United Nations human rights chief Volker Turk called on authorities and protesters in Albania, Belgium, France, Italy and Portugal to reduce tensions and prevent violence. The appeal came as large demonstrations in all five countries raised fresh questions about the protection of human rights. Turk asked both sides to exercise restraint and pursue dialogue rather than confrontation. He said the protests have created broad concern over how security forces and participants are handling public order. The call was directed at government representatives and demonstrators across the different countries. It also frames the protests as a human rights issue, not merely a domestic political dispute in each place. No specific measures or deadlines accompanied the appeal in the statement.