UN rapporteur urges PH to ratify rights treaties, rejoin ICC

The UN Special Rapporteur on the Promotion and Protection of the Right to Freedom of Opinion and Expression, Irene Khan, has urged the Philippine government to ratify key international human rights treaties and to rejoin the International Criminal Court (ICC).

Khan's report to the UN Human Rights Council specifically encouraged the Philippines to ratify the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance.

The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) on Friday, June 20, seconded Khan's call for the Philippines to return as a member of the ICC and to ratify the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance.

According to the report, ratifying these treaties would significantly bolster human rights protections and support the exercise of freedom of expression in the country.

The Special Rapporteur highlighted the Philippines' history of enforced disappearances, unlawful killings, and ongoing impunity as reasons for these recommendations.

Supporting the rapporteur's call to address red-tagging and attacks on media, CHR noted that Filipinos' right to freedom of expression is linked to access to information and protection from threats.

While acknowledging the Philippines' vibrant civil society and diverse media, Khan also noted the serious threats and challenges faced by these groups.