During the OHCHR Consultation on Mental Health and Human Rights, the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Turk, emphasized the need for mental health equity, highlighting its critical role in overall well-being and social cohesion. He warned that neglecting mental health can have severe consequences, including pushing individuals into poverty, stripping them of their dignity, and isolating them from society.
Turk pointed out that people with mental health conditions often face systemic discrimination, stating, “They are frequently denied basic human rights, including access to healthcare, education, and employment.” He underscored the importance of mental health in fostering relationships and personal growth, equating its significance to that of essential needs like air.
Reflecting on the first anniversary of the initiative “Mental health, human rights and legislation: Guidance and practice,” launched in collaboration with the World Health Organisation, Turk described it as a vital reminder of the urgent need to prioritize mental health issues. He condemned the societal stigma that leads to the marginalization of individuals with mental health conditions, asserting that it is unacceptable to view them as burdens or sources of shame. He characterized the social isolation, discrimination, violence, and abuse that contribute to mental health challenges as disgraceful.
To combat these issues, Turk called for a shift in focus toward human rights, noting the interconnection between physical and mental health. He advocated for open discussions to reduce stigma and emphasized the importance of accessible mental health care. “We must work to ensure that mental healthcare is accessible, available, affordable, and equitable for all,” he urged, calling for government and community investment in mental health as a human rights imperative that can yield significant social and economic benefits.
Turk also noted that the COVID-19 pandemic has revealed glaring disparities in access to mental health services, particularly for marginalized populations. He highlighted that while increased funding for mental health services is essential, effective policy reforms and the establishment of peer support networks can be implemented at a relatively low cost. He reinforced that mental health is not only a personal issue but a collective responsibility enshrined in human rights, calling for holistic mental health systems that prioritize dignity, inclusion, and equality.
The High Commissioner concluded by reaffirming his office’s commitment to advocating for comprehensive mental health systems that prioritize the needs and rights of all individuals.
