year in office and need continued attention. First, he emphasises his work on human rights in Ukraine and the need to place human rights at the heart of any path to peace.
He also expresses concern about the treatment of migrants and asylum seekers, “arguably the context in which we see the most widespread retreat from the rule of law across Europe.”
Furthermore, the Commissioner acknowledges the potential of artificial intelligence to benefit humanity but warns against unchecked application. “There is a need to implement human rights standards to regulate this field and ensure oversight of its use, including in the private sector and in security and defence contexts,” he said.
He also stresses the need to address the situation of marginalised groups, including Roma and Traveller communities. “I have visited these communities in multiple countries to hear from them and better understand their situations. Their human rights are widely and often systematically violated. Patterns of hate and racism are matched by extreme discrimination and social exclusion,” he said, announcing that he will publish a report focused on supporting the empowerment of Roma women and girls in the autumn.
Finally, the Commissioner underlines the importance of protecting human rights defenders. “I am greatly troubled by the plight of defenders, journalists, and NGOs, especially those working for the rights of LGBTI people and women in several countries. Their safety and wellbeing are a bellwether for the health of our democracies, and by that measure, the outlook is very worrying.”
Despite these challenges, the Commissioner remains hopeful. “Together, we can bring human rights back from the precipice. By moving with resolution, we can protect what has been achieved and consolidate it for the future,” he said.