America separated from UNHRC

Why in news?

• America has separated itself from the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC)

America's separation from UNHRC:

• US President Donald Trump has decided to separate from UNHRC. He signed an executive order for this.
• America and Israel have accused UNHRC of unfairly targeting and defaming Israel.
• Trump said that agencies like UNHRC have deviated from their mission and are spreading anti-Semitic propaganda.
• America has also stopped the aid given to UNHRC for Palestinian refugees.

Review of participation in UNESCO:

• Trump has directed his administration to review America's participation in the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).
• The US and Israel withdrew from UNESCO in 2019, as they believed it was denying Israel's history and culture.

UNHRC (United Nations Human Rights Council):

• It is an international organization that works to protect and promote human rights around the world. 
• It is a major organ of the United Nations and was established in 2006.
• The headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland.

Main objectives of UNHRC:

• Protect human rights: Investigate human rights violations around the world and take steps to prevent them.
• Promote human rights: Strengthen human rights through education, awareness and international cooperation.
• Assistance in times of conflict and crisis: Ensure the protection of human rights during war, conflict and other crises.
• Review of member countries: Regular review of human rights records of member countries (Universal Periodic Review - UPR).

Structure of UNHRC:

• UNHRC consists of 47 member countries, which are elected by the United Nations General Assembly.
• Member countries have a term of 3 years, and no country can become a member more than twice in a row.
• This council regularly holds meetings and discusses issues related to human rights.

Allegations on UNHRC-

• UNHRC has often been accused of bias and pushing a political agenda. Some of the major allegations are:
  • Bias towards Israel: UNHRC is accused of constantly targeting Israel and passing biased resolutions against it.
  • Focus on selective issues: Accused of ignoring human rights violations of some countries.
  • Political influence: Some countries use UNHRC to advance their political interests.