Advancing economic, social, and cultural rights: new monitoring programme for NHRIs

A new capacity development programme launched by the APF and OHCHR will support NHRIs in monitoring economic, social, and cultural rights.

The APF, in collaboration with the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), is launching a new capacity development programme to support National Human Rights Institutions (NHRIs) in monitoring economic, social, and cultural rights (ESCR).

The five-week programme, to be held from 9 September to 11 October 2024, will offer participants a comprehensive curriculum through five key modules, covering topics from the basics of ESCR and advancing through to topics such as data collection, analysis, and communication strategies.

A critical need for monitoring in the Asia Pacific

Despite substantial economic growth, the Asia Pacific region still grapples with high poverty levels. An estimated 233 million people in the region live on less than $1.90 a day, below the international extreme poverty line.

While governments have pledged to realise economic, social, and cultural rights and advance the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, these commitments have yet to translate into reality for millions of people across the region.

Asia Pacific NHRIs have recognised the necessity of a human rights-based approach to the 2030 Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

But for these goals to be realised, it's essential that governments are held accountable when their policies and development plans exacerbate inequalities or fail to address human rights violations. Effective monitoring is key to ensuring accountability, shedding light on when and where policies fall short.

An opportunity for collaboration and engagement

During the course, participants will engage in a collaborative learning environment, building on their existing knowledge, sharing experiences, and honing the skills necessary to assess and report on economic, social, and cultural rights.

The course will be held in the APF Community, the APF’s online space for collaboration, resources and learning. Participants will also have the opportunity to engage with each other and share best practice examples from their institution during live Zoom sessions.

APF members are currently invited to nominate three staff members who are currently working on, have responsibilities for, or are planning to work on projects involving monitoring and reporting on ESCR. Participation in the programme is free for APF members.