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How we make a difference 2011


A year for people of African descent
A chapter closes but another one opens: the International Year should lead to an International Decade for People of African Descent.
30-12-2011
End impunity for peace and development in West Africa
Peace and stability in West Africa requires the fight against impunity and respect for human rights at the national and regional level.
28-12-2011
Political transitions provide opportunities to promote women’s human rights
Political transitions provide a unique opportunity to promote the human rights of women.
26-12-2011
Opening the Door to Equality: Access to Justice for Dalits in Nepal
A major report from the UN Human Rights office in Nepal says despite significant progress in combating caste-based discrimination and untouchability, many obstacles remain for victims seeking access to justice.
22-12-2011
Putting people at the centre of development
At a panel discussion to mark the 25th anniversary of the UN Declaration on the Right to Development, experts discuss ways to better integrate human rights in economics and development.
21-12-2011
Human rights are not a matter of charity
Calling on all States to ratify the Convention on Migrant Workers, UN Human Rights chief Navi Pillay says human rights are not a matter of charity or a reward for obeying immigration rules.
20-12-2011
Human trafficking: a rights-based approach
States should recognize trafficked persons’ right to an effective remedy. Experts, meeting in New York to address this global problem, examine appropriate compensation and assistance for the millions world-wide who have been trafficked.
19-12-2011
In memory of Sonia Pierre, human rights defender
The human rights community mourns the untimely passing of Sonia Pierre, founder of the Movement of Dominican-Haitian Women (MUDHA).
16-12-2011
20 years of fighting modern slavery
Over 27 million people, including boys and girls, live their lives every day in slavery or slavery-like conditions despite continued efforts to end slavery.
15-12-2011
Call for States to tackle homophobic bullying
Homophobic bullying of children and young people constitutes a serious human rights challenge that States have a legal obligation as well as moral responsibility to address.
14-12-2011
A universal emblem for human rights
The Government of Germany spearheads a worldwide competition for the creation of a universally recognized human rights logo. Here is the winner.
13-12-2011
A World without Arbitrary Detention
“Arbitrary detention has become endemic and is more and more, in the context of recent protests around the world, used as a weapon to silence and eliminate all opposition,” says Bacre Ndiaye, Director of the Human Rights Council and SP Division.
12-12-2011
“Do you have a question on human rights?”
During a global social media conversation in New York, UN Human Rights chief Navi Pillay answers questions on a wide range of human rights issues.
09-12-2011
Internet must be free but handled with care
A free and uncensored internet is important for democracy and human rights but there are dangers and challenges which must be accepted and managed according to panelists at a special event to commemorate Human Rights Day in Geneva.
09-12-2011
The youth of Yemen in the Arab spring
“The revolution gave us the opportunity to get out and speak about human rights and demand them,” says Hend Nasiri, a 21-year-old human rights activist from Yemen.
08-12-2011
Campaigning on social networks for human rights in Tunisia
Under the pseudonym of Hamadi Kaloutcha, Sofiane Belhaj, a blogger and human rights defender, has been campaigning on social networks against former President Ben Ali’s regime since 2007.
07-12-2011
Make a wish for Human Rights
What would you wish for? The UN Human Rights office launches its very own Mash Up video as part of its social media campaign launched to celebrate Human Rights on its 10 December birthday. The Mash Up video is there to inspire and help you make a choice.
06-12-2011
16 days of activism: fighting against sorcery related killings
Monica Paulus, a human rights defender from Papua New Guinea, fights against sorcery related killing. “Women accused of sorcery are victims of extreme abuse and horrendous killings,” she says.
06-12-2011
Ban urges leaders to respond to people’s calls for right to development
Ban Ki-moon today urged leaders to respond to people’s calls for the right to build a better future.
02-12-2011
An inspirational story to help achieve inclusive education
Inspired by her personal experience, Theresia Degener - a member of the UN Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities - focuses on the rights of disabled children to obtain a proper and inclusive education.
01-12-2011
16 Days of Activism: 15 years of initiatives to end violence against women
Since its creation in 1996, the UN Trust Fund to End Violence against Women has delivered more than USD 78 million to support 339 initiatives around the world.
