Special Committee to Investigate Israeli Practices Affecting the Human Rights of the Palestinian People

The Special Committee to Investigate Israeli Practices Affecting the Human Rights of the Palestinian People and Other Arabs of the Occupied Territories (UNSCIIP), also called Special Committee on Israeli Practices, was established by United Nations General Assembly Resolution 2443 (XXIII) of 19 December 1968. UNSCIIP was to monitor "respect for and implementation of human rights in occupied territories." The committee comprises representatives of three member states appointed by the President of the General Assembly.

UNSCIIP's Task
The Special Committee was created to investigate Israeli settlements in the disputed territories. It prepares yearly General Assembly draft resolutions and other documents. It reports to the General Assembly through the Fourth Committee on matters related to Israeli settlements, the applicability of the Fourth Geneva Convention and the Palestinian Right of Return. The latest report was published on 24 June 2019. The mandate of the Special Committee is renewed annually, for example Resolution 2727 of 15 December 1970 and Resolution 2851 of 20 December 1971.

UNSCIIP's Achievements
The committee has fulfilled three vital functions:

1) It has defined the Palestinian matter as a political problem that demands a political solution,

2) It offered an opportunity for UN members to voice their opposition to imperialism and show solidarity with the Third World, and

3) It has given a platform for the expression of Palestinian optimism in international law, thereby supporting the UN as a global-utopian initiative.

In June 2019 the committee was composed of Malaysia, Senegal and Sri Lanka.

Israel's Reaction
Israel has refused to allow the Special Committee access to the disputed territories and has refused to participate in its inquiries.

End of Mission
According to the UN's Office of the High Commissioner, the Special Committee conducted its annual mission to Amman, Jordan, from 4 to 7 July 2022.