By Anjali Sharma
UNITED NATIONS – UN Human Rights Council on Wednesday has called on governments everywhere to counter the growing trend of so-called “denialism” politics, which often features the non-acceptance of genocide and other crimes against humanity.
The independent human rights expert, Bernard Duhaime noted a recent wave of denialist statements by government officials, politicians and other actors worldwide.
Mr. Duhaime insisted that countries must actively counter any efforts to glorify those responsible for crimes against humanity, particularly considering the rise of social media and AI systems which amplify denialism:
He said “We live at a dangerous time where ideologues and warmongers seek to fuel polarisation, hatred and chaos for their own political gains. It is high time to remind them of our collective commitment to human rights, accountability, and the rule of law.”
Mr. Duhaime is tasked by the Human Rights Council to promote truth, justice, reparations and non-recurrence of crimes.
He delivered his report to the Council’s 47 Member States, called on all countries to be vigilant about “politicians and corporate actors who seek to weaponize freedom of expression” and “manipulate history for political or other ideological ends”, while also inciting violence and silencing dissenting voices.
“Denialism” is increasingly used to undermine justice for vulnerable populations by spreading divisive narratives, Mr. Duhaime said.
He explained that the trend risks eroding democratic institutions and accountability by replacing the truth with “emotionally-charged narratives”.
Mr. Duhaime warned that although government oversight is key to combating supporters of denialism, and that “in too many cases” national legislation has become “tools of restriction and denial”.
He added “Combating denialism must never serve as a pretext for censorship or repression.”
