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Since the drafting of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the importance of ensuring that human rights are protected under the rule of law has been emphasized by the United Nations and has guided its programmes for the promotion and protection of human rights around the world. Accordingly, the United Nations Technical Cooperation Programme in the Field of Human Rights has been engaged since 1955 in assisting States, at their request, in the building and strengthening of national structures that have a direct impact on the overall observance of human rights and the maintenance of the rule of law. Improving daily lives of people, and leaving no one behind is at the heart of our OHCHR's technical assistance.
"Effective technical cooperation is one of the keys to prevention...of suffering, of discrimination and marginalisation, of conflict," said the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights.
Technical cooperation is a critical component of OHCHR's programme supporting States in their efforts for the promotion and protection of human rights and the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals. Through technical cooperation and advisory services, OHCHR provides practical assistance for the building of national and regional human rights infrastructures. Funding comes from the regular budget and through voluntary contributions to OHCHR.
The Technical Cooperation Programme is framed within the OHCHR's priorities, expected results and strategies. It is anchored on engagement with the International Human Rights Mechanisms. Seven components identified by the United Nations Board of Trustees for the Voluntary Fund for Technical Cooperation in the Field of Human Rights for efficient technical cooperation shape the programme:
Technical assistance takes many different forms such as expert advisory services, training courses, workshops and seminars, fellowships and grants. The following are examples of programme components: