Key highlights: CIVICUS at the 61st Session of the UN Human Rights Council

During the 61st session, CIVICUS warned about increasing restrictions de facto limiting civil society participation and engagement.

• Limited Participation Opportunities: Severe restrictions to access and participation undermine effective, inclusive engagement with UN human rights mechanisms
• In-Person Only Requirements: Most informal consultations on resolutions continue to be held exclusively in person, hindering the ability of civil society to influence policy outcomes
• Selective Civil Society Consultation: Meaningful civil society consultation remains limited to specific mandates and issue areas, while UN-wide coordination on human rights and reform processes require embedding transparent and consistent civil society consultation as a structural pillar
• Reprisals: Acts of intimidation, reprisal and retaliation by State and non-State actors within and outside the UN system create a climate of fear and hinder meaningful involvement by human rights groups
• Reduced Monitoring and Connection with Realities on the Ground: The recent culling of rights spending reduces the UN's ability to monitor abuses, protect civil society, and help states strengthen human rights systems
• Special Procedures in Peril: Special Rapporteurs have been further affected by the human rights funding crisis, with severe cuts in their reporting to the UN bodies, undermining the work of civil society actors and victims who have relentlessly reported to and cooperated with independent experts and working groups

CIVICUS contributed to the outcomes of the Council session elevating civil society perspectives through engagement on crucial Resolutions, closed-door discussions with mandate holders, country and thematic statements, engagement on UPR adoptions, and support to civil society-led panels. We sounded the alarm on the global erosion of civic space and the growing repression of civil society across multiple regions, highlighted urgent situations requiring immediate Council attention, including under the complaint procedure, and recommended action on key UN documents and initiatives.

Member States adopted several important Resolutions, addressing both thematic issues and country-specific concerns. Below, we reflect on key Resolutions that underscore our continued advocacy and efforts in pressing for meaningful human rights progress. 

1.1 Regional Developments

Africa

South Sudan: we welcome the extension of the mandate of the Commission on Human Rights in South Sudan (CHRSS) as an important step towards justice and accountability, while stronger action remains needed as there are serious risks of a return to civil war and atrocity crimes. The Council, alongside regional actors, should maintain close scrutiny and assess available options to further advance accountability, as an essential step to protect civilians.

Americas

While no substantive resolution was adopted on the region, amid slow transition and persistent concerns over the human rights situation, the ongoing selection processes for the Attorney General and Ombudsperson in Venezuela pose immediate concerns for Venezuelan and international civil society about irregularities in the process, particularly regarding lack of transparency and legal certainty, as highlighted by the UN Special Rapporteur on the independence of judges and lawyers. The Council did not consider the human rights situation in Ecuador, where a rapid deteriorating in civic freedoms has been witnessed by civil society.

Haiti: A technical resolution extended the mandate of the Independent Expert tasked with undertaking the monitoring of the human rights situation in Haiti and continues to request the financial, technical and logistical support required for the establishment of an office of the High Commissioner in the country.

Asia-Pacific

Myanmar: We welcome a new resolution condemning the Myanmar military’s attempts to legitimise its coup attempt in February 2021, through the unilateral convening of elections falling out of international standards, and renewing the mandate of the Special Rapporteur. With this resolution, the Council indicates its continued support for the people of Myanmar who have overwhelmingly rejected the military’s sham elections. However, more remains to be done to hold the junta accountable and put an end to impunity, including by cutting off the junta's access to political, financial, and military support as recommended by the UN Special Rapporteur on Myanmar over the past years.

Europe and Eastern Europe

Ukraine: We welcome the adoption of a new resolution on renewing the mandate of the Independent International Commission of Inquiry (CoI). The resolution also gives welcome attention to the grave situation of children in occupied territories, as militarization does not cease to grow and avenues for justice and accountability are yet to be fully explored. The Council should continue to elevate the voices of both Ukrainian and Russian civil society, who remain vibrant, while we recommend the CoI to further embed a civil society lens in their monitoring and recommendations.

Belarus: Despite some positive developments regarding prisoner releases, civic space monitoring highlight that repression remains unrelenting. The releases have been described as pragmatic and motivated by the regime’s desire to obtain relief from sanctions rather than representing a sign of improving civic space. The adoption of a new resolution on the human rights situation, renewing the mandates of both the Special Rapporteur and the Group of Independent Experts, reflects the continued deterioration of the human rights situation in the country, including the growing use of transnational repression.

