1 May 2015, New York, USA – The Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) and the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) New York Office
conducted their eighth collaborative workshop on Human Rights.

The workshop aimed to enhance understanding of OHCHR and the United Nations human rights protection system, and to enable diplomats to more comprehensively and effectively
integrate human rights into their work. Delegates from all committees participated.

  The workshop provided a comprehensive overview of the evolution of OHCHR: from its establishment in 1948
  through to its current international posture. Topics covered included components of human rights
  legal  frameworks, core international human rights treaties, in particular the Universal Declaration of
  Human Rights (UDHR), and the work of OHCHR. The workshop also included a Power Walk exercise amidst the
  blooming cherry blossoms of the UNHQ gardens.

  Mr. Ivan Šimonovic, Assistant-Secretary-General for Human Rights, OHCHR, explained the close nexus
  between human rights and peace and security in recent UN experience. He spoke of the challenges for Member
  States, current human rights issues on the agenda, and detailed opportunities for cooperation with OHCHR.

  Human rights issues as they related to both the business of the Security Council and general Assembly were of
  great interest to delegates. Some of the peace and security concerns included relevant Security Council
  resolutions and reporting systems; children and armed conflict; sexual violence; civilian protection and
  accountability. This segment was reinforced through short practical exercises in negotiation and drafting
  relevant Security Council resolutions.

  The delegates also learned about the role of a General Assembly and human rights protections, especially
  through Human Rights Council. Delegates learned inter alia about the key features and reporting system of  
  human rights bodies.  This was reinforced through an exercise where delegates integrated key human rights
  considerations into the drafting of a General Assembly resolution.

  Mr. André-Michel Essoungou, Public Information Officer, OHCHR, New York, concluded the workshop with a
  recap of OCHCR but with an emphasis on their current works and network, and where to find more information.

  Through a combination of briefings, discussion and practical exercises, delegates enhanced their
  understanding human rights instruments and their application in multilateral diplomacy. Equipped with a
  greater of entry points for human rights, delegates left with a strengthened understanding of the importance
  of their role in human rights.

  The Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights