When electing States to the Human Rights Council, General Assembly resolution 60/251 calls on States to take into account candidates’ voluntary pledges and commitments, and their human rights records. A State’s membership in the Human Rights Council is an important opportunity to strengthen the promotion and protection of human rights for all at the national, regional and international levels. Through Council membership, States commit themselves to “uphold the highest standards in the promotion and protection of human rights,” and to fully cooperate with the Council and its mechanisms.
