activities and are at a higher risk of sexual violence and abuse. 2. In some countries human rights clubs have been established at schools; this is for example the case in Uganda. This can be a good way to encourage open discussions on human rights among children and adolescents. Especially within a culturally sensitive area like reproductive rights it is important to provide a safe environment for discussions. 3. Human rights should be taught at universities, in particular as part of the curriculum for law students. NHRIs should work with law faculties to ensure that reproductive rights are among the rights being taught as part of the human rights education of law and health care students. 4. To secure the full enjoyment of reproductive rights by all, it is necessary that certain professional groups have a sufficient understanding of reproductive rights, including the importance of treating women, adolescents and other groups with dignity, respect and confidentiality and in an age appropriate manner. Key among such groups are health professionals and social workers. Hence, NHRIs should work with the relevant authorities to make sure that reproductive rights are part of the curriculum for doctors, nurses, midwives and social workers. NHRIs should also try to develop short courses and teaching material to ensure health professionals and social workers who did not receive such teaching during their primary studies get the necessary knowledge and skills. 66 Certain aspects of reproductive rights concern criminal law, such as sexual violence and harmful practices. It is important that law enforcement professionals and judges have received the necessary training within these areas. These professionals should receive training on violation of reproductive rights and access to justice. NHRIs can be instrumental in promoting and providing this type of training. 5. The Paris Principles also mention the participation in programmes for research in human rights matters. Proper and in-depth knowledge in reproductive rights is an important steppingstone for all other activities such as evidence-based advocacy and policy reform. If it has the necessary resources, a NHRI can carry out its own research into matters relating to reproductive rights. If not, it can work with universities and other research institutions. Whenever reproductive rights, or certain aspects of reproductive rights, such as for instance the rights of LGBT groups, are considered too controversial to commence very visible public activities, research can be a good way to start work and get a clearer picture as to what are the real issues and how they might be addressed. It is important that NHRIs do not shy away from dealing with controversial issues but this does not mean that controversial issues cannot be dealt with in a low-key manner if this is considered most efficient.