Switzerland: Leading in the Human Rights Council

Skills for Personal Effectiveness

Preparing for intense and high-level engagement during the United Nations Human Rights Council (HRC) requires a deep understanding of HRC rules, functioning and practice. The ability to negotiate, advocate, lobby and push for issues in such a complex environment also requires a sound knowledge of the different actors and dynamics at play, as well as strong communication skills.

This short course, ahead of the main HRC session, allows participants to develop their network and acquire the necessary skills to lead and perform effectively in this major forum for human rights diplomacy.

Programme

The course is structured around three main themes:

The Functioning of the HRC

• The functioning, rules and practice of HRC
• The various HRC mechanisms (e.g. special sessions, commissions of inquiry, special procedures, universal periodical review)
• The dynamics at play
• The role and influence of individuals
• The role, functions and influence of other actors: who does what? How does this play out in concrete terms?
• The role of ‘satellite’ factors, such as unexpected political situations or external pressures

The phenomenon of working within and across ‘groupings’

• HRC regional groups and their dynamics
• Coalitions
• Serving in one or more groupings
• Tensions between bilateral/multilateral policies and HRC diplomacy, and the challenges of ensuring cohesion between these
• Best practices and tools for juggling a complex agenda

Leadership in the HRC

• Leading through a negotiation and lobbying techniques
• Chairing formal and informal multilateral meetings
• Navigating unexpected and spontaneous opportunities
• Optional pre-session reading materials are made available two weeks prior to the training, for background, context and introduction of key concepts

Benefits

This course allows participants to acquire:

• A deeper understanding of the functioning, rules and practice of the HRC
• Key leadership skills in human rights negotiations, advocacy and lobbying
• First-hand insights into HRC dynamics, in an informal and non-partisan environment
• Strong knowledge of the various actors intervening in the HRC and its different mechanisms (e.g. special sessions, commissions of inquiry, special procedures, universal periodical review)

Lecturers

Lecturers include Geneva Academy experts, renowned academic scholars, as well as senior professionals from international organizations, NGOs and governments.

Methodology

The course is composed of interactive lessons, using case studies of real situations in the HRC from the last three sessions. These help participants to acquire the required knowledge, take part in discussion forums and engage with practical examples and case studies. The various sessions are designed to address cross-cutting issues and build participant skills through simulation exercises, small group breakouts and role-playing.

Throughout the course, participants interact with their peers, key HRC actors, as well as academics and experienced practitioners.

Audience

This course forms part of the Executive Master in International Law in Armed Conflict. It is designed for professionals who already have some experience with the HRC: diplomats and experts from diplomatic missions and foreign ministries; staff from international and regional organizations working in the field of human rights; employees of governmental and non-governmental organizations, journalists or representatives of National Human Rights Institutions.

Schedule

• Wednesday 24 January 2018, 15:30-19:15
• Thursday 25 January 2018, 15:30-17:30
• Friday 26 January 2018, 13:15-15:15
• Thursday 1 February 2018, 15:30-20:00
• Friday 2 February 2018, 13:15-15:15

Certificate

Participants obtain a certificate at the end of the course (no ECTS credits are gained).

How to Apply

Applications for short courses must be submitted via the online form.

If you encounter problems with your application, do not hesitate to contact us.

Your application will need to include:

• An application letter, stating the specific course you are applying for and your motivation for participation
• Your curriculum vitae
• Proof of your competence in English (a certificate or statement highlighting your solid background in English)
• A valid copy of your visa or residence permit (only applicants who require a visa to enter the Schengen area)

Once admitted to the course, participants receive instructions on how to pay. Proof of payment is required before you begin the course.