UN reappoints Volker Turk as rights chief

The International — United Nations General Assembly voted 144-10 with 13 abstentions to reappoint Volker Turk as UN High Commissioner for Human Rights for a second four-year term, despite opposition from the United States, Russia, and Israel. The vote rejected US and Russian proposals to delay or shorten the term. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres nominated Turk earlier in July, drawing criticism for lack of public consultation. Turk has been a vocal critic of Israel's actions in Gaza and Russia's invasion of Ukraine, while facing criticism for his approach to China's treatment of Uyghurs. The US warned of reassessing its engagement and funding to the UN, while the European Union expressed strong support. Turk is the first rights chief to serve two full terms since the post was created in 1993.