“The cost of our work is low; The human cost of underinvestment is immeasurable.“, said.
“In times of conflict and in times of peace, We are a lifeline for the abused, a megaphone for the silenced, a steadfast ally for those who risk everything. defend the rights of others.”
Document rape and support survivors
Last year, UN human rights staff in 87 countries observed more than 1,300 trials, supported 67,000 torture survivors, documented tens of thousands of human rights violations and contributed to the release of more than 4,000 people arbitrarily detained.
They also documented civilian casualties and informed humanitarian responses through risk analysis and early warnings in 21 armed conflicts around the world.
For example, the UN Human Rights Monitoring Mission in Ukraine (HRMMU) is the only organization that has maintained a complete record of civilian casualties since Russia first invaded the country in 2014.
“In Sudan“We are providing vital support to survivors of sexual violence and other horrific atrocities, paving the way for justice and accountability,” he said.
Align economic policies with human rights
The High Commissioner also highlighted that addressing inequalities and respecting economic and social rights are vital for peace and stability.
“Human rights make economies work for everyone, rather than deepening exclusion and generating instability,” he said.
His office worked with more than 35 governments in 2025, helping them align all economic policies with human rights. He cited the example of Djiboutiwhere staff helped conduct a human rights analysis of the health budget, with special attention to people with disabilities.
‘Deliver under pressure’
Mr. Türk thanked the 113 financial partners (including governments, multilateral donors and private entities) who contributed to the 2025 budget of OHCHR.
“But at the same time, I have to say – and you know this from our previous meetings – that we are currently in survival mode, we are meeting pressure,” he said.
He outlined several consequences of reduced funding. For example, the Office reduced presence in 17 countrieseliminating critical programs for endangered, threatened or marginalized communities, such as indigenous peoples. About 300 of the 2,000 employees were laid off.
“At a time when misinformation and censorship erode the truth, we had to limit our support to their guardians: journalists and human rights defenders. Less support for civic space means more surveillance and more repression.”
‘Ambitious, agile and creative’
OHCHR “will have to be even more ambitious, agile and creative” in 2026, he said.
The United Nations General Assembly has approved a regular budget of $224.3 million, which is based on the assessed contributions of Member States. This amount is 10 percent less than in 2025.
Through the 2026 appeal, OHCHR is requesting an additional $400 million in voluntary contributions.
“Historically, human rights represent an extremely small portion of all UN spending. We need to increase support for this low-cost, high-impact work that helps stabilize communities, build trust in institutions and support lasting peace,” said Mr. Türk.
“And we need more unallocated and timely contributions so we can respond quickly, as human rights cannot wait.”