International Human Rights and the International Human Rights System A Manual for National Human Rights Institutions to address. They discuss general issues concerning theoretical analysis and general trends and developments with regard to their respective mandate and may contain general recommendations. They also describe briefly the work of the SP during the course of the preceding year. They usually contain summaries of all complaints transmitted to Governments and the replies received. In the HRC, reports prepared by SPs are distributed over the three regular sessions held during each year. Around a third of the reports are presented at each session. When presenting their reports at an HRC session, the SPs participate in an “interactive dialogue” with HRC member and observer States and other observers, including NHRIs and NGOs. The SP speaks briefly to the report and then receives and responds to comments, reactions and questions from HRC members and observers. In accordance with the HRC’s Rules of Procedure, “A status” NHRIs are able to participate in that dialogue, commenting and questioning the SP. The time for the dialogue is limited and often not every speaker can take the floor. NHRIs wanting to speak in the session should register early on the speakers’ list in the HRC meeting room. 5.3. Studies The preparation of studies is one of the principal functions of thematic mandates. These SPs typically identify particular issues associated with the mandate and prepare studies of some of those issues, seeking to develop further international understanding and law on the particular issues. An issue may be some aspect of: • the interpretation of the right • the application of the right to a particular area of activity • the implementation of the right • assessing State accountability in relation to obligations under the right • any other matter that can arise under the mandate. The studies are usually the subject of reports to the HRC or the GA, where they are considered and discussed in an interactive dialogue between the mandate holder and member States and observers. The studies prepared by SPs can be of great value to NHRIs as they assist in understanding and developing international law and so are relevant to the work of NHRIs in their own countries. NHRIs should monitor the subjects dealt with in these studies so that they are aware of contributions SPs can make to their work. NHRIs can also contribute to the studies. They can identify gaps in law or understanding of law and draw that to the attention of relevant SPs with proposals for studies. They can provide comments and experiences to SPs to assist them with the studies. “A status” NHRIs can participate in HRC interactive dialogues arising from the studies. Chapter 7: Special procedures | 51