South Africa has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to the promotion and protection of human rights during a high-level meeting between the country’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations in Geneva, Ambassador Zaheer Laher, and the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Mr Volker Türk, on 20 July 2026.

The meeting focused on the current state of human rights across the globe and explored opportunities to deepen cooperation between South Africa and the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR).

Addressing Global Human Rights Challenges

During the discussions, Ambassador Laher highlighted the critical role played by the United Nations in advancing and safeguarding human rights worldwide. He underscored the importance of the UN’s human rights mandate at a time when both human rights and the multilateral institutions responsible for promoting and protecting them continue to face increasing pressure.

The Ambassador also expressed concern over the growing trend of international law being treated as optional by some actors, stressing that respect for international legal frameworks remains fundamental to maintaining global peace, justice and accountability.

South Africa Reaffirms Support for the UN Human Rights System

Ambassador Laher reiterated South Africa’s longstanding commitment to multilateralism and to working closely with the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights and the broader UN human rights architecture.

He reaffirmed South Africa’s readiness to strengthen cooperation with the Office of the High Commissioner and other UN human rights mechanisms in advancing international efforts aimed at ensuring the full realisation of all human rights for every person, without discrimination.

The meeting reflects South Africa’s continued support for a rules-based international order founded on the principles of the United Nations Charter, international law, and universal human rights.

Strengthening International Cooperation

The engagement forms part of South Africa’s ongoing diplomatic efforts within the United Nations system to promote dialogue, cooperation and collective action on global human rights issues.

As the international community faces increasingly complex political, humanitarian and security challenges, South Africa continues to advocate for stronger multilateral cooperation and the effective functioning of international institutions tasked with protecting the dignity, freedoms and rights of all people.

South Africa’s Commitment to Human Rights

South Africa has consistently positioned human rights as a cornerstone of its foreign policy, supporting international initiatives that advance equality, justice, accountability and sustainable peace.

The meeting between Ambassador Zaheer Laher and High Commissioner Volker Türk reaffirmed the shared commitment to strengthening the international human rights system and ensuring that universal human rights remain protected and promoted for present and future generations.