Report on the 57th session of the Human Rights Council

Quick summary

• The 57th regular session of the Human Rights Council (HRC57) was held from Monday 9th September to Friday 11th October 2024.
• On 11 September, the High Commissioner Volker Türk opened HRC57 by presenting a global update on the situation of human rights around the world. In his intervention, the High Commissioner emphasised that it is a critical moment for the global community to choose between a troubling status quo and a more humane future. He asserted that the “new normal” must not accept military escalation, deepening inequalities, or disinformation, and he called for a collective commitment to human rights and shared universal values. Türk highlighted the regression of women’s rights, the rise of misogyny, and systemic racism, urging evidence-based policies to combat these issues. He expressed concern over the criminalization of LGBTQ+ individuals and the suppression of civil liberties in various countries. He discussed ongoing conflicts, particularly in Sudan and Gaza, and called for states to adhere to international law regarding arms transfers. Türk stressed the need for human rights in peace processes and international cooperation to tackle global challenges. In closing, he urged a collective rejection of a dystopian future, advocating for the transformative power of human rights to create a just and sustainable world.
• 6 panel discussions were held during the session.
• 70 reports under the Council’s various agenda items were considered.
• 19 interactive dialogues with Special Procedures mandate holders (14 thematic and five country-specific) took place.
• Six interactive dialogues with investigative mechanisms were held.
• Four new Special Procedures mandate-holders were appointed to the following mandates: the Working Group on Enforced or Involuntary Disappearances from Asia-Pacific States (Iraq); the Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Belarus (Latvia); the Working Group on the use of mercenaries as a means of violating human rights and impeding the exercise of the right of peoples to self-determination from Latin American and Caribbean States (Colombia); the Group of Experts on People of African Descent from Western European and other States (Spain).
• The outcome reports of the UPR Working Group of the following 14 States were adopted: Afghanistan, Cambodia, Chile, Comoros, Cyprus, Dominican Republic, Eritrea, New Zealand, North Macedonia, Slovakia, Uruguay, Vanuatu, Viet Nam, Yemen.
• 38 texts (37 resolutions and one President’s statement) were considered by the Council. This represents a 2,7% increase in the number of adopted texts compared to one-year prior (HRC54). Of the 38 adopted texts, 28 were adopted by consensus (74%), 10 by a recorded vote (26%), and none were rejected. 
• 8 written amendments were put forward by States during the consideration of texts and resolutions: none of them were adopted; 2 were withdrawn and the remaining 6 amendments were rejected by a vote.
• 31 of the texts adopted by the Council (82%) had Programme Budget Implications.

High Commissioner’s briefing

On 9 September 2024, the High Commissioner for Human Rights, Mr. Volker Türk, addressed the Human Rights Council through his global update on the state of human rights. He began his address highlighting that the international community has arrived at a crossroads, where it can either choose to continue on its current treacherous path and sleepwalk into a dystopian future, or it can choose to wake up and turn things around for the better, for humanity and the planet.

He claims that the ‘new normal’ cannot encompass military escalation and advancements in warfare, deepening inequalities within and between States, spread of disinformation, complacency with injustice, discrediting of multilateral institutions or the skewed understanding of the concept of national sovereignty. He warns that this is not the world that one wants for themselves or for others, urging for the international community to make a conscious choice that is guided by human rights and the universal values that are shared by all.

Mr. Türk strongly remarked that human rights are not in crisis, but that it is the responsibility of political leaders to make them a reality. He proceeds to comment on the state of human rights across the world starting with the overall commitment on women’s rights being overshadowed by patriarchy and the regression of gender and equality citing the example of Afghanistan where laws and policies are effectively removing women from public life. He expressed dismay over the undoing of years of advances made towards the commitment of women’s rights as hate and misogyny become normalised both offline and online. He called out the inadequacies in the justice system and lack of preventative measures worldwide to protect victims and prevent such violence.

He went on to address the continuing issues of racism, xenophobia, and intolerance which is often supported by power structures, vested interest and harmful stereotypes, often with roots in colonialism and enslavement.  He remarks that despite the progress made in addressing these problems, the lack of data-driven policies are to be formulated to not only resolve these issues but also ensure transparency and accountability to address these phenomena. He announced plans to present a report on systemic racism and the discrimination faced by people of African descent later in the session.

Mr. Türk proceeded to condemn the scapegoating of migrants, refugees, and minorities by politicians, particularly during electoral periods, citing the examples of countries such as Austria, France, Germany, Hungary, the United Kingdom, and the United States. He argued that these countries capitalised on public anxiety and division for political gains. He reminded the Council that political leadership must be grounded in human rights and evidence-based debates to tackle the real problems that people face in areas such as health, housing, employment and social protection.

He went on to acknowledge the global shift towards decriminalisation of consensual same-sex relations. However, he expressed concern over the series of laws adopted by countries such as Ghana, Indonesia, and Iraq, and Uganda that expand criminal sanctions against LGBTQ+ individuals which are contrary to the basic universal norms which States have agreed. The High Commissioner also made note of the rise in executions in countries such as the Islamic Republic of Iran, particularly for drug-related crimes, but also Saudi Arabia for which he called for an evidence-based approach to reverse the trend.

Mr. Türk, pointing to the global status of political and civil rights, warned that there are constant efforts to disrupt freedoms of expression, assembly and association and a free press, including in electoral contexts. He claims that these freedoms are essential for a society to function but also in finding solutions to the many problems that persist. He cites the examples of detention of journalists in Azerbaijan; arrests, detention, and harassment of political opponents in Mali, Uganda and Venezuela; arrests and detention of political opponents and activists in Tunisia; persecution of political opponents and journalists in Nicaragua; crackdowns on activists in Viet Nam and undue restrictions on civic space continue to be imposed under the guise of national security and social stability in China.

Expanding on the subject, Mr. Türk draws attention to ‘State capture’ where powerful political and economic actors take control of independent State institutions, such as the judiciary and election commissions to silence critics and exploit public resources for personal gain. He cited the case of Guatemala where the criminal law and its processes are abused by some official actors, such as the Attorney General, to pressure and persecute those involved in defending human rights and promoting accountability. Further, he elaborates that sections of the private sector have also engaged in the illegal trade of a nation’s resources by citing the cases in the Central African Republic or eastern Democratic Republic of Congo and parts of Latin America, particularly Brazil and Peru.

Mr. Türk moved on to voicing concern over the dangers posed by insufficiently regulated digital technologies. He argued that human rights, including protecting free expression and privacy, must be front and centre in efforts to regulate digital technologies and ensuring that online violence, disinformation, hate speech and incitement to hatred are stopped at the source. He stressed on the importance of making accessible the benefits of digital technologies and artificial intelligence to those most in need, to help reduce global inequalities and close digital divides while calling for the Global Digital Compact to be anchored firmly in the normative human rights framework.

He went on to emphasise that human rights can trigger positive change in society and help move towards greater justice and stability. He cited examples from the past where movements such as those against apartheid, racism, for women’s rights, for environmental rights, and many others have proved this claim. He added that human rights are regulators and correctors of power dynamics gone awry. In light of the elections taking place this year, urged the voters to ask themselves which of the political platforms of candidates will work for the human rights of everyone and be wary of the ‘strongman’ types that speak rhetorically offering illusory solutions that deny reality.

