UN Partnership Backs Human Rights Institutions Amid Global Democratic Crisis

As democratic values face mounting threats across the globe — from shrinking civic space to the erosion of accountability and rights — National Human Rights Institutions (NHRIs) have emerged as indispensable guardians of fundamental freedoms. Their work, often carried out under politically sensitive or hostile conditions, has been increasingly recognized for its vital role in promoting inclusive governance, accountability, and the protection of the most vulnerable.

On 18–19 June, a high-level gathering of UNDP, the UN Human Rights Office (OHCHR), the Global Alliance of National Human Rights Institutions (GANHRI), and representatives from dozens of NHRIs and international partners came together to evaluate the current state of NHRIs globally and strategize for the future.

The meeting was convened under the umbrella of the Tri-Partite Partnership (TPP) — a collaborative initiative by UNDP, OHCHR, and GANHRI aimed at strengthening NHRIs worldwide and reinforcing their capacity to operate as truly independent and effective human rights watchdogs.

“National human rights institutions are a cornerstone of any democratic system. When properly supported, they help prevent violations, close accountability gaps, and bring the voices of the most marginalized to the forefront,” said Dr. Ammar Dwaik, Director General of the Independent Commission for Human Rights in Palestine.

Strengthening Human Rights Defenders on the Frontlines

Since its inception, the TPP has played a catalytic role in transforming NHRIs in over 15 countries. The program has focused on building institutional resilience, enhancing public outreach, and enabling rights-based responses in complex settings — including conflict zones, post-crisis regions, and areas experiencing democratic fragility.

NHRIs from Palestine, Timor-Leste, and Ukraine shared powerful stories of institutional transformation, where support from the TPP allowed them to expand their mandates, respond to civil unrest, and maintain operations despite war or occupation.

In Palestine, for instance, the NHRI has played a critical role in documenting rights violations and providing assistance to communities affected by conflict. In Ukraine, amidst ongoing hostilities, the NHRI has been instrumental in providing legal aid, tracking civilian impacts, and advocating for accountability on the international stage.

Innovations in Digital and Environmental Human Rights Work

A recurring theme in the discussions was the growing digital divide and how it affects access to human rights. Several NHRIs presented innovative approaches developed in partnership with TPP, including:

• Nigeria’s Human Rights Dashboard: A real-time data collection tool that tracks violations, helping the NHRI respond quickly and direct resources where needed.

• Costa Rica’s Digital Engagement Platform: An initiative enabling citizens to interact directly with the NHRI, file complaints, and access educational materials, increasing transparency and trust.

“We have seen how investments in digital systems are improving institutional quality and deepening human rights impact,” said Turhan Saleh, Deputy Director of the UNDP Crisis Bureau.

In parallel, environmental rights and climate justice emerged as key discussion points. Representatives from Ecuador, Georgia, and North Macedonia highlighted how their NHRIs are actively supporting environmental defenders, promoting inclusive climate policymaking, and ensuring that vulnerable communities have access to environmental justice.

“We see a direct link between access to environmental justice and the protection of communities’ rights — especially those on the frontlines of climate impacts,” said Tamar Gvaramadze, First Deputy Public Defender of Georgia. “Our role has been to amplify these voices and ensure that environmental policy is grounded in human rights.”

A Strategic Vision for Resilient NHRIs

As part of the TPP Annual Meeting, participants reaffirmed a shared vision to empower NHRIs through:

• Legal and policy advocacy for greater NHRI independence and accountability

• Capacity-building initiatives tailored to regional needs

• Technical and digital innovation to improve data, case management, and citizen engagement

• Cross-border collaboration to address transnational human rights challenges like migration, cyber governance, and climate change

The gathering also underscored the UN system’s long-term commitment to sustaining and scaling up support for NHRIs, particularly in fragile or conflict-affected contexts where rights institutions are often most needed but least supported.

“We are witnessing an era where the protection of human rights cannot be taken for granted,” said one participant. “Strong, independent, and responsive NHRIs are more important than ever.”

The Path Forward

As nations grapple with democratic backsliding, humanitarian crises, and environmental threats, NHRIs remain on the frontlines of defense, offering legal aid, monitoring abuses, and empowering communities. The TPP’s multi-agency support ensures that these institutions not only survive but thrive — equipped with the tools, resources, and legitimacy to shape a future anchored in human rights and justice for all.