22 August 2018
IFLA Secretary-General Welcomes Naming of Michelle Bachelet as Human Rights Commissioner

39th Session of the Human Rights Council, Geneva, Photo: OHCHR
As such, libraries are regular advocates for stronger respect for human rights in wider society. In this, they frequently draw on – and emphasise – the work of the UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights. This post, created 25 years ago, provides a welcome and very high-profile voice for human rights around the world.
Having a strong, capable and well-regarded person in this role makes it all the more powerful. The naming of two-time President of Chile, Michelle Bachelet, who was also the first Executive Director of UN Women, is therefore a very promising step.
With her experience at national and global level, including as a victim of human rights abuses, an advocate for public health, and as the head of a UN agency focused on equality, she is well placed to be a strong voice for rights.
IFLA Secretary General Gerald Leitner said:
‘It is great to see Michelle Bachelet nominated for the post of High Commissioner. She will have a crucial role in defending, and promoting rights that are at the foundation – and the heart – of the work of libraries’.
Read about how you can get involved in the 70th Anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.