In the course of their work, the compliance of National Human Rights Institutions (NHRIs) with the UN Paris Principles could come under threat, such as through a reduction in formal independence, a reduction in mandate, budget cuts or the removal of office holders. NHRI staff can also face arrests or attacks due to their work. Providing support for NHRIs in this situation is a core aspect of ENNHRI’s work.
Our ENNHRI policy on supporting NHRIs under threat outlines our approach in this critical work area. The document also provides an overview of the options for support available and clarifies the procedures that are followed in such cases. We can provide support through:
- Advice on NHRI accreditation
- Peer support among members, including through network statements, letters from the Chair and dedicated meetings
- Facilitating contact with key international stakeholders (including GANHRI, OHCHR, UNDP, EU, Council of Europe and ODIHR)
- Where appropriate, raising public awareness, including through website, media, members’ networks and relevant stakeholders
Decisions are taken timely and in close cooperation with the NHRI.
ENNHRI is part of a Contact Group of Partners to Support NHRIs under threat. Established in 2023, its members cooperate to prevent and react to threats and challenges faced by NHRIs.
The seven regional and international partners currently in the Contact Group are:Â the Council of Europe, FRA, OSCE/ODIHR, UN OHCHR, UNDP, EQUINET, and GANHRI.
It offers a platform to exchange information on supporting European NHRIs under threat and on the broader enabling environment for the independent and effective functioning of NHRIs across Europe.
How to access support
To access ENNHRI support, NHRIs can follow these simple steps:
- Contact our Secretary-General, Chair or any Board member through the Secretariat to seek support or advice
- ENNHRI clarifies with NHRI the type of support needed
- ENNHRI Board agrees on action in cooperation with NHRI
- Where relevant, the action is coordinated with key stakeholders and ENNHRI members
Alongside this, online guidance allows NHRIs to explore the support offered by both ENNHRI and key partners, identify the organisations offering this, and see how to access it.
Example
Polish NHRI
Since 2016, the Polish government has adopted legal reforms impacting on human rights, rule of law and democracy, including the reduction of judicial independence, restrictions on the right of assembly and limitations on funding for civil society organisations. The Polish NHRI (Office of the Polish Commissioner for Human Rights) has issued legal opinions and public statements, joined constitutional complaints, intervened in parliamentary instances and cooperated with international organisations speaking out for human rights, democracy and the rule of law.
Consequently, the NHRI has faced institutional and individual threats, including budgetary constraints and the undermining of functional immunity. ENNHRI has supported the Polish NHRI by releasing joint statements together with partner organisations, including the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, the Global Alliance of NHRIs, the International Ombudsman Institute, the Council of Europe, the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights and Equinet.
Representatives from ENNHRI and partners met with the office of the NHRI in March 2019, expressing their solidarity and support in light of civil action brought against the Commissioner by a public television station.
Contact
For more information, or to seek support or advice, contact:
Debbie Kohner
Secretary-General
