The United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) is a principal human rights body within the United Nations (UN) system. It is responsible for promoting and protecting human rights around the world.
Here’s a comprehensive overview of its function, structure, and types of activities:
Function of the UNHRC:
1. Human Rights Promotion: The primary function of the UNHRC is to promote and protect human rights globally. It addresses human rights violations, monitors human rights situations in different countries, and raises awareness about human rights issues.
2. Policy Development: The UNHRC develops and promotes international human rights standards and norms. It adopts resolutions, decisions, and declarations that guide states’ actions and provide a framework for addressing human rights challenges.
3. Universal Periodic Review (UPR): The UNHRC conducts the UPR, a unique process where the human rights records of all UN member states are reviewed. It assesses the implementation of human rights obligations and offers recommendations to improve the human rights situation in each country.
4. Special Procedures: The UNHRC appoints special rapporteurs, independent experts, and working groups to examine specific human rights issues or country situations. These special procedures conduct investigations, issue reports, and provide recommendations to address human rights concerns.
5. Human Rights Council Complaint Procedure: The UNHRC operates a complaint procedure that allows individuals and groups to submit complaints of human rights violations for consideration. The procedure aims to provide a remedy for victims and hold states accountable for human rights abuses.
Structure of the UNHRC:
1. Membership: The UNHRC consists of 47 member states elected by the UN General Assembly. The seats are distributed among regions to ensure equitable geographical representation.
2. Sessions: The UNHRC holds regular sessions throughout the year in Geneva, Switzerland. The main sessions occur in March, June, and September. Additionally, the UNHRC can convene special sessions to address urgent human rights situations.
3. President and Bureau: The UNHRC elects a President and members of the Bureau to oversee its work. The President presides over the sessions, represents the council externally, and facilitates discussions and negotiations.
4. Ad Hoc Committees and Working Groups: The UNHRC establishes ad hoc committees and working groups to focus on specific issues, such as the Universal Periodic Review Working Group and various thematic working groups.
5. Secretariat: The Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) serves as the secretariat for the UNHRC. It supports the council’s work by providing research, analysis, and administrative assistance.
Types of Activities:
1. Interactive Dialogues: The UNHRC conducts interactive dialogues with states, UN experts, and civil society organizations to discuss human rights situations, share information, and exchange views.
2. Resolutions and Decisions: The UNHRC adopts resolutions and decisions on a wide range of human rights issues. These documents address specific concerns, provide guidance, and make recommendations for action.
3. Panel Discussions and Side Events: The UNHRC organizes panel discussions and side events during its sessions to facilitate in-depth discussions, share best practices, and raise awareness about emerging human rights topics.
4. Special Sessions: The UNHRC convenes special sessions to address urgent human rights situations that require immediate attention and action.
5. Reports and Recommendations: The UNHRC receives reports from special procedures, the Universal Periodic Review, and other sources. It reviews these reports and makes recommendations to states on how to improve their human rights records.
The UNHRC plays a critical role in promoting and protecting human rights globally. Through its functions, structure, and various activities, it addresses human rights violations, develops international standards, and provides a platform for dialogue and cooperation to advance the human rights agenda.
1. Membership and Elections: The UNHRC consists of 47 member states elected by the UN General Assembly. The elections take place based on equitable geographical distribution, with seats allocated to five regional groups (African States, Asia-Pacific States, Eastern European States, Latin American and Caribbean States, and Western European and other States). Members are elected for three-year terms, and they can be eligible for immediate re-election for one additional term.
2. Universal Periodic Review (UPR): The UPR is a unique mechanism of the UNHRC that reviews the human rights records of all UN member states. It involves a comprehensive assessment of a country’s human rights situation, including achievements, challenges, and recommendations. During the UPR process, member states, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders provide information and make recommendations. The UPR aims to encourage dialogue, cooperation, and the improvement of human rights in all countries.
3. Special Procedures: The UNHRC appoints special rapporteurs, independent experts, and working groups known as “special procedures” to address specific human rights issues or country situations. These experts undertake fact-finding missions, conduct investigations, and report on human rights issues within their respective mandates. They raise awareness, provide recommendations, and engage with states and other stakeholders to promote and protect human rights.
4. Complaint Procedure: The UNHRC operates a complaint procedure, known as the “Human Rights Council Complaint Procedure” or the “1503 Procedure.” It allows individuals and groups to submit complaints or communications regarding human rights violations. The procedure provides a mechanism for victims to seek redress, and it facilitates the consideration of such complaints by the UNHRC.
