General Assembly and Third Committee

The General Assembly is one of the six main organs of the United Nations. It is the only organ that allows for equal representation among the member states: one nation = one vote. All 193 member states of the United Nations are represented in this unique forum to discuss and collaboratively work on a wide array of international issues covered by the UN Charter, such as development, peace and security, international law, and more. General Assembly sessions are held annually in New York during the month of September.

The General Assembly is comprised of six committees. The Third Committee relates to a range of social, humanitarian affairs and human rights issues that affect people globally. An important aspect of the Committee’s work focuses on examining human rights questions, including reports of the special procedures of the Human Rights Council, which was established in 2006. The Third Committee hears and interacts with special rapporteurs, independent experts, and chairs of working groups as mandated by the Human Rights Council.

Additionally, the Committee discusses questions related to a variety of issues, including the advancement of women, the protection of children, indigenous issues, treatment of refugees, promotion of fundamental freedoms through the elimination of racism and racial discrimination, and the right to self-determination. The Committee also addresses important social development questions related to youth, family, ageing, persons with disabilities, crime prevention, criminal justice, and international drug control.

Impact Iran conducts advocacy work with the UN General Assembly on an annual basis to support the resolution on the human rights situation in Iran sponsored or introduced by the government of Canada. Impact Iran aims to raise awareness amongst member states on the current human rights situation in Iran, and to make itself available as a resource to UN bodies.