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Commissioner for Human Rights

@commissionerhr.coe.int
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Official account of Michael O'Flaherty, Council of Europe Commissioner for Human Rights, independent, non-judicial institution promoting human rights in Europe. commissioner.coe.int

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Commissioner for Human Rights @commissionerhr.coe.int · 10h
At the Oxford AI and #HumanRights Summit, I shared my perspective on where AI governance stands and where the critical gaps remain, from scalability to bridging #ethics and human rights in tech, from industry standards to the need for a global, multi-disciplinary dialogue #AIEthics #AIGovernance
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Commissioner for Human Rights @commissionerhr.coe.int · 03/10/2026
During my visit to the #Vatican, I was honoured to meet Pope Leo and express appreciation to him for his encyclical ‘Magnifica Humanitas’ which offers essential leadership in this pivotal moment for artificial intelligence. #AI #ethics #safety #trust #governance #oversight #regulation
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Commissioner for Human Rights @commissionerhr.coe.int · 02/10/2026
Reports of Russian strikes on schools in Sumy and Kyiv, where pupils were sheltering in basements, are horrific. Such attacks highlight Russia’s continuing disregard for the distinction between civilian and military targets. #StandWithUkraine #Ukraine 1/1
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Commissioner for Human Rights @commissionerhr.coe.int · 02/10/2026
Disturbing discussion on Russia’s attacks on journalists and media workers with Ukrainian MPs present for the Council of Europe Parliamentary Assembly. Journalists are being targeted, and media offices and data centres far from frontlines are also struck. @pace.coe.int @conseildeleurope.coe.int 1/2
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Commissioner for Human Rights @commissionerhr.coe.int · 02/10/2026
Grateful to the Kharkiv Human Rights Protection Group, the Ukrainian Institute for Human Rights, and the Center for Civil Liberties for sharing with me their new reports on the #HumanRights situation in #Ukraine, and the grave suffering of civilians unlawfully detained by #Russia. 1/2
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Commissioner for Human Rights @commissionerhr.coe.int · 02/10/2026
Pleased to meet with Gunn Marit Helgesen, President of the Congress of Local and Regional Authorities. We discussed advancing human rights at local and regional levels, especially in the context of Russia’s war against Ukraine and in improving the lived experience of Roma and Travellers communities.
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Commissioner for Human Rights @commissionerhr.coe.int · 02/10/2026
Women and girls continue to show they are powerful agents of change, leading the fight for a safe and healthy environment. 2/2 #ClimateAction
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Commissioner for Human Rights @commissionerhr.coe.int · 02/10/2026
Honoured to meet with representatives of the Swiss Senior Women for Climate (KlimaSeniorinnen) and Greenpeace. Their landmark ECtHR judgement established an important framework for Council of Europe member states to fulfill their human rights obligations in addressing #ClimateChange. 1/2
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Commissioner for Human Rights @commissionerhr.coe.int · 01/10/2026
Doing nothing is not an option. Speaking at the CoE Parliamentary Assembly, I laid out 5 essential actions for political leaders to tackle the climate crisis. The time for short-term trade-offs is over. We need scientifically informed leadership and enforceable accountability. 1/3
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Commissioner for Human Rights @commissionerhr.coe.int · 25/09/2026
Civilians, including children, are trapped without sufficient food, medicines, medical care, running water or electricity. Reports indicate that they face a high risk of death. 2/4 #humanrights #Ukraine #Oleshky #Kherson #humanitarianlaw
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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
#HRC63
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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
“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 · 03/09/2026
We must avoid the temptation to weaken our human rights patrimony. In the words of Stéphane Hessel: "Indignez-vous!" Let us stay indignant and deliver human rights better in the service of everyone, especially the most vulnerable. 3/3 Read my full keynote lecture ⬇️ #ECHR www.coe.int/en/web/commi...
