MODULE 1: OVERVIEW OVERVIEW: MODULE I Module I is introductory in nature and is designed to provide an overview of NHRIs and their role in national, regional and international human rights systems, with a focus on issues relevant to UNCTs. Module I contains five chapters. Chapter 1: Introducing National Human Rights Institutions Objective: Clearly explain what an NHRI is and its relevance to UN Country Teams. Describe the context in which NHRIs operate, including the human rights framework at the national and international levels, and the special importance of NHRIs in both. This chapter provides a general, short introduction for UNCT staff regarding the basic features and functions of national human rights institutions, the context in which they operate, the special relationship between NHRIs and the UN, and the ways in which UNCTs can work with NHRIs. This Chapter also introduces the “Paris Principles,” which set minimum standards for NHRIs. Because the UN has an important role in supporting NHRIs, this chapter emphasises the importance of strengthened co-operation which offers greater chances of success in ensuring the sustainability of democratic governance, the effective application of the rule of law, and the securing of human rights. Both the UNDP and the OHCHR have recognised that engagement with NHRIs is a priority. Chapter 2: Models of NHRIs Objective: Identify different types of NHRIs, including regional specificities (by consolidating regional experiences) and existing guidelines. This chapter is designed to familiarise UNCT members with the various NHRI models, with a focus on functional and structural differences, as well as regional specificities. UNCTs will improve their understanding of legal, political, and regional institutional cultures that affect NHRIs and the work they do. Other factors, such as economic circumstances, philosophical differences, and practical considerations are taken into account in examining the evolution of different models. Chapter 3: Roles and responsibilities of NHRIs Objective: Set out in detail the roles and responsibilities of NHRIs, including the human rights framework at the national and international levels with a focus on how NHRIs relate to the UN system. This chapter looks in detail at the main roles and responsibilities of NHRIs at both the national and international levels. The Chapter begins with an overview of the context in which NHRIs function and then moves to the standard grouping of NHRI roles. It should be noted that NHRI functions or activities are described in the Principles as “responsibilities”, suggesting that these are things that institutions are obliged to do.1 It is intended as a general overview only. International Council on Human Rights Policy. 2005. “Assessing the Effectiveness of National Human Rights Institutions” http://www.ichrp.org/files/reports/18/125_report.pdf 1 xxiii