Mr Türk moved on to bring attention to the ongoing conflict zones. He began with Sudan, which is currently experiencing one of the world’s worst humanitarian and protection crises, fuelled by long standing impunity, a firestorm of zero-sum power struggles, competing economic interests and instrumentalisation of ethnic tensions which has claimed the lives of over 20,000 people. He then spoke about the war in Gaza which is an example of how wars can be generational, fostering repeated cycles of hatred if their causes remain unaddressed. In the current conflict, over 40,000 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli forces and over 1,200 victims in Israel have lost their lives. In the West Bank, deadly and destructive operations, some at a scale not witnessed in the last two decades, are worsening a calamitous situation there, already aggravated by serious settler violence. In the West Bank, deadly and destructive operations, some at a scale not witnessed in the last two decades, are worsening a calamitous situation there, already aggravated by serious settler violence. He emphasised that ending the war and averting a full-blown regional conflict is an absolute and urgent priority, nothing that the situation of illegality across the occupied Palestinian territory deriving from Israel’s policies and practices as mentioned by the International Court of Justice in its Advisory Opinion in July, must be comprehensively addressed. Moving to Ukraine he expressed concern for the civilians trapped in the cycle of terror because of the ongoing attacks by Russia on civilian establishments. He also warned of the situation worsening for the Ukrainians ahead of the winter.  He also mentioned that his Office has pursued access to all affected areas to be able to monitor the human rights situation, however, Russia has declined to grant such access to relevant areas. While addressing the situation in Myanmar, he claimed that the civilians are paying the heaviest price as they suffer from air strikes, mass arrests and extrajudicial killings. He also made note of the violence directed towards the human rights and humanitarian system, stating that UN staff and humanitarian workers must never be targeted.

He then elaborated on the role of States, claiming that States themselves have designed international human rights and humanitarian law to preserve and guarantee our common humanity. He specifically urged for states to refrain from the transfer of arms to parties in conflict, citing their obligations under the Geneva Conventions and human rights due diligence, to refrain from exporting or transferring arms to a party to an armed conflict, which would be a breach of international humanitarian law.

Mr. Türk drew attention to the idea of peace and said that human rights work is crucial to peace as it plays a critical role in preventing conflicts, providing early warning signals, establishing reliable facts and ensuring peace negotiations are inclusive, acceptable and sustainable. He used the examples of successful peace processes in the former Yugoslavia, Guatemala and Cambodia to highlight the value of integrating human rights. Similarly, in Liberia human rights principles were transformative in peace processes and Nepal’s measures to where the transitional justice bodies envisaged in the 2006 peace accords.

He also claimed that there must be a united support for justice both domestically and internationally. Citing the Nuremberg Trials, and the judgments of the ICTY and of the ICTR, in Sierra Leone and Cambodia as a landmark for the importance of universal jurisdiction. He welcomed the advance negotiations on a Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of Crimes Against Humanity.

Mr. Türk on international cooperation remarked that while instability at home fuels global instability, solidarity and cohesion within countries form a solid foundation for international cooperation. He claimed that the promotion and protection of all human rights is a legitimate concern of the international community in line with what States have acknowledged in the Vienna Declaration and Programme of Action in 1993.

He vowed that as the High Commissioner he would remain committed to advancing a vision of human rights for the 21st century that is solution-oriented, forward-looking and unifying. He claimed that international cooperation, grounded in human rights, is the means to addressing the challenges of today. He drew attention to the access of multilateral institutions to enable dialogue, with greater representativeness, to address the roots of mistrust, and to facilitate progress, urging the international community to make use of this human rights ecosystem to ensure that human rights are bolstered and strongly integrated in the upcoming Pact for the Future.

In closing, Mr. Türk made clear that going forward he would be transparent about his approach to his mandate, regarding the challenges and opportunities, remarking that he believes in engagement, frank exchanges and keeping dialogue open, even more so in the face of fierce disagreement. He claimed that human rights are meant to challenge our own assumptions and identify the blind spots, adding that selectivity and inconsistent standards serve no one, especially not the victims. He maintained that his office would assure all States the value of engaging with his Office and the human rights system as a whole, not for engagement’s sake, but to achieve tangible progress.

He also noted that his office has allotted time to design an organisational plan to make the UN Human Rights Office more effective and responsive as well as continue to work tirelessly in support of victims everywhere. He also urged the members to use the Council because a strong UN Human Rights Office and a healthy, well-resourced human rights ecosystem, are of global interest and benefit.

Lastly, he stressed the importance, despite  governments and other actors not always agreeing with the Council, of not killing the messenger and instead furthering the fundamental common objective of promoting and protecting human rights for everyone, everywhere. He remarked that there should be a collective choice of rejecting the ‘new normal’ and the dystopian future by embracing and trusting the full power of human rights as the path to a world that is more peaceful, just, fair, and sustainable.

The official transcript of Mr. Türk’s oral update can be found here. 

Panel discussions

A total of six panel discussions were held during the 57th session. The panels were focused on the following topics:

1. Panel discussion on pro​motin​g and protecting economic, social and cultural rig​hts within the context of addressing inequalities (11 September 2024 – concept note – recording).

• The High Commissioner Mr. Volker Türk highlighted drowning global debt despite the wealth that exists in the world. He noted that the panel discussion was an opportunity to re-commit to the implementation and fulfilment of economic, social and cultural rights. He also mentioned that his Office would undertake regional consultations on economic, social and cultural rights, starting with Governments and other stakeholders in Latin America, Africa and Europe. He highlighted that it is important to be mindful of the indivisibility of all human rights, implying that economic, social and cultural rights will not be possible without the full realisation of civil and political rights. 
• H.E. Mr. Chen Xu, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of China to the United Nations Office at Geneva and other international organisations in Switzerland highlighted efforts to promote economic, social, and cultural rights in addressing inequalities. He noted China’s achievements in poverty alleviation and the establishment of comprehensive education and healthcare systems. Emphasising reforms aimed at enhancing human rights protections, he outlined strategies for social assistance, regional development, and digital empowerment. He advocated for the balanced promotion of economic, social, and cultural rights within the UN framework and called for strengthened international cooperation to address global challenges. He also reaffirmed China’s commitment to multilateralism and inclusive development for all.
• Ms. Magdalena Sepúlveda Carmona, Executive Director of the Global Initiative for Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, claimed  that the most significant worldwide risk was the historic levels of inequality within and between countries. Specifically, she stated that no effort to promote ESC rights can be addressed without clearly observing the urgent need to transition away from fossil fuels and towards a decarbonized economy. She argued that the enjoyment of these rights depends on the States’ implementation of decisive and unequivocal actions to comply with the Paris Agreement and ensure that the temperature increase does not exceed 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels. 
• Prof. Maria Lúcia Amaral, Ombudsperson (Provedor de Justiça) of Portugal drew attention to the promotion and protection of social rights as fundamental human rights cited the Portuguese Ombudsman to highlight challenges and best practices to strengthen collective efforts in realising these rights for all. She also maintained that the key function of a National Human Rights Institutions is to act as a bridge between the government and the public, between policy and practice, ensuring that social rights are meaningfully fulfilled in the everyday lives of citizens. She also claimed that while domestic institutions can contribute to important strides in guaranteeing these rights, there is a need for more international cooperation and more collaboration with international human rights mechanisms, such as the Office of the High Commissioner, to amplify these efforts.

2. Panel discussion on quality education for peace and tolerance for every child (18th  September 2024 – concept note – recording).

