In the face of democratic backsliding, shrinking civic space and complex global crises, national human rights institutions (NHRIs) stand as vital defenders on the frontlines of human rights protection.
On 18-19 June, UNDP, UN Human Rights Office (OHCHR), the Global Alliance of National Human Rights Institutions (GANHRI), NHRIs and their regional and global networks, as well as international partners convened to reflect on challenges NHRIs encounter in their daily work and to chart a strategic path forward.
"National human rights institutions are a cornerstone of any democratic system. When properly supported, they help prevent violations, close accountability gaps, and bring the voices of the most marginalized to the forefront," said Dr. Ammar Dwaik, Director General, Independent Commission for Human Rights in Palestine.
The Tri-Partite Partnership (TPP) to Support NHRIs, a strategic collaboration between UNDP, OHCHR and GANHRI, has played a catalytic role in strengthening NHRIs in 15 countries. Through this partnership, NHRIs have enhanced their capacity, increased visibility and improved outreach to deliver services to marginalized or remote communities, as well as to support people amidst conflict, hostilities or post-crises. Compelling stories of institutional transformation were shared from the State of Palestine, Timor-Leste and Ukraine.
The TPP has also empowered NHRIs to respond more effectively to urgent challenges, including the impacts of climate change and the digital divide. Innovative practices encompass the use of a real-time Human Rights Dashboard in Nigeria and the development of a digital platform to enhance public engagement in Costa Rica. "We have seen how investments in digital systems are improving institutional quality and deepening human rights impact," said Turhan Saleh, Deputy Director, UNDP Crisis Bureau.
Discussions on environmental rights and climate justice highlighted experiences from Ecuador, Georgia and North Macedonia, demonstrating how NHRIs supported environmental defenders and helped integrate human rights into national climate responses.
"We see a direct link between access to environmental justice and the protection of communities' rights - especially those on the frontlines of climate impacts. Our role has been to amplify these voices and ensure that environmental policy is grounded in human rights," said Tamar Gvaramadze, First Deputy Public Defender of Georgia.
The TPP Annual Meeting re-affirmed the UN system's continued commitment to empowering NHRIs as independent, effective, and resilient institutions - essential for upholding human rights, democracy, peace, and sustainable development worldwide.
