The United Nations Human Rights Council is the main multilateral body for the protection and promotion of human rights around the world. Created on 15 March 2006, it is a subsidiary body of the General Assembly, has inter-governmental status with headquarters in Geneva and is comprised of 47 Member States of the United Nations chosen by the General Assembly by direct and secret ballot for a term of three years.

Spain is a country that is deeply committed to human rights. Their protection and promotion are priorities in terms of our foreign policies. During its mandate, Spain will promote, in particular, those areas in which our experience allows us to add value to the Council's work. These include the fight against the death penalty, the rights of persons with disabilities, the fight against discrimination and for real and effective equality of opportunity, the defence and promotion of economic, social and cultural rights, including the human rights to drinking water and sanitation, the promotion of democracy and the rule of law and the fight against racism, xenophobia and hate crimes.

As a firm defender of preserving the integrity and credibility of the Human Rights Council, during its mandate, Spain will support efforts to improve its effectiveness on the international level.