GIHR is a non-governmental , non – profit organization based in Geneva.
The Institute is an academic study and research institution that is independent from all governments, political parties, organizations and philosophical or religious groups, which raises awareness and understanding about the importance of human rights. It works for some of the most disadvantaged and vulnerable communities, seeking to ensure that the principles of equality, dignity and respect are incorporated into practice and policy at all levels of public service.
The work of GIHR includes research, analysis, information, education, Agenda, as well as a large number of national and international programmes. GIHR takes a multidisciplinary approach to human rights, Its intention is to contribute to the prevention of human rights violations and to the promotion and protection of human rights. The Institute co-operates with international and national partners. In particular, it is concerned with the promotion of human rights treaties, with issues in the framework of security policy, peace policy and human rights, and with strategic issues with regard to human rights policy. The Institute offers seminars, lectures, and services in the field of human rights education. The Institute was founded in July 2004.
Objectives
This Institute shall pursue the following objectives:
Promotion and dissemination of the principles of international human rights as expressed in international declaration on human rights and others human rights related covenants, and acquainting concerned civil society and governmental institutions with those principles.
Contributing to the process of reviewing legislations and laws, and presentation of practical proposals to keep them in conformity with the International Bill of Human Rights and related international declarations and conventions.
Creating a statistical and informational data-base on human rights related international and regional declarations, conventions and covenants.
Serving as a democratic forum for dialogue, orchestration and integration of efforts exerted by human rights related NGOs and governmental organizations, in order to establish the rule of law and institutions and a democratic human society.
Assisting NGOs and governmental organizations to practically monitor and document the status of human rights, in addition to promoting and developing these rights at all legislative and practical levels.
Providing advisory services to human rights related governmental and non-governmental bodies, as well as to whoever requires such services.
Paying specific attention to women, children and variable groups to enable their active contribution to professional life and decision-making process.
Duties
To achieve the objectives , the Institute performs the following duties:
Cooperation with academic circles and human rights related bodies and organizations in order to take advantage of their relevant experiences, in particular the Office of the treTreaty bodies High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR).
Conducting researches and studies in the field of human rights.
Organizing training courses on human rights.
Publication of bulletins and periodical journals.
Organizing symposia, conferences, lectures and seminars that enable the Institute to attain its
objectives.
Providing human rights related consultations, technical and informational services.
AGENDA of human rights related reports and information.
Establishing a human-rights-specific data-base and library.
Executive Board
Chairperson : Alain Bovard
Vic – Chairperson : Mohamed Cherif
Treasure : Karl Hanson
Executive Director : Nazar Abdelgadir
Member: Paulo David
Job Opportunities
Currently there are no vacancies at the Geneva Institute for Human Rights.
Volunteering at the GIHR
GIHR is greatly supported by the work of a number of long and short term volunteers.
If you are interested in volunteering with the Institute in future, we would appreciate it if you could email or mail your request to us at the address below.
Thank you for your interest in the Activities of the Geneva Institute for Human Rights (GIHR). Applicants to the Internship Programme of the GIHR should have an excellent knowledge of French or English or Arabic language and be available for a period of 3 to 6 months. Candidates are requested to provide the Institute with a letter of recommendation from a the University, academic foundation or a well - known NGO connected to Human Rights. Furthermore, the Geneva Institute for Human Rights has no provision in its budget to pay interns or to give them any other financial reimbursements, living expenses and accommodation are responsibility of the intern. GIHR accepts no responsibility for costs arising from accidents and or illness incurred during an internship. Moreover, interns will have to provide proof of the enrolment in a health insurance scheme.
Qualifications
Applicants should be well-organized, self-motivated and reliable, with a strong interest in international human rights. Relevant coursework is highly desirable, and knowledge of English and Arabic languages is a plus. Computer skills (i.e., Microsoft Office, Internet applications) are required.
How to Apply
Please apply immediately by emailing a letter of interest, and letter of reference (no calls or email inquiries, please) to the Geneva Institute for Human Rights at:
Please use "Internship Application" as the subject of your email. Only complete applications will be reviewed.