Pakistan joins UN Human Rights Council for upcoming term

The United Nations General Assembly on Tuesday elected Pakistan to the United Nations Human Rights Council (HRC) for a three-year term, commencing on 1 January 2026. Pakistan secured its seat with a resounding majority of 178 votes.

This marks the sixth time Pakistan has been elected to the Human Rights Council since its inception in 2006, a testament to the international community’s continued confidence in Pakistan’s commitment to promoting, protecting, and upholding human rights at home and around the world.

The repeated recognition also reflects Pakistan’s constructive role in advancing the global human rights agenda and its consistent efforts as a consensus-builder within the Council.

Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar showed his gratitude by thanking all the member states which supported Pakistan’s candidature.

“Pakistan’s election is a recognition of its strong credentials and contribution in strengthening the global human rights framework.” Dar stated

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, in his message, appreciated the advancement, saying it reflected Pakistan’s “effective and active role” at the United Nations.

“We reaffirm Pakistan’s strong commitment to playing an active role in the council for the promotion and protection of human rights across the globe.”

The Human Rights Council, an intergovernmental body based in Geneva within the United Nations system, is responsible for promoting and protecting human rights globally. Comprising 47 member states, the HRC addresses thematic human rights issues and specific situations requiring urgent attention.