• H.E. Ms. Alua Nadirkulova, Ambassador-at-Large of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Kazakhstan, opened with the claim that amid the the rise of intolerance, discrimination and hatred, which undermine social harmony and threaten the peace and stability in society, mainstreaming the values of human rights, peaceful coexistence, tolerance and understanding among individuals and communities in international and national prevention strategies, and that education is a key tool in this regard. She remarked that education is crucial for the recovery and protection of children affected by conflict and violence. She also added that the rights of the child are at the centre of peace-building processes and that education promotes respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms. 
• Ms. Nada Al-Nashif, United Nations Deputy High Commissioner for Human Rights, highlighted the devastating reality of 460 million children living in conflict zones in 2023 only. She remarked that quality education holds the potential to transform societies in which a well-educated population is more likely to be a peaceful one, characterised by social justice, respect for the rule of law and inclusion. She maintained that to end the cycles of conflict human rights must be put at the centre of prevention and peace-building and added that the Council and international community must ensure that children are included meaningfully in decision-making to ensure that they act decisively on behalf of future generations and the planet.
• Ms. Eyerusalem Azmeraw, Program Officer at the UNESCO International Institute for Capacity Building in Africa highlighted  the work of the International Institute for Capacity Building in Africa (IICBA) in Ethiopia, particularly the series of projects for peace-building and prevention of violent extremism through education in more than 25 African countries. However, she noted that there is still work to be done and that governments play a critical role in ensuring that peace education is sustainable and impactful. She noted eight recommendations before the Council: adequate resources allocation; contextualised approaches; strengthened teacher training institutions capacity; strengthened school leadership and community engagement; focus on well-being; multi-sectoral collaboration; partnerships and mobility; monitoring and evaluation.
• Ms. Maria Lucia Uribe Torres, Executive Director of the Geneva Office of Arigatou International, remarked that education is often used as a tool to promote fear of the other. Noting her point, she claimed that education per se is not a solution to violence and conflict, as education is not neutral, implying that Education has two side, it can either promote mutual understanding and respect of the other, trust and collaboration, or it can exacerbate divisions, polarisation, hatred and fear of the other. She went on to make four recommendations to the Council: education for peace goes beyond peace education; education for peace requires a whole-community approach; education for peace should empower learners to work together across differences to transform their communities and address the common issues that affect them; education for peace requires strong institutional commitments and leadership, as well as collaborations with the humanitarian, development and peace-building sectors.
• Ms. Mikiko Otani, Member and former Chair of the Committee on the Rights of the Child observed that Education should start within the family with critical support from schools and communities. She noted that incorporating education for peace and tolerance in school education is fundamental. However, the Committee on the Rights of the Child, in the review of the country reports, has rarely found peace education incorporated in school curriculums. In this regard, she suggested that a nexus must be created between human rights education and peace education which must be integrated in a holistic manner in school education at all levels. She also emphasised that states are obligated to ensure schools are a safe place for children and teachers where education is provided to children  both in peacetime and in time of conflict.
• Vinaya (15 years), child rights advocate from India, spoke about her experience volunteering and participating in several programmes that engage in positive transformations. She observed that while there are several legal laws and policies that uphold the rights of children it is unfortunate that children, teachers and school managements are not aware of these laws. She suggests that this gap must be rectified and enforced efficiently. In closing she declared that as a child she dreams of a world where children from different backgrounds, cultures, traditions come together, and live in harmony, and celebrate our differences, because every child matters.

3. Biennial panel discussion on the right to development on the theme ‘Realising the right to development: the case for a United Nations framework convention on international tax cooperation’ (18th September 2024 – concept note – recording).

• Mr. Volker Türk, United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, underscored that the right to development seeks to identify and dismantle the systemic and structural obstacles that impede the realisation of human rights. While urging for a move towards a more fair and just global economy, he suggested redesigning the existing global tax architecture and international financial system to make them fairer and more inclusive; ensure multinational corporations pay their fair share of taxes and promote financial transparency, integrity and accountability. He noted that better international cooperation and the realisation of human rights would benefit everyone as he called for a shift in the approach to development finance and economic policies.
• Mr. Abdul Muheet Chowdhary, Senior Programme Officer of the Sustainable Development and Climate Change Programme at the South Centre, explained the active role of the South Centre in supporting its 55 Member States and other developing countries in achieving the goal of having an intergovernmental tax body at the United Nations (UN). However, he notes that despite the progress made, the OECD’s rules have failed to stop tax related illicit financial flows (IFFs) leading to continued losses in revenues each year that weakens the Right to Development. In this regard, he suggested that there should be a universal, intergovernmental agreed definition of tax related illicit financial flows that includes tax avoidance, adopt a solution for intra-group payments of royalties, interest, dividends and fees for services  and create a transfer pricing comparable data a public good.
• Mr. Surya Deva, Special Rapporteur on the right to development, emphasised on the interlinkages between the right to development and the proposed UN framework convention on international tax cooperation. He noted that just as with other human rights, realising the right to development requires availability of sustained resources and a stable means for States to generate these resources was through taxation. He argued that taxation is essentially a human rights issue concerning who should pay how much tax and how the collected revenue should be spent has a direct bearing on the realisation of all human rights. He suggests that there should be more emphasis on international cooperation in taming tax evasion, tax avoidance, illicit financial flows and tax havens. Additionally, fair distribution must be recognised as a principle of the right to development and that there needs to be a global tax framework designed to raise resources to address the triple planetary crisis. Lastly, he noted that people must be taking in confidence as they have a right to participate in governments deciding how the revenue is spent.
• Ms. Sanya Reid Smith, Legal Advisor and Senior Researcher at Third World Network, explained that the current trade and investment treaty negotiations could undermine the effectiveness of UN tax conventions such as the UN framework convention on international tax cooperation. She notes that loopholes in the exist structures and claims although a UN tax convention guarantee the right to development, it is currently being undermined by provisions being negotiated and agreed in trade and investment agreements which are enforceable via investor-to-state dispute settlement (ISDS) and states suing each other at an international tribunal with the winning country possessing the ability to raise the tariffs on the losing country until it changes its tax laws to comply.

4. Panel discussion on States’ obligations on the role of the family in supporting the human rights of its members (25th September 2024 – concept note – recording). 

• H.E. Ms. Mariam bint Ali bin Nasser Al Misnad, Minister of Social Development and Family of Qatar, underlined that the world is grappling with the devastating impact of conflict, causing families, particularly vulnerable groups like children, women, the elderly, and people with disabilities, without their basic rights to security and peace. She called for urgent humanitarian action and a commitment to fostering lasting peace and justice. She also reaffirmed that families are vital to stable societies, particularly emphasising on Qatar, through the “Human Rights 75: The Family Pledge” which protects families from modern threats. 
• H.E. Ms. Maya Morsy, Minister of Social Solidarity of Egypt, reiterated the country’s commitment to strengthen Family-Oriented policies. She spoke about the several efforts that Egypt has taken in including President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi’s adoption of three mega developmental programs namely, the decent life program upgrading the local infrastructure of housing; family development program upgrading demographics and standard of living and Bedaya National Initiative. Finally, she claimed that recognising cultural specificities of Egypt was an important aspect when it came to the formulation and implementation of these global family development policies. She argues that a one-size-fits-all approach to family development would be counterproductive, leading to unintended consequences or resistance. 
• Ms. Nada Al-Nashif, United Nations Deputy High Commissioner for Human Rights emphasised that families should be a space where all members enjoy their human rights, and are free from discrimination and violence. She also stated that this space must also be a space where women’s right to equality and the rights and the best interests of the child must be guaranteed. In this regard, she remarked that States have an obligation to make this safety a reality in families by eliminating discriminatory laws, preventing violence and supporting families to live a decent life by guaranteeing social protection and quality social security. She maintained that families have been recognised as key actors in sustainable development through the consensus around the powerful potential of families to contribute to the realisation of all rights. She suggests for these reasons States must find a means to support and strengthen the resilience of families and their members.
• Mr. Sami Jaber, International Policy Officer at 5Rights Foundation, highlighted the role of families especially in the digital age. While mentioning the work 5Rights is involved in, he claims that although families play a vital role in protecting and guiding children, the complexity and magnitude of online harms makes it difficult to combat alone. In this regard, he argued that if States and Tech companies should take on the responsibility to build digital environments that take into consideration the rights of the child. This in turn would help ease the burden on parents who otherwise bear the sole responsibility of monitoring these spaces. To substantiate the argument, he cited the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights which states that States must take “appropriate steps to prevent, investigate, punish and redress such abuse through effective policies, legislation, regulations and adjudication.” 
• Mr. Umberto Cattaneo, Public Finance Economist in the Universal Social Protection Department at the International Labour Organization, stressed that although 52 per cent of the population is covered by at least one social protection benefit which is progress from 2015, there are still families that do not have access to social protections depending on the country of residence. He went on to emphasise on the ILO’s estimates on the financial gap to ensure social protection. According to these estimates, in low- and middle-income countries, the financing gap equals 3.3 percent of GDP annually, with two percent of GDP required for essential healthcare and 1.3 per cent for the five key social protection cash benefits. Low-income countries face the largest financing gap, amounting to 52.3 percent of their GDP. To close this gap, he suggests that there needs to be regular domestic financing that ensures a broad tax base with adequate taxation levels and social security contribution paid by employers and workers coupled with fair taxation to ensure that low income families do not suffer a welfare loss when taxes are levied. He also suggested that more measures should be taken to measure and fight illicit financial flows.  He concluded by reiterating that social protection and healthcare are fundamental human rights and that their fulfilment requires a comprehensive vision for their financing.
• Ms. Haina Lu, Member of the Working Group on discrimination against Women and Girls remarked that most often women and girls face adverse discrimination and stereotyping in family settings. She notes that States have an important role in safeguarding the rights of women and girls even in the context of families. In this regard, she recommended several State practices that can safeguard these rights including; amending law by raising the age to 18 for both girls and boys to marry; extending support to families that allow girls to access education on an equal basis; providing legal reforms to ensure equality in inheritance laws and policies and the codification of marital rape as a crime among others. In concluding she stressed that women and girls’ make immense contributions to their families and that they require the support of families to thrive in their lives. 
• Ms. Roqayah Ajaj, Entrepreneur and Disability Rights Advocate spoke about her personal journey as a person with retinitis pigmentosa. She mentioned the role his family played in supporting his education and providing an environment for him to thrive. She specifically mentioned the Saudi scholarship program ‘Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030’ which enabled her to study abroad to learn English and PhD. Using her personal life as an example, she remarked that States can support families like hers by adopting similar policies that protect the rights of persons with disabilities and ensuring accessibility to equal opportunities, including extending support in the equipment or opportunities they may need.

