A/HRC/10/36 page 4 Introduction 1. In its resolution 2005/9, the Commission on Human Rights reiterated its concern at the continued reports of intimidation and reprisals against private individuals and groups who seek to cooperate with representatives of United Nations human rights bodies. The Commission also expressed deep concern at the continued seriousness of such reported reprisals and the fact that victims suffer violations of the most fundamental human rights, including the right to life, liberty and security of person, as well as the right to freedom from torture and cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment. The Commission also expressed concern regarding reports of incidents in which private individuals have been hampered in their efforts to avail themselves of procedures established under United Nations auspices for the protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms. 2. Pursuant to Human Rights Council decision 2/102, the Secretary-General was requested to submit at the tenth session of the Council an update to relevant reports and studies, including to his previous report on cooperation with representatives of United Nations human rights bodies.2 In accordance with Commission on Human Rights resolution 2005/9, this report contains a compilation and analysis of any available information, from all appropriate sources, on alleged reprisals against private individuals and groups who seek to cooperate with representatives of United Nations human rights bodies. I. INFORMATION RECEIVED AND ACTION TAKEN BY REPRESENTATIVES OF HUMAN RIGHTS BODIES A. Methodological framework 3. In accordance with Commission on Human Rights resolution 2005/9, this report contains information regarding acts of intimidation or reprisal against the following categories of individuals: (a) Those who seek to cooperate or have cooperated with representatives of United Nations human rights bodies, or who have provided testimony or information to them; (b) Those who avail or have availed themselves of procedures established under United Nations auspices for the protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms and all those who have provided legal assistance to them for this purpose; (c) Those who submit or have submitted communications under procedures established by human rights instruments; (d) Those who are relatives of victims of human rights violations. 4. In cases in which the victims of reprisals, whether individuals or organizations, have been in contact with one of the bodies or mechanisms of the Council, protective action was taken by the relevant mandate holders. Urgent communications or letters of allegation were in some cases 2 A/HRC/7/45.