EU Appoints Latvian Diplomat as Human Rights Representative

The European Union has appointed Latvian human rights specialist Ilze Brands Kehris as its Special Representative for Human Rights, tasking her with advancing the bloc’s human rights policy and promoting compliance with international humanitarian law.

Brands Kehris will take up the role immediately and serve until February 29, 2028, the Council of the EU said.

She most recently served as Assistant Secretary-General for Human Rights and Director of the New York Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights from January 2020 to May 2026.

Her previous experience also includes senior positions in the United Nations and national and regional human rights organisations, including serving as a member and chair of the management board of the EU Agency for Fundamental Rights.

In her new role, Brands Kehris will continue the work of her predecessors in implementing EU human rights policy, supporting international criminal justice and promoting respect for international humanitarian law.

She will also engage with governments outside the EU, international and regional organisations, civil society groups and other relevant actors to strengthen the bloc’s voice on human rights issues.

The representative will work with the European External Action Service, EU delegations and other EU institutions to support the implementation and visibility of the bloc’s human rights policy in its external relations.

EU Special Representatives are appointed to advance the bloc’s policies and interests in specific regions or on issues of particular concern. Eleven representatives currently support the work of EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas, according to the Council.

Source: FSX Business News