5. Annual half-day panel discussion on the rights of Indigenous Peoples (25th September 2024 – concept note – recording).

• Mr. Donald Nicholls, Director of Justice and Correctional Services of the Cree Nation Government in Canada, mentioned the efforts undertaken by the Grand Council of the Crees (Eeyou Istchee) and Cree Nation Government and collaboration with the Canadian government in protecting the rights of Indigenous People. In an historical overview, he highlighted how domestic and international legislations such as the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act were implemented in the country. He noted that this act which fully commits to the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples provides a framework for reconciliation, healing, peace, and harmonious and cooperative relations as well as affirms the rights of Indigenous Peoples to self-determination and self-government among other measures. He concluded by stating that while Canada had taken steps to implement several laws to safeguard the rights of Indigenous people, there still remains work to be done to ensure that all provinces uphold the rights of Indigenous Peoples. 
• Mr. José Francisco Calí Tzay, Special Rapporteur on the rights of Indigenous Peoples, highlighted the discrepancy between the commitments enshrined in documents such as the United Nations Declaration on the rights of Indigenous Peoples and the reality experienced by Indigenous Peoples on the ground. He claimed that although Indigenous Peoples are extended invitations to the consulting table, their input is neither adequately considered nor integrated into the final decisions. Coupled with this, enforcement challenges and structural inequalities in the implementation of these laws restrict these rights. In order to address these challenges, he suggests redefining the relationship between states and Indigenous Peoples to one of constant engagement along with the co-management of natural resources, where indigenous Peoples share decision-making power with state authorities. He concluded by stating that achieving the goals of UNDRIP is not a one-time task, but an ongoing commitment. 
• Ms. Ana Manuela Ochoa Arias, Judge of the Special Tribunal for Peace in Colombia, highlighted that Colombia’s Constitutional Court has issued nearly 300 rulings on indigenous rights, often referencing the Declaration to enhance legal interpretations. The Special Jurisdiction for Peace (JEP) has made strides by incorporating indigenous Law of Origin into its processes, recognizing both territory and cultural contexts as integral to justice. However, challenges remain, including the need for greater autonomy for indigenous peoples, the appointment of indigenous leaders in decision-making roles, and comprehensive implementation of the Peace Agreement. She argued that addressing these issues is vital for achieving true justice and recognition of indigenous rights. 
• Ms. Valmaine Toki, Chair of the Expert Mechanism on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, spoke about the legal significance of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples as it is an expression of Member States’ obligations to promote and respect human rights and morally obligates States to act in accordance with fundamental human rights. However, he noted that the legal and institutional transformations that are required by the Declaration cannot be sufficiently addressed solely by enacting specific “Indigenous laws”, rather, these transformations need to be achieved through involving changes to broader legal structures in key areas. Thus, reiterating the significant responsibilities of States to promote and ensure its full obligations to the Declaration. He suggests that States should institute constitutional and other legal reforms and judicial actions to recognise and operationalise the rights of Indigenous Peoples under the Declaration at the local level. 

6. Annual discussion on the integration of a gender perspective throughout the work of the Human Rights Council and that of its mechanisms (30th September 2024 – concept note – recording).

• Ms. Kirsi Madi, Deputy Executive Director for Resource Management, Sustainability and Partnerships at UN-Women, remarked that sexual orientation, gender identity and expression are often grounds of discrimination and violence which is why integrating a gender perspective and intersectional lens into accountability and investigation efforts is paramount. She drew attention to the UN Women’s partnership with the High Commissioner’s Office and Justice Rapid Response (JRR), particularly the Gender Advisors and investigators on the ground, who work under difficult circumstances to ensure gender-sensitive approaches are integrated into these critical investigations. She concluded by stating that inclusive and equal societies are less prone to violent conflict which is why it is vital to continue efforts to ensure that human rights investigations are gender-responsive and grounded in an intersectional approach. 
• Ms. Peggy Hicks, Director of the Thematic Engagement, Special Procedures and Right to Development Division of the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, highlighted the importance of integrating a gender perspective into all human rights work particularly while expand the scope of prevention and protection efforts and gaining deeper insight into the different impacts of human rights violations on diverse populations. She claimed that although there has been an increase in mandates with a gender perspective, recent research has shown that still insufficient attention is given to violations of sexual and reproductive health and rights. She concluded by reiterating that ensuring women and girls’ sexual and reproductive health and rights is essential to achieving true gender equality.
• Mr. Nicholas Koumjian, Head of the Independent Investigative Mechanism for Myanmar, presented a grim report of the sexual and gender-based crimes in Myanmar. He remarked that investigating these crimes is challenging because in many instances these cases are under-reported and under-documented and, historically, under-prosecuted. He also noted that with Myanmar being a patriarchal country, they have adopted a gender lens into the investigations to provide insight into how gender impacts the way survivors experience harm and what drives the perpetrators to commit these crimes. Thus, resulting in a holistic and deeper understanding of the extent of harm, and the impact on the survivors and their communities. He concluded by stating that prioritising SGBC investigations and mainstreaming gender considerations into all aspects of the work is the only way to price justice to the survivors of these horrific crimes.
• Ms. Hassiba Hadj Sahraoui, Gender Adviser for Human Rights Council investigative bodies, provided insights into how gender-sensitive methodologies contribute to more effective and inclusive investigations of human rights violations and how such methodologies promote a victim-centred approach. She recommended that women’s groups must be consulted on how to frame an issue or a recommendation and the terminologies that are used. She also suggested that there should be more efforts put in to reach the victims and survivors in order to build trust and communicate relevant information. Lastly, she recommended that the referral pathways need to be improved to ensure availability of services for survivors of SGBV and easier access to humanitarian visas to access such services along with taking all possible measures to avoid re-traumatization and multiple interviewing.
• Ms. Rebecca Dempster, Clinical Forensic Psychologist at Resileo, highlighted the nuances of trauma-informed interviewing by defining the term as a strength-based framework that is grounded in an understanding of, and responsiveness to the impact of trauma. Thus, in the context of interviewing and monitoring, interviewers should be able to understand how traumatic events can impact the survivor, both in the moment as it is happening and how someone’s brain is impacted. Another important component of trauma-informed interviewing is the emphasis on safety and the neurobiology of trauma. By applying and understanding these concepts. She concluded by stating that taking into account the gender of the interviewers not just from a survivor-centred perspective but from the perspective that women and men interviewers may be differentially impacted by the work that they do based on the exposure and understanding they of whether someone is listening to a story that really maps on to their own kinds of experiences based on their gender.

