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Commissioner for Human Rights @commissionerhr.coe.int · 25/09/2026

I am alarmed by the rapidly deteriorating humanitarian crisis in Oleshky, a town in the temporarily occupied parts of the Kherson region of Ukraine. 1/4 #humanrights #Ukraine #Oleshky #Kherson #humanitarianlaw

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Commissioner for Human Rights @commissionerhr.coe.int · 22/09/2026

Cooperation on human rights across organisations has never been more important than it is today. Great to catch up with Sirpa Rautio, the Director of the EU Fundamental Rights Agency to discuss how we can continue driving change together. @coe.int #humanrights #fundamentalrights

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Commissioner for Human Rights @commissionerhr.coe.int · 17/09/2026

Valuable to engage with states on the deteriorating #humanrights situation in #Serbia at the #HRC63 side event organised by the Belgrade Centre for Human Rights and Human Rights House. Read my speech ➡️ www.coe.int/en/web/commi... @unsrapporteurfoaa.bsky.social

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Commissioner for Human Rights @commissionerhr.coe.int · 16/09/2026

I congratulate #Montenegro on the entry into force today of its revised Law on the Protector of Human Rights & Freedoms. I hope this milestone soon enables the Ombudsman to apply for A-status accreditation as a National #HumanRights Institution. A strong #NHRI is key to protect people’s human rights

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Commissioner for Human Rights @commissionerhr.coe.int · 16/09/2026

“THE UNHEARD 12 MILLION” is OPEN in Thessaloniki, hosted by the Press Project and the Islahane Cultural Centre. It exposes Europe’s greatest human rights scandal and highlights the resilience of Roma and Traveller communities, especially the women driving change. 1/2

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Commissioner for Human Rights @commissionerhr.coe.int · 15/09/2026

In Thessaloniki, Greece, to discuss the human rights of Roma & other human rights issues with the President of the National Commission for Human Rights, the Ombudsman of Greece & the mayors of Thermaikos & Thermi. Met with Roma communities in the Tsairia settlement to hear their lived experiences.

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Commissioner for Human Rights @commissionerhr.coe.int · 15/09/2026

Concerned by reports of a series of arrests, raids and blocking of websites and social media accounts targeting #LGBTI civil society in #Türkiye. I call on the Turkish authorities to release anyone detained for engaging in #HumanRights or civil society work.

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Commissioner for Human Rights @commissionerhr.coe.int · 10/09/2026

Very rewarding day in Edinburgh hosted by the Scottish #HumanRights Commission, with event on child poverty, as well as meetings with civil society, Scottish parliamentarians and the Children and Young People's Commissioner #Scotland.

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Commissioner for Human Rights @commissionerhr.coe.int · 09/09/2026

Great exchange w. @houseoflords.parliament.uk & civil society on the European #humanrights protection system & the role of the UK, organised by @libertyhq.bsky.social & hosted by Lord German, in London. Also fruitful first meeting w. the current Chair of the Equality & Human Rights Commission. #ECHR

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Commissioner for Human Rights @commissionerhr.coe.int · 08/09/2026

Deeply troubled by the prison sentences handed to Anar Mammadli (13 yrs) and Anar Abdulla (12 yrs). The authorities of #Azerbaijan should release all #HumanRights defenders, journalists and activists imprisoned for their legitimate work and expressing critical opinions.

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Commissioner for Human Rights @commissionerhr.coe.int · 08/09/2026

I submitted written comments in the #ECtHR case of Georgian Young Lawyers’ Association and Others v. Georgia (no. 2). At issue is the 2025 Foreign Agents Registration Act restricting civil society’s #FreedomOfExpression and #FreedomOfAssociation. ⬇️Read my submission to #ECHR ⬇️

coe.int

Commissioner intervenes in ECtHR case on Georgia’s ‘Foreign Agents Registration Act’ - Commissioner for Human Rights - www.coe.int

Strasbourg 8 September 2026

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Commissioner for Human Rights @commissionerhr.coe.int · 08/09/2026

À la suite de ma visite en France, j’ai proposé de renforcer la protection des droits des personnes âgées dans les EHPAD, notamment par de meilleurs financements, des ratios personnel/résidents adaptés et des inspections accrues. 1/4

coe.int

France : le Commissaire appelle à un renforcement de la protection des droits des personnes âgées en EHPAD - Commissaire aux droits de l'homme - www.coe.int

Strasbourg 8 septembre 2026

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Commissioner for Human Rights @commissionerhr.coe.int · 04/09/2026

Almost nine years after the killing of Daphne Caruana Galizia, there is still work to do to ensure full justice and prevent impunity. Malta must continue its efforts to bring those responsible to justice. My thoughts are with her family in their efforts to demand justice and protect media freedom.

