Secretary-General António Guterres: Many UN special rapporteurs are completely out of control

António Guterres, Secretary-General of the United Nations, has expressed concerns over the lack of control over some of the organization’s independent experts, known as Special Rapporteurs. In an interview with the Financial Times, he stated that “many of these independent rapporteurs have completely fallen out of control.” This remark comes as his tenure at the helm of the UN draws to a close, marking a rare moment of candor after years of carefully managed public statements. The remarks were made during a period of heightened scrutiny over the role and independence of UN Special Rapporteurs. Guterres acknowledged the existence of multiple independent bodies within the UN system, emphasizing that while he personally supports the principles of justice and human rights, he could not speak for the entire organization. His comments suggest a growing concern among senior officials about the influence and actions of certain rapporteurs who operate outside direct oversight. Among those mentioned in recent discussions is Reem Alsalem, a Special Rapporteur on violence against women, its causes and consequences. She previously claimed in November 2025 that “no independent investigation has confirmed that sexual violence occurred on October 7.” Her stance has been scrutinized alongside other rapporteurs whose positions have drawn criticism. For instance, Alena Douhan, a rapporteur focusing on the negative impacts of unilateral coercive measures, received over $1.3 million from Russia, China, and Qatar. Critics argue such financial ties may compromise the impartiality of her reports. Other rapporteurs have faced similar controversies. Tlaleng Mofokeng, former rapporteur on the right to health, once described Hamas as not being terrorists. She later ran for the position of mayor of Johannesburg under the economic freedom fighters party, a group known for its inflammatory rhetoric. These cases highlight a broader pattern of individuals who, despite their roles within the UN, have taken controversial stances or aligned themselves with political entities outside the organization's core mission. Guterres' remarks reflect a tension between the UN’s commitment to neutrality and the increasing politicization of its special rapporteurs. While the UN maintains that these experts work independently, the lack of clear procedures for removing them when they act against the organization’s interests has raised questions. Guterres, known for his top-down leadership style, has avoided publicly criticizing these figures, instead opting to distance himself from the controversy. This situation underscores the challenges faced by international organizations in maintaining both independence and accountability. As the UN continues to navigate complex geopolitical landscapes, the role of its special rapporteurs remains a point of contention. The coming months will likely see further debate over how to balance the need for independent inquiry with the imperative to uphold institutional integrity.