UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk has warned that poorly regulated social media platforms are silencing some people and communities while amplifying others, undermining free expression and democratic debate.
Addressing the 27th Symi Symposium 2025 held in Skiathos, Greece, Turk said there is an urgent need to establish an open public square for debate, backed by free and independent media.
“All people must have the opportunity to participate meaningfully in policy decisions that affect them, to express themselves online and offline without fear of violence or harm, and to question public decisions and call for change,” he stressed.
Reflecting on his intellectual influences, Turk noted how ancient Greek philosophers’ focus on moral integrity, justice, and ethics shaped his worldview. He emphasised that “hope needs to be clear-eyed and grounded in reason,” stating that human rights are the steady anchor in navigating today’s global challenges, including conflicts, climate crises, and rising inequality.
He pointed out that over 120 conflicts are raging worldwide, with civilians killed, starved, raped, displaced, and deprived of humanitarian aid. “War is the ultimate violation of human rights. But human rights also show us the way out of conflict – by insisting on accountability and putting people at the centre of mediation and peacebuilding,” he said.
Turk highlighted his recent visits to countries such as Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Serbia, and Syria, where demands for justice, truth-telling, and accountability for past violations remain urgent.
He also condemned global failures on climate change, stating that those most affected, including small island developing states, Indigenous Peoples, women, and migrants, are those who contributed least to the crisis. He called for new sources to fund climate action, including green bonds, windfall taxes on fossil fuel companies, and reform of the global financial system.
Turk warned that civic space is being shut down globally, with human rights defenders, journalists, and activists threatened and targeted by harmful disinformation and transnational repression. He stressed that freedom of speech, dissent, and peaceful protest are essential to strong societies.
“Some of the most successful social movements in history, including for civil rights and women’s rights, were fuelled by hope, and guided by fundamental human rights,” Turk said. “Their dedication is a reminder that hope must be paired with action.”
He concluded by urging all stakeholders to build a better, fairer future for everyone, everywhere.
