The Universal Periodic Review (UPR) was established by the UN General Assembly in 2006 as a process through which the human rights records of the United Nations’ 192 Member States could be reviewed and assessed. This review, conducted through the UN Human Rights Council (HRC), is based upon human rights obligations and commitments expressed in the UN Charter, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, human rights instruments to which the State is party, etc. The United States is a strong supporter of the UPR process, which provides a unique avenue for the global community to discuss human rights around the world.
Individual countries are slated for review every four years, with the United States scheduled for its review in 2010-2011. UPR sessions take place at the HRC in Geneva, and are framed by reports submitted by national governments.The United States submitted its report to the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights on August 20. The report, which reflects input collected during an extensive program of consultations with the American public, can be found here.
