a. Overview  of  the  conventional mechanisms
Conventional mechanisms monitor the implementation of the major international human rights treaties. The different committees established are composed of independent experts acting in their individual capacity and not as representa- tives of their Governments, although they are elected by representatives of States parties. The committees comprise 18 members each, with the excep- tion of the Committee Against Torture and Committee on the Rights of the Child (both 10 members) and Committee against the Elimination of all forms of Discrimination Against Women (23 members). Members are elected according to the principle of equitable geographic representation, thus ensur- ing a balanced perspective and expertise in the major legal systems. The main functions of the treaty bodies are to examine reports submitted by States par- ties and to consider complaints of  human rights violations.
• State reporting: All States parties to the international treaties are required to submit reports stating progress made and problems encountered in the implementation of  the rights under the relevant treaty.
• Individual complaints: Three of the international treaties currently allow for individuals to lodge complaints about alleged violations of rights