30-11-2011
Human Rights based approach to trafficking
The human rights- based approach to trafficking places the victim at the centre of any credible action to this problem through addressing the root causes and the factors increasing vulnerabilities.
29-11-2011
16 Days of Activism: breaking the silence through awareness and outreach
Awareness campaigns, advocacy and outreach activities are the key to eliminate violence against women, in particular harmful traditional practices.
28-11-2011
16 days of activism to eliminate violence against women
The 16 days of activism campaign, which runs from 25 November to 10 December, calls for the elimination of violence against women and invites everyone to take action against it.
23-11-2011
Addressing incitement to hatred in the Americas
Human rights experts discuss the implementation of international human rights standards to address incitement to hatred in the Americas.
23-11-2011
A new social contract needed to advance the realization of the right to development
UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon urges the global community to negotiate a “new social contract”, to achieve the social, economic, cultural and political progress envisaged in the Declaration on the Right to Development.
22-11-2011
A family’s long standing involvement in the fight for human rights
Maryam Al-Khawaja’s father, a prominent human rights activist, taught her what it means to fight for human rights and “to respect others even if you don’t agree with them,” says Al-Khawaja.
21-11-2011
Natural disasters: an occasion to redress inequalities
In the wake of a natural disaster, “vulnerable people do not always benefit from disaster assistance as others,” says Raquel Rolnik, UN expert on adequate housing.
18-11-2011
For children on the streets there are no soft pillows
The UN Human Rights office convenes experts from many countries in the search for the most effective ways to help children living on the streets whose voices are seldom heard and whose rights are regularly abused with impunity.
17-11-2011
Human rights promotion crucial in DR Congo poll
The UN Human Rights Office, MONUSCO and local actors have teamed-up to promote human rights and peace as the Congolese gear-up for the November presidential poll.
16-11-2011
Focus on strengthening democratic institutions in Moldova
UN Human Rights chief Navi Pillay concludes visit to Moldova and expresses human rights concerns on various fronts.
08-11-2011
“I commit to end caste discrimination and untouchability”
Campaigning for an end to caste-based discrimination – the Human Rights Office in Nepal and the National Dalit Commission of Nepal call for personal pledges and the implementation of a new law to end the deep-seated practice of caste discrimination.
08-11-2011
Time to make right to development a reality for all, UN officials stress
Top United Nations officials today stressed the need to make the right to development a reality for everyone, everywhere.
08-11-2011
Freedom of expression everywhere, including in cyberspace
States must guarantee the right to freedom of expression and opinion, including on the Internet, says UN expert.
04-11-2011
Realizing indigenous peoples’ rights in Paraguay
UN Deputy High Commissioner for Human Rights, Kyung-wha Kang encourages the Government of Paraguay to increase efforts to ensure that indigenous peoples’ rights are respected.
03-11-2011
Eliminate preventable maternal mortality now
Preventable maternal mortality is a global human rights issue that requires the intervention and commitment of the global community.
02-11-2011
Children of Parents in Prison
The UN Human Rights Office holds the first-ever international discussion on the impact of parental imprisonment on children.
01-11-2011
Righting wrongs for women of African descent
Multiple forms of discrimination deny women of African descent their rights and recognition of their contributions to society.
27-10-2011
The crisis in the Horn of Africa: a human rights perspective
The severe drought in the Horn of Africa has become an unprecedented human rights crisis, devastating the lives of millions.
26-10-2011
Human rights in the trade arena
Taking a stand: The importance of incorporating human rights issues into international trade rules.
25-10-2011
Preventing intimidation and reprisals against human rights defenders
The UN urges Governments to prevent and refrain from all acts of intimidation or reprisal against those who cooperate with the Organization and other mechanisms on the issue of human rights.
25-10-2011
Tackling poverty in a world of 7 billion
The world’s population will hit the seven billion mark on 31 October 2011, according to UN estimates. As the number of people increases, so do the challenges – among them poverty and inequality.
25-10-2011
Human Rights on the record
A milestone achieved - the Human Rights Council completes, for the first time ever, a review of the human rights record of all Member States of the United Nations.
21-10-2011
Cambodia - 20 years on from the Paris Peace Agreements
On the Anniversary of the Paris Peace Accords – the agreement which sought peace in Cambodia the international community reflects on progress made and what remains to be achieved.
