The function and importance of the NHRI

The National Human Rights Institution (NHRI) of the United Arab Emirates is an independent national body established in 2021 to promote, protect, and improve human rights in line with the UAE’s constitutional values. This institution represents a significant step in the country’s ongoing development of human rights governance.

The purpose of the NHRI is based on the belief that sustainable development, social stability, and national progress rely on strong human rights protections. The first generation of the NHRI’s Board of Trustees members outlined four strategic directives to allow the institution to further enhance its effectiveness and alignment with international human rights standards. These directives include: women and children, health and mental health, labor, and people of determination. Additionally, its creation reflects a broader vision of improving transparency and public trust while ensuring that the communities have mechanisms to voice concerns and receive support. By operating independently from the executive branch, the NHRI strengthens the structures that support human rights while also reflecting the UAE’s commitment to taking part in international human rights discussions.

One of the NHRI’s core functions is to monitor the human rights situation within the country. This includes receiving and reviewing complaints from people, visiting different institutions to see how they operate, and collecting information to check whether human rights are being respected in everyday practice. The NHRI also gives advice to government bodies on how their laws and policies can better match international human rights standards. By doing this, the institution helps make sure that human rights are considered when new laws are made and when public policies are carried out.

Moreover, another major mandate of the NHRI is education and awareness. By organising workshops and community programs, the institution aims to foster a culture where human rights are understood, respected, and discussed openly. This is evident in the institution's social media posts and platforms where they display their engagement with international events while also representing the UAE. This engagement helps the UAE meet its international responsibilities and demonstrates its commitment to continuous improvement.

Additionally, the NHRI also plays an important role in international engagement. It collaborates with United Nations bodies, regional human rights mechanisms, and other human rights institutions around the world.  Their international engagement is also clear during observance days, when they share posts on their social media platforms. For example, on Human Rights Day on December 10, they use the yearly theme provided by the United Nations and reflect it in their designs. This often includes using specific slogans or hashtags that match the UN’s theme, which helps the NHRI stay connected to global human rights conversations.

All in all, the NHRI exists to strengthen the protection and promotion of human rights in the UAE through independence, oversight, education, and collaboration. Its establishment signals the country’s dedication to transparency, modern governance, and the global rights framework. As the institution continues to grow and flourish, it continuously aims to shape a human rights landscape where the citizens of the UAE feel respected, heard, and supported.