Geneva Institute for Human Rights

High Commissioner Navi Pillay addressed the Human Rights Council on September 12 as it convened for its 18th session in Geneva, highlighting the human rights impact of issues such as food crises, economic upheaval, counterterrorism measures, and transitional governance. She placed special emphasis on the challenges facing new governments rising out of the upheaval of pro-democracy protests that have swept the Middle East and North Africa this year.

"In all regions and all countries, the daunting and long-term process of state-building requires concerted efforts to make transitions successful. To that effect, accountable, transparent institutions of governance that are respectful of people's rights must be established," said Pillay, addressing representatives from the Council's 47 member states. OHCHR stands ready to assist in transitional justice efforts through commissions of inquiry, human rights monitors, and truth and reconciliation commissions, she added.

The decision to hold the event was made following protests in the Middle East and North Africa, to which governments have responded extrajudicial executions, arbitrary detention, torture of detainees, and enforced disappearances. Representatives are expected to examine how best to protect human rights in the context of peaceful protests.

Pillay is also set to present a report to the Council based on her visit to Yemen and facilitate discussion of the situations in Syria and Libya. Two heads of States, the President of Costa Rica, Laura Chinchilla Miranda and the President of the Maldives, Mohamed Nasheed, will also address the session.

The Human Rights Council meets three times a year, but may convene for special sessions to address specific human rights issues or situations of concern. In 2010 the Council met in two special sessions. This year it has met three times in such sessions so far: in January, to consider the human rights situation in Libya, and in April and again in August to review events in Syria.