21-10-2011
The people of Tunisia cast their votes
UN Human Rights chief Navi Pillay urges the people of Tunisia to make their voices heard by casting their votes in Sunday’s i first free elections.
20-10-2011
Solidarity for a globally sustainable future
The multiple crises currently facing the world could best be addressed by fostering international solidarity, says UN independent expert.
19-10-2011
Rebuilding Libya
Concern for the rights of thousands being held in detention in Libya - a senior human rights delegation returns from Libya expressing concern at conditions in the makeshift prisons.
18-10-2011
The right to development – who decides
The Social Forum of the Human Rights Council meets to explore many and varied views on the way forward in making the right to development a reality for all.
17-10-2011
Fighting extremism for the sake of human rights
States must protect vulnerable groups against extremist organizations, says expert on racism.
13-10-2011
Courage is our virtue and freedom is our goal
Kasha Jacqueline Nabagesera receives the prestigious Martin Ennals Award for human rights defenders.
13-10-2011
The Nobel Peace Prize: its youngest-ever winner
“We work for freedom and dignity.” Tawakkul Karman, joint winner of this year’s Nobel Peace Prize explains the principles that underpin the peaceful struggle for democracy in Yemen.
12-10-2011
Human rights at the centre of climate change policy
The adverse effects of climate change may have a direct negative impact on the enjoyment of human rights.
11-10-2011
Working towards a world without the death penalty
Recent developments suggest that efforts to abolish the death penalty continue according to a recent report of the UN Secretary-General.
10-10-2011
Seeking justice for children during and after armed conflict
A UN publication examines how children can seek justice for violations suffered during armed conflict and explores the responsibility of children who have committed criminal acts while associated with an armed group.
07-10-2011
Journalism - one of the world’s most dangerous professions
Human rights chief Navi Pillay says States have an obligation to end impunity for attacks against journalists.
06-10-2011
Women and girls and their right to sanitation
About 2.6 billion people live without proper sanitation. Over 1.1 billion people have no sanitation facilities at all. This adversely affects women and girls.
03-10-2011
Promoting the language rights of indigenous peoples
Experts discuss the importance of linguistic diversity for the protection rights and the survival of the cultures of 370 million indigenous peoples around the world.
30-09-2011
Tolerance and reconciliation are key to a just and equitable society
The UN Human Rights Council reflects on the protection and promotion of human rights through tolerance and reconciliation.
28-09-2011
Bringing health-related rights home for older persons
The UN Special Rapporteur calls on the global community to better protect the right to health of older persons in a rapidly ageing world.
27-09-2011
Medical waste – a health risk for many
UN expert says it is time the international community gave the inadequate management and disposal of medical waste the attention it deserves
26-09-2011
No future for enslaved children working in mines and quarries
The Special Rapporteur on contemporary forms of slavery presents her report on child slavery in the artisanal mining and quarry sector to the Human Rights Council in Geneva.
23-09-2011
Let’s fight racism!
On the occasion of the commemoration of the 10th anniversary of the Durban Declaration and Programme of Action, UN Human Rights Chief Navi Pillay reflects on the persistence of racism in the world and on the legacy of the past.
22-09-2011
Renewed hope for victims of racism
UN Human Rights Chief Navi Pillay urges world leaders to eliminate the scourge of racism, ten years after the landmark adoption of the Durban Declaration and Programme of Action.
22-09-2011
In limbo – hundreds of thousands forced to flee North Africa
UN Human Rights Chief Navi Pillay urges action to protect the thousands of migrants who have fled the upheavals in North Africa.
20-09-2011
A global partnership for the right to development
The Human Rights Council debates the way forward as the global community marks the 25th Anniversary of the UN Declaration of the Right to Development.
19-09-2011
Breaking point in Somalia
The drought in Somalia takes the local people to breaking point: the Independent Expert on Somalia says the funds must be found to deal with the country’s famine and ongoing conflict.
15-09-2011
2011 - A defining geopolitical moment
The Human Rights Council considers the promotion and protection of human rights during peaceful protest movements.
