UN Human Rights Chief’s Response to Jihadist Massacre: More "Robust Gun Regulation"

In response to the ISIS-inspired massacre at an Orlando nightclub on June 12th, United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Zeid Ra’ad Al Hussein focused on gun control. He said that such violent attacks are “the direct result of insufficient gun control.” He called on the U.S. to adopt "robust gun regulation" in order to counter the impact of gun violence on human rights. “Irresponsible pro-gun propaganda suggests that firearms make society safer, when all evidence points to the contrary,” High Commissioner Zeid added. “The ready availability of guns leaves little space between murderous impulses and actions that result in death. The journey between hate-filled beliefs and violent hate crimes is accelerated. Society -- in particular its most vulnerable communities and minorities who are already facing widespread prejudice -- pay a high price for the failure to stand up to the lobbyists and take the necessary measures to protect people from gun violence.” Zeid’s comments are offensive on at least two levels.