In recent years, armed conflicts and heightened security crises have posed unprecedented threats to human rights across Europe and its neighbourhood. Against this backdrop, ENNHRI has published a scoping paper examining the critical role of National Human Rights Institutions (NHRIs) in conflict-affected and post-conflict settings.

The paper highlights how NHRIs, being independent state-mandated bodies with a broad mandate to protect and promote human rights, act as a bridge between authorities, civil society, and international actors. Even amid extreme instability, NHRIs have opportunities and legal bases for monitoring and documenting human rights violations, supporting accountability processes, and advocating for the protection of those most at risk.

Drawing on examples from across the region, the study identifies good practices, key challenges, and emerging needs for NHRIs. The paper emphasises that NHRIs require strong mandates, institutional independence, and sustainable resources to operate effectively in volatile environments. The findings also call for greater international cooperation and targeted support to strengthen NHRIs’ resilience during all stages of armed conflicts.

This work reflects ENNHRI’s broader commitment to supporting NHRIs on the frontlines of human rights protection, amplifying their role in advancing accountability, justice, and lasting peace.

Read the scoping paper.

Find out more about ENNHRI’s work on human rights in (post-) conflict and securitisation.