Trust Fund for SIDS/LDCs

The Trust Fund for the participation of LDCs and SIDS in the work of the Council (set up in 2012) funded the participation of fifteen government officials (eight female and seven male) at HRC57. The fifteen delegates come from: The Bahamas, Bangladesh*, Benin*, Burundi*, Comoros, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Jamaica, Lao People’s Democratic Republic, The Maldives*, The Republic of the Marshall Islands, Somalia*, South Sudan, Tuvalu, Vanuatu.

A small proportion of delegates (27%) come from States that are currently members of the Council. 

*Council members. 

Commissions of Inquiry, Fact-Finding Missions and Independent investigations

1. The Independent Investigative Mechanism for Myanmar

On 9 September 2024, Mr. Nicholas Koumjian spoke on behalf of the Independent Investigative Mechanism for Myanmar. He delivered an oral update to the Council, followed by an interactive dialogue with States and NGOs on the country’s human rights situation.

Mr. Nicholas Koumjian highlighted that the frequency of war crimes and crimes against humanity have increased in the past year. In many instances, civilians are the target of these attacks. This has resulted in the deaths of innocent civilians, including children. Moreover, the aerial attacks of the Myanmar military have intensified across the country. Further, there have been many reports and testimonies of torture and sexual assault of those in detention.

Mr. Koumjian noted that the intensity of warfare across Myanmar has escalated, including in Rakhine State. All ethnicities in Rakhine State have suffered, but particularly the Rohingya population has been directly targeted, while thousands were forcibly displaced.

Mr. Koumijan emphasised that the events occurring in Rakhine State are the direct result of decades of impunity. Therefore, the Mechanism has accelerated the sharing of their evidence and analysis with the corresponding authorities. Several challenges have emerged, however, particularly because the Mechanism lacks access to crime scenes and witnesses within Myanmar. To address this challenge it has innovated its processes of collection, analysis and sharing of information, to be more efficient and secure. A specialised team authenticates and verifies all of the collected digital information, which is cross-checked and partly automated.

2. Group of Experts on Nicaragua

On 10 September 2024, Jan-Michael Simon spoke on behalf of the Group of Human Rights Experts on Nicaragua. He delivered an oral update to the Council, followed by an interactive dialogue with States and civil society on the situation of human rights in the country. 

Mr. Jan-Michel Simon highlighted that, as had been presented on three previous occasions, crimes against humanity and serious human rights abuses continue to be carried out prima facie. The Group reports reasonable grounds to consider the current President and Vice-president of Nicaragua to bear the primary responsibility. Currently, Nicaragua does not qualify for a minimum reasonable standard of judicial independence. Crimes are met with total impunity and the entire State apparatus is put to use to execute these serious human rights violations and abuses. 

Mr. Simon noted how persons in Nicaragua perceived to dissent or oppose authorities are harassed and pressured to leave. If they do not leave, they might face arbitrary detensions, torture and ill-treatment, and criminal law being used against them. Meanwhile those outside are being denied re-entry or arbitrarily deprived of their nationality. Mr. Simon reported more than 700 victims abroad, some of them solely victimised for their family ties, which has affected at least a hundred children.

He took notice of several groups that are at heightened risk of human rights abuses. The violations against student leaders and professors and the forced takeover of universities have immensely affected the higher education of thousands of students. Moreover, communities of African descent and Indigenous Peoples face ongoing violations of their rights to self-determination and territory. Additionally, the freedom of religion, expression and opinion of several members of Christian denominations have been violated. Lastly, due to the State’s lack of prevention, private parties have committed serious violations as well, in particular gender-based violence. 

Finally, Mr. Simon reiterated for the Nicaraguan government to allow unconditional access to neutral and independent verification bodies, and to cooperate with the Group and grant it access to the country. He called again upon the international community to expand sanctions, liaise with higher education authorities, and to assess current and future development cooperation with Nicaragua with an aim to strengthen a plural and diverse range of actors in higher education. Lastly, he proposed for the Council to address the human rights situation in Nicaragua under item 4.

3. The Commission of Inquiry on the Syrian Arab Republic

On 20 September 2024, Mr. Paulo Sérgio Pinheiro spoke on behalf of the Independent International Commission of Inquiry on the Syrian Arab Republic (COI). He delivered an oral update to the Council, followed by an interactive dialogue with States and NGOs on the country’s human rights situation.

Mr. Paulo Sérgio Pinheiro urges the international community to pay renewed attention to the crisis in Syria. After 13 years of internal conflict, the COI reports continuing violence, enforced disappearances, worsening living conditions, internal displacement, and civilian casualties. 

He stressed that both journalists and state officials continue to be arbitrarily detained. Despite the ICJ’s order in November 2023 to cease torture, detainees are still severely ill-treated in their custody. Family members who seek contact need to pay bribes to officials and intermediaries to see their detained loved ones.

Mr. Pinheiro pointed special attention to the suffering of innocent civilians, as fighting has intensified on several front lines, and regional tensions have heightened due to the conflict in Palestine. A resurgence of violence has occurred in Deir-Ez-Zawr, where in just one week in early August, 65 civilians were reportedly killed or injured. Moreover, thousands of families have been displaced, and infrastructure has been destroyed or taken over by military operations. The living conditions of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs), which is currently 80% of the Northwest Syrian population, has been severely affected by the UN’s funding shortages. This has resulted in water shortages and poor sanitation, which affects mainly women and children.

He urged States that are imposing sanctions on Syria to reconsider, considering the dire living conditions of the civilian population, especially since humanitarian funds have decreased significantly in the past years.

The Syrian Arab Republic, speaking as the country concerned, renewed its position of not recognising the mandate and resolutions of the COI. It stated that the COI has regrettably shown signs of partiality, subjectivity, and a lack of independence and transparency. The country, moreover, raised concerns about the UN’s financial decisions during its liquidity crisis. It argued that the UN should limit its mandates, specifically those who do not provide added value and produce counterproductive results, and instead invest in urgent humanitarian programs.

4. Independent International Fact-Finding Mission on the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela

On 20 September 2024, Ms. Marta Valiñas spoke on behalf of the Independent International Fact-Finding Mission on the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela. She  delivered an oral update to the Council, which was followed by an interactive dialogue with States and NGOs on the country’s human rights situation.

Ms. Marta Valiñas informed the Council that the situation in the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, especially as of the 28th of July, has escalated into a human rights crisis. During the electoral campaign, and the protests that followed the election results, a high number of people were detained, including children. Between the 29th of July and the 6th of August, the authorities confirmed the detention of 2.200 people. Some of the detained have been subjected to ill-treatment, forced disappearance, torture, and/or gender based violence. 

