International Human Rights System

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.

It 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 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 was initially developed and run in collaboration with the International Service for Human Rights. Since 2009, it has been delivered by experienced trainers from the APF.

Workshop for South Asia NHRIs, June 2010

Hosted by the National Human Rights Committe of the Maldives and included participants from the national human rights institutions of India, the Maldives, Nepal and Sri Lanka, along with the newly established National Human Rights Commission of Bangladesh and a representative from the Ministry of Human Rights of Pakistan.

Workshop for South-East Asia NHRIs, April 2009

Hosted by the Philippines Commission on Human Rights and included participants from the national human rights institutions of Indonesia,  Malaysia, Thailand and the Philippines.

Workshop for West Asia NHRIs, December 2006

Hosted by the Jordan National Centre for Human Rights and included participants from the national human rights institutions of Afghanistan, Jordan, Palestine and Qatar.