Introduction National human rights institutions operate in countries with very different histories, cultures and traditions, but conflict and post-conflict situations present particular challenges. This chapter is meant to provide the reader with an understanding of the difficulties that an institution operating in these situations faces and the ways in which it might modify its programmes to respond to these difficulties. Learning objectives After reviewing this chapter, the reader will be able to: ■■ Identify the unique challenges that an institution operating in a conflict or postconflict situation faces and describe what impact these might have on programme delivery. 138