Trump Administration Waged Campaign Against UN Human Rights Chief Appointee

Foreign Policy reports that the U.S. waged a behind-the-scenes campaign against the appointment of Michelle Bachelet, former President of Chile, as the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights.  Bachelet, a fierce champion of women’s rights, is the founding executive director of UN Women, and was the 17th woman to be elected a head of state worldwide.  By training, High Commissioner Bachelet is a medical doctor with particular expertise in maternal and child health.  According to the Foreign Policy reporting, the Trump Administration singled out Bachelet’s support for women’s reproductive rights as a particular disqualifier for the human rights position.  The Trump Administration’s objections proved to be futile, however, and Bachelet currently holds the High Commissioner position, with much anticipation that she will continue to serve as a strong advocate for women’s rights.