5. Review of Human Rights Situations: The UNHRC reviews and addresses human rights situations and issues around the world. It examines reports, conducts discussions, and adopts resolutions on various human rights concerns. This includes situations of grave human rights violations, conflict-related human rights abuses, discrimination, freedom of expression, freedom of assembly, and other thematic and country-specific issues.
6. Engagement with Civil Society: The UNHRC actively engages with civil society organizations, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and other stakeholders. NGOs can participate in the UNHRC sessions, provide input and expertise, and contribute to the discussions and decision-making processes. The UNHRC also holds regular dialogues with NGOs and civil society representatives to gather perspectives and insights.
7. Follow-up and Implementation: The UNHRC plays a role in monitoring the implementation of its resolutions, decisions, and recommendations. It follows up on the progress made by member states in addressing human rights concerns. It encourages states to take necessary measures to fulfill their human rights obligations and provides technical assistance and capacity-building support to facilitate implementation.
8. Cooperation with Other UN Bodies and Mechanisms: The UNHRC collaborates with other UN bodies, including the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), treaty bodies, and other specialized agencies. It seeks to ensure coherence and coordination in addressing human rights issues across the UN system.
The UNHRC serves as a vital platform for addressing human rights challenges globally. Through its membership, mechanisms, and activities, it promotes dialogue, monitors human rights situations, develops international standards, and contributes to the protection and promotion of human rights for all individuals worldwide.
1. Composition and Sessions: The UNHRC consists of 47 member states, with each member serving a term of three years. The council holds regular sessions in Geneva, Switzerland, for a total of at least ten weeks per year. These sessions provide opportunities for member states, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders to engage in discussions, debates, and negotiations on human rights issues.
2. Decision-Making Process: The UNHRC operates on a consensus-based decision-making process. This means that resolutions and decisions are ideally adopted by consensus, with all member states in agreement. However, if consensus cannot be reached, a vote can be taken, and a simple majority of the members present and voting is required for a resolution to be adopted.
3. Agenda Setting: The UNHRC has a flexible agenda that allows for the consideration of a wide range of human rights issues. The agenda is determined through consultations and negotiations among member states. It covers both thematic topics, such as freedom of expression, right to education, and women’s rights, as well as country-specific situations where human rights concerns exist.
4. Special Sessions on Urgent Matters: The UNHRC has the power to convene special sessions to address urgent human rights situations that require immediate attention. These special sessions can be called at the request of at least one-third of the council’s members or by the UNHRC President. Special sessions enable timely discussions and responses to pressing human rights issues.
5. Interactive Dialogues and Engagements: The UNHRC facilitates interactive dialogues during its sessions, providing a platform for member states, UN experts, and civil society representatives to engage in discussions. These interactive dialogues allow for the exchange of views, sharing of experiences, and exploration of solutions to human rights challenges. The UNHRC also organizes panel discussions, debates, and side events to delve deeper into specific human rights topics.
6. Country-Specific Mandates: The UNHRC establishes country-specific mandates to address human rights situations in particular countries. For instance, it may appoint a special rapporteur or an independent expert to monitor and report on the human rights situation in a specific country. These mandates help to focus attention on critical human rights issues and provide recommendations for improvement.
7. Cooperation with Regional Organizations: The UNHRC emphasizes collaboration and cooperation with regional human rights mechanisms and organizations. It seeks to strengthen partnerships and coordination with regional bodies, such as the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights, the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights, and the European Court of Human Rights. This collaboration ensures a comprehensive and holistic approach to promoting and protecting human rights.
8. Follow-up and Implementation Mechanisms: The UNHRC has established mechanisms to facilitate the follow-up and implementation of its resolutions and recommendations. The council’s mechanisms include the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) follow-up, where states report on the progress made in implementing UPR recommendations, and the Advisory Committee, which provides expertise and advice on human rights issues.
9. Cooperation with Non-State Actors: The UNHRC actively engages with non-state actors, including civil society organizations, human rights defenders, and NGOs. It recognizes their crucial role in promoting and protecting human rights. NGOs can participate in the council’s sessions, deliver statements, organize side events, and provide input into the council’s work, contributing to a vibrant and inclusive human rights discourse.
10. Annual Reports and Documentation: The UNHRC produces various reports and documents to capture its activities and outcomes. These include annual reports on the work of the council, reports from special procedures and mandate holders, summaries of interactive dialogues, and resolutions and decisions adopted during sessions. These reports serve as important references for member states, civil society, and other stakeholders.
1. Subsidiary Bodies: The UNHRC establishes subsidiary bodies to support its work and address specific human rights issues. These bodies include thematic and country-specific working groups, expert advisory panels, and committees. For example, the Working Group on Enforced or Involuntary Disappearances focuses on addressing cases of enforced disappearances globally, while the Working Group on Arbitrary Detention examines issues related to arbitrary detention.
