20-21 June 2011, New York, USA. The United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) in New York and the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) held the third annual Orientation Programme for Diplomats on Human Rights at the United Nations Headquarters in New York. This course sought to help diplomats understand the evolution of international human rights law and the roles and functions of the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights. Additionally, the orientation programme discussed the ways in which human rights guarantees and obligations are integrated with the different bodies and policies of the United Nations.

Also, the orientation programme touched upon the numerous challenges of implementing human rights at the United Nations. Speakers emphasized the importance for engaging consultations with the respective governments and at the same time, the Office is promoting human rights causes and raises awareness. Civil Society is also often a good collaborator and increasingly, the Human Rights Council is called upon in difficult situations.

At the end of the orientation programme, participants indicated that they were very satisfied with the programme and felt better prepared for the forthcoming sessions regarding human rights. A member of the audience concluded: “The orientation programme was extremely useful, comprehensive, and well-presented. The information given was practical and helpful to my work.”