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Commissioner for Human Rights @commissionerhr.coe.int · 04/09/2026

As ministers from #Austria, #Denmark, #Germany, #Greece & #Netherlands discuss offshore #ReturnHubs, they need to commit to the guardrails necessary to prevent setting up human rights black holes: risk assessments, independent monitoring, enforceable rights clauses & public scrutiny. #Migration

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Commissioner for Human Rights @commissionerhr.coe.int · 04/09/2026

The public glorification of Ratko Mladić, a convicted war criminal responsible for the Srebrenica genocide and crimes against humanity, is unlawful under national and international law. All authorities must uphold accountability, protect victims’ rights, and defend justice. Read my full statement ⬇️

coe.int

Glorification of war criminal Ratko Mladić is unlawful and an affront to victims - Commissioner for Human Rights - www.coe.int

Strasbourg 04/09/2026

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Commissioner for Human Rights @commissionerhr.coe.int · 03/09/2026

Honoured to deliver the keynote at #ESIL2026 Annual Conference. From Bosnia-Herzegovina to Sierra Leone and Northern Ireland, I have seen how human rights law provides immediate, practical value in conflict zones. It saves lives, curbs atrocities, and frames peace. 1/3 Read my full keynote lecture ⬇️

coe.int

Reclaiming international human rights law amid conflict and volatility – keynote lecture at ESIL Annual Conference

Malaga, Spain 03/09/2026

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Commissioner for Human Rights @commissionerhr.coe.int · 02/09/2026

Deeply honoured to receive an honorary doctorate from my alma mater, University College Dublin, yesterday. @ucddublin.bsky.social @ucdsocscilaw.bsky.social @coe.int

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Reposted by Commissioner for Human Rights

University College Dublin @ucddublin.bsky.social · 02/09/2026

💙💛 University College Dublin honours Council of Europe Commissioner for Human Rights Michael O’Flaherty with an honorary Doctorate of Laws for his outstanding contributions to the promotion and protection of human rights. 👏 @commissionerhr.coe.int @coe.int @ucdsocscilaw.bsky.social

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Commissioner for Human Rights @commissionerhr.coe.int · 01/09/2026

Productive discussions in Dublin today. Met with Commissioner Sunderland at the Irish Data Protection Commission @dpcireland.bsky.social to highlight how human-centred #AI depends on rights-compliant data collection and processing and robust oversight mechanisms.

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Commissioner for Human Rights @commissionerhr.coe.int · 01/09/2026

Moved by the story of Pavlo and Yulia, and their guide dog amigo, met at a meeting with the Irish Refugee Council. Their experiences underscore the challenges facing displaced Ukrainians as temporary protections enters its final phases.

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Commissioner for Human Rights @commissionerhr.coe.int · 28/08/2026

Reconstruction in Ukraine cannot wait for the conflict to end. It is already happening. At the #Ukraine Recovery Lab at the European Forum Alpbach, I highlighted why a human rights-based approach is essential to honour human dignity throughout recovery and reconstruction. #EFA26 1/3

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Commissioner for Human Rights @commissionerhr.coe.int · 28/08/2026

Inspiring exchange with European Forum Alpbach scholarship holders and alumni network on what it would take to deliver human rights for all in the face of the current challenges to human rights in Europe.

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Commissioner for Human Rights @commissionerhr.coe.int · 28/08/2026

Ahead of the International day of victims of enforced disappearance, we, @pace.coe.int President and @commissionerhr.coe.int of the @coe.int, alongside UN Special Procedures, call for victims to be placed at the centre of all efforts, & action to be taken without delay. ⬇️ www.coe.int/en/web/commi...

coe.int

Victims first: Commissioner for Human Rights supports action on enforced disappearances

Strasbourg 27 August 2026

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Commissioner for Human Rights @commissionerhr.coe.int · 25/08/2026

Today’s @echr.coe.int judgment in Kavala v. Türkiye (No. 2) reaffirms protections against arbitrary detention and the misuse of criminal proceedings. Complying with the Court’s judgments is a legal obligation; #Türkiye should release #OsmanKavala and implement all general and individual measures.

