Following resolution 68/268, the General Assembly requested the Secretary-General to submit to the Assembly, on a biennial basis, a comprehensive report on the status of the human rights treaty body system.

Read the press release: UN Secretary General’s report on the strengthened Treaty Body system EFSRC (Word)

Summary

In this report, the Secretary-General notes that the state of implementation of General Assembly resolution 68/268 is globally positive, reaffirming the importance and relevance of the treaty body system for the protection and promotion of human rights and demonstrating its dynamic and responsive nature. However, more progress can be achieved as the harmonization of working methods by the treaty bodies is progressing with varying results.

The report covers the period from April 2014, when the resolution was adopted, until June 2016. In the relatively short period of implementation covered by this report, the treaty body system has already achieved greater efficiency and effectiveness, as attested by the increase in the number of reviews of State party reports, individual communications examined and field visits undertaken, and the reduction in the backlog of State party reports.

The harmonization of working methods is progressing with varying results. The capacity-building programme on engagement with the treaty bodies was established and implemented by OHCHR with encouraging reactions from States.

OHCHR will continue to compile information on the implementation of resolution 68/268 with a view to promoting transparency and assisting the General Assembly in its review of the effectiveness and sustainability of measures taken, so that it can decide on further action to strengthen and enhance the effective functioning of the treaty body system in 2020.