What is the current human rights situation worldwide? Where are the particular challenges? What means and instruments can be used to monitor compliance with human rights and punish violations? What role do religions and interreligious dialogue play in protecting human rights? Is the office of UN High Commissioner reaching its limits, especially in view of growing authoritarianism? And where might new human rights be necessary?

These and other important questions were discussed by Volker Türk, United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, on 26 May 2025 in the parish of Korneuburg with Michael Lysander Fremuth, scientific director of our institute and Professor of Fundamental and Human Rights at the University of Vienna. The High Commissioner reported in detail on his work, spoke openly about problems and emphasised the importance of the United Nations in a changing world. Volker Türk not only reported on his personal career, but also provided insights into the everyday life of the High Commissioner for Human Rights.