Saudi Arabia Denied U.N. Human Rights Council Seat Amid Controversy

Saudi Arabia lost its bid for a seat on the U.N. Human Rights Council, following advocacy by rights groups opposing its membership due to alleged human rights violations. The council reviews global human rights situations, with 18 new members elected to serve from 2025, ensuring geographical representation.

Saudi Arabia faced a defeat on Wednesday in its bid to join the U.N.'s premier human rights body. Rights groups rallied against the country's candidacy, calling on the world body's members to reject its bid due to alleged human rights violations.

The 193-member General Assembly subsequently elected 18 new members to the 47-nation Human Rights Council, which is responsible for reviewing worldwide human rights records. The election saw regional representation ensured, with notable interest in the Asia-Pacific group's contested race.

Saudi Arabia garnered only 117 votes, trailing behind other nations like Thailand and South Korea. Persistent criticisms from groups like Human Rights Watch, particularly concerning the kingdom's border and internal policies, contributed to its defeat.

(With inputs from agencies.)