14-09-2011
The 18th Session of the Human Rights Council
Opening this year’s final session of the Human Rights Council, High Commissioner Pillay sets out the many human rights challenges confronting the global community.
12-09-2011
How a Human Rights Assessment Mission works
Assessment missions are deployed to assess the human rights situation in a particular country.
12-09-2011
The Human Rights Council meets for its 18th session
The right to express grievances and aspirations for political change through peaceful protests will be a central theme of the 18th session of the Human Rights Council meeting.
09-09-2011
Students express visions through art on gender equality
An exhibit presented by the UN Human Rights office features artworks by Geneva students on the theme of gender equality.
07-09-2011
Syria in turmoil – the UN Human Rights Council acts again
Allegations of human rights violations arising from this year’s demonstrations in Syria are to be investigated by an international commission of inquiry acting on behalf of the Human Rights Council.
05-09-2011
Freedom of expression and new media
For the first time the UN Human Rights Committee considers new media in the context of the rights to freedom of opinion and expression, stressing that access must be protected.
01-09-2011
New impetus to eradicate enforced disappearances
A disappearance has a doubly paralysing impact: on the victims, frequently tortured and in constant fear for their lives, and on their families, ignorant of the fate of their loved ones.
30-08-2011
Defending defenders
The UN Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights defenders says that in many countries it is still very dangerous to be a human rights defender.
26-08-2011
Realizing the rights of victims of terrorism
Victims of terrorism require immediate assistance and long term medical and psycho-social support, as well as financial assistance to rebuild their lives, says UN Human Rights chief Navi Pillay.
22-08-2011
UN Human Rights colleagues honoured and remembered
The UN Human Rights Office in Geneva held a small ceremony on 19 August to remember those who died while serving the UN and the cause of human rights.
19-08-2011
Reports highlight need for alternatives to institutional care
European and Central Asian Governments have a responsibility to develop community-based alternatives to institutional care, two new UN studies highlight.
16-08-2011
In Walikale victims of attacks struggle to recover
Victims of human rights violations in the Democratic Republic of the Congo face multiple challenges on the road to recovery.
12-08-2011
‘Human rights don’t stop at 60’
Human rights experts call for dedicated efforts to pinpoint, stop and prevent discrimination against older persons.
11-08-2011
Using social media to promote human rights
The Internet Freedom Fellows, a group of bloggers and journalists, gathered at the UN to talk about the importance of a free Internet for the promotion of human rights and freedom of expression.
10-08-2011
Protecting women’s rights in war
Prevention is a key element in protecting women’s human rights during and after conflict, the UN women’s rights committee was advised.
05-08-2011
The dangerous journey of migrants through Mexico
Many migrants coming from or passing through Mexico, become victims of smugglers, corrupt authorities, crime gangs, organ thieves, drug cartels, human traffickers and kidnappers.
04-08-2011
Protecting witnesses and victims: special measures for women and children
At a UN meeting on witness and victim protection, experts emphasize the importance of special protection measures for victims of violations that disproportionally affect women and girls.
29-07-2011
Tackling incitement to hatred in the Asia Pacific region
Human rights experts seek a better understanding of legislation and policies on incitement to hatred in the Asia Pacific region.
22-07-2011
Making the right to development a reality for all
A special UN panel held in Geneva focuses on the realization of the right to development and the achievement of a global partnership for development.
18-07-2011
Practical measures to promote a culture of tolerance
Experts at a UN Human Rights Council panel discuss possible practical measures to promote a culture of tolerance and peace.
15-07-2011
Ending ‘son preference’ to promote gender equality
Gender-biased sex selection perpetuates discrimination and violations of women’s and girls’ rights.
15-07-2011
Breakthrough in North Africa
UN Human Rights Chief, Navi Pillay, opens the first ever UN human rights office in a Mediterranean North African country, Tunisia.
14-07-2011
Measuring justice and rule of law
As the UN launches tools to measure progress in strengthening the rule of law, a new study shows that justice systems continue to rule women out.
08-07-2011
Advancing Indigenous Peoples’ Rights in Mexico
"Indigenous women suffer two types of discrimination, as indigenous people and as women," says UN Human Rights chief Navi Pillay.