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Reposted by Commissioner for Human Rights

Council of Europe @coe.int · 24/08/2026

On Ukraine’s Independence Day, the Council of Europe salutes Ukraine’s courage and stands with its people.

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Commissioner for Human Rights @commissionerhr.coe.int · 20/08/2026

Russia's relentless attacks on Ukrainian cities continue to escalate. Last night's strike on Kyiv killed at least 15 civilians. Urgent action is needed to support Ukraine in protecting its people and their human rights.

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Commissioner for Human Rights @commissionerhr.coe.int · 14/08/2026

In the 2026 Nuala O’Flaherty Memorial Lecture at QVMAG Arts Foundation, I highlighted the role of artists as truth-tellers and defenders of human dignity. Read my full lecture➡️ www.coe.int/en/web/commi... #HumanRights #Art #ArtisticFreedom

coe.int

The artists as defender of human rights - 2026 Nuala O'Flaherty Memorial Lecture

Launceston, Australia 14 August 2026

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Commissioner for Human Rights @commissionerhr.coe.int · 05/08/2026

Stimulating day of panels and exchanges with leaders and civil society on standing up for the human rights of LGBTI+ communities. The sense of hope in adversity was inspiring. #WorldPride

EPOA
InterPride
Amsterdam Pride
Gemeensam Amsterdam

Graeme Reid IESOGI
Jorge Noval Alvarez
Mmapaseka Steve
Rob Jetten
Lord Ray Collins of Highbury

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Commissioner for Human Rights @commissionerhr.coe.int · 05/08/2026

Ukraine is undergoing another series of Russian attacks, with at least 17 civilians killed last night and civilian infrastructure increasingly targeted. Urgent action is needed to support Ukraine in protecting its people and their basic human right - the right to life.

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Commissioner for Human Rights @commissionerhr.coe.int · 04/08/2026

I reiterate that in tackling migration related challenges human rights law must be respected. Necessary measures should be taken to prevent loss of life. #JHA @consilium.europa.eu

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Commissioner for Human Rights @commissionerhr.coe.int · 04/08/2026

Does Europe still believe in human rights? In an op-ed in EUObserver, I warn that the undermining of the rights of LGBTI people serves as the tip of the spear in a broader backlash against human rights protection overall. #WorldPride www.coe.int/en/web/commi...

InterPride
EPOA
Pride Amsterdam
Gemeente Amsterdam

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Commissioner for Human Rights @commissionerhr.coe.int · 31/07/2026

I am following the migrant arrivals in #Ceuta #Spain at the border with Morocco. I deeply regret the loss of lives and stand with first responders mobilised to address this situation. I will keep monitoring the human rights situation closely.

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Commissioner for Human Rights @commissionerhr.coe.int · 31/07/2026

On 2 August, we honour the over 500,000 Sinti and Roma murdered during the Holocaust in WWII. We defend truth over denial and reaffirm 'Never Again'. Remembrance demands action: investing in memorialisation, protecting human rights, and combating persistent antigypsyism. #RomaHolocaust #NaBister 1/2

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Commissioner for Human Rights @commissionerhr.coe.int · 30/07/2026

Last night, Russia’s terrifying attacks on Ukraine claimed the lives of civilians yet again. My heartfelt sympathy goes to the victims. Urgent and strong support from the international community is necessary to protect civilians.

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Commissioner for Human Rights @commissionerhr.coe.int · 26/07/2026

Prides across Europe are facing violence, intimidation and restrictions. I am appalled by Saturday’s deadly attack in Berlin. As WorldPride begins, the weekend’s events are a stark reminder of why equality must still be defended and hatred must be answered with solidarity. #Pride #humanrights

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Commissioner for Human Rights @commissionerhr.coe.int · 24/07/2026

Europe's proposed "return hubs" for people deemed to have no right to stay in the EU risk creating human rights black holes. In an op-ed for The Guardian, I set out 4 essential guardrails governments need to accept to prevent this from happening. Read the full op-ed ⬇️

theguardian.com

Europe is at risk of creating a human rights black hole with its ‘return hubs’ for migrants | Michael O'Flaherty

Without iron-clad legal safeguards, offshore migration centres can only repeat the worst mistakes of the recent past, says the Council of Europe’s human rights commissioner

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Commissioner for Human Rights @commissionerhr.coe.int · 23/07/2026

Italy needs to sustain its efforts against child poverty. Structural reforms, coordinated action and sustained funding are required to safeguards the rights of children. Read my full memorandum and key recommendations ⬇️ www.coe.int/en/web/commi...

