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Image of excerpt from speech at the UN Human Rights Council on 24 Feb 2025 in Geneva. Full speech: https://www.ohchr.org/en/statements-and-speeches/2025/02/hc-turk-opens-human-rights-council-we-need-politics-wisdom-rooted “Never underestimate the power of factual, legal & moral clarity. Facts on their own can and must prompt action. When the red flags go up, they must trigger an immediate response. That is why the work of this Council, and the other human rights mechanisms, is so important. While we cannot say exactly how much death & suffering have been prevented by these efforts, we know they make a difference. Second, human rights are about the law, which is a brake on power, privilege, and unrestrained profit. Some things are not for sale. Our international legal frameworks and institutions, including the International Criminal Court, are fundamental to ensuring justice and achieving accountability for the most serious crimes, preventing future violations, and making the world safer for everyone. Equally important are strong institutions at the national level, to protect vulnerable people and enable everyone to participate more fully in cultural, religious, social, economic and public life. It is imperative that we stand up for these institutions when they come under attack. Excellencies, distinguished delegates, Finally, human rights are nothing without compassion - the glue that unites us in our common humanity. We rarely hear about compassion from today's leaders…”