07-07-2011
Haitians must lead on human rights
The realization of economic and social rights is key to long-term stability in Haiti, says UN Deputy High Commissioner for Human Rights.
06-07-2011
Prevention is key to ending violence against women
Primary prevention is essential to combat violence against women.
05-07-2011
Integrating migrants of African descent into Portuguese society
Has the creation of the National Centre for Immigration Support eased the integration of migrants of African descent into Portuguese society?
01-07-2011
Accessing and protecting affected civilians in Sudan
Deputy High Commissioner Kang hopes that the recent agreements will stop hostilities and provide access to the affected population.
30-06-2011
Global shifts in human rights create new opportunities
UN Human Rights Chief, Navi Pillay, briefs the press in Geneva on global developments in human rights and the impact on the work of her office.
30-06-2011
Human rights violations entrench displacement in Darfur
On her first visit to Darfur, Sudan, Deputy High Commissioner for Human Rights, Kyung-wha Kang appealed for improvements in the conditions of internally displaced people living in camps
28-06-2011
Making businesses respect human rights
A set of Guiding Principles, unanimously endorsed by the UN Human Rights Council, will help business companies respect human rights.
27-06-2011
The power of art therapy for torture survivors
Torture “leaves scars on people, communities and entire societies that can be very difficult to heal,” says UN Human Rights chief Navi Pillay.
24-06-2011
The new South Sudan state must uphold human rights
UN Deputy High Commissioner for Human Rights Kyung-wha Kang visits Sudan ahead of the declaration of independence on 9 July.
24-06-2011
Working for results in 2010
UN Human Rights Chief Navi Pillay presents her Office’s report on results in 2010 to representatives of UN Member States in Geneva
22-06-2011
Combating laws that negatively affect women’s everyday lives
Despite the progress already made in adopting equality laws, many women do not fully enjoy human rights
20-06-2011
Reaching zero discrimination in the AIDS response
The world adopts new targets to get to zero new infections, zero HIV-related deaths and zero discrimination 30 years into the epidemic.
20-06-2011
Report offers insight on human rights in Colombia
The 2010 Annual Report of UN Human Rights Office analyses seven specific human rights challenges for Colombia.
17-06-2011
Helping victims of trafficking access effective remedies
Victims of trafficking “are entitled to effective remedies, protection and care”, says UN Human Rights Chief Navi Pillay.
15-06-2011
Better protection against discrimination for Roma and victims of caste systems
The Special Rapporteur on contemporary forms of racism presents his report on discrimination against the Roma, as well as on the grounds of work and descent.
14-06-2011
A torture victim’s fight for justice
Farrukh Gapirov says the police in Kyrgyzstan tortured him. The UN Human Rights office in the country and a local NGO are assisting him in his quest for justice.
10-06-2011
Putting Rights First in the Global AIDS Response
The world comes together to chart the future course of the global AIDS response at a UN meeting in New York.
08-06-2011
Human rights chief meets with human rights defenders
UN Human Rights chief Navi Pillay meets with human rights defenders from the Middle East and North Africa.
08-06-2011
Winds of Change in Tunisia
Collaboration between the UN Human Rights Office and the Tunisian Transitional Government is paving the way for the improvement of the human rights situation in the country.
03-06-2011
Economic, social and cultural rights reviewed at Human Rights Council
UN experts present to the Human Rights Council their reports on cultural rights, education, health and poverty.
01-06-2011
Putting human rights into practice through development: the Ecuadorian experience
The Government of Ecuador adopts a human rights based approach to development planning.
31-05-2011
Human Rights Council opens its 17th session
Democratic transition is incomplete if it fails to include appropriate institutional reforms, UN Human Rights Chief Navi Pillay tells the Human Rights Council.
30-05-2011
States must comply with regulations when using force during protests – UN Expert
States should comply with international human rights standards in order to protect lives during demonstrations, says the Special Rapporteur on extrajudicial executions.
30-05-2011
Global efforts to advance indigenous rights
UN organizations join hands to support efforts of indigenous peoples to secure their human rights and improve their well-being.
26-05-2011
UN helps torture victims rebuild their lives
Torture survivors rebuild their lives at VIVRE CAPREC, a rehabilitation centre funded by the UN Voluntary Fund for Victims of Torture.
