Dhaka, Jan. 16 -- The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet on Wednesday urged states to step up their support in 2019 in order to fund what she described as the most ambitious programme of work ever drawn by her office.

Presenting an appeal for US$ 321.5 million, the UN Human Rights chief stressed that sustainable peace, security and development will only be achieved in an "era of great turbulence" if states invest in human rights.

She, according to a statement received from Geneva, described her office as "a vital tool for greater prevention, and better protection, around the world."

"Human rights are your tools," Bachelet told a gathering of delegates in Geneva, "- the best and most effective investment in a sound ...