Global Alliance of National Human Rights Institutions

The Global Alliance of National Human Rights Institutions brings together and supports national human rights institutions to promote and protect human rights

Vision

A world where everyone everywhere fully enjoys their human rights

Mission

GANHRI unites, promotes and strengthens NHRIs to operate in line with the Paris Principles and provides leadership in the promotion and protection of human rights

Principles and Values

GANHRI as a member-based global alliance, works in accordance with the Principles as laid down in its Statute

Our Identity

Representing more than 110 NHRIs, their members and staff across all regions, GANHRI is one of the largest human rights networks worldwide. With a Head Office in Geneva and a governance structure representing NHRIs around the world, GANHRI is truly global.

Enriched by its diversity, GANHRI works in close synergy with the four regional networks of NHRIs in Africa, the Americas, the Asia Pacific and Europe, creating one comprehensive structure of independent networks.

GANHRI is recognised, and is a trusted partner, of the United Nations. It has established strong relationships with the UN Human Rights Office, UNDP and other UN agencies, as well as with other international and regional organisations, NGOs, civil society and academia.

Our Theory of Change

GANHRI, with and through its members, positively impacts on human rights globally when:

NHRIs are established and accredited as independent Paris Principle compliant institutions in all countries of the world;
NHRIs are supported, strengthened and protected to independently and effectively fulfil their mandate of promotion and protection of human rights;
NHRIs collaborate and share experience and knowledge regionally and globally;
NHRIs can speak with unified voices and influence the global policy agenda;
NHRIs contribute towards a world where everyone everywhere fully enjoys their human rights.

Highlights

11 Nov 2021

Ombudsman of Colombia appointed for position of GANHRI Chairperson

On 21 October 2021, the regional NHRI network of the Americas (RINDHCA), appointed Carlos Ernesto Camargo Assis, Ombudsman of Colombia, as candidate for the position of GANHRI Chairperson.

10 Nov 2021

GANHRI urges action by States to address human rights impacts of climate change

GANHRI has called on State Parties attending COP26 to raise emission reduction targets and bolster adaptation efforts to address the escalating human rights impacts of climate change.

The open letter, prepared at the conclusion of an NHRI symposium co-hosted by GANHRI during COP26, also made recommendations in relation emissions trading programmes and enhancing international cooperation to support climate change responses by developing countries.

2 Nov 2021

New guide for NHRIs to support victims of sexual exploitation and abuse

In partnership with the Office of the Victims’ Rights Advocate (OVRA), GANHRI has released a guide for national human rights institutions (NHRIs) on supporting victims of sexual exploitation and abuse. The guide sets out practical steps NHRIs can take to promote justice for victims, including facilitating their access to legal aid and reporting mechanisms, as well as conducting advocacy, training and awareness-raising programmes.

12 Oct 2021

Overview of GANHRI’s engagement at the HRC48

During the 48th Session of the Human Rights Council, GANHRI contributed to discussion focused on the situation in Afghanistan, climate change and the right to development, the recognition of the right to a healthy environment as a universal human right and reprisals against those cooperating with the UN.

8 Oct 2021

GANHRI welcomes landmark recognition by UN human rights body of the right to healthy environment as a universal human right

The UN Human Rights Council today has adopted a resolution recognising a clean, healthy, and sustainable environment as a universal human right.

GANHRI had supported the initiative proposed by a core group of UN member states, joining the call from civil society, indigenous peoples, business actors and UN agencies.

8 Oct 2021

UN and GANHRI mark ten-year partnership to support national human rights institutions

UNDP, OHCHR and GANHRI marked ten-years of the Tri-Partite Partnership (TPP) in supporting National Human Rights Institutions (NHRIs) at the 2021 Annual Review Meeting and Partnership Platform, which took place 5 & 6 October. Over the years, NHRIs have gained a strengthened role in contributing to open civic spaces, dialogue on human rights, and protecting and promoting human rights in challenging contexts.

News and Events