Heads up, news fam! 🤯 The US has just dropped a bombshell by opting out of the fourth cycle of the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) on human rights, set for November 6 in Geneva. This is the UN Human Rights Council's signature peer-review where states hold each other accountable.
OHCHR spokesperson Ravina Shamdasani said the office is "aware of and regrets" the US decision. Still, she promises ongoing dialogue with the US government, civil society, academia, businesses and other stakeholders. 🤝
Why should you care? Since 2008, all 193 UN member states have faced this review every few years to spotlight issues like freedom of speech, social equality and justice. The US joined reviews in 2010, 2015 and 2020. Skipping this round raises questions about transparency and commitment to human rights standards. 🔍
From São Paulo to Mexico City, digital communities are buzzing about this move. Will the US reengage, or is this a new trend in global diplomacy? Keep your eyes on Geneva and your feeds for the next update! 🌐
Reference(s):
U.S. declines to participate in UN review of its human rights record
cgtn.com
