The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, has voiced deep concern about what he describes as a "fundamental shift in direction" regarding human rights in the United States. Speaking at the Human Rights Council, Türk acknowledged the longstanding bipartisan commitment to human rights in the country, as well as the "generosity and compassion" of the American people. However, he warned that recent changes in policy and rhetoric are generating anxiety and division.

Türk expressed particular alarm over the use of divisive language, stating that it is being employed "to distort, deceive, and polarise," which in turn is fueling fear and uncertainty. Although he did not explicitly reference the Trump administration, his remarks followed the U.S. decision to withdraw from the 47-member Human Rights Council in January, despite the Biden administration's earlier announcement that the country would not seek a new term.

On Monday, at the start of the second week of the council’s 5½-week session, the U.S. seat remained vacant. Türk also criticised policies that were originally designed to protect individuals from discrimination but are now being labelled as discriminatory themselves. He further condemned the growing threats and intimidation directed at journalists and public officials, warning that such actions could erode trust in institutions and weaken the independence of the media.

In addition to concerns about political and social polarisation, Türk issued a stark warning about the dangers of unregulated technological advancements. He cautioned against the immense power wielded by a small group of "unelected tech oligarchs," who, he said, have an unprecedented amount of control over people's lives.

"A handful of unelected tech oligarchs have our data: they know where we live, what we do, our genes and our health conditions, our thoughts, our habits, our desires, and our fears. They know us better than we know ourselves. And they know how to manipulate us," he stated.

Türk emphasised that unregulated power, whether wielded by individuals or corporations, could lead to oppression, subjugation and even tyranny. He warned that this dynamic has historically been exploited by autocratic regimes and insisted that urgent measures are needed to adapt to these emerging threats.

Türk underscored the need for immediate reforms to counter these alarming trends. He urged policymakers and global leaders to take swift action in safeguarding human rights, ensuring accountability and regulating the unchecked influence of technology on society.

"Any form of unregulated power can lead to oppression, subjugation, and even tyranny – the playbook of the autocrat. We must adapt – fast," he asserted.