The United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) is an intergovernmental body within the United Nations responsible for promoting and protecting human rights around the world. Established in 2006, it addresses human rights violations and makes recommendations to improve conditions globally. The council consists of 47 member states elected by the UN General Assembly for three-year terms. The UNHRC conducts regular reviews of human rights practices in all countries through the Universal Periodic Review process. It also holds special sessions to address urgent human rights situations and can establish commissions of inquiry to investigate serious violations.