The effective communication of human rights is an important area of work for us, given that promoting human rights is one of the core functions of National Human Rights Institutions (NHRIs). We provide a platform for European NHRIs to build their capacities and exchange expertise on effective human rights communications. We also collaborate with our partners in this area in an effort to build broader support for human rights across Europe. This work is facilitated through our Communications Working Group.

In the context of rising populist narratives across Europe, it is important to rethink communication practices and re-formulate messages about human rights to ensure they are fully understood by the general public. We strengthen NHRIs’ capacities in this area in different ways, including by drawing together existing research on this topic and providing workshops and training activities.

In 2019, we held a workshop on ‘Communicating Economic and Social Rights’, which brought together communications and policy staff from European NHRIs to jointly explore approaches to advancing a positive human rights narrative in Europe.

Download: Tips for effective messaging about economic and social rights

We also work with our partners at a regional and international level to ensure greater cooperation in the area of communicating human rights. Together with Equinet, the European Network of Equality Bodies, representatives of European NHRIs and the ENNHRI Secretariat participate in annual workshops and meetings held by the EU Agency for Fundamental Rights, which bring together communications experts to address opportunities and challenges around promoting human rights.

In 2018, we issued a joint statement, together with the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, the Office of the Council of Europe Commissioner for Human Rights, the EU Agency for Fundamental Rights and the Global Alliance of NHRIs, committing to improve our public communication to successfully promote and protect human rights.

Download statement: International organisations commit to building broader support for human rights