Item 8 – Panel discussion on the role of national and regional human rights institutions in achieving the ends of the Declaration
Statement Norway
Chair,
[We thank the panellists for their interventions.]
National Human Rights Institutions, NHRIs, play an important role in the effective implementation of human rights, often acting as a bridge-builder between the international community, the State, civil society and other actors.
The UN recommends that all States have a National Human Rights Institutions to protect and promote human rights within their jurisdiction.
[The National Human Rights Institution in Norway, or “NIM” in short, is an independent public body established by the Norwegian Parliament in 2015 to strengthen the implementation of human rights in Norway in accordance with the Constitution, the Human Rights Act and international human rights law. They have a legislative mandate to monitor and report on the human rights situation in Norway; advise the Norwegian authorities on their human rights obligations; raise public awareness about human rights; promote human rights education, training and research; and facilitate national and international cooperation on human rights.]
With its independence and professional integrity, NIM is an important stakeholder in the promotion and monitoring of human rights law and implementation at the domestic level. This also includes monitoring, reporting and advising on the effective implementation of the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.
My government values the recommendations from NIM, such as their report on Human Rights Protection against Interference in Sami Traditional Areas.
Norway recognises the significant role that National Human Rights Institutions play in raising awareness about the rights of Indigenous Peoples, including promoting good practices.
NIM has one of its two offices in the Sami region, in Guovdageaidnu/Kautokeino. We appreciate that it spends a considerable part of its resources on the rights of Indigenous Peoples.
NHRIs can also provide relevant advice to both governments and Indigenous Peoples, and it can empower Indigenous Peoples to develop their own initiatives grounded in human rights.
Finally, Norway welcomes the cooperation between National Human Rights Institutions and regional human rights networks, such as the European Network of National Human Rights Institutions. We encourage all efforts to facilitate collaboration between Indigenous Peoples, civil society, State institutions and international bodies.
Thank you.