Why is it in the News?

India recently abstained on a resolution at the Human Rights Council that called on Israel for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza.

India's Voting Pattern on Israel-Palestine Issues at the UNHRC:

• India's stance on the Israel-Palestine conflict has been reflected in its voting behavior at the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC).
  • While India has voted in favor of resolutions criticizing Israel for human rights violations, occupation of the Syrian Golan, and affirming Palestinian self-determination, it has also abstained from certain resolutions.
• In a significant development, India abstained from a resolution calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and an arms embargo on Israel.
  • This decision followed instances of violence, including the killing of aid workers and airstrikes.
  • India's abstention is believed to be in line with its previous votes on resolutions involving "accountability."
• India's approach indicates its belief that both parties should be held accountable for their actions.
  • As a result, it refrains from supporting resolutions that single out one side for condemnation.
  • By taking a balanced stance, India aims to promote peace and stability in the region while advocating for the rights of all parties involved.

About the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC):

• The United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) is an inter-governmental body established by the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in 2006.
• Headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, the council serves as a key platform for addressing human rights issues globally.
• The High Commissioner for Human Rights serves as the principal human rights official within the UN system.
• The council convenes three times annually to address human rights violations worldwide.

Membership:

• Comprising 47 member states, the council is responsible for promoting and safeguarding human rights across the globe.
• Member states are elected individually via secret ballot by a majority vote of the General Assembly.
• The election of members occurs within geographical groups to ensure equitable representation.

Tenure:

• Council members serve for a term of three years and are not eligible for immediate re-election after two consecutive terms.

The UNHRC's primary functions include:

• Promoting universal respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms.
• Addressing violations of human rights, including gross and systematic violations.
• Developing international human rights law and making recommendations to the UN General Assembly.
• Conducting investigations into alleged human rights abuses through special rapporteurs and working groups.
• Reviewing the human rights records of all UN member states through the Universal Periodic Review process.