LDSF expressed its deep distress over the decision by the United States to impose sanctions on the United Nations Special Rapporteur on the Occupied Palestinian Territories, Dr. Francesca Albanese, in response to her preparation of reports documenting Israel’s commission of crimes against humanity in Gaza and her explicit calls to hold those responsible accountable.
Dr. Albanese has recently issued important reports exposing the role of certain companies in supporting the genocide against civilians in Gaza.
This decision represents an unprecedented and dangerous precedent and a direct threat to international mechanisms for the protection of human rights, undermining the credibility of the UN accountability system.
The Foundation affirms that the international community and UN member states must respect the independence of Special Rapporteurs’ work and halt all attempts to intimidate, threaten, or influence their independent mandates.
We reiterate our full support for Dr. Francesca Albanese and all free voices defending justice and human dignity in Palestine, and we call for the protection of UN experts and for strengthening their role in uncovering the truth and holding perpetrators accountable.
