International Human Rights Systems

National human rights institutions (NHRI) are increasingly engaging with regional and international bodies, such as the United Nations Human Rights Council and international treaty bodies.

To operate successfully in the international human rights system, NHRIs need a clear understanding of the roles, functions and processes of the different organisations, as well as the skills required to engage effectively with them.

The International Human Rights Systems training program provides APF members with an overview of the development of international human rights law, how those laws are monitored and the practical steps that NHRIs can take to contribute to regional and international human rights systems.

The training program also looks at the international standards that apply to NHRIs and the factors that can strengthen the independence and effectiveness of their work at a national level.

The interactive training program uses a wide range of learning activities, such as role-plays, debates, group discussions and case studies, to build a core set of knowledge, skills and attitudes.

The International Human Rights Systems training program has been developed in collaboration with the International Service for Human Rights (ISHR).

Workshop for South-East Asia NHRIs, April 2009

This sub-regional workshop, hosted by the Philippines Commission on Human Rights, included participants from:

• the National Human Rights Commission of Indonesia (Komnas HAM)
• the Human Rights of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) 
• the National Human Rights Commission of Thailand
• the Philippines Commission on Human Rights

Workshop for West Asia NHRIs, December 2006

This sub-regional workshop, hosted by the Jordan National Centre for Human Rights, included participants from:

• the Afghanistan Independent Human Rights Commission,
• the Jordan National Centre for Human Rights
• the Palestinian Independent Commission for Human Rights
• the Qatar National Human Rights Committee