National Human Rights Institutions (NHRIs) have been recognized at the international level as actors for the promotion and protection of human rights since 1946. Throughout the next three decades the United Nations and some of its affiliated organizations prepared a series of reports on the feasibility of national institutions as instruments for protection and promotion of human rights. These reports culminated in the UN International Workshop on National Institutions for the Promotion and Protection of Human Rights, held in Paris in 1991. The workshop led to the drafting of guiding principles – popularly known as the “Paris Principles” – that were adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in 1993.
When NHRIs met in Tunis for their second international workshop, they decided to establish the Global Alliance of National Human Rights Institutions (GANHRI), previously known as the International Coordinating Committee of institutions for the promotion and protection of human rights (ICC). Since then, the UN General Assembly has adopted numerous resolutions calling for the strengthening of NHRIs.
Identity
Representing more than 110 NHRIs, their members and staff across all regions, GANHRI is one of the largest human rights networks worldwide. With a Head Office in Geneva and a governance structure representing NHRIs around the world, GANHRI is truly global.
Enriched by its diversity, its membership is united by a common vision: a world where everyone everywhere fully enjoys their human rights. GANHRI works in close synergy with the four regional networks of NHRIs in Africa, the Americas, the Asia Pacific and Europe, creating one comprehensive structure of independent networks.
GANHRI is recognised, and is a trusted partner, of the United Nations. It has established strong relationships with the UN Human Rights Office, UNDP and other UN agencies, as well as with other international and regional organisations, NGOs, civil society and academia.
Vision
A world where everyone everywhere fully enjoys their human rights