Ms Valiñas argued that excessive force was used by the authorities during the post-electoral protests. She asserted that the National Bolivarian Republic and the National Bolivarian Police are responsible for the death of 25 protestors. The Mission does not have sufficient evidence to attribute guilt, however, it has documented the usage of firearms to repress the protestors. Moreover, the National Bolivarian Republic and the National Bolivarian Police were accompanied by armed civilian groups who also fired upon the protesters.

Ms. Valiñas, concluded that the Venezuelan state continues to commit crimes and grave violations of human rights. She stated that these violations cannot be merely attributed to a post-electoral crisis, but they are indicative of a meditated plan which was executed upon different modes of repression. They are indicative of a plan to oppress, silence and cancel out political opposition and criticism of President Maduro’s government. Therefore, the international community faces the responsibility of ensuring that persecution, violations, and crimes do not go unpunished.

Marta Valiñas spoke on behalf of the Independent International Fact-Finding Mission on the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela.

5. Group of Independent Experts on Belarus

On 23 September 2024, Ms Karinna Moskalenko (chair) spoke on behalf of the Group of Independent Experts on Belarus. She delivered an oral update to the Council, followed by an interactive dialogue with States and NGOs on the situation of human rights in the country

In respect to persons in detention, the Group of Experts has found both men and women have been threatened with rape and subjected to forced nudity and cavity searches. Ms Moskalenko welcomed President Alexander Lukashenko’s pardon of dozens of people participating in the 2020 protests, however she indicated that they represent only a small portion of the arbitrarily detained. 

In the lead-up to the 2025 presidential election, Ms Moskalenko reported, the Government has continued its repressive measures and has continued to suppress dissenting political voices. Individuals perceived as political opponents have remained subject to charges and arrests under the Criminal Code. Moreover, persons forced into exile have continued to be harassed by intimidation towards their families, trials in absentia and the seizing of their properties. Furthermore, she stated that the right to fair trial has been systematically violated to suppress dissent. The free exercise of the legal profession has suffered severe threats, specifically for lawyers who represent anti-Government activists and opposition leaders. Lastly, the Group of Experts concluded the suppression of dissent has taken place in the digital space as well, characterised by the pursuit of novel electronic intelligence equipment to increase the monitoring of online activities. 

Ms Moskalenko called upon the State of Belarus to investigate human rights violations, instead of upholding impunity. Besides, she called for the release of all of the arbitrarily detained, to end the judicial harassment of victims and their families, and to ensure that they receive truth, justice, redress and reparative measures. She stated that a comprehensive report of their findings, paying special attention to the 2025 elections, will be published in March 2025.

Belarus, speaking as the country concerned, expressed concerns on the partiality of the Group of Experts. It argued that the West has pushed politically charged resolutions and mandates to justify their support of extremist opposition in Belarus. Moreover, the country pointed to illegal economic sanctions and manipulative media strategies employed by the West. These are all indicative of an attempt by the West to interfere in internal affairs. Therefore, the State argues, the Group of Experts is merely an echo of Western grievances. Lastly, Belarus reiterated that it does not accept interference in internal affairs, pressure, or sanctions.

6. Independent International Commission of Inquiry on Ukraine

On 23 September 2024, Erik Møse (chair) spoke on behalf of the Independent International Commission of Inquiry on Ukraine. He delivered an oral update to the Council, followed by an interactive dialogue with States and NGOs on the situation of human rights in the country.

During the oral update to the Council, Mr. Erik Møse explained that, well into the third year of the armed conflict, people in Ukraine continue to cope with loss and injury of loved ones, large-scale destruction, suffering and trauma, as well as economic hardship. Presently, over 11,743 civilians have been killed and 26,614 were injured.

Mr. Møse detailed the Commission’s concern regarding the continuous evidence of war crimes committed by the Russian armed forces in Ukraine. He stated that the Commission has conducted more in-depth investigations on unlawful attacks with explosive weapons, torture and sexual violence, and attacks on energy infrastructure. 

In the current mandate, the liquidity crisis at the United Nations has negatively affected the staffing and travel of the Commission. Mr Møse stated nonetheless, the Commission has continued to document attacks with explosive weapons in populated areas.  Moreover, it found that repeated large-scale waves of attacks on the Ukrainian energy infrastructure have resulted in power outages affecting millions. Particularly, older persons, persons with disabilities, and displaced children have been affected due to reduced access to medical devices, difficulties to access shelters, increased isolation and disruptions to online education.

Mr. Møse then argued that, as was established during previous mandates, torture committed by Russian authorities has been both widespread and systematic. According to him, the prevalence of shared patterns and the wide geographic spread of locations demonstrate that torture has been used as an acceptable and common practice by Russian authorities. The Commission has gathered evidence on sexual violence used as torture, mostly against male detainees, and of rapes targeting women in Russian-occupied areas. Moreover, Mr. Møse reported a lack of adequate medical assistance in many detention facilities.

Finally, Mr. Møse highlighted the severe psychological and physical trauma caused by these violations. Victims and their families require psychological and social support to help them reintegrate into society. Lastly, he emphasised the importance of coordination and cooperation of all parties on the continuation of investigation, the identification of perpetrators, accountability, and, importantly, comprehensive support for victims.

Ukraine, speaking as the country concerned, expressed its gratitude to the Commission for calling attention to the violations committed by the Russian forces. Ukraine reiterated its commitment to ensure justice and accountability. Moreover, the state confirmed the issues outlined by the Commission: the unlawful attacks with explosive weapons, the torture and sexual violence, and the attacks on energy infrastructure. The last point is exacerbated by the approaching winter, the state adds, which will negatively affect the civilian population facing attacks on energy infrastructure. Ukraine concluded with its appreciation of the continued support.

Item 5 & item 10 General Debate

Item 5

During the general debate under item 5, held on 1 October, several delegations made statements supporting the independence and integrity of OHCHR and its increasing presence in the field. Speakers pointed to the rights enshrined in the Declaration and to restore global unity around its principles of universality, indivisibility and interdependence of human rights. They also spoke about the HRC’s allied mechanisms and bodies responsibility in advancing universal respect for human rights.

Egypt delivered a statement on behalf of a group of Like-Minded countries. underlined the importance of fostering an environment of cooperation between states and mandate holders based on constructive dialogue and cooperation, and respect to the Code of Conduct, and the principles of impartiality and objectivity.  

Ghana underlined the valuable contribution of the human rights mechanisms to the implementation of international human rights obligations, especially through several actions including strengthening the independence of expert panels, rapporteurs, and fact-finding missions to prevent state interference. Additionally, they remarked on the significance of supporting National Human Rights Institutions (NHRIs) in less developed countries through capacity-building initiatives.

Guinea-Bissau highlighted the efforts taken by the country to establish a National Reporting, Implementation and Monitoring Mechanism (NMIRF) to minimise technical gaps and coordination of ad hoc committees, capable of submitting timely reports on the various international conventions, to follow the recommendations and to ensure institutional memory. They called on the Council to strengthen its support to Guinea-Bissau in the creation and operationalization of NMIRF in order to maintain international obligations and guarantee the protection of human rights.

Latvia on behalf of a cross-regional group of 63 countries welcomed the efforts taken to foster human rights mechanisms, including special procedures, to tackle cross-cutting challenges such as climate change and new technologies. They also argued that mandate holders who are an integral part of the international human rights system must continue to play a crucial role by offering essential and innovative solutions to advance the promotion and protection of human rights. 

Malaysia advocated for an open engagement and pragmatic cooperation between Governments and SPMHs as a means to achieving the desired outcome from implementing the recommendations by SPMH. They also encouraged SPMH to continue recognising the efforts and progress made by countries and regions in advancing the human rights agenda in order to contribute to confidence building between Governments and SPMHs.

