The programme underscores NHRC’s commitment to global human rights by fostering an environment of shared learning
The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) of India, in partnership with the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), inaugurated a six-day Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) Executive Capacity Building Programme on Monday (November 11, 2024), aimed at strengthening human rights practices across the Global South.

Senior-level officials from National Human Rights Institutions (NHRIs) of eight countries—Maldives, Mongolia, Myanmar, Nepal, Philippines, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Jordan—have gathered in New Delhi to participate in this programme, scheduled from November 11 to 16, 2024.

Designed to foster knowledge exchange and capacity building, the programme addresses the growing demand for collaborative efforts in promoting and protecting human rights across varied regions.

Aims and Objectives of the Programme
The ITEC Executive Capacity Building Programme has been tailored to meet the needs of senior NHRI officials from the Global South, with a primary focus on enhancing human rights promotion, protection, and institutional strengthening. NHRC, through its extensive experience over the last three decades, will provide valuable insights into the practical and ethical dimensions of human rights, deeply rooted in India’s civilizational ethos of empathy and compassion.

The programme underscores NHRC’s commitment to global human rights by fostering an environment of shared learning. The agenda includes discussions on pressing human rights issues and encourages participating countries to share best practices, innovative approaches, and collaborative strategies to address challenges. By providing a unique platform for interaction, NHRC seeks to contribute to the capacity-building goals of NHRIs and to encourage a deeper appreciation of human rights values worldwide.

Throughout the week, participants will engage in specialized sessions that address core aspects of human rights management, such as NHRC’s sophisticated online complaint management system, which streamlines the process of receiving, tracking, and resolving complaints. Additionally, advanced investigative mechanisms will be demonstrated.

Emerging issues in human rights, such as the impact of business practices, technological advancements, and the significance of sustainable development, will also be covered. The participants will learn how to balance these modern-day challenges with ethical standards and legal frameworks, equipping them to tackle similar issues in their respective countries. These technical sessions aim to provide practical tools and insights that participants can apply within their home institutions.

An impressive lineup of speakers from various sectors will share their expertise throughout the programme. The list includes prominent former NHRC members such as Justice M.M. Kumar, Dr. Dnyaneshwar M. Mulay, and Rajiv Jain, who will delve into NHRC’s practices and values that have driven India’s human rights advancements. NHRC Secretary General Bharat Lal will provide insights into NHRC’s role within the broader framework of India’s governance and judicial systems.

Adding to the depth of knowledge shared, Asoke Kumar Mukerji, India’s former Ambassador to the United Nations, will speak on India’s contributions to global human rights discourse. UN Resident Coordinator in India, Shombi Sharp, will also address the participants, offering an international perspective on human rights standards and objectives. Other distinguished speakers include former Director General of NHRC’s Investigation Division, Manoj Yadava; former DG of the Election Commission of India, Akshay Rout; and NITI Aayog Mission Director, Yugal Kishore Joshi, each bringing unique insights into the interconnected nature of human rights and governance.

These sessions are designed not only to impart theoretical knowledge but also to initiate constructive dialogues among the participants, creating opportunities for cross-border collaboration.

A broader vision for human rights in the Global South
This programme aligns with NHRC’s vision to broaden its impact on human rights globally by nurturing strong relationships with NHRIs in the Global South.

Through initiatives like ITEC, India not only strengthens diplomatic ties but also promotes sustainable human rights practices across its partner countries. The programme builds on previous capacity-building initiatives, including a residential training programme for the Human Rights Commission of the Maldives in 2023, which received positive feedback and resulted in strengthened cooperation.

The NHRC-MEA collaboration sets a significant precedent for future human rights training programs, building a foundation for ongoing knowledge exchange. By bringing together representatives from multiple nations, this programme helps ensure that the tools, frameworks, and strategies shared will have a far-reaching impact, inspiring similar initiatives across the Global South. Participants are expected to gain a comprehensive understanding of human rights mechanisms that can be adapted and implemented within their countries, enhancing the scope and effectiveness of human rights protection on a regional and global scale.

The programme is more than a knowledge exchange—it represents NHRC’s enduring dedication to advancing human rights universally, with an emphasis on inclusivity, sustainability, and cross-cultural understanding. As the programme unfolds, it is expected to foster a strong network of human rights advocates who will lead efforts to protect and promote human rights in their respective regions.