United Nations: Information on Independent Human Rights Experts and Their Work

Since 1967, the United Nations has relied on independent human rights experts, known as mandate holders, to address global human rights issues. These individuals, selected by the Human Rights Council, investigate topics ranging from civil rights to political freedoms, often traveling to countries for on-the-ground assessments. Despite playing a vital role in promoting human rights, they receive no UN salaries and frequently rely on external funding from NGOs and governments to support their work. The U.S. leads in contributing both mandate holders and funding, reflecting its active engagement in this international human rights effort.