The Geneva Centre warmly congratulates Ms Nazhat Shameem Khan of Fiji, a diplomat of international repute and a true human rights champion, on her election as the President of the UN Human Rights Council for the 15th cycle in 2021.
On 15 January 2021, in the first-ever presidential vote since the establishment of the Council, H.E. Ms Nazhat Shameem Khan, Permanent Representative of the Republic of Fiji to the United Nations in Geneva, won with 29 out of 47 votes. Other candidates, Bahrain and Uzbekistan, received 14 and 4 votes accordingly.
The Human Rights Council meets 3 times a year, in Geneva, and addresses some of the most accute human rights crises in the world. It consists of 47 member states and is fundamental to the UN system.
The President assisted by Vice-Presidents presides over the Council’s meetings, represents the Council by delivering statements, oversees the adoption of resolutions, takes a position when points of order are being raised, leads the review processes, appoints mandate holders, and deals with emergencies and issues of a political and sensitive nature.
The team of the Geneva Centre for Human Rights Advancement and Global Dialogue wholeheartedly wishes Her Excellency Ms Khan strength, persistence and every success at this important post.