The Human Rights Council held its twelfth regular session from 14 September to 2 October 2009 in Geneva. Highlights of the session relating to special procedures include several interactive dialogues, follow up to special sessions, appointment of new mandate holders, and participation in panels. On 1 July 2009, the Special Rapporteur on the independence of judges and lawyers expressed his concern at recent attempts to restrict the freedom of lawyers to represent their clients effectively in Cambodia. The Special Rapporteur was concerned that recent moves against lawyers in Cambodia seem to indicate a worrying new trend that could have a chilling effect on the legal profession. The Special Rapporteur reminded the Royal Government of Cambodia of its obligations under international law as set out in the Basic Principles on the Role of Lawyers.