GANHRI_UNDP-新冠疫情和国家人权机构（英文）-2021.6-86页_7mb

Summary of COVID-19 and National Human Rights Institutions by GANHRI, OHCHR, and UNDP

Core Content

This document is a collaborative study by the Global Alliance of National Human Rights Institutions (GANHRI), the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). It explores the role and activities of National Human Rights Institutions (NHRIs) in addressing the human rights implications of the COVID-19 pandemic, focusing on their resilience, challenges, and contributions to rights-based responses.

The study highlights that over 60% of countries experienced a regression in basic rights due to pandemic-related measures, emphasizing the heightened vulnerability of marginalized and excluded groups. Despite these challenges, NHRIs have demonstrated remarkable adaptability and continue to play a vital role in promoting and protecting human rights.

Main Viewpoints

• NHRIs as Key Actors: NHRIs are independent, state-mandated institutions that operate under the Paris Principles and are accredited by GANHRI. They have been instrumental in ensuring that human rights are respected, protected, and fulfilled during the pandemic.
• Human Rights as Central to Pandemic Response: The UN Secretary-General has emphasized that human rights must be at the core of both the response and recovery from the pandemic. This includes ensuring equitable and sustainable outcomes.
• Resilience of NHRIs: Despite challenges like lockdowns and reduced public engagement, NHRIs have adapted through innovative approaches, including digital outreach and remote monitoring, to continue their work.
• Collaboration and Support: The Tripartite Partnership (TPP) has supported NHRIs through capacity-building, resource allocation, and the development of tools such as the Checklist for a Human Rights-Based Approach to Socio-Economic Country Responses to COVID-19.

Key Information

• Global Reach: There are over 100 NHRIs worldwide, with 84 accredited by GANHRI to fully comply with the Paris Principles.
• Thematic Focus: NHRIs have addressed a wide range of human rights issues, including the rights of at-risk groups, the right to health, freedom of movement, social conflict, and economic and social rights.
• Support Mechanisms: The UN system, including OHCHR and UNDP, has provided tailored support to NHRIs, enhancing their ability to monitor and advise on pandemic-related human rights issues.
• Regional Networks: The study includes contributions from the Asia-Pacific Forum (APF), European Network (ENNHRI), Network of African NHRIs (NANHRI), and the Americas Network (RINDHCA), all of which have played a role in supporting NHRIs.
• Challenges Faced: Lockdowns and social distancing have limited NHRIs’ ability to engage with communities and decision-makers, leading to reduced outreach and increased risks of intimidation and reprisals in some countries.
• Good Practices: NHRIs have provided guidance, raised awareness, monitored rights violations, and supported vulnerable groups such as persons with disabilities, older persons, migrants, minorities, and indigenous populations.

Structure of the Study

1. Introduction

• Background: The pandemic has had severe human rights implications, disproportionately affecting vulnerable groups.
• Rationale and Purpose: The study aims to document the role of NHRIs in addressing these implications, highlighting good practices, lessons learned, and areas for support.
• Methodology: A desk-based approach using mixed methods of quantitative and qualitative data, including surveys and documentation from NHRIs and partners.

2. Actions Taken by NHRIs to Address the Impact of COVID-19

• Thematic Areas: NHRIs have engaged with various themes such as the right to health, freedom of movement, social conflict, and economic rights.
• At-Risk Groups:
  • Persons with Disabilities and Older Persons: Over 85% of NHRIs surveyed addressed these groups, focusing on access to information, medical services, and protection from discrimination.
  • Migrants and Indigenous Populations: 62% of NHRIs addressed the rights of these groups, particularly in relation to health, housing, and legal protections.

3. Impact of the Pandemic on NHRIs

• Operational Challenges: The pandemic has disrupted NHRIs’ operations, particularly their ability to engage with communities and decision-makers.
• Staff Well-being: Remote work and distance-based methods have affected staff well-being and operational capacity.
• Collaboration: NHRIs have collaborated with governments, civil society, other NHRIs, and international bodies to enhance their effectiveness.

4. Global and Regional Response of NHRIs

• GANHRI and Regional Networks: GANHRI and its regional partners have provided significant support to NHRIs across the globe.
• TPP Coordination: The Tripartite Partnership has facilitated a unified approach to supporting NHRIs, enhancing their capacity and influence.

5. Conclusion

• Lessons Learned: NHRIs have shown resilience and innovation in their pandemic response.
• Trends and Scaling Up: There is a growing recognition of the importance of NHRIs in socio-economic recovery and development.
• Success Factors: Strong collaboration, adequate resources, and a rights-based approach are key to the effectiveness of NHRIs.

6. Recommendations

• The study concludes with recommendations for enhancing the role of NHRIs, including increased support from member states and international partners, and the integration of human rights into national recovery strategies.

Annexes and References

• Annex 1: Includes the survey instrument used in the study, with responses from 34 NHRIs.
• References: Cites various UN documents, policy briefs, and other sources that support the findings and recommendations of the study.

This study reflects the joint commitment of GANHRI, OHCHR, and UNDP to support NHRIs in their critical role during the global pandemic.