Background

In 2018, the Human Rights Council adopted resolution 39/11 on “Equal participation in political and public affairs”, in which it presented to the Council the guidelines on the effective implementation of the right to participate in public affairs. Paragraph 3 of the resolution requests the Office of the High Commissioner to prepare, in consultation with States and all other relevant stakeholders, a follow-up report on good practices and challenges faced by States in using the guidelines.

Summary

This report outlines good practices and challenges faced by States in using the guidelines on the effective implementation of the right to participate in public affairs. It highlights how decision-making processes that affect peoples’ lives should be guided by international human rights law and ensure transparency, access to information and participation at the local, national and international levels. The report underscores that political will remains the most important factor in creating a supportive environment that fosters participation, which is crucial for the effective implementation of the guidelines. Political will needs to be accompanied by openness, inclusion and accountability by public authorities.

Inputs received

To prepare this report, OHCHR requested input from States and other stakeholders, including relevant United Nations agencies, intergovernmental organizations, national human rights institutions, and non-governmental organizations [See Note Verbale to Member States]. Inputs received are available below.

The views and/or opinions expressed in the contributions listed below are those of the contributing organizations and do not necessarily reflect the views and/or opinions of the OHCHR. OHCHR is not responsible for the organizations’ views and/or opinions. The use and posting of the contributions do not provide any legal and/or other status to the contributing organizations or association with OHCHR.