2. High-Level Segment: The UNHRC holds an annual high-level segment during one of its regular sessions, which provides a platform for high-level representatives, including heads of state and government, to address human rights issues. The high-level segment offers an opportunity for member states to highlight their priorities, share best practices, and make commitments to promote and protect human rights.
3. Thematic Reports and Studies: The UNHRC commissions thematic reports and studies on specific human rights topics to deepen understanding and inform its work. These reports are prepared by independent experts, special rapporteurs, or working groups and provide in-depth analysis, recommendations, and insights on various thematic areas, such as the rights of women, children’s rights, or the rights of persons with disabilities.
4. Cooperation with National Human Rights Institutions: The UNHRC encourages cooperation with national human rights institutions (NHRIs) as key actors in promoting and protecting human rights at the national level. NHRIs play a crucial role in monitoring human rights situations, providing recommendations, and collaborating with the UNHRC and other stakeholders to advance human rights within their respective countries.
5. Prevention of Human Rights Violations: The UNHRC recognizes the importance of preventing human rights violations before they occur. It promotes preventive measures and strategies to address root causes and risk factors that lead to human rights abuses. This includes supporting early warning mechanisms, conflict prevention efforts, and addressing structural and systemic issues that undermine human rights.
6. Engagement with Non-Member States: While the UNHRC primarily consists of member states, it also engages with non-member states and entities. Non-member states can participate in the council’s sessions and engage in discussions and debates. Additionally, the UNHRC may invite non-member states, regional organizations, and other stakeholders to provide information, expertise, and perspectives on human rights issues.
7. Cooperation with International Criminal Court (ICC): The UNHRC collaborates with the International Criminal Court (ICC) in its efforts to address gross human rights violations and serious international crimes. The UNHRC may refer situations to the ICC for investigation and prosecution, particularly in cases involving war crimes, crimes against humanity, and genocide.
8. Human Rights Education and Training: The UNHRC promotes human rights education and training as a means to enhance awareness, understanding, and respect for human rights. It supports initiatives that provide education on human rights, including through the development of educational materials, training programs, and capacity-building efforts for various stakeholders, including government officials, civil society, and the public.
9. Funding and Resources: The UNHRC relies on voluntary contributions from member states, international organizations, and other donors to support its work. These contributions fund the council’s sessions, activities of special procedures, and the functioning of the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR). Adequate and sustainable funding is crucial to ensure the effective functioning of the UNHRC and its mechanisms.
10. Review and Reform: The UNHRC periodically conducts reviews and assessments of its work and functioning to enhance its effectiveness and efficiency. These reviews aim to identify areas for improvement and propose reforms to strengthen the council’s ability to address emerging human rights challenges and better deliver on its mandate.
1. Universal Periodic Review (UPR) Follow-up: The UPR is a key mechanism of the UNHRC that assesses the human rights records of all UN member states. After a country undergoes its UPR review, a follow-up process begins to monitor the implementation of the recommendations received. The follow-up encourages states to take concrete steps to address human rights shortcomings and report on the progress made in implementing the recommendations.
2. Special Sessions on Human Rights: In addition to its regular sessions, the UNHRC can convene special sessions to address urgent human rights situations. These sessions are called at the request of member states, with the support of one-third of the council’s members. Special sessions allow for swift responses to crises and enable the council to adopt resolutions and take collective action to address human rights violations.
3. Interactive Dialogues with Special Procedures: Special procedures, including special rapporteurs, independent experts, and working groups, play a crucial role in the work of the UNHRC. They conduct country visits, monitor human rights situations, and provide thematic reports and recommendations. The council holds interactive dialogues with these special procedures during its sessions, allowing for direct engagement, exchange of information, and discussions on specific human rights concerns.
4. Human Rights Council Advisory Committee: The UNHRC has an Advisory Committee consisting of 18 independent experts who provide expertise and advice on various human rights issues. The committee conducts studies, research, and consultations to assist the council in its work. It also provides recommendations on emerging human rights challenges, thematic priorities, and the implementation of the council’s mandate.
5. Prevention of Human Rights Abuses: The UNHRC recognizes the importance of preventing human rights abuses and promoting a culture of respect for human rights. It emphasizes the role of early warning systems, conflict prevention, and addressing the root causes of human rights violations. The council engages in discussions and initiatives focused on prevention, including through thematic resolutions and debates on topics related to conflict prevention, peacebuilding, and human rights education.
