The Commission has forty-three Member States elected by ECOSOC for a term of four years. Experts nominated by their respective governments should possess the necessary qualifications and professional or scientific knowledge.

The Commission has:

• eleven members from African States
• nine members from Asian States
• eight members from Latin American and Caribbean States
• five members from Eastern European States
• ten members from Western European and other States

 (There are currently 2 vacancies: 1 in Asian States and 1 in Eastern European States.)

At each session, the Commission elects a new Bureau (a Chairperson and four Vice-Chairpersons) for the next session. The Bureau assumes responsibilities for the forthcoming activities during the inter-sessional period.

(last update: 1 January 2013)