ADVISORY COMMITTEE OF THE HUMAN RIGHTS COUNCIL
FACILITATOR AMBASSADOR ALICIA MARTIN





(version 07-09-07)









ADVISORY COMMITTEE OF THE HUMAN RIGHTS COUNCIL
Technical and objective requirements for the submission of candidatures


Mandate: In conformity with the Resolution HRC 5/…, the technical and objective requirements for the submission of candidatures will be established and approved by the Human Rights Council at its sixth session (First session of the second cycle). These should include:

Recognized competence and experience in the field of human rights;
High moral standing;
Independence and impartiality.

Individuals holding decision-making positions in government or in any other organization or entity, which could represent a conflict of interest with the responsibilities arising from the mandate, shall be excluded.

The principle of non-accumulation of human rights functions at a time should be respected. 

Competence and Experience

Academic studies in the field of Human Rights or related areas such as International Law, International Relations, Political Science, Social Sciences, Economics, Psychology, Medicine, or any other specialization required for the work of the Council. Post-graduate Degrees will be positively considered.  
 
The experience and exposure to leadership roles in the social and Human Rights field at the national, regional, and international level will be recognized as equivalent or of similar level as academic experience. 

Vast experience (at least five years) and personal contributions in the field of Human Rights, including publications, teachings, and participation in international events and conferences on Human Rights will be taken into account. 

Knowledge of the UN system and its rules and procedures; knowledge of institutional mandates and policies related to the work in the area of Human Rights, as well as, knowledge of international Human Rights instruments, norms, disciplines, and familiarity with different legal systems will be considered as desirable qualities.

Ability to draft and communicate in at least one of the United Nations working languages (English, French, or Spanish). 
 
Availability of time to fulfill the work of the Advisory Committee in an effective manner (both to attend its sessions and to carry out research between sessions.)

High Moral Standing


Independence and Impartiality 

Individuals holding decision-making positions in Government or any other organization or entity which could give rise to a conflict of interest with responsibilities inherent to the mandate shall not be eligible. Governments should verify the integrity of their candidates prior to the submission of their candidatures. Elected members of the Advisory Committee will act in their personal capacity and not be subject to external influences. 

The principle of non-accumulation of functions at least within the UN Human Rights system shall be respected. 

Other factors

The candidates should be presented in such a way as to ensure that the Advisory Committee keeps a balanced representation in respect of: gender, generations, legal systems, and cultural diversity.