Chapter 1
Introducing National Human
Rights Institutions

Chapter 2
Models of NHRIs

Chapter 3
Roles and Responsabilities of
NHRIs

Chapter 4
The Rule of Law and the NHRI

Chapter 5
NHRIs, Development and
Democratic Governance

Chapter 6
Situating NHRI Support in the UN Planning & Programming Process

Chapter 7
Pre-establishment Phase of NHRIs

Chapter 8
Establishing NHRIs

Chapter 9
Consolidation Phase:
Strengthening the Mature NHRI

Chapter 10
Paris Principles and Accreditation

8.6.1 Protection

8.6.1.1 Protecting Witnesses and Human Rights Defenders

In assistance projects to NHRIs, UNCTs should be sensitive to and aware of issues that pertain to protecting witnesses (including the complainant) and human rights defenders from attacks and reprisals. The role of NHRIs in protecting human rights defenders is part of the core protection mandate and this issue is also addressed briefly in Chapter 4.

Implications for the Establishment Phase: Case management or investigations manuals should include a section on proper procedures, including physical protection of witnesses, disclosure, how to handle reprisals, and ensuring confidentiality and privacy.