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Commissioner for Human Rights @commissionerhr.coe.int · 02/09/2026
Returning 46 years after my own graduation was a reminder that, no matter where our legal studies take us, we are all tasked with helping realise the human rights vision of a world where everyone is free and equal in dignity & in rights. Congratulations to the Class of 2026! @ucddublin.bsky.social
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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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Commissioner for Human Rights @commissionerhr.coe.int · 01/09/2026
I also had an insightful exchange with Liam Herrick, the Chief Commissioner of the Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission @ihrec.bsky.social, covering pressing #humanrights issues across Ireland and Europe.
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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
A successful recovery must be anchored in 5 key principles: 🔹Participation 🔹Accountability 🔹Non-discrimination & equality 🔹Empowerment 🔹Legality From supporting local projects like Lviv’s "Unbroken UA" to empowering civil society, action starts now. #EFA26 2/3
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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 · 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
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
When I met Romani Rose, the Chair of the Documentation and Cultural Centre of German Sinti and Roma in Heidelberg, he explained the meaning of remembrance for the communities and for us all. Read his testimony in my book “The Unheard 12 Million” 2/2 www.coe.int/en/web/commi...
Romani Rose chairs the Documentation and
Cultural Centre of German Sinti and Roma and
the Central Council of German Sinti and Roma in
Heidelberg, GermanyCourtesy of the Documentation and Cultural Centre of German Sinti and Roma/Lars Kehre
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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 · 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...
Photo credit: Zdravko Tenev
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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 · 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 · 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...
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Commissioner for Human Rights @commissionerhr.coe.int · 08/07/2026
Wonderful to meet again with my friend and colleague, Mairead McGuinness, the EU Special Envoy for the promotion of freedom of religion or belief outside the EU, discussing issues of common concern around pluralism, #HumanRights and democratic values.
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Commissioner for Human Rights @commissionerhr.coe.int · 07/07/2026
Inspiring meeting with students from Malta’s National Student Travel Foundation. We covered some of my priorities, from Russia’s war in Ukraine to the rights of older people and migrants. They demonstrated their passion and readiness to follow in the footsteps of #Malta’s human rights champions.
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Commissioner for Human Rights @commissionerhr.coe.int · 06/07/2026
Nights of terror have become relentless in #Ukraine. A new Russian massive attack on Kyiv and its region last night killed at least 11 civilians and injured over 40. A ceasefire and a process toward a durable peace grounded in human rights are urgently needed.
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Commissioner for Human Rights @commissionerhr.coe.int · 06/07/2026
Following my visit to #Bulgaria, I encourage authorites to go further to enhance long-term residential care for older people and secure housing for Roma communities. Read my end-of-visit statement ⬇️ www.coe.int/en/web/commi...
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Commissioner for Human Rights @commissionerhr.coe.int · 03/07/2026
Wrapping up my visit to #Bulgaria focused on the #HumanRights of older persons in residential care and of the Roma communities. Today, I met with @pace.coe.int delegation, the Commission on human rights, religions and citizen’s complaints and the Commission for Protection Against Discrimination.
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Commissioner for Human Rights @commissionerhr.coe.int · 02/07/2026
Bulgaria, day #3: constructive dialogue with the Minister of Justice, the Minister of Labour and Social Policy, the Minister of Health, the Deputy Ministers of Regional Development and Public Works and the Ombudsman
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Commissioner for Human Rights @commissionerhr.coe.int · 01/07/2026
Bulgaria visit, Day #2: Valuable meetings with Foreign Minister Velislava Petrova, the Mayor of Varna, and civil society on the human rights situation of older persons in long-term care facilities and of Roma communities in Bulgaria.
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Commissioner for Human Rights @commissionerhr.coe.int · 01/07/2026
Continuing my engagement for the human rights of older persons in residential care. Yesterday I visited institutions focusing mainly on dementia care in urban and rural areas around Varna, Bulgaria.
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Commissioner for Human Rights @commissionerhr.coe.int · 29/06/2026
Good meeting with the President of the @pace.coe.int, Petra Bayr, to strengthen cooperation between our institutions, across #HumanRights challenges, including the environment. @pace-president.bsky.social @coe.int
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