New York: India has secured a seat on the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) for the 2026–2028 term, marking its seventh tenure on the global rights body based in Geneva. The election took place on Tuesday, with India’s three-year term set to begin on January 1, 2026.
India’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Parvathaneni Harish, expressed gratitude to member nations for their strong support, calling the election a reaffirmation of India’s steadfast commitment to protecting and promoting human rights worldwide. He said that India remains dedicated to upholding fundamental freedoms and will continue contributing constructively during its upcoming term.
The UNHRC comprises 47 member states elected by the UN General Assembly for staggered three-year terms, distributed across regional groups to ensure geographic balance. The seats are divided among African States (13), Asia-Pacific States (13), Eastern European States (6), Latin American and Caribbean States (8), and Western European and other States (7).
India has been an active participant in the Council since its establishment in 2006, completing six terms to date. It has served during the periods 2006–2007, 2008–2010, 2012–2014, 2015–2017, 2019–2021, and 2022–2024. The country took mandatory breaks in 2011, 2018, and 2025 in accordance with UNHRC regulations that prevent three consecutive terms.
India’s re-election underscores its long-standing role in global human rights discussions and its consistent engagement with international institutions. During its earlier tenures, India has supported initiatives focused on equality, sustainable development, and inclusive governance.
Alongside India, countries including Angola, Chile, Ecuador, Egypt, Estonia, Iraq, Italy, Mauritius, Pakistan, Slovenia, South Africa, the United Kingdom, and Vietnam have also been elected to serve on the Council for the same term beginning in 2026.