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Commissioner for Human Rights @commissionerhr.coe.int · 21/07/2026

Following my visit to Romania, I raised several challenges regarding care homes for older persons. Despite progress, efforts are needed to better protect residents’ rights, ensure sustainable funding, and strictly enforce rules on unlicensed facilities. Read my letter to Prime Minister of Romania ⬇️

coe.int

Council of Europe Commissioner raises challenges regarding care homes for older persons in Romania - Commissioner for Human Rights - www.coe.int

Strasbourg 21 July 2026

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Commissioner for Human Rights @commissionerhr.coe.int · 17/07/2026

I am concerned by reports that Oradea Pride March 2026 will again be prevented in Romania. Freedom of assembly belongs to everyone. Authorities should engage with organisers, enable a safe and appropriate route, and protect participants.

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Commissioner for Human Rights @commissionerhr.coe.int · 17/07/2026

Concerned about reports on a planned eviction of #Roma in Lozenets, Stara Zagora, #Bulgaria. I ask authorities to uphold #humanrights, incl. proportionality, and ensure adequate housing policies. ➡ www.coe.int/en/web/commi...

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Commissioner for Human Rights @commissionerhr.coe.int · 16/07/2026

⬇️My latest newsletter is out⬇️ My mandate is to foster the protection of #HumanRights across the 46 countries of the Council of Europe. Most times, it means: putting people first.🔗⬇️ nl.commissioner.coe.int/nl3/cfa_rDz7... #StandWithUkraine #OlderPersons #RightToAHealthyEnvironment #WomenPeaceSecurity

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Commissioner for Human Rights @commissionerhr.coe.int · 16/07/2026

I have written to 5 @coe.int governments (Austria, Denmark, Germany, Greece, Netherlands) asking them to ground their plans for ‘return hubs’ in international human rights law and proposing 4 human rights guardrails before any joint initiatives move forward. ⬇️ www.coe.int/en/web/commi...

coe.int

Austria, Denmark, Germany, Greece and the Netherlands should put in place strict human rights guardrails in their plans for ‘return hubs’ - Commissioner for Human Rights - www.coe.int

Strasbourg 16 July 2026

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Commissioner for Human Rights @commissionerhr.coe.int · 10/07/2026

We remember the victims of the #genocide in #Srebrenica and stand with their families in honouring their memory. Denial of genocide and the glorification of war criminals must be firmly condemned. By facing the past and learning from it, we safeguard a future free from violence.

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Commissioner for Human Rights @commissionerhr.coe.int · 10/07/2026

Heureux de clôturer le module de droit international des droits humains de la 55e session d’été de la @fondationcassin.bsky.social. Face à la remise en question des droits humains, voir 155 participants de 44 nationalités venus étudier et faire vivre l’esprit de résistance est un message d’espoir.

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Commissioner for Human Rights @commissionerhr.coe.int · 10/07/2026

I expressed concern regarding the right to a fair trial and judicial independence in the proceedings against Ekrem İmamoğlu, elected mayor of Istanbul, and other defendants. The authorities of Türkiye should ensure that all proceedings comply with the #ECHR. Read my statement ⬇️

coe.int

Türkiye: Statement concerning the legal proceedings against Ekrem İmamoğlu - Commissioner for Human Rights - www.coe.int

Strasbourg 10/07/2026

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Commissioner for Human Rights @commissionerhr.coe.int · 09/07/2026

Warm meeting with Sophie Magennis, new UNHCR Representative for France, Monaco and Council of Europe. We discussed human rights risks of 'return hubs', the need for continued protection of displaced Ukrainians and other pressing issues.

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Commissioner for Human Rights @commissionerhr.coe.int · 09/07/2026

I am concerned about the criminal case against journalist Afgan Sadigov. Read my letter to the Prosecutor General of Azerbaijan in which I ask clarification about the criminal proceedings, and the reply from the Prosecutor General. ⬇️ www.coe.int/en/web/commi...

coe.int

Azerbaijan: Council of Europe Commissioner concerned about criminal case against journalist Afgan Sadigov

Strasbourg 09/07/2026

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Commissioner for Human Rights @commissionerhr.coe.int · 09/07/2026

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