Middle East

Syria: We welcome the full renewal of Syria Commission of Inquiry's (CoI) mandate reaffirming that the fact finding and reporting mandate has remained unchanged in scope and implementation. Importantly, the resolution includes CoI's functions to provide advice without limiting the Commission’s core investigative and reporting functions. A potential review of the mandate requires sustained dialogue with national human rights and civil society organisations.

Occupied Palestinian territory (OPT): While resolutions concerning the human rights situation in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, Israeli settlements in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, and the right of the Palestinian people to self-determination were updated, these resolutions should further focus on long-term accountability, including implementation of reparation measures and guarantees of non-recurrence for the Palestinian people. Importantly, the Commission of Inquiry will continue to focus on transfers or sale of arms and dual-use items to Israel. Overall, the Council should further address the situation in the context of the root causes of the conflict and persisting attacks against the Palestinian people.

1.2 Thematic Developments

Important thematic resolutions including renewals of crucial mandates were adopted during the session.

Freedom of opinion and expression 

We welcome the resolution to extend the mandate of the Special Rapporteur on the right to freedom of opinion and expression, who plays an essential role in the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of expression and the development of progressive international human rights standards. The mandate, who was the first one to speak publicly about the phenomenon of transnational repression, continues to be innovative in enhancing the understanding of current challenges, including freedom of expression in armed conflict and in situations of exile, as well as the gendered dimensions of censorship. We are concerned about the reduction in reporting of the mandate due to the ongoing financial pressures across the UN human rights pillar.

Human Rights Defenders 

We welcome the resolution to extend the mandate of the Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights defenders for three years. We welcome the recognition in the text of the resolution of  civil society initiatives to mark the twenty-fifth anniversary of the Declaration on Human Rights Defenders, in particular the Declaration +25, as well references to reprisals against mandate holders, situations of armed conflict and occupation, and the impact of funding cuts on the protection ecosystem.However, we are concerned that annual reporting to the General Assembly was reduced.

Human rights crisis in the Gulf region following unlawful US and Israel airstrikes on Iran and Iran’s retaliation

Two urgent debates were called by Iran and Gulf countries on the escalating conflict in the region: an “Urgent debate to discuss the recent military aggression launched by the Islamic Republic of Iran against Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates” and an “Urgent debate to discuss the Protection of Children and Educational Institutions in International Armed Conflicts: The Aerial Attacks on Shajareh Tayyebeh Girls’ School in Minab, Iran”.  

The Council urged Iran tounconditionally cease all unprovoked attacks, threats and provocations and requested the High Commissioner to provide an update on the human rights consequences resulting from these attacks.

Nevertheless, the Council should expose violations by all parties and demand accountability for all violations of international law, whilst increased protection strategies are needed as civil society particularly in Iran continues to face the dual risk of attacks at the hands of the authorities and US and Israeli strikes on civilians. These attacks, as well as Iranian strikes targeting civilians and civilian infrastructure in GCC countries, are both grave violations of international. The Council should deal with these situations with impartiality and objectivity, without double standards, and also turn its attention to the trend of using the hostilities to crack down on dissenting voices internally, both in Iran and Gulf countries.

2.1 Thematic Statements

Independent Special Procedures under attack amid reprisals, sanctions, and de-funding

In this statement CIVICUS expresses concerns about the gravity and breadth of attacks, sanctions and reprisals against UN Special Rapporteurs, who Rapporteurs must be supported in their efforts to reaffirm the significance of human rights and expose grave violations and abuses. Acts of intimidation and reprisal and retaliation against Special Procedures de-legitimize the work of all mandates and hundreds of human rights defenders and victims advocating for truth, justice, reparation and accountability in all contexts. The UN liquidity crisis also has a severe impact on the work and activities of Special Procedures and we caution against proposals of review or suppression of mandates resulting from efficiency measures without prior transparent and consistent civil society consultation. See full statement here.

Civil society must play a central role within the State-led Group of Friends of Multilateralism 
Multilateralism cannot be rebuilt behind closed doors. It cannot be revitalised without those who defend it daily. We emphasised that civil society must play a central — not symbolic — role in the state‑led Group of Friends of Multilateralism. If multilateralism is to respond to today’s crises, it must be shaped with the participation, protection, and expertise of civil society actors. Civil society must be at the centre of the Group of Friends of Multilateralism — not on the margins. Strong global cooperation depends on meaningful civic participation, accountability, and trust — none of which can exist without civil society. See full statement here. 

