Promoting and Protecting Fundamental Rights, Democracy and Rule of Law

ongoing

ENNHRI’s proposed partnership promotes and protects fundamental rights, democracy and rule of law in the EU, as a result from strengthening and empowering National Human Rights Institutions (NHRs). Through analytical, mutual learning and exchange of good practices, awareness raising, information and dissemination activities, the European Network of NHRIs (ENNHRI) strengthens Union values and contributes to building a more democratic Union, democratic dialogue, transparency and good governance. More specifically, ENNHRIs proposal is directly focused on strengthening the partnership between the EU and European NHRIs in areas regarding the application of the Charter of Fundamental Rights, the EU Rule of Law Cycle and the European democracy action plan, whilst also indirectly advancing the EU Gender Equality Strategy 2020-2025. Through strengthening the capacity and effectiveness of independent human rights bodies (NHRIs), and invigorating their cooperation with civil society, national practices will be enhanced to defend individuals’ rights as enshrined in the EU Charter and the European Convention of Human Rights. The proposed partnership will result in: more and stronger NHRIs in compliance with the UN Paris Principles; more effective promotion and protection of human rights, rule of law and democracy; and a strong and sustainable network (ENNHRI Strategy). The partnership builds on the recognition and participation of NHRIs and ENNHRI within key European Commission strategies and policies on fundamental rights and rule of law. It aligns with the 2020 FRA report calling for the effectiveness and impact of NHRIs in the EU to be strengthened; the European Parliament resolution on the Establishment of an EU Mechanism on Democracy, the Rule of Law and Fundamental Rights (2020); European Council Charter Conclusions; and various Council of Europe Decisions and its Recommendation on developing and strengthening NHRIs (2021).