Universal periodic review as a mechanism for monitoring human rights in Islamic states

Abstract

The development of international mechanisms for monitoring human rights has led to the creation of new forms of supervision within the United Nations system. This mechanism combines elements of political dialogue with legal assessment and has gradually become an essential part of the international human rights framework. In the Islamic states, where the relationship between international norms and domestic legal traditions may raise specific questions, the UPR provides a useful framework for examining how international monitoring functions in practice. In relation to Islamic states, the UPR shows its potential and its limitations at the same time. It contributes to dialogue and may support gradual improvements, but its effectiveness largely depends on the willingness of states to implement the recommendations.