Ilze Brands Kehris is the new EU Special Representative for Human Rights

Brussels – Ilze Brands Kehris is the new EU Special Representative (EUSR) for Human Rights. A 66-year-old Latvian, Kehris has previously served as Assistant Secretary-General for Human Rights and Director of the New York Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR). In her new role, she will take up her duties with immediate effect, and her term will run until 29 February 2028. 

She will be tasked with implementing the EU’s human rights policy and the EU’s positions on promoting respect for international humanitarian law and supporting international criminal justice. The appointment therefore marks a clear break with the United States and Donald Trump’s sanctions imposed against the International Criminal Court.