Submitted by crinadmin on
The Special Representative of the UN Secretary General on Human Rights Defenders, Hina Jilani, is currently finalising her report to the Human Rights Council for March 2007 (which will be her last as the current mandate holder). The report will focus on the situation of those who defend economic, social and cultural rights. A section will also be devoted to the specific challenges faced by women human rights defenders and those who defend lesbian, gay, bissexual, transgender and intersex (LGBTI) rights. The Special Representative is thinking of devoting at least some paragraphs to issues faced by NGOs, as human rights defenders, concerning their participation in the newly formed Human Rights Council. For example, the Special Representative experienced substantial difficulties in the logistical preparation for the September session as she did not have firm dates for her speaking slot until two weeks in advance. Flights, hotel bookings, meetings and at one stage even a scheduled country mission, was put in question while she waited for the dates for her interactive dialogue (which was, subsequently changed). NGOs' ability to plan and participate in the Council is probably an even bigger challenge, and the Special Representative is keen to hear from NGOs on this point. Before responding, it may be helpful to be mindful of defenders rights under Articles 1 and 5 of the Declaration on Human Rights Defenders which say: "Everyone has the right, individually and in association with others, to promote and to strive for the protection and realization of human rights and fundamental freedoms at the national and international levels" (Article 1), and "For the purpose of promoting and protecting human rights and fundamental freedoms, everyone has the right, individually and in association with others, at the national and international levels: (a) to meet or assemble peacefully, (b) to form, join and participate in NGOs, associations or groups; (c) to communicate with non-governmental or intergovernmental organizations" Responses should be sent by Friday 1 December. Please bear in mind that due to the word limits of the report and the fact that the substantial part is already written, reference to NGO participation at the HRC is likely to be only a few paragraphs. Any particular comments concerning the other focus issues mentioned above are also welcome. For more information, contact: Visit the website of the Special Representative of the UN Secretary General on Human Rights Defenders:
(Article 5).
Melinda Ching Simon, Human Rights Officer
Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights
Palais Wilson Rm 3-011, CH - 1211 Geneva, Switzerland
Tel: +41(0) 22 917 9140; Fax: +41(0) 22 917 9006
Email: mchingsimon@ohchr.org
http://www.ohchr.org/english/issues/defenders/index.htm