25-05-2011
Protecting the rights of young migrants
As more young people migrate in search of hope and opportunity abroad, protection of their human rights becomes a major concern.
20-05-2011
Drive to protect children reaches milestone
Campaign to strengthen legal protection of children from sale, sexual exploitation and recruitment into armed conflict making progress after one year.
20-05-2011
Public security and human rights
Experts examine the challenges of promoting and protecting human rights in times of insecurity.
18-05-2011
Managing migration while respecting human rights law
UN Human Rights chief, Navi Pillay reminds States that, while they are entitled to manage migration, they must do this in full respect of their obligations under human rights law.
12-05-2011
Human rights crucial for development
Human rights, including the right to development, are crucial for achieving inclusive, equitable and sustainable development in the Least Developed Countries
11-05-2011
People helping people: 10th anniversary of the International Year of Volunteers
The United Nations, volunteering organizations, civil society, governments and the private sector mark this year the tenth anniversary of the International Year of Volunteers around the world
10-05-2011
Equal rights for everyone, whomever they love
“Think again,” urges UN Human Rights chief Navi Pillay, in a new video message, to those opposed to equal rights for LGBT people.
06-05-2011
Human Rights Council: Stop human rights violations in Syria
UN Human Rights Council requests Syria to stop all human rights violations, and asks the UN Human Rights office to dispatch an investigative team.
05-05-2011
Freedom of expression empowers people to claim human rights
On World Press Freedom Day, UN human rights chief Navi Pillay stresses the interface between press freedom and fundamental human rights
03-05-2011
UN Human Rights team returns from Egypt
An OHCHR delegation calls for concerted efforts to combat human rights violations and impunity in the new Egypt.
29-04-2011
Solutions sought on incitement to hatred in Africa
A regional workshop addresses incitement to national, racial and religious hatred in Africa.
27-04-2011
Seeking stronger protection for older persons
Governments and human rights experts discuss ways to protect the human rights of older persons.
21-04-2011
Deputy High Commissioner in Nepal addresses outstanding issues in peace process
Deputy High Commissioner for Human Rights Kyung-wha Kang visits Nepal calling for an end to discrimination and impunity
20-04-2011
Making rights a reality for the homeless
The United Nations Human Rights office supports a project in Southern Kyrgyzstan to safeguard the economic and social rights of marginalized groups.
12-04-2011
Religion, belief and women’s rights
UN human rights chief Navi Pillay warns against the reassertion of discriminatory practices against women amid political transition in the Middle East and North Africa.
07-04-2011
Supporting the rights of children living in the street
Street children join the Human Rights Council to discuss the rights of children.
05-04-2011
Collective action needed to end racial discrimination
The Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination discusses the specifics of racial discrimination against by people of African descent
04-04-2011
People of African Descent: Recognition, Justice, and Development
The Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent meets to address the human rights concerns of Afro-descendants.
30-03-2011
Right to adequate housing in post-disaster construction
UN Special Rapporteur Raquel Rolnik stresses the importance of the right to adequate housing in the post-earthquake and tsunami reconstruction efforts in Japan.
28-03-2011
In remembrance of 30 million victims of slavery
On 25 March, people the world over remember the 30 million victims of the slave trades
25-03-2011
International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination
On the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, UN human rights Chief Navi Pillay pays special attention to people of African descent.
22-03-2011
Guinea torture victims thirst for justice
UN Human Rights chief Navi Pillay visits Guinea and Senegal in her first mission to West Africa. UN says urgent judicial reforms in Guinea need to be in place to pave the way for ending the culture of impunity.
17-03-2011
We were heard: ‘Stalker’ Festival in Moscow
Film makers at a Russian festival receive award for human rights protection.
15-03-2011
Securing fair trials for terrorist suspects
UN meeting for Southeast Asia seeks human rights safeguards for persons accused of terrorist acts.
11-03-2011
Laws criminalizing homosexuality are incompatible with international human rights standards and fuel homophobia
Homophobia, like racism and misogyny, is a prejudice born of ignorance, says UN High Commissioner for Human Rights
10-03-2011
International Women’s Day
UN human rights chief Navi Pillay urges solidarity with women in every corner of the world working for positive change in their communities.
