UN Human Rights Council extends monitoring mandates for Russia and Sudan

The UN Human Rights Council has voted to extend monitoring and investigative mandates regarding human rights situations in both Russia and Sudan.

In a 21-5 vote, the council prolonged the mandate of the special rapporteur on rights violations in Russia for one year. The resolution, presented by Ireland on behalf of the European Union, cited a “continued significant deterioration” of rights. Supporters highlighted concerns regarding extrajudicial killings, the erosion of political pluralism, and the systematic crackdown on civil society, independent media, and minorities. The council urged Moscow to grant the monitor, Mariana Katzarova, “full, free and unhindered access.”

Separately, the council renewed the mandate of its independent fact-finding mission on Sudan for another year. The resolution passed with 28 votes in favor and 10 against. This mission is tasked with gathering and preserving evidence of alleged violations of international human rights and humanitarian law committed during the conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces. The mission will provide updates to the council and eventually present findings to the UN General Assembly to support international accountability mechanisms.