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What concerns, if any, does the Government hold about Volker Türk's performance as United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, and did any such concerns contribute to New Zealand's abstention on the 24 July 2026 General Assembly vote on his reappointment?

Answered Question 33602 (2026)
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Asked by

Vanushi Walters

List MP · Labour Party

Question

  • What concerns, if any, does the Government hold about Volker Türk's performance as United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, and did any such concerns contribute to New Zealand's abstention on the 24 July 2026 General Assembly vote on his reappointment?

Answered by

Rt Hon Winston Peters

List MP · NZ First · Minister of Foreign Affairs

Answer

As noted above, MFAT's decision to abstain was not a reflection of any view on the merits of the candidate.