Introduction National human rights institutions are an important part of the national human rights machinery, but they are only one part. They must work alongside other bodies that also have human rights roles and responsibilities, including the courts, law enforcement, the legislature and human rights NGOs. It is important for NHRIs to establish appropriate and fruitful relationships with these potential partners. At the same time, it is a challenge. This chapter focuses on the relationship between NHRIs and the administration of justice, parliament, civil society and the international human rights system. (Other important partners, including business, other national institutions and regional and international NHRI networks, are discussed in chapters I and II.) Learning objectives After reviewing this chapter, the reader will be able to: ■■ Define the relationships that should exist between an NHRI and the courts, parliament and civil society, as well as the impact these relationships have on its work. 126