01/10/2024

From participation to impact: the role of CSOs in the UPR

The role of civil society organizations (CSOs) in the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) process goes beyond participation—it's about driving real, tangible change. 

The recent launch of the report, "Empowering  Civil Society  Organisations  at  the  UPR: Strengthening  the  Implementation  of Recommendations,"  highlights how  CSOs  can elevate  their  engagement with  this  vital UN mechanism and push for meaningful impact at the national level.

Crafted by Dr Alice Storey with the support of Melisa Oleschuk from the Birmingham City University, the report provides a roadmap for how CSOs can take charge of the UPR process. It moves past the typical narrative of advocacy, spotlighting the unique potential of CSOs to bridge the gap between international human rights recommendations and local action. Through surveys and interviews, the study gathers first- hand accounts from CSO leaders who’ve navigated the complexities of the UPR process. Their experiences underscore that real change happens when CSOs not only engage but take the reins— empowering their communities and ensuring recommendations are acted upon. The findings reveal both the challenges CSOs face and the opportunities they have to become leaders in human rights advocacy.

The report stresses that empowering CSOs is key to building a more inclusive and accountable human rights system, where grassroots organizations have the tools to push for reforms that directly impact their communities. Offering practical resources like factsheets and videos, the study provides step-by-step guidance, making the UPR process more accessible and actionable.

empowering CSO at the UPR

What makes this report stand out is its emphasis on practical strategies. It’s designed to help CSOs move beyond recommendations to actively ensuring those recommendations are implemented. For anyone familiar with the UPR process, that’s where the real work lies—turning words into action. The report shares examples of how CSOs around the world have successfully navigated the UPR, offering a blueprint for others to follow.

The takeaway is clear: empowered CSOs are game-changers. They don’t just advocate—they drive the process forward.

The report was launched on August 22, 2024, during an online event hosted by UPR Info. The full report, along with a factsheet and executive summaries, is available. A standalone executive summary, offering a concise overview of the key findings, is provided in five languages (English, Arabic, French, Spanish and Russian)

Dive into the full report here. It's more than just a study—it’s a guide to creating change in human rights advocacy.