Multilateral Policy and Human Rights (MPD)

The United Nations General Assembly's Social, Humanitarian and Cultural Committee — commonly known as the Third Committee — sits annually, in New York. The Third Committee is a key part of the UN's human rights architecture.

The Universal Periodic Review (UPR) is a United Nations process that considers the human rights record of each UN Member State every four years. It is a mechanism of the UN Human Rights Council.

The Human Rights Council (HRC) holds three regular sessions a year, in March, June and September, in Geneva. During the meeting, the Council considers each of the ten items on its agenda by receiving written reports or oral updates from special procedures mandate holders. This includes from special rapporteurs, independent experts and working groups; by hosting interactive dialogues with those mandate holders and mechanisms; or providing a forum for general debate on each of the agenda items.

Country Information Reports are prepared by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) for protection status determination purposes only. 

MIKTA is a diverse and cross-regional grouping of democracies that brings together Mexico, Indonesia, the Republic of Korea (ROK), Türkiye and Australia. MIKTA aims to bridge divides in the multilateral system and build consensus on complex and challenging issues, drawing on the diverse perspectives of its members and their shared interest in upholding international law and promoting the multilateral system.

Australia is running for a non-permanent seat on the Council for the 2029–2030 term, with elections to take place in June 2028.

Addressing the root causes of conflict and building the foundations for peaceful, inclusive societies is critical to preventing and resolving conflict. We work with the UN, governments, civil society organisations, and communities promoting long-term stability.

Australia's commitment to human rights reflects our national values and is an underlying principle of Australia's engagement with the international community.

The Australian National Commission for UNESCO is the Australian Government focal point for the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). The National Commission provides expert analysis and policy advice to the Australian Government on UNESCO matters and acts as a point of liaison between government, the community and UNESCO in Australia.