On 11 December 2024, four independent experts appointed by the Human Rights Council spoke to the press on human rights violations in Gaza and across the occupied Palestinian territory.
• Francesca Albanese, Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in the Palestinian Territory occupied since 1967
• Margaret Satterthwaite, Special Rapporteur on the independence of judges and lawyers
• Ben Saul, Special Rapporteur on the promotion and protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms while countering terrorism
• George Katrougalos, Special Rapporteur on the promotion of a democratic and equitable international order
Special Rapporteurs, Independent Experts and Working Groups are part of what is known as the Special Procedures of the Human Rights Council. Special Procedures, the largest body of independent experts in the UN Human Rights system, is the general name of the Council’s independent fact-finding and monitoring mechanisms that address specific country situations or thematic issues in all parts of the world. Special Procedures’ experts work voluntarily; they are not UN staff and do not receive a salary for their work. They are independent from any government or organization and serve in their individual capacity.
