A/HRC/9/10 page 4 Introduction 1. The independent expert, in his first report, explored his mandate pursuant to resolution 2005/55 of the Commission on Human Rights. In the second report (A/HRC/4/8), he identified key areas of focus in international solidarity, namely, international cooperation; global responses to natural disasters, agricultural pests and diseases, and third generation rights. Practical examples were provided of specific considerations and priority areas that should be taken note of in dealing with these concerns. 2. International solidarity by its nature covers a broad range of areas of cooperation and assistance. This does pose a challenge in identifying specific areas of focus in the independent expert’s work. In accordance with his mandate, in the present report, the independent expert considers it important to establish the legal framework of international cooperation in human rights conventions and treaties and how the obligation of international cooperation has evolved in human rights instruments. This will be the first in a series of reports to deepen study on the key areas of focus in the mandate, with a view to developing a framework to analyse international solidarity, establishing the main elements and elaborating on the content of the right of peoples and individuals to international solidarity. 3. In its resolution 6/3, the Human Rights Council urged the international community to consider urgently concrete measures to promote and consolidate international assistance to developing countries in their endeavours for development and for the promotion of conditions that make possible the full realization of all human rights. 4. In his second report, the independent expert defined international solidarity as the union of interests or purpose among the countries of the world and social cohesion between them, based upon the dependence of States and other international actors on each other, in order to preserve the order and very survival of international society, and in order to achieve collective goals which require international cooperation and joint action. In this definition, the key words include “union of interests or purpose”, interdependence and international cooperation, and joint action. The independent expert maintained that the definition should not be restricted to the action of States and has emphasized that the term “global solidarity” is broader as it does encompass the relationship of solidarity between States and other actors, such as international organizations, and civil society. 5. In the present report, the independent expert will also highlight the preliminary steps that will be taken towards preparing a draft declaration on the right of peoples and individuals to international solidarity. Human Rights Council resolution 6/3 also took into account the urgent need to further develop guidelines, standards, norms and principles with a view to promoting and protecting the right of peoples and individuals to international solidarity. Human Rights Council resolution 7/5 reiterated that the Independent Expert seek views and contributions from Governments, United Nations agencies, other relevant international organizations and non-governmental organizations in the discharge of his mandate.