Torture Remains Routine in Bahrain; Survivors Denied Justice and Voice

CIVICUS and Salam for Democracy and Human Rights warn that torture in Bahrain remains widespread, causing lasting harm and eroding trust in authorities. As an ICCPR state party, Bahrain must allow all citizens to speak out about torture and participate fully in public affairs ahead of the 2026 elections. Survivors must be free to share their experiences and lead anti‑torture advocacy, yet “political isolation” laws continue to block voting, candidacy, and NGO leadership. The Charter of Rights of Victims and Survivors affirms their right to shape anti‑torture efforts as key stakeholders. We urged Bahrain and all states to adopt the Charter, release arbitrarily detained activists and renew the Special Rapporteur’s mandate, which was extended for three years. Read the full statement here.

Human Rights at Risk: Urgent Action Needed in Iran and the Gulf

CIVICUS warns that escalating conflict in Iran and the Gulf is worsening already‑restricted civic space and endangering civilians. Indiscriminate attacks on schools and infrastructure violate international law and demand transparent investigation. US‑Israel airstrikes have killed over 1,255 people, while detainees, disappeared protesters, and activists in Iran face severe risks, including death sentences. All parties must halt hostilities, safeguard civilians — especially women, children, and vulnerable groups — and prevent grave violations against children. We call for a rights‑based peace process and mechanisms ensuring justice for victims. Read the full statement here.

2.2 Country Statements

2.2.1 Country-specific debates

Myanmar: Reject Sham Elections, End Atrocities, and Protect Civilians 

CIVICUS remains alarmed by ongoing junta crimes, including mass arbitrary detentions, torture, and indiscriminate attacks on civilians. In Rakhine, both the junta and the Arakan Army continue killings, disappearances, torture, and displacement, while blockades severely restrict humanitarian aid. Repression intensified around Myanmar’s sham elections, with coerced voting, criminalised activism, banned rallies, and press restrictions. Despite this, civil society inside and in exile continues to resist. We urged the international community to end atrocities, ensure humanitarian access, pursue accountability, and reject the sham elections. Countries, especially in ASEAN, must work toward releasing activists and restoring genuine democracy. Read the full statement here.

South Sudan: Repression, Impunity, and the Urgent Need for Human Rights Monitoring

CIVICUS expressed deep concern about South Sudan’s worsening human rights situation, where rising political tensions, renewed fighting, and escalating communal violence are fuelling a severe crisis. Civic freedoms remain tightly restricted, with peaceful protesters facing arbitrary arrests, unlawful detention, and even suspension from duty, alongside government imposed social media blockades. Journalists, media outlets, and civil society actors continue to face intimidation, obstruction, and detention, including being blocked from reporting on the trial of the suspended First Vice-President. The National Security Service persists in arbitrarily detaining critics amid a culture of impunity and immunity from prosecution. We urged the Council to renew the Commission’s mandate, strengthen monitoring and protection efforts, support local civil society, and ensure accountability for serious violations. Read the full statement here.

Venezuela: Ending Impunity and Repression Requires Immediate Action

PROVEA and CIVICUS stress that Venezuela’s repressive bodies and legal framework used to persecute political opponents remain unchanged, while the justice system continues to entrench impunity. The National Assembly’s appointment of the former Attorney General—architect of this persecution—as Ombudsperson illustrates this ongoing crisis. The Amnesty Law is a limited step, excluding those accused of military rebellion, while over 11,000 people have been released under restrictive reporting requirements and without the right to choose their legal counsel. Many victims of arbitrary detention are only now speaking publicly after years of fearing reprisals. The regressive Anti-NGO Law remains in force and must be repealed. We urged States to demand the release of all political detainees, dismantle the persecution apparatus, and ensure full, safe access for OHCHR and the FFM. Read the full statement here.

Nicaragua: Concern Over the Human Rights Situation Amid Ongoing Attacks on Civic Space

CIVICUS and Fundación del Río welcomed the Expert Group’s report while expressing deep concern over Nicaragua’s worsening human rights situation and persistent attacks on civic space. Authorities arbitrarily cancelled 83 organisations in 2025, contributing to a total of 5,635 dissolved since 2018. The closure of environmental and Indigenous organisations has reduced oversight of 71 mining concessions granted to Chinese companies, many affecting Indigenous and Afrodescendant territories without free, prior and informed consent. Eight Indigenous forest rangers and land defenders remain arbitrarily detained in retaliation for defending their lands, forcing some relatives into exile. We urged states to continue supporting the Expert Group and the Office of the High Commissioner in monitoring and addressing these violations. Read the full statement here.

