In ‘historic’ vote, UN General Assembly creates new Human Rights Council.

(March 16, 2006) : The United Nations General Assembly on Wednesday voted overwhelmingly on a resolution, setting up a new Human Rights Council to replace the much-criticized Human Rights Commission. Hailing this as a historic development, the Secretary-General Kofi Annan said, the new Council will help improve the lives of millions of people worldwide. Welcoming the vote, which was greeted by prolonged applause, Mr. Annan, who first suggested the creation of the new Council in a report to the General Assembly one year ago, said it gave the UN “a much needed chance to make a new beginning in its work for human rights around the world.” The resolution was adopted by a vote of 170 in favour with 4 against – the United States, Israel, the Marshall Islands and Palau – with Venezuela, Iran and Belarus abstaining. Highlighting several elements that would make the Council a “significant improvement” over the much-maligned Commission, General Assembly President Jan Eliasson, noted the Council’s higher status as a subsidiary body of the General Assembly, its increased number of meetings throughout the year, equitable geographical representation and also the voting rights associated with membership. The new Council will have 47 members. The first elections are planned for 9 May and the first session will take place on 19 June, according to the resolution.