6. Human Rights and Sustainable Development: The UNHRC acknowledges the interlinkages between human rights and sustainable development. It recognizes that the realization of human rights is essential for achieving sustainable development goals. The council discusses and explores the connection between human rights and various aspects of sustainable development, such as poverty eradication, access to education, healthcare, and environmental protection.
7. Cooperation with National Human Rights Institutions (NHRIs): The UNHRC emphasizes cooperation with NHRIs as critical partners in promoting and protecting human rights at the national level. It encourages states to establish and strengthen NHRIs and provides support for their capacity-building efforts. The council recognizes the valuable contributions of NHRIs in monitoring human rights situations, providing recommendations, and facilitating dialogue between governments and civil society.
8. Follow-up to Resolutions and Recommendations: The UNHRC monitors the implementation of its resolutions and recommendations by member states. It encourages states to take concrete action to address human rights concerns identified in the council’s resolutions. The council may discuss the follow-up to specific resolutions during its sessions and request progress reports from states on the measures taken to implement the recommendations.
9. Cooperation with Regional Human Rights Mechanisms: The UNHRC collaborates with regional human rights mechanisms, such as the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights, the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights, and the European Court of Human Rights. This cooperation aims to enhance the promotion and protection of human rights at both the global and regional levels and ensure consistency and complementarity in efforts to address human rights issues.
10. Awareness-Raising and Advocacy: The UNHRC engages in awareness-raising and advocacy activities to promote human rights. It organizes panel discussions, side events, and campaigns during its sessions to highlight specific human rights concerns and mobilize support for their resolution. The council also encourages member states, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders to engage in advocacy efforts and raise awareness about human rights issues in their respective countries and communities.
1. Membership: The UNHRC consists of 47 member states elected by the United Nations General Assembly. The seats are distributed among regional groups, ensuring a balanced representation of different regions of the world. Members serve for a period of three years and are eligible for re-election once their term expires.
2. Universal Membership and Non-Selectivity: The UNHRC follows the principle of universal membership, meaning that all 193 UN member states are eligible to be elected to the council. This principle ensures that all countries have the opportunity to engage in discussions and contribute to the promotion and protection of human rights. The council also upholds the principle of non-selectivity, aiming to address human rights issues in all countries without discrimination or bias.
3. Voluntary Pledges and Commitments: Member states of the UNHRC have the opportunity to make voluntary pledges and commitments regarding their human rights record and actions they plan to take to promote and protect human rights. These pledges can include specific measures, initiatives, or policy changes that states commit to implement during their tenure on the council.
4. Voting and Decision-Making: The UNHRC makes decisions and adopts resolutions through a voting process. Resolutions can be introduced by member states or groups of states, and they require a simple majority (at least 24 votes) to be adopted. However, the council strives to achieve decisions on human rights issues through consensus and dialogue whenever possible.
5. Special Sessions on Urgent Human Rights Concerns: The UNHRC has the authority to convene special sessions to address urgent human rights situations that require immediate attention. These special sessions can be called at the request of member states or by the UNHRC President in consultation with the council members. Special sessions enable the council to respond swiftly to emerging crises and human rights violations.
6. Cooperation with Civil Society: The UNHRC recognizes the crucial role of civil society organizations in promoting and protecting human rights. It actively engages with civil society through various mechanisms, including granting them the opportunity to participate in its sessions, providing space for side events and discussions, and consulting with civil society on human rights issues. Civil society organizations can also submit reports and information to the council on human rights situations in different countries.
7. Follow-up to Special Procedures’ Recommendations: Special procedures, including special rapporteurs and working groups, play a vital role in the UNHRC’s work. They conduct investigations, issue reports, and make recommendations on specific human rights issues. Member states are encouraged to cooperate with and respond to the recommendations of special procedures, and the council may discuss the follow-up to these recommendations during its sessions.
8. Engagement with the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR): The UNHRC works closely with the OHCHR, which serves as its secretariat. The OHCHR provides support to the council’s sessions, special procedures, and other mechanisms. It assists in the preparation of reports, research, and analysis on human rights issues and facilitates the implementation of the council’s decisions and resolutions.
9. Annual Reports of the UNHRC: The UNHRC submits annual reports to the UN General Assembly, summarizing its activities, decisions, and resolutions adopted during the year. These reports provide an overview of the council’s work and highlight key human rights issues addressed, including emerging challenges and areas of focus.
10. Regional Group Coordination: The UNHRC operates through regional group coordination, which allows member states from each region to coordinate their positions, engage in consultations, and present joint initiatives. Regional groups play a significant role in the election of council members and facilitate regional cooperation and representation within the council.