Download This PaperWhat Works in Human Rights Institutions?
Linos, K. & Pegram, T. (2017) The American Journal of International Law, 112 (3), pp. 1-61 Forthcoming
61 Pages Posted: 20 Oct 2017
Date Written: October 19, 2017
Abstract
Since 1993, the United Nations has promoted national human rights institutions (NHRIs); these have spread to almost 120 countries. We assess what makes NHRIs effective, using quantitative and qualitative methods. We find that formal institutional safeguards contribute greatly to NHRI efficacy even in authoritarian and transition regimes. Complaint-handling mandates are particularly useful because they help NHRIs build broad bases of support. Our findings show how international organizations can wield great influence with soft tools such as recommendations and peer-review mechanisms.
Keywords: International Law, Global Governance, International Relations, Political Economy, International Organization, Human Rights, United Nations, National Human Rights Institutions
Suggested Citation: Suggested Citation
Katerina Linos
University of California, Berkeley - School of Law ( email )
488 Boalt Hall
Berkeley, CA 94720-7200
United States
University of California, Berkeley - Berkeley Center on Comparative Equality & Anti-Discrimination Law
Boalt Hall
Berkeley, CA 94720-7200
United States