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Human rights based approaches in EU development policies
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A joint initiative of the International Federation Terre des Hommes, Action Aid International, Amnesty International EU Office, and the International Human Rights Network exploring the application of human rights based approaches to EU development policies.
The
four partners commissioned a briefing paper from IHRN to explore the
application of human rights based approaches to development in EU
external aid policies, with the report available here.
The report was launched in
Brussels on
October 7 2008 followed by a panel discussion chaired by Paul Adamson (The
Centre) with:
• Patrick Twomey (Director, International Human Rights Network)
• Richard Howitt (MEP, Subcommittee on Human Rights)
• Anton Jensen ( European
Commission, DG Development)
• Charles Michel Geurts (European Commission, DG External Relations)
As the largest development donor in the world, the European Union is
committed to ensuring that "Human rights is at the forefront of EU
Development Cooperation" with similar commitments to its humanitarian
aid and Common Foreign and Security Policy. The policies flow from the
legal obligations of its Member States, as well as from EU treaty
provisions which recognise human rights as common values underpinning
EU partnership and dialogue with third countries.
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Express application of the international human rights framework
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Empowerment of rights holders
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Participation in one's own development (as of right and not just as best practice)
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Non-discrimination and prioritisation of vulnerable groups; as well as
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Accountability of duty-bearers to rights-holders (for process and impact)
These
legal and policy commitments of the EU reflect a wider international
consensus as regards the imperative to apply HRBA to development
(including the fight against poverty).
The
report explores the extent to which the EU understands and
integrates HRBA in its external development policies. The process is
intended to raise awareness and inform decision-making by development
actors, working with, and within, EU institutions. Key questions
include how can the institutions as well as NGOs and other actors
assist and ensure that these commitments are met.
The research was led by International Human Rights Network (IHRN).
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