United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC)

16.10.2025

United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC)

Context
 India has been elected unopposed to the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) for the 2026–2028 term, marking its seventh tenure on the global body that promotes and protects human rights. The victory underscores India’s diplomatic credibility and commitment to multilateral engagement on global rights issues.

About the UN Human Rights Council (UNHRC)

Background:
 Formed in 2006 through UNGA Resolution 60/251, the UNHRC replaced the Commission on Human Rights to improve transparency and effectiveness. It is the UN’s main intergovernmental body for promoting and safeguarding human rights worldwide.

Headquarters and Collaboration:
 Based in Geneva, Switzerland, the Council works closely with the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) to address thematic and country-specific concerns.

Functions and Mandate

The Council performs several key functions to uphold global human rights:

• Universal Periodic Review (UPR): Reviews the human rights records of all UN member states every four to five years.
   
• Special Procedures: Appoints rapporteurs and experts to focus on thematic or country-based issues such as women’s rights and freedom of expression.
   
• Fact-Finding Missions: Investigates alleged human rights violations through commissions of inquiry.
   
• Resolutions and Recommendations: Adopts measures to address crises and guide international action.
   
• Dialogue Platform: Encourages discussion between governments, NGOs, and civil society to promote shared human rights standards.
   

Election Process

The UNHRC has 47 member states elected by the UN General Assembly for three-year terms, with one-third of seats renewed annually.

Regional Allocation:

• Africa: 13 | Asia-Pacific: 13 | Latin America & Caribbean: 8 | Western Europe: 7 | Eastern Europe: 6
   

Eligibility and Criteria:
 Members can serve up to two consecutive terms and are expected to uphold the highest standards of human rights and engage constructively in Council proceedings.

India’s Membership and Track Record

India’s re-election marks its seventh term, reflecting global recognition of its democratic values and constructive diplomacy.
 Previous Terms: 2006–2007, 2011–2014, 2014–2017, 2017–2020, 2022–2024, and now 2026–2028.

Key Focus Areas:

• Human dignity and equality: Promoting inclusive growth and poverty eradication as human rights goals.
   
• Gender empowerment: Advocating education, safety, and equal opportunity for women and girls.
   
• Digital and data rights: Supporting balanced global norms on privacy, cybersecurity, and online freedom.
   
• Global South cooperation: Ensuring fair representation for developing nations in human rights debates.
   

Significance of India’s Election

• Diplomatic endorsement: Unopposed election signals broad global support and confidence in India’s role.
   
• Voice of balance: Acts as a bridge between developed and developing nations to foster dialogue and consensus.
   
• Commitment to reform: Expected to push for greater accountability and transparency within the UNHRC.
   
• National alignment: Reflects India’s constitutional principles of equality, justice, and human dignity.

Conclusion
 India’s election to the UNHRC for 2026–2028 strengthens its position as a democratic nation dedicated to human rights, sustainable development, and global cooperation. Beginning its term on January 1, 2026, India aims to promote a balanced, inclusive, and dialogue-driven approach—reinforcing its leadership as a responsible global voice for the Global South.