08-03-2011
From herding goats to protecting women’s rights
Jane Meriwas escaped motherhood at an early age and vowed to protect and promote education for other young girls in her community.
07-03-2011
Reparations for sexual violence survivors in DRC
Victims of sexual violence in the Democratic Republic of Congo must benefit from their right to remedy and reparation, a United Nations panel has recommended.
04-03-2011
High Commissioner’s annual report to Human Rights Council
UN human rights chief Navi Pillay presented her annual report to the Human Rights Council and engaged in an interactive dialogue with government and civil society representatives.
03-03-2011
Combating discrimination against Afro-descendants
People of African descent suffer racial discrimination worldwide. Experts call for a ‘positive action’ remedy.
03-03-2011
Human Rights Council opens its 16th session
The Human Rights Council opens its 16th session in Geneva for a month of review and discussion on thematic and country specific human rights issues.
28-02-2011
UN Human Rights Council recommends suspension of Libya
A special session of the UN Human Rights Council on Libya unanimously recommended that the main United Nations governing body reviews the membership of the North African state in the Council.
25-02-2011
Development is a human right for all
Seize the opportunity of the 25th anniversary of the UN Declaration on the Right to Development to make this right a reality for all, says High Commissioner Navi Pillay.
24-02-2011
UN Human Rights Chief’s dialogue with civil society in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territory
UN Human Rights Chief Navi Pillay meets human rights defenders in East Jerusalem, West Jerusalem, Ramallah and Gaza City.
24-02-2011
Human rights chief calls for accountability on her mission to Russia
“Accountability for those in power is essential, if abuse of power is to be diminished, and public trust established” says UN High Commissioner, Navi Pillay, at the conclusion of her mission to Russia.
23-02-2011
Chair of UN Committee receives Senior Australian Award for 2011
Senior Australian Award given to Ron McCallum, for his pursuit of equal rights for persons living with disabilities all over the world.
22-02-2011
Expert workshop on the prohibition of incitement to hatred
Experts meet in Vienna to focus on the implementation of the prohibition of incitement to national, racial or religious hatred in Europe.
18-02-2011
UN boat brings help to Congolese victims of sexual violence
UN Human Rights office presents victims of sexual violence in the DRC with a boat to help the women of Songo Mboyo rebuild their lives.
18-02-2011
Bringing visibility to the plight of African descendants in the Americas
On this International Year for People of African descent, we highlight the stories of human rights defenders working to stop discrimination in the Americas.
15-02-2011
Human rights chief concludes visit to Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territory
High Commissioner for Human Rights Navi Pillay concludes a six-day visit to Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territory.
11-02-2011
Human rights at the heart of political change in Tunisia
Human rights are at the heart of the political change that has happened in Tunisia, says UN human rights chief.
10-02-2011
Defending the rights of African descendants in the Americas
On this International Year for People of African descent, we highlight the stories of human rights defenders working to stop discrimination in South America.
03-02-2011
Giant HIV/AIDS Ribbon to light up Palais Wilson
Every donation of 30 Swiss Francs lights one bulb towards efforts to fight discrimination against people living with HIV.
27-01-2011
Millions may lose access to necessary generic medicines
The Free Trade Agreement between the EU and India may threaten access to necessary generic medicines.
26-01-2011
Holding business accountable for human rights abuses
Multi-stakeholder consultations and authoritative data form basis for workable solutions, says Special Representative for Business and Human Rights.
21-01-2011
UN High Commissioner to send team of experts to Tunisia
UN High Commissioner sending team of experts to gather information about the current and past human rights situation in Tunisia
20-01-2011
Lebanese human rights action plan moves closer to realization
Lebanese Parliament moving ahead on drafting a nationwide plan on human rights.
18-01-2011
Human rights defender from Palestine creates video project documenting abuses
Human Rights defender Issa Amro from Hebron city in the West Bank says you have to be strong to be a human rights defender, because it is very dangerous work
11-01-2011
Human Rights defender in Mozambique finds a voice
Danilo de Silva Mussagy, a human rights defender from Mozambique, says his own experience motivated him to work to end discrimination against individuals on the basis of their sex or sexual orientation.
05-01-2011
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