The United Nations Human Rights Council (HRC) has officially opened applications for several prestigious Special Rapporteur mandates to be appointed during its 62nd session (HRC62), taking place 15 June – 10 July 2026.
This is a rare and highly respected opportunity for internationally recognized experts in human rights to serve as independent mandate holders under the UN Special Procedures system.
Open Mandates – HRC62 (Apply Now)
Applications are currently being accepted for the following mandates:
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Special Rapporteur on Toxics and Human Rights (SR Toxics)
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Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Expression (SR FreeDex)
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Special Rapporteur on the Right to Health (SR Health)
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Special Rapporteur on Torture (SR Torture)
These independent experts are appointed by the Human Rights Council to examine, monitor, advise, and publicly report on human rights situations worldwide.
About the Special Procedures System
The Special Procedures are the largest body of independent experts in the UN human rights system. Mandate holders:
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Conduct country visits
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Respond to allegations of violations
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Issue communications to governments
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Present thematic and country reports to the HRC and the UN General Assembly
Mandate holders serve in their personal capacity and are not UN staff. They are expected to uphold independence, impartiality, integrity, and expertise.
Why This Opportunity Matters
Serving as a Special Rapporteur:
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Positions you among the most respected global human rights experts
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Allows you to influence international human rights standards
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Enables direct engagement with governments, civil society, and victims
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Provides a global platform to advocate for systemic change
This is one of the highest-impact voluntary roles in international human rights governance.
Selection Process
Appointments are made by the Human Rights Council following:
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Public call for applications
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Review by the Consultative Group
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Shortlisting and interviews
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Final appointment by the Council
The process emphasizes expertise, experience, independence, gender balance, and equitable geographic representation.
Application Deadline
Applications for appointments to be made at HRC62 (15 June – 10 July 2026) are currently open. Applicants should apply as soon as possible via the official OHCHR nomination and appointment portal before the closing date indicated on the application page.
Interested candidates must follow the official application guidelines and submit all required documentation through the UN system.
For detailed guidelines and application procedures, visit the official page of the United Nations Human Rights Council.
Full details on eligibility, selection criteria, and the application process (available in all six UN official languages): Click Here
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