Australia expects to be elected uncontested to the powerful United Nations Human Rights Council on Monday in New York . Australia was competing for one of two ‘Western Europe and others’ group seats against Spain and France, but France’s withdrawal made Australia’s elevation almost certain.
Election is not a formality: a majority of votes cast is needed for election, and a country could be denied a spot if half of the member countries voting refuse to cast a vote for it. However, elections to the 47-member council will be almost entirely uncompetitive, except for seats among Asia-Pacific states, where six states are competing for four seats.
Australia has campaigned globally for its position on the Human Rights Council, arguing it will promote gender equality; good governance; freedom of expression; indigenous rights; and strong national human rights institutions. It has also said it will advocate for the global abolition of the death penalty. “Australia will bring a principled and pragmatic approach to our term on the Human Rights Council,” foreign minister Julie Bishop said, launching Australia’s bid.