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United Nations’ information page link:

Civil Society

Every day in every part of the world, civil society contributes to the promotion, protection and advancement of human rights. Whatever they call themselves — human rights defenders, human rights NGOs, bar associations, student clubs, trade unions, university institutes, or charities working with vulnerable groups — civil society actors share the common pursuit of justice, equality, and respect for human dignity.

Civil society actors carry out their human rights work in a variety of ways: they take the pulse of their communities and constituencies; they work to heal communities at conflict; they give voice to the powerless; they share information; advocate and monitor implementation of human rights standards; report violations; assist and support victims of abuses; campaign for the development of new human rights standards, and provide training – just by way of example.

OHCHR’s cooperation with civil society remains a strategic priority because it bolsters our shared objectives, helps to address our mutual concerns, and supports the Office’s human rights mission and initiatives. A dynamic and autonomous civil society, able to operate freely, knowledgeable and skilled with regard to human rights, is a key element in securing sustainable human rights protection in all world regions.

Quick links

• Human Rights Instruments
• Human Rights by Country
• Special Procedures
• Human Rights Treaty bodies
• Human Rights Council
• Universal Periodic Review
• Universal Human Rights Index
• Publications
• Human rights meetings and briefings

All available at:  http://www.ohchr.org/EN/AboutUs/Pages/CivilSociety.aspx

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