Pakistan on behalf of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation maintained that the principles enshrined in the Institution Building package, and the Code of Conduct must be upheld by all. However, while appreciating the work of SPMHs and Treaty Bodies experts in advancing the international human rights agenda, they noted that some experts overlook and ignore serious human rights in developed countries, particlarlu issues related to racism, systemic Islamophobia and increasing resort to majoritarian violence all merit attention.

Portugal, on behalf of the Group of Friends on national mechanisms for implementation, reporting, and follow-up (NMIRFs), underscored the role of NMIRFs as a key instrument assisting States in fulfilling their human rights obligations. They also welcomed the Asunción Declaration which established the International Network of NMIRFs to encourage the creation of NMIRFs, to strengthen the capacities of its members, share national experiences and promote partnerships and cooperation between its members and other human rights systems. 

Uganda on behalf of Movement of Non-Aligned Countries (NAM) stresses on the need for special mandate holders to carry out their functions with strict observance of their mandates and the Code of Conduct for the Special Procedures Mandate-Holders contained in the relevant resolutions of the Human Rights Council. They also maintained the need to ensure human rights mechanisms and bodies strengthen the capacity of the Member States in achieving their human rights obligations.

Pakistan on behalf of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation during the General Debate on Item 5. UNTV

Item 10

During the general debate under item 10 on technical assistance and capacity-building, held on 8 October, speakers highlighted the contribution of technical assistance and capacity-building to LDCs and SIDS. 

Benin conveyed its gratitude to the technical assistance and capacity-building it has received from the Trust Fund and the OHCHR. The Trust Fund provided Benin with the opportunity to participate in the Council, and as result of the OHCHR’s support, Benin was able to improve its performance in preparing and submitting periodic reports to the treaty bodies. Moreover, the country stated that it is preparing to submit a plan of action to the OHCHR based on the  UPR recommendations it received under the 4th cycle. 

India reiterated its commitment to supporting the efforts of OHCHR in Technical Assistance and Capacity Building particularly through the contributions under the UN Voluntary Trust Fund for Technical Cooperation in the Field of Human Rights and the UN Trust Fund for financial and technical assistance for the implementation of the UPR.

Iran claimed that while delivering advice on capacity building and technical assistance, national needs and priorities must be taken into consideration to ensure the realisation of universally recognized human rights. They noted Item 10 is the only agenda which is capable of remaining insulated from the politicisation, polarisation, and geopolitical rivalries that affect other items. However, warning that the introduction of politically charged agenda items beyond the scope of the mandate could spark tensions from other areas.

Jamaica highlighted the recommendation contained in paragraph 71 (c) on the contribution of United Nations country teams to the strengthening of the capacity of Member States to achieve their human rights obligations. They particularly mentioned the significance of the LDC/ SIDs Trust fund in providing targeted assistance for smaller delegations. 

Morocco focused on the need for providing assistance in the areas of environmental protection and sustainable development. They emphasised on sharing best practices in environmental protection, upholding relevant international obligations and commitments, and adopting appropriate policies at effectively combating climate change, pollution, and preserving biodiversity and ecosystems with special emphasis on fostering cooperation among states in sharing new technologies in the environmental sector. 

Pakistan on behalf of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation highlighted the support that is required from States for the technical assistance in implementing UPR recommendations. They also noted that these mandates must take into consideration the realities in each country, cultural norms and legal frameworks of the recipient states for a mutually beneficial relationship to thrive. 

Paraguay underscored the significance of NMIRFs which have played a vital part in enhancing States’ engagement with international and regional human rights mechanisms. They also noted that while there are numerous elements to enhance their effectiveness—such as creating permanent structures, integrating human rights into sector policies, and clearly defining roles within these mechanisms—there remain many areas for further exploration and enhancement which can be achieved through peer exchanges, strong support for acquiring tools and digital platforms, and fostering international collaboration.

Tunisia stressed on the significance of technical cooperation in fulfilling economic, social and cultural dimensions of human rights. They also stressed on the need for technical cooperation to be based on respect for the principles of objectivity, impartiality, constructive dialogue, genuine partnership and non-politicization and responsiveness to the needs and requests of the State concerned and with its consent. They also extended continued support to the resources of the Voluntary Fund for Financial and Technical Assistance. 

UNFPA remarked that NMIRFs are essential in formulating a whole-of-government response towards facilitating the connection between human rights obligations and tangible, lasting action. UNFPA reiterated commitment to enhancing national ownership of human rights recommendations from the national level to the local governments and the communities.

Universal Periodic Review

Adoption of the UPR Working Group outcome reports

The Council adopted the UPR outcome reports of Afghanistan, Cambodia, Chile, Comoros, Cyprus, Dominican Republic, Eritrea, New Zealand, North Macedonia, Slovakia, Uruguay, Vanuatu, Viet Nam, Yemen.

A total of 3,629 recommendations were made to these 14 States, out of which 2,901 were accepted in full, 671 were noted, and 57 were partially supported/noted.

* Council members

General debate under item 6

On 2 October, the Human Rights Council held a general debate on the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) under item 6.

The UPR was highlighted by a high number of representatives as ‘the chief mechanism,’ guided by the principles of universality, impartiality and equality, to review human rights issues at national level without polarisation and politicisation, respecting national sovereignty and avoiding double standards, selectivity and naming and shaming. Some speakers called for the UPR to be strengthened in order to reinforce the provision of capacity-building support and technical assistance to States. 

The Kingdom of Bahrain commended the work of OHCHR and the UPR Voluntary Trust Fund for strengthening the national capacities of the countries under review. In its own national engagement with the UPR recommendations, Bahrain found the deliberations with civil society as well as its National Human Rights Committee fruitful. Lastly, the country reaffirmed the importance of enhancing cooperation on both the national and international level in the promotion and protection of human rights. 

Cuba, speaking on behalf of the Like-Minded Group, expressed the UPR to be the most successful tool to ensure responsibility of the Council in respecting, promoting and protecting human rights. The country stated that UPR is an embodiment of the paramount principles of non-selectivity, universality, equality and non-discrimination, as it provides a platform to share national expertise and exchange good practices. Cuba also highlighted that the UPR has to remain this way: a cooperative, non-confrontational and respectful space for states to share objective and achievable suggestions. Lastly, the country recognised the importance of the OHCHR’s technical assistance and capacity-building in consultation with States.

The European Union, taking the floor on behalf of the European Union and a group of countries, encouraged the full engagement of all States with the UPR process, and called on them to base their recommendations on objective and reliable information, such as information or reports from Special Procedures, Treaty Bodies, OHCHR reports and other UN entities. It also stressed the need for all States to take measures to promote and enhance civil society engagement in both the preparation and the implementation process. Lastly, the European Union highlighted the crucial role of multi stakeholder involvement, including national parliaments and National Human Rights Institutions in ensuring effective implementation of UPR recommendations.

The Russian Federation praised the format of the UPR as one where dialogue among states are “on equal footing” and “among equals”, which differs from the politicised nature of other human rights mechanisms. Russia also indicated that UPR recommendations should be based on reliable and objective information. The country called upon all states to commit to preserving the UPR’s effectiveness and depoliticisation. 

Senegal also reiterated its support for the UPR, which it described as a mechanism that embodies the principles of universality and constructive dialogue. The country also pointed to the contribution the UPR has made on raising awareness on human rights issues. Lastly, Senegal presented its reformed NHRI, which now complies with the Paris Principles. Based on suggestions by other delegations, Senegal strengthened the capacities of its NHRI to comply with international standards. 

Some States pointed to the need of conducting the review process in an objective, non-politicised, and transparent manner based on reliable information, and expressed that the UPR must continue to be an intergovernmental process, driven by UN members on an equal footing, and that it must be action-oriented.

