UN Human Rights Mechanisms for Protection Clusters: Special Procedures

The Human Rights Council's Special Procedures mandate holders (Special Procedures) are made up of special rapporteurs, independent experts or working groups composed of five members who are appointed by the Council and who serve in their personal capacity. Special Procedures undertake country visits; act on individual cases and concerns of a broader, structural nature by sending communications to States and other actors bringing alleged violations or abuses to their attention; conduct thematic studies and convene expert consultations; contribute to the development of international human rights standards; engage in advocacy; raise public awareness; and provide advice for technical cooperation. Protection clusters, with their extensive experience and access on the ground, can bring information the attention of the Special Procedures to better inform their work