ABSTRACT
E xperts and nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) make numerous contributions to promoting and protecting human rights and humanitarian principles at the UN. Arguably, experts provide independence, a view that is not filtered through state interests, and intellectual depth. Experts also help the politicized intergovernmental bodies at the first UN transcend entrenched biases and offer recommendations that can inform policy. Specialized NGOs advocate on behalf of human rights and humanitarian principles, and pressure public officials from member states and the second UN on policy directions. 1 They are subcon-tractors who deliver humanitarian goods and services, and monitor detention facilities. Independent experts and NGOs collectively form a “talent bank” from which state and UN officials can draw upon as needed. In short, they can be important catalysts for change. 2
