This paper highlights the role of civil society stakeholders in promoting a better and more effective functioning of the Human Rights Council (HRC). It analyses the dynamics of regional groups within the HRC. A major part deals with UN Special Procedures as well as the confidential HRC Complaint Mechanism and how NGOs may utilize them in their lobbying. Major aspects when addressing country situations as well as the thematic issue of the right to freedom of religion are also examined. Last but not least, challenges from a Southern perspective as regards NGOs and concerning trust building among states and regional groups are dealt with.