The Danish Institute for Human Rights (DIHR) advises the government, the parliament, ministries and public authorities on human rights, among other things, whenever new legislation is suggested.

It produces various analyses and undertakes research on various human rights issues, for instance about children with imprisoned parents, legislation on terrorism, the rights of stateless persons or equal pay.

The Institute carries out specific projects to promote equal treatment and provides legal advice to those who may have been discriminated against.

Through its work, it maps out the biggest human rights challenges in Denmark as well as the improvements in the area. For more information, see the latest Annual Status Report and The Annual Report to the Danish Parliament.

At international level, DIHR works with states, independent organizations and the corporate sector, to enable them to strengthen human rights within their remit.

It also provides assistance in building well-functioning legal systems abroad and supporting civil society in general.

Within the private sector, DIHR helps companies to assess the human rights impact of their work.

It provides as well training to police officers, school teachers, ombudsmen, and judges on various human rights issues.

Head of institution

Louise Holck, Executive Director

Website

Address

Wilders Plads 8K 1403 Copenhagen, Denmark

Year of establishment

1987

Accreditation status

A

Year of latest accreditation

2012

Number of staff

150

Key documents

Mandate(s)

  • Equality Body
  • National Preventive Mechanism under OPCAT Art. 3 (NPM)- partly
  • Monitoring body under CRPD Art 33(2)

Core functions

  • Monitoring
  • Publishing research, recommendations, opinions
  • Reporting to international and regional human rights mechanisms
  • Legal assistance (but not free legal aid)- partly
  • Advising government, parliament and other public bodies
  • Supporting the work of human rights defenders
  • Cooperation with civil society organisations
  • Human rights education and training
  • Awareness raising activities
  • International activities and projects