New York, US – Heads of human rights components of UN peace missions will meet at the organization's headquarters in New York on 6–10 February to discuss protection of human rights during peace operations.

A UN statement made available to PANA in New York, stated that human rights components worked with military, police and other civilian components of peace missions to promote and protect human rights as mandated by the Security Council.

"Their work may include monitoring, investigating and reporting human rights violations, providing advice and support on human rights issues, and building the capacity of local institutions to protect human rights," it said.

It said the human rights experts would hold discussions with UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, High Commissioner for Human Rights Ms. Navi Pillay, other senior UN officials and representatives of civil society groups.

They will also meet with members of the Security Council.

Issues to be discussed include protection of civilians, combating sexual violence, children in armed conflict, combating impunity and promoting accountability.

Pana 04/02/2012