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UNHRC: Promoting and protecting human rights worldwide

The United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) is a UN body dedicated to promoting and protecting human rights globally.

Mandate and activities

UNHRC investigates allegations of human rights breaches and addresses thematic issues like:

- Freedom of association and assembly

- Freedom of expression

- Freedom of belief and religion

- Women's rights

- LGBT rights

- Rights of racial and ethnic minorities

Structure and membership

The Council has 47 members elected for three-year terms on a regional group basis. Members can serve a maximum of two consecutive terms. The Council works closely with the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR).

Sessions and operations

UNHRC holds regular sessions three times a year and can convene special sessions to address human rights emergencies. As of November 2023, there had been 36 special sessions. Despite criticism regarding member countries' human rights records, UNHRC plays a crucial role in promoting human rights worldwide.