Ambassador Jorge Lomonaco: United Nations Human Rights Council and Peace

Lawyering Peace

In this episode of Lawyering Peace, we sit down with Ambassador Jorge Lomanco, a distinguished diplomat from Mexico who has served as an ambassador to both the United Nations Human Rights Council and the Organization of American States. As the chief negotiator of the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons, for which he and his team were awarded the Nobel Peace Prize, Ambassador Lomanco brings a wealth of experience to the table.

The conversation dives deep into the critical role human rights play in achieving durable peace. Ambassador Lomanco discusses the moral obligation to prioritize human rights at every level of peace negotiations, emphasizing that the protection of these rights is essential for durable peace. He provides insights into how human rights have been both pivotal and sidelined in various peace processes around the world, from transitions in Latin American states to South Africa's peace process.

Ambassador Lomanco also tackles the challenges of centering human rights in peace negotiations, particularly when dealing with regimes that have committed widespread abuses. He explores the often difficult choices between offering amnesty to dictators and the need for accountability, sharing examples from Venezuela, Uruguay, Chile, Argentina, and beyond.

Moreover, the episode sheds light on the role of the UN Human Rights Council in conflict situations, highlighting its responsibilities, tools, and the importance of remaining engaged to prevent the escalation of violence. Ambassador Lomanco shares his views on the impact of Commissions of Inquiry and the future intersection of peace and human rights, stressing the major impact of political will and international cooperation on the effectiveness of UN mechanisms.

Amb. Lomanco reflects on the significant contributions of the UN and regional bodies like the Organization of American States (OAS) in shaping a world where human rights are increasingly protected, even amidst ongoing challenges. This episode offers a profound look at the complexities of integrating human rights into peace processes and the ongoing efforts needed to ensure lasting peace.