Annual Conference of the Global Alliance of National Human Rights Institutions (GANHRI)

Opening Statement by Zeid Ra'ad Al Hussein UN High Commissioner for Human Rights

8 March 2017

Mr. President,
Excellencies, Friends,

I am glad to welcome you to this annual conference of the Global Alliance of NHRIs. You have gathered here from every region to share your experience and expertise. I particularly welcome the strong regional relationships that are taking shape at this annual event.

You have chosen to discuss how NHRIs approach conflict – warning of signs of conflict, preventing violations, re-establishing a peaceful and respectful co-existence. This is highly relevant to the work of many, perhaps even all of you. As all of us are aware, in times of tensions and rising social crises, NHRIs can have an enormous impact – above all, in preventing conflicts from escalating and breaking societies apart.

This task of prevention – which consists of pushing back against hatred and pushing forward with human dignity, equality and respect – covers the full spectrum of our work, for all rights. You are key actors in conflict prevention, owing to your unique position entrusted through your mandates; your knowledge of and involvement in the issues; and your close relationship with affected populations and vulnerable groups.

Moreover, human rights violations are often early warning signs of even greater troubles ahead, and NHRIs can develop early warning mechanisms and join efforts with civil society to prevent further escalation. Your capacity to provide to the United Nations system direct evidence-based information and insight on human rights situations can also be invaluable.

Mr President,

Tensions are increasing in many parts of the world, and a number of deadly conflicts are resulting in large numbers of victims and displacement. I particularly commend the NHRIs represented here, who in situations of rising crisis and conflict continue to monitor, document, issue public statements and release reports on human rights violations. It is essential that your institutions continue to carry out their mandates with independence, integrity, and impartiality as tensions arise – including during conflict. Collection of data, receiving complaints and investigation of allegations are essential to restore justice, to ensure effective remedies and to combat impunity.

The space for civil society and journalists is rapidly shrinking. Those working in defence of human rights, including the staff of NHRIs, are intimidated, harassed and attacked. Allow me to say that while travelling on missions, and in reading the reports of my staff, I have remarked on the principled work done by so many NHRIs in these situations, and your dedication.

Your work is fundamental to securing sustainable peace, with sound, transparent and accountable institutions, and a healthy social fabric. This essential role played by NHRIs is recognised more and more widely. As you know, one of the indicators of Sustainable Development Goal 16 – realisation of peace, justice and strong institutions – is “Existence of independent national human rights institutions in compliance with the Paris Principles.” This is a tribute to the sound work which so many NHRIs are doing.

OHCHR and UNDP jointly work at the country level to strengthen the capacity of NHRIs, based on the tripartite OHCHR-UNDP-GANHRI strategic partnership framework which was set up six years ago. In addition, since a number of UN mechanisms and processes benefit from the enhanced participation of NHRIs which are compliant with the Paris Principles, OHCHR and GANHRI are working together to ensure that the NHRI accreditation process is rigorous, impartial and conducted in an objective manner.

Colleagues,

Many of you have reported a rise in intolerance, and sharpening disputes in the contexts in which you work. At such times, I remind all of you to pay particular attention to the situation of marginalized groups, who may be made more vulnerable in times of crisis – and who, in many cases, are even specifically targeted.

It is also important to continue to monitor the actions of States, including security operations, and any emergency derogations of human rights obligations. Any emergency measures taken by State authorities must be necessary, proportionate and of limited duration.

In closing, let me say how much we count on your continuing strong work. Two years ago, when I opened this meeting, I emphasised the commitment of my Office to supporting your ability to have an impact where it counts: in your countries. I repeat that engagement now, and wish you fruitful discussions and every success in your challenging work.

Thank you