Statement by Ambassador Jürg Lauber, President of the United Nations Human Rights Council, on sanctions imposed on Special Rapporteur Francesca Albanese

10 July 2025

I regret the decision of the United States Government to impose sanctions on Ms. Francesca Albanese, the United Nations Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in the Palestinian territories occupied since 1967. Ms. Albanese was appointed by the United Nations Human Rights Council. Special Rapporteurs are an essential instrument of the Council in fulfilling its mandate to promote and protect all human rights worldwide. I call on all UN Member States to fully cooperate with the Special Rapporteurs and mandate holders of the Council and to refrain from any acts of intimidation or reprisal against them.