HUMAN RIGHTS COUNCIL: Think tank set up to advise Council

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[8 August 2008] -The Human Rights Council passed a significant milestone when its think tank, called the Advisory Committee, held its first session in Geneva on 4 August.

The 18-member Committee, established to provide expert advice to the Council, will conduct studies and research on a wide range of human rights issues. It replaces the former Sub-Commission on the Promotion and Protection of Human Rights.

Addressing the opening session of the Committee, Acting High Commissioner for Human Rights Kyung-wha Kang said the panel members had the demanding task of making sure the committee works effectively as the 'brains' of the Council.

Noting that one of the strengths of the Sub-Commission that preceded the Committee was its ability to contribute to the development of international human rights law, the Acting High Commissioner said it was encouraging that the Committee would continue to perform this important function.

She pointed out that the Committee had already been tasked by the Council to prepare a draft declaration on human rights education and training, and to formulate a set of principles and guidelines for the elimination of discrimination against people affected by leprosy.

Another important strength of the Sub-Commission, the Acting High Commissioner said, was its “unique characteristic as a forum for the voice of civil society organisations.” This was recognised by the Council, she added, when it urged the Committee to establish ties with a broad range of stakeholders.

By building strong relationships with all national and international actors working on human rights issues around the world, the Acting High Commissioner said, the Committee would “generate and sustain its dynamism and relevance.”

Following informal consultations, the Advisory Committee elected Miguel Alfonso Martinez (Cuba) as chairperson. Mona Zulficar (Egypt), Vladimir Kartashkin (Russian Federation) and Chung Chinsung (Republic of Korea) were elected as vice-chairpersons. Emmanuel Decaux (France) was elected rapporteur.

The Committee will convene up to two sessions per year, for a maximum of 10 working days.

Further information

pdf: http://www.ohchr.org/EN/NewsEvents/Pages/HRCAdvisoryCommittee.aspx

Attachment Link: 
http://www.ohchr.org/EN/NewsEvents/Pages/HRCAdvisoryCommittee.aspx

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