About United Nations Human Rights Council:
- It was created by the General Assembly on 15 March 2006 by replacing the Commission on Human Rights.
- It is an inter-governmental body within the United Nations system, which is responsible for strengthening the promotion and protection of human rights around the world.
- Mandate: To promote “universal respect for the protection of all human rights and fundamental freedoms for all” and “address situations of violations of human rights, including gross and systematic violations, and make recommendations thereon.”
- Member countries: The Council is made up of 47 Member States, which are elected by the UN General Assembly through direct and secret ballot.
- The Council’s Membership is based on equitable geographical distribution.
- Members of the Council serve for a period of three years and are not eligible for immediate re-election after serving two consecutive terms.
- Functions of United Nations Human Rights Council
- It investigates allegations of breaches of human rights in UN member states.
- It addresses important human rights issues such as freedom of expression, women’s rights, LGBT rights, and the rights of racial and ethnic minorities.
- The UNHRC works closely with the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR).
