Inputs from UNMIT Dili - the role of UN country team emphasized

Dear colleagues,

Unless I have missed it some way, I do not find any of us emphasizing the role of the UN Country Team (UNCT) in establishing the link between a national human rights institution (NHRI) and the special procedures available to a country. I find this link is so important because NHRIs play an ever-growing role in the setting up of strong national human rights protection systems at the country level, something which is at the heart of the implementation of the OHCHR Plan of Action and the SG’s past reform programs. They are key in connection with action on good governance, rule of law and human rights and central to effective implementation of programs in these areas. As UNCT in each country is composed of the heads of UN agencies and other institutions represented there, it is responsible for monitoring the overall implementation of the UN Development Asssitance Framework (UNDAF), the planning framework which outlines the common objectives and strategies shared by all UN organisations providing development assistance to the host country. The UNCT also monitors the linkages between UNDAF and the formulation of programmes and projects by each of the resident UN agencies as well as the development of any joint initiatives. Each agency reflects the goals and objectives of the UNDAF strategy within their own programmes, and are expected to share their programmes with the UNCT as a means to explore possibilities for cooperation. If NHRIs and special procedures are included on the agenda of UNDAF and UN country team, and resources at the disposal of UNCT are tapped to enhance the potential of NHRIs, the link with the international human rights system will be bound to be more effective and visible. In fact, the National Institutions Unit of OHCHR has already taken some initiative in this area. This no doubt is a very positive development.

Bipin Adhikari
UNMIT, Dili