A/HRC/10/24 page 15 of the special procedures system, the Assistant Secretary-General and the OHCHR Legal Adviser, Mona Rishmawi, reminded participants that amicus briefs should be carefully worded and that a disclaimer should be issued explaining that mandate-holders were expressing their own views, which did not necessarily reflect those of the United Nations or those of the Secretary-General. The latter, through the Office of Legal Affairs, should also be informed about any briefs submitted. The Assistant Secretary-General noted that, when submitting amicus curiae briefs, special procedures were considered “experts on mission”. They are accorded immunity from personal arrest and detention; they are also granted immunity in respect of words spoken or written and acts by them in the course of the performance of their mission; and immunity from legal process of every kind. However, they should be careful not to be drawn into situations where their participation in certain legal procedures could be interpreted as a waiver of those privileges and immunities. Should a question arise as to their privileges and immunities, mandate-holders were encouraged to always seek the advice of the Office of Legal Affairs. H. Procedures for unusual but vital reporting 53. Mandate-holders discussed a number of situations for which follow-up through reporting or public statements by special procedures acting collectively was considered important, including secret places of detention, the situation of migrants and serious human rights violations in countries for which no geographic mandate had been established. The Chairperson proposed that, in the light of past practice, an agenda item should be added to the forthcoming meetings of special procedures in order to discuss similar topics. 54. Participants discussed the procedure to bring special situations to the attention of the annual meeting. They agreed that any situation of concern should be first brought to the attention of the Committee, which would decide on further action in the light of the guidelines agreed on at the fifteenth annual meeting. The Committee would examine the case and put the matter on the agenda of the annual meeting when the criteria for common action (see paragraph 49 above) are met. VI. EXCHANGE OF VIEWS WITH THE DEPUTY HIGH COMMISSIONER 55. Addressing the annual meeting of the special procedures mandate-holders on behalf of the High Commissioner, the Deputy High Commissioner underlined their crucial role in the universal human rights protection system. She noted that special procedures had been faced over recent years with a number of challenges that had triggered a collective, fruitful reflection on enhancing their effectiveness. She stressed the impact of the establishment of a committee on the increased effectiveness and coordination of the special procedures. 56. The Deputy High Commissioner welcomed the appointment of mandate-holders under the new selection procedure. She thanked the Committee and OHCHR staff members supporting it for their engagement. Noting the termination of three country mandates, the Deputy High Commissioner mentioned the creation of two new thematic mandates - contemporary forms of slavery, including its causes and consequences, and the right to access to safe drinking water and sanitation - which would undoubtedly help to fill existing protection gaps.