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1. Understanding the Human Rights Council

1.1 Introduction

Welcome to this learning module! Over the next 3 chapters we will explore one of the key mechanisms of the UN: the Human Rights Council.

Chapter 1 provides a basic introduction to the Human Rights Council and why they may be useful to your advocacy.

Chapter 2 explores the political dynamics of the Council.

Chapter 3 focuses on opportunities and strategies to engage to build your advocacy skills.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this module, you should:

  • Understand the structure, purpose and mandate of the Human Rights Council
  • Understand why it is (or is not) useful to engage with the Council
  • Understand political factors and various stakeholders relating to the Council, and know how these can be influenced
  • Have identified ways to influence your own government
  • Know the opportunities for civil society to engage with the Council, and be able to employ strategies for effective engagement, including without travelling to Geneva

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The International Service for Human Rights (ISHR) is an independent, non-governmental organisation dedicated to promoting and protecting human rights. We achieve this by supporting human rights defenders, strengthening human rights systems, and leading and participating in coalitions for human rights change.

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