The High Commissioner Michelle Bachelet appreciated Czech Republic’s long-term support to international human rights mechanisms including her Office. The Czech Republic is an active member of the Human Rights Council and has been continuously providing financial contributions to the Office of the High Commissioner.

During the meeting, Ambassador Bálek discussed with the High Commissioner possible cooperation during the Czech Presidency of the Council of the EU in 2022. In particular, they talked about the digital agenda, given also Geneva’s important role as a hub between human rights and technical organisations. They also talked about current human rights challenges in the world and the underfunding of the UN human rights pillar. They both agreed on the need for a holistic approach to the human rights agenda, taking into account also other aspects such as development, security or the humanitarian situation.

Ambassador Václav Bálek invited the High Commissioner Michelle Bachelet for a working visit to the Czech Republic.