About the Council The International Council on Human Rights Policy was established in 1998 ­following an international consultation that started after the 1993 World ­Conference on Human Rights in Vienna. It conducts practical research into problems and dilemmas that confront organisations working in the field of ­human rights. The Council starts from the principle that successful policy approaches will ­accommodate the diversity of human experience. It co-operates with all that share its human rights objectives, including voluntary and private bodies, ­national governments and international agencies. The Council’s research agenda is set by the Executive Board. Members of the International Council meet annually to advise on that agenda. Members help to make sure that the Council’s programme reflects the diversity of disciplines, regional perspectives, country expertise and specialisations that are essential to maintain the quality of its research. To implement the programme, the Council employs a small Secretariat of six staff. Based in Geneva, its task is to ensure that projects are well designed and well managed and that research findings are brought to the attention of relevant authorities and those who have a direct interest in the policy areas concerned. The Council is independent, international in its membership, and participatory in its approach. It is registered as a non-profit foundation under Swiss law. How to order Council publications All Council publications can be ordered through the Secretariat at: International Council on Human Rights Policy 48, chemin du Grand-Montfleury P. O. Box 147, 1290 Versoix Geneva, Switzerland Phone: (+41 (0) 22) 775 3300 Fax: (+41 (0) 22) 775 3303 All our publications can also be ordered through our web site at ­www.ichrp.org A link on the home page will direct you to a list of all the publications, then simply follow the instructions. The publications can also be accessed in PDF format on the web site. For more information about the International Council and its work, please ­contact us at info@ichrp.org Assessing the Effectiveness of National Human Rights Institutions 45