Human Rights Council
The UN Human Rights Council was created on March 15, 2006 and aims to protect human rights around the world in accordance with the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. The Council is constituted of 47 members from various regions who are elected on three-year terms. The members investigate infractions of human rights. Additionally, they are responsible for addressing and working to end these violations. The Council works with the Office for the High Commissioner for Human Rights to develop special procedures which are mandates designed to investigate human rights concerns.
The Council is based in Geneva, Switzerland and holds sessions three times a year in March, June, and September. It occasionally calls special sessions to address human rights emergencies. The current President is Moroccan Representative Omar Zniber who was elected in January 2024. Numerous Non-Governmental Organizations work with the Council to ensure human rights violations of all scales are being properly dealt with. The Council reserves the right to suspend any members who have repeatedly violated human rights during their membership.
Although the decisions of the committee aren’t legally binding, they do hold strong political weight. Therefore, this gives signatory nations that ability to disobey the clauses passed in resolutions.
"All victims of human rights abuses should be able to look to the Human Rights Council as a forum and a springboard for action." - Ban Ki-moon of South Korea, former UN Secretary-General, 2007
Google Classroom Code: faq7p44
Topics
Topic A: Addressing the Ethical Implications of Eugenic Genetic Editing in Relation to the Preservation of Natural Human Dignity
Topic B: Safeguarding the Territorial Rights and Cultural Heritage of Indigenous Peoples
Study Guide
Chairs
Head-Chair, Guilherme Lenz
Hi delegates! My name is Guilherme, and I’m thrilled to be your chair for this year’s Rio MUN! I’m currently a sophomore at TBSRJ urca, and I’ve been doing MUN for a couple of years now. Throughout my journey, MUN has helped me grow immensely in terms of public speaking, diplomacy, and critical thinking, and I hope it does the same for you.
One of the best parts about MUN for me is the community, the friendships, the late-night resolution writing, and the intense yet fun debates that make it unforgettable. When I’m not chairing or debating, you’ll probably find me playing drums, surfing or at jiujitsu!
I’m looking forward to an amazing committee. If you have any questions or just want to chat, don’t hesitate to reach out at Guigolcesar@gmail.com!
Vice-Chair, Rafaela Olyntho
Hello delegates! My name is Rafaela Olyntho and I am currently a Junior at the British School barra. I am beyond excited to be serving as a Co-Chair in the Human Rights council at RioMUN!
Over the past years, MUN has become a crucial aspect of my life. These experiences have allowed for my growth in different areas of my life. I believe that MUN is not only about debating, but about understating different opinions and stepping out of your comfort zone.
If you ever need anything, feel free to reach out to me through my email: rafaelaolyntho@gmail.com. I’m here to help you with anything you need!