Tajikistan: Repression continues unabated against CSOs, journalists and lawyers

Tajikistan’s human rights situation continues to deteriorateafter the 2022 crackdown in GBAO. Authorities failed to investigate credible allegations of excessive force, torture and other serious violations following the violent suppression of those protests. Repression against CSOs, journalists, lawyers and activists remains widespread, with expression tightly restricted and extremism charges misused to target critics. Human rights defenders and journalists, including Manuchehr Kholiqnazarov and Buzurgmehr Yorov, are serving long, politicallymotivated sentences, while reports of torture, illtreatment and deaths in custody persist. Over 700 CSOs have been forced to close in the past five years. We urged the Council to establish a UN Independent Investigative Mechanism, investigate the GBAO events, and demand the release of all activists detained for political reasons. Read the full statement here.

2.2.3 UPR Adoptions

Malawi Backtracks on Civic Space Commitments at the Universal Periodic Review

While welcoming Malawi’s engagement with the UPR we note that only two of 19 civicspace recommendations have been partially implemented. While Malawi previously accepted 13 recommendations, it has now backtracked by rejecting all proposals addressing harassment and attacks against activists, human rights defenders and journalists. Authorities continue to use laws and security forces to intimidate and persecute civil society actors, while also rejecting recommendations on freedom of expression, media independence and access to information. We urged the government to uphold its human rights obligations by ensuring an enabling environment for civil society. Institutional reforms must be accelerated to strengthen the protection and enjoyment of fundamental freedoms. Read the full statement here.

Mongolia Supports Civic Space Reforms but Key Restrictions Remain

CIVICUS, ADN and CHRD welcomed Mongolia’s UPR engagement to support 22 of 23 civicspace recommendations and its commitment to protect human rights defenders and journalists. However, we regret that Mongolia did not support recommendations to review Articles 17.6 and 19.11, which continue to be used to target activists and journalists. Harassment and criminalisation of defenders persist, alongside draft NGO laws and proposed internet controls that fall short of international standards. Restrictions on peaceful protest also remain a serious concern. We urged Mongolia to align all laws with the ICCPR, fully implement the Human Rights Defenders Law, and revise protest legislation to meet human rights standards. Read the full statement here.

Maldives: Positive UPR Commitments Must Lead to Legal Reforms

We welcomed Maldives’ engagement in the UPR, noting it supported 19 of 21 civicspacerecommendations. However, we regret the refusal to revise the Evidence Act, which continues to undermine press freedom. Reprisals against civil society and media, blocked protests, arbitrary arrests and excessive force pose serious concerns. We urge Maldives to amend the Peaceful Assembly Act, end crackdowns on protests and censorship, and reinstate the Maldivian Democracy Network. Read the full statement here.

• South Sudan: Extend UN investigations, stand ready to respond to any further deterioration of the human rights situation
• Civil society participation: Hybrid participation during informal consultations on resolutions throughout 2026 (HRC61, HRC62 and HRC63)
• Open Letter: The UNHRC Must Reject the Junta’s Sham Election Results to Consolidate Illegitimate Rule and Advance Accountability

• Support to civil society and society-led events:

  CIVICUS sponsored a side‑event on Human Rights in India: the cost of silence over persistent violations, organised jointly by the International Federation for Human Rights (FIDH) and supported by REDRESS, OMCT and Minority Rights Group. The event highlighted the deepening human rights crisis across the country. Speakers underscored how human rights defenders, journalists, lawyers, students and minority communities continue to face intimidation, criminalisation and reprisals for dissent or documentation of abuses. The discussion stressed that institutional safeguards have eroded, leaving victims without meaningful avenues for justice and reinforcing cycles of impunity. India’s selective engagement with UN human rights mechanisms — including its refusal to ratify key treaties and its dismissal of Special Procedure recommendations — was identified as a major barrier to accountability. The event brought together UN experts, accountability practitioners and Indian civil society to explore how the Council and States can strengthen scrutiny, support defenders, and promote meaningful engagement to improve protection on the ground.