Human Rights in I-P-K
Vision
Our vision is a world that is respectful of human rights. We believe in the right of every individual to enjoy “economic, social, cultural and political development, in which all human rights and fundamental freedoms can be fully realized”. The intersection between human rights and development and more particularly, the human rights-based approach to development, is our field of expertise.
Field of Expertise
We are trained and experienced in the international human rights framework and more specific human rights related fields including socio-economic rights; the right of access to information; transitional law; humanitarian law; international protection of refugees; and international criminal law. Our field of specialization, however, is the so-called human rights-based approach to development (HRBA) and its integration in development and cooperation programmes and projects. HRBA is a concept geared towards furthering human development that is normatively based on universal human rights principles. It is directed at the fulfilment of human rights by means of translating the norms, standards and principles of the international human rights system into concrete development programming guidance, which can be applied in diverse policy contexts and national circumstances. The following elements are characteristic of a HRBA:
- Participation and inclusion
- Accountability and rule of law
- Non-discrimination, equality and attention to vulnerable groups
- Empowerment
- Link to specific human rights, their progressive realization and non-retrogression
Rationale
We are convinced that pursuing a HRBA not only adds moral and legal value to human development oriented policies and practice, but also leads to better and more sustainable human development outcomes. In addition thereto this approach provides a comprehensive framework to correlate transversal issues, for which there is a need in most development programmes and projects.
Relevance
HRBA reflects a major shift in international development cooperation over the last decade from charity to justice. It implies that situations are no longer assessed in terms of human needs, but rather in terms of obligations to respond to rights of individuals leading to the realization of human rights for everyone. The emphasis lies with the empowerment and capacity building of right holders and duty bearers alike to claim their rights and fulfil their obligations respectively; in other words, with the pursuit of tangible improvements in people’s lives.
