3.b. Global governance of human right involves cooperation between organisations at scales from global to local, often in partnership. Flashcards
What is global governance?
Intervention and attempts to regulate human rights.
Outline the role of the UN in global governance.
(How human rights are promoted and protected by institutes, treaties, laws, and norms)
193 member states - each accepts obligations of UN charter.
One of the mains aims -> “reaffirm faith in fundamental HR’s, in the dignity and worth of the human person, in the equal rights of men and women, and of all nations”.
Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, (OHCHR) has the lead responsibility.
Human rights council deals with serious human rights violations often in conflict areas, e.g. Afghanistan.
In zones of conflict, what does NGO ground work include, state 3 examples.
(The role of the NGOs in global governance)
(How human rights are promoted and protected by institutes, treaties, laws, and norms)
Monitoring and providing early warnings of new violence.
Modification of social norms through education.
Training in practical skills, e.g. agriculture.
Water conservation and improved sanitation.
Provision of medicine/ medical assistance.
Implementing local strategies to support women’s and children’s rights.
What is the best NGO strategy for global governance?
An important role of NGOs is their ability to reinforce and strengthen the rule of law through education.
A combination of legal and practical instruments is used for the protection of human rights.
It is the co-ordination of strategies by different organisations at different scales which provides the most effective global governance.
Outline general geographical points.
(Case study: strategies for global governance of human rights in Afghanistan, an area of conflict)
Afghanistan is a landlocked, largely mountainous country in Southwest Asia.
It is a poor country and its development has been held back by a long period of political instability and armed conflict.
Although not recognised as a legitimate government, the Taliban were in control of 90% of the country before 2001.
After that time their fundamentalist government was overthrown by the USA and its allies.
Following the end of the NATO-led mission in 2014, despite attempts to negotiate peace, there have been periods of insurgency.
During this time, according to UNDP, there has been some limited success in the development process but violation of human rights has continued.
State 3 aims of the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA)
(Contributions and interactions of different organisations at a range of scales from global to local)
(Case study: strategies for global governance of human rights in Afghanistan, an area of conflict)
To work with and support the government.
To support the process of peace and reconciliation.
To monitor and promote human rights and protect civilians in armed conflict.
To promote good governance and encourage regional co-operation.
To lead and co-ordinate the international community in support of Afghanistan’s priorities to advance peace, governance and development.
How does OHCHR play a role in Afghanistan?
(UN in Afghanistan)
(Case study: strategies for global governance of human rights in Afghanistan, an area of conflict)
Works with the human rights component of UNAMA, promoting rights to food, shelter, education, livelihood, health, justice and physical security.
How does UNICEF play a role in Afghanistan?
(UN in Afghanistan)
(Case study: strategies for global governance of human rights in Afghanistan, an area of conflict)
Promotes and protects the rights of women and children.
How does UNDP play a role in Afghanistan?
(UN in Afghanistan)
(Case study: strategies for global governance of human rights in Afghanistan, an area of conflict)
In close partnership with the government and NGOs continuing work on the SDGs within the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
How does IMF play a role in Afghanistan?
(UN in Afghanistan)
(Case study: strategies for global governance of human rights in Afghanistan, an area of conflict)
Includes provision of access to finance for SMEs in Afghanistan.
How does UN World Food Programme play a role in Afghanistan?
(UN in Afghanistan)
(Case study: strategies for global governance of human rights in Afghanistan, an area of conflict)
Has a vital role in terms of food security within the country.
Outline protection and promotion of human rights.
(National Government: Afghanistan)
(Case study: strategies for global governance of human rights in Afghanistan, an area of conflict)
The government has established the Afghan Independent Human Rights Commission; it is working closely with the UN, within UNAMA, in the implementation of the Elimination of Violence Against Women Law; it has ratified treaties including CEDAW, which requires gender equality in access to education, health care and political participation, the Convention on the Rights of the Child, and the Committee Against Torture.
Outline women’s access to justice.
(National Government: Afghanistan)
(Case study: strategies for global governance of human rights in Afghanistan, an area of conflict)
OCHR reports positive engagement with the Afghan government to comply with international standards, promote accountability and rule of law.
For example, there have been efforts to address violence against women and girls, to recruit more female prosecutors and judges.
There has been more limited progress in female representation in parliament - 27% of seats were held by women, two per province in 2019.
Outline democratic processes.
(National Government: Afghanistan)
(Case study: strategies for global governance of human rights in Afghanistan, an area of conflict)
Despite new laws supporting the Duties and Structures of the Independent Elections Commission, in practice there has been significant disruption to the democratic process.
Outline socio-economic development.
(National Government: Afghanistan)
(Case study: strategies for global governance of human rights in Afghanistan, an area of conflict)
Membership of the Economic Cooperation Organisation and the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation allows free trade and promotes economic growth.
In addition, the Afghan government is now working in partnership with both the EU and UNCTAD to improve trade and development.