CHAPTER 5: NHRIS, HUMAN DEVELOPMENT AND DEMOCRATIC GOVERNANCE 11 Programmes assess the capacity of rights-holders to claim their rights, and of duty-bearers to fulfill their obligations. They then develop strategies to build these capacities. 11 Programmes monitor and evaluate both outcomes and processes guided by human rights standards and principles. 11 Programming is informed by the recommendations of international human rights bodies and mechanisms. For a candid discussion of the tensions and synergies between human rights and development goals, and a review of what, practically speaking, a human rights based approach practically involves, see Alston, “A Human Rights Perspective On The Millennium Development Goals.” Paper Prepared as a Contribution to the Work of the Millennium Project Task Force on Poverty and Economic Development. Human rights issues arise during: 11 the course of policy and programme dialogue; within the CCA, UNDAF and country programming processes; 11 assessment and analysis of the development situation; 11 programme formulation, implementation, monitoring and evaluation; and 11 programme review. An example of an UNDAF outcome that reflects a human rights-based approach in Guyana is provided below. A detailed discussion of how to integrate support to NHRIs in the UN country programming cycle is contained in Chapter 6. >> Example of UNDAF outcomes that reflect human rights-based approach principles Guyana (UNDAF 2006-2010) In 2006 the OHCHR, developed a tool in order to address the chasm between theory and practice especially in using development as a tool to work towards human rights goals, Frequently Asked Questions On A Human Rights-Based Approach To Development Cooperation. It seeks to respond to continuing gaps in knowledge and skills, and difficulties in translating human rights norms into concrete programming guidance applicable in diverse policy contexts and national circumstances. In Guyana, the UNDAF outcomes and country programme outcomes reflect equitable access with clear, time-bound targets essential for monitoring the realization of human rights and for accountability. See outcome 1: “By 2010 there will be at least 10 per cent increase in the proportion of Guyanese accessing quality services in education, health, water and sanitation, and housing, with capabilities enhanced to maximize available opportunities.” NHRIs can, through their existing roles and responsibilities, support a human rights-based approach to development. However, since UNCTs under the leadership of Resident Coordinators do not themselves undertake human rights monitoring or investigations, the role of NHRIs, as well as others with this kind of mandate, such as the OHCHR or the UNHCR, becomes that much more critical for the work of UNCTs. Two sets of tasks are engaged, which speak directly to the functions of NHRIs: The UNDAF outcome promotes quality services, rather than coverage alone, consistent with the international human rights standards. While it could have been strengthened further to focus explicitly on the most disadvantaged groups. It is noteworthy in recognizing capability improvement and the importance of people being able to claim their rights. 11 Developing the capacities of rights-holders to assert their rights; and 11 Developing the capacities of duty-bearers and ensuring that they have the responsibility, authority and resources needed to discharge their duties. Activities that can engage NHRIs include: advocacy and awareness-raising, training and capacity-building, partnership-building, practice development and knowledge networking. Opportunities for integrating human rights with human development occur in all UNDP practice and sub-practice areas and throughout the programme cycle. For more detailed discussion of the United Nations Development Group’s appraisal of this and other UNDAFs from a human rights perspective, see http://www.undg.org. 5.2 Linking NHRI Roles and Responsibilities to Development Quantitative aspects of human development are now well established, including in the Human Development Reports, which make explicit the links between human development and human rights. Indicators, combined with local country targets, provide tools and benchmarks to track when and whether countries are achieving 83