Special Procedures

Interactive Dialogues

19 mandate holders (14 thematic, 5 country-specific) presented annual reports or oral updates to HRC57 (the written reports are available here). During 20 interactive dialogues, 140 States delivered statements (either individually or jointly), of which 32% were from the African Group, 26% from APG, 10% from EEG, 16% from GRULAC, 14% from WEOG, and 2% from other countries (namely the State of Palestine, the Holy See and the Sovereign Order of Malta).

Appointment of new mandate-holders

On the final day of the session, the following four mandate-holders were appointed to fill positions on existing mandates:

1. Mohammed Al-Obaidi (Iraq) was appointed as a member for the Working Group on Enforced or Involuntary Disappearances from Asia-Pacific States.
2. Nils Muižnieks (Latvia) was appointed as Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Belarus. 
3. Andrés Macias Tolosa (Colombia) was appointed as a member for the Working Group on the use of mercenaries as a means of violating human rights and impeding the exercise of the right of peoples to self-determination from Latin American and Caribbean States.
4. Isabel Mamadou (Spain) was appointed as a member for the Group of Experts on People of African Descent from Western European and other States.

To inform the appointments, the Consultative Group, made up of representatives of Ghana, China, Azerbaijan, Bahamas, and United States of America, scrutinised approximately 38 individual applications made for these four positions.

Adopted texts

The 57th session of the Council concluded with the adoption of 38 texts (37 resolutions and one President’s statement). This is 1 text less than the number of texts (37) adopted at the 54th session in September 2023. Out of the 38 adopted texts:

• 28 were adopted by consensus (74%).
• 31 had Programme Budget Implications (82%).
• 24 were thematic; 13 dealt with country-specific situations; and one pertained to organisational and procedural matters. Of the country-specific texts, three resolutions address human rights situations under item 2 (i.e., annual reports of the High Commissioner, his Office, and the Secretary-General), four resolutions deal with ‘human rights situations that require the Council’s attention,’ under item 4, six resolutions relate to technical assistance and capacity building under item 10, and lastly, three resolutions pertain to item 7 specifically on the ‘human rights situation in Palestine and other occupied Arab territories.’

Adopted texts listed in order of L numbers

Agenda item	Title	Sponsors	PBI	Means of adoption
1	Report of the Advisory Committee	President of the Human Rights Council	✗	Adopted without a vote.
2	Promoting reconciliation, accountability and human rights in Sri Lanka	United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, Canada, Malawi, Montenegro, North Macedonia, United States of America	✓	Adopted without a vote.
2	Marking the thirtieth anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action	China, Denmark, France, Kenya, Mexico	✓	Adopted without a vote.
2	Responding to the human rights and humanitarian crisis caused by the ongoing armed conflict in the Sudan	United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, Germany, Norway, United States of America	✓	Adopted by vote (23-12-12)
2	Situation of human rights in Afghanistan	Hungary (on behalf of the European Union)	✓	Adopted without a vote
3	Terrorism and human rights	Mexico, Egypt	✗	Adopted without a vote
3	The role of good governance in the promotion and protection of human rights	Poland, Australia, Chile, Republic of Korea and South Africa	✗	Adopted without a vote.
3	Local government and human rights	Republic of Korea, Chile, Egypt, Romania	✓	Adopted without a vote.
3	Countering cyberbullying	Argentina, Germany, Greece, Israel	✓	Adopted without a vote.
3	Promotion of a democratic and equitable international order	Cuba	✗	Adopted by vote (23-5-15)
3	Use of mercenaries as a means of violating human rights and impeding the exercise of the right of peoples to self-determination	Cuba	✗	Adopted by vote (23-4-14)
3	Social reintegration of persons released from detention and persons subjected to non-custodial measures	Costa Rica, Gambia, Kazakhstan, Montenegro, Romania	✓	Adopted without a vote.
3	The right to development	Uganda (on behalf of the Movement of Non-Aligned Countries)	✓	Adopted by vote (29-4-14)
3	World Programme for Human Rights Education: the plan of action for the fifth phase	Philippines, Brazil, Costa Rica, Italy, Morocco, Senegal, Slovenia, Thailand	✓	Adopted without a vote.
3	The human rights to safe drinking water and sanitation	Germany, Spain	✓	Adopted without a vote.
3	Biodiversity and human rights	Colombia, Costa Rica	✓	Adopted without a vote
3	Human rights of migrants	Mexico	✓	Adopted without a vote
3	The promotion, protection and enjoyment of human rights on the Internet	Sweden, Brazil, Tunisia, United States of America	✓	Adopted without a vote.
3	Human rights and Indigenous Peoples	Mexico, Guatemala	✓	Adopted without a vote.
3	Youth and human rights	El Salvador, Côte d’Ivoire, Egypt, France, Greece, Italy, Morocco, Philippines, Portugal, Republic of Moldova, Romania, Tunisia, Uzbekistan	✓	Adopted without a vote.
3	Mandate of the Special Rapporteur on the promotion and protection of human rights in the context of climate change	Marshall Islands, Austria, Bahamas, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czechia, Denmark, Estonia, Fiji, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands (Kingdom of the), Panama, Paraguay, Poland	✓	Adopted without a vote.
3	Promoting accessibility for the full enjoyment of all human rights by all	China, Cameroon, Honduras, Pakistan, Türkiye	✗	Adopted without a vote.
3	Equal participation in political and public affairs	Czechia, Botswana, Indonesia, Netherlands (Kingdom of the), Peru	✓	Adopted without a vote.
3	Elimination of domestic violence	Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan	✓	Adopted without a vote.
4	Situation of human rights in the Russian Federation	Luxembourg, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czechia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Malta, Netherlands, N. Macedonia, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain and Sweden	✓	Adopted by vote (20-19-8)
4	Situation of human rights in the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela	Canada, Argentina, Chile, Ecuador, Guatemala, Paraguay, Uruguay	✓	Adopted by vote (23-18-6)
4	Situation of human rights in the Syrian Arab Republic	United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, France, Germany, Netherlands (Kingdom of the), Qatar, Türkiye, United States of America	✗	Adopted by vote (26-17-4)
4	Situation of human rights in Burundi	Hungary (on behalf of the European Union)	✓	Adopted by vote (22-15-10)
8	National human rights institutions	Australia, Timor-Leste	✓	Adopted without a vote.
9	From rhetoric to reality: a global call for concrete action against racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance	Gambia (on behalf of Group of African States)	✓	Adopted by vote (30-12-5)
9	Education as a tool to prevent racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance	Brazil, Colombia, Portugal, South Africa	✓	Adopted without a vote.
10	Assistance technique et renforcement des capacités dans le domaine des droits de l’homme en République démocratique du Congo	Gambia (on behalf of the Group of African States)	✓	Adopted without a vote.
10	Assistance technique et renforcement des capacités dans le domaine des droits de l’homme en République centrafricaine	Gambia (on behalf of the Group of African States)	✓	Adopted without a vote.
10	Technical assistance and capacity-building to address the human rights implications of the nuclear legacy in the Marshall Islands	Marshall Islands, Fiji, Kiribati, Micronesia (Federated States of), Nauru, Samoa, Vanuatu	✓	Adopted without a vote.
10	Assistance to Somalia in the field of human rights	United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, Somalia	✓	Adopted without a vote.
10	Enhancement of technical cooperation and capacity-building in the field of human rights	Thailand, Brazil, Honduras, Indonesia, Morocco, Norway, Qatar, Singapore, Türkiye	✓	Adopted without a vote.
10	Cooperation with Georgia	Georgia	✓	Adopted by vote (24-20-3)
10	Technical assistance and capacity-building for Yemen in the field of human rights	United Arab Emirates (on behalf of the Group of Arab States)	✓	Adopted without a vote.

 

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Featured picture: General view of the 51st session of the Human Rights Council. Palais des Nations, room XX, Geneva, Switzerland. September 12, 2022. UN Photo by Pierre Albouy.