The United Nations Human Rights Council, an inter-governmental body made up of 47 states, is responsible for the promotion and protection of human rights around the globe.  It was created in 2006 to replace the Commission on Human Rights.  In July 2009, the United States joined the Council with the goal of strengthening the body’s capacity to address crisis situations as well as chronic human rights violations worldwide.  This panel of experts will assess the U.S. policy of active engagement at the Council.  Has U.S. membership made the Council more effective?  Should the United States seek a second term on the Council?  Speakers will offer a range of perspectives on the accomplishments and challenges of the Human Rights Council over the past two years, reflecting on whether or not engagement at the Council has sufficiently advanced U.S. interests and values.