In her first week as the United Nations Deputy High Commissioner for Human Rights, Gambian-born Awa Dabo has voiced strong optimism that global commitment to human rights remains steadfast despite geopolitical tensions and rising cynicism.
Dabo, a seasoned human rights lawyer with deep expertise in crisis recovery, peacebuilding, transitional justice, humanitarian affairs, and development, assumed her new position at a critical juncture for the UN’s human rights architecture.
Speaking exclusively with UN Human Rights, she expressed excitement about stepping into the role when multilateralism faces intense scrutiny.
“I am very excited to be coming to work on human rights at a time like this,” Dabo said. “It is an important time because of where we are geopolitically and where the world stands on human rights.”
A central priority for Dabo is strengthening the Office’s regional and country presence to make human rights more tangible and impactful in people’s daily lives. She stressed the need to close the gap between international institutions and communities on the ground.
“We live in a much more cynical world,” she noted. “What we now need to do is to make sure that we continue to build and strengthen coalitions around human rights. Not to forget the youth, not to forget the women, indigenous peoples, peoples with disabilities and so many, sadly marginalized groups — together we have a common vision and common agenda.”
Dabo highlighted the challenge of restoring public trust in multilateral institutions. She aims to rebuild belief in the UN’s ability to deliver meaningful change.
“I want us to bring back the trust and the belief in the institutions and in multilateralism. I want us to restore hope to the people we serve and help them see the real value of this work,” she said.
The new Deputy High Commissioner paid warm tribute to the dedication of UN Human Rights staff who continue their work amid mounting global challenges.
“It has been a difficult time, not only for human rights, but also for the United Nations,” Dabo observed. “For those of us who have worked in the UN, this is a deeply emotional moment because we see how unfairly the UN is often attacked, despite the tremendous work we do, and the sacrifices made every single day.”
She assured staff that leadership fully recognizes their commitment. “I want staff to know that this is something we, as the leadership of this organization, recognize and deeply appreciate. We are in this boat together, determined to keep raising the flag and not falter in our ambition or our goal — to deliver human rights for everyone, everywhere.”
Dabo emphasized that success depends on broad partnerships involving Member States, civil society organizations, and the private sector.
“We need to build the alliances and partnerships required to deliver on human rights,” she concluded.
Her appointment comes as the UN Human Rights Office seeks to reinforce its relevance and effectiveness in a polarized world. Dabo’s vision positions the Office as a coalition builder for the majority of nations and peoples who continue to uphold the principles of human dignity.
