Volker Turk is set to become the first UN human rights chief to finish two consecutive four-year terms, and you can bet the mainstream media is going to spin that achievement however they can. Outlets like CNN and MSNBC will undoubtedly paint a rosy picture of his reign as if he’s some sort of human rights messiah. But let’s cut through the corporate media fluff. Has Turk really made meaningful progress, or are we just meant to applaud his tenure because he hit a milestone?

Fox News will likely focus on the controversy surrounding the UN, highlighting allegations of systemic failures while ignoring the fact that Turk has been part of the system that perpetuates these issues. Meanwhile, NPR will probably take a softer approach, draping his accomplishments in a blanket of “long-term commitment” without holding his feet to the fire on real results. This is classic establishment journalism—celebrate the person, diminish the problems.

Furthermore, is anyone going to address the bias inherent in such a cozy UN structure? The fact is, the UN and its leaders often seem more preoccupied with political correctness than actual human rights. Turk completing two terms will be hailed as a success, yet the marginalization of dissenting voices within human rights discussions won’t see the light of day. Kudos for continuity, I guess, but we need to demand more than just a seat at the table. It’s time for accountability, not just applause.