AUWCL Students Witness Historic Human Rights Resolution in Geneva

 

On June 30, 2016, American University Washington College of Law students participating in the International Organizations, Law and Diplomacy (PIOLD) summer program in Geneva, Switzerland, accompanied by Professor Diego Rodriguez-Pinzon had the opportunity to witness an historic resolution adopted by the United Nations Human Rights Council

The Council established a mandate on "protection against violence and discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity." This new order will appoint an "Independent Expert on protection against violence and discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity," to annually report to the Council. The Independent Expert will assess the implementation of existing international human rights instruments with regard to ways to overcome violence and discrimination against persons on the basis of their sexual orientation or gender identity; raise awareness of violence and discrimination against persons on the basis of their sexual orientation or gender identity, and identify and address the root causes of violence and discrimination; and engage in dialogue and consult with States and other relevant stakeholders.

Click here to read the full resolution adopted by the Council.

While in Geneva, the students will visit other international organizations, including the World Intellectual Property Organization, World Trade Organization, International Labor Organization, International Committee of the Red Cross, World Health Organization, and Human Rights Watch. The program also hosts networking events with officials, professors, and American University alumni now working in the field.

 

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