UN human rights chief faces opposition in vote to extend his term for another four years

UN human rights chief Volker Türk faces a vote for a second four-year term on July 25, 2026.

Türk faces opposition from critics and some countries over his criticism of Israel's attacks in Gaza and his approach to China's crackdown on Uyghur minority.

Secretary-General Antonio Guterres nominated Türk for reappointment, but the U.S. State Department called the rushed vote an example of U.N.'s inherent corruption and incompetence.

Russia proposed extending Türk's term only until December 31, 2026, when Guterres' own term ends.

None of Türk's predecessors have served two full terms since the job was created in 1993.