Course 3A, United Nations Main Subsidiary Organs and Specialized Agencies, took place on April 11, 2024. 

The Human Rights Council (HRC) strengthens the promotion and protection of human rights around the world. It appoints special rapporteurs — experts in specialized areas of human rights — some of whom have issued powerful condemnation about Israel’s genocide in Gaza. The HRC reviews compliance of states parties with treaty obligations and oversees the Universal Periodic Review. It authorizes commissions of inquiry and fact-finding missions which produce compelling evidence of war crimes and crimes against humanity. The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) is a human development and humanitarian services organization that promotes primary and vocational education, health care, relief and social services, infrastructure and emergency response, including in situations of armed conflict. Israel and the U.S. are undermining UNRWA, the only organization charged with providing humanitarian aid to the Palestinians. The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) provides global and regional leadership in education, strengthens education systems worldwide and responds to contemporary global challenges through education.

Faculty for Course 3A:

• Michael Lynk, Former UN Special Rapporteur for the occupied Palestinian Territory and Emeritus Professor of Law

• Susan Akram, Clinical Professor and Director, Boston University International Human Rights Clinic

• Hilal Elver, Former UN Special Rapporteur for the right to food and Professor of International Law

The program was moderated by Marjorie Cohn, Dean of the People’s Academy of International Law.