The Universal Periodic Review (UPR) and Its Potential to Foster Freedom of Expression, Access to Information and Safety of Journalists

"The safety of journalists and the struggle against impunity for their killers are essential to preserve the fundamental right to freedom of expression, guaranteed by Article 19 of the UDHR (The Universal Declaration of Human Rights)" - UN Plan of Action on the Safety of Journalists and the Issue of Impunity

These guidelines have been designed for National Human Rights Institutions (NHRIs) to maximise the use of the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) process to improve freedom of opinion and expression, the safety of journalists, and access to information - and to strengthen their capacity to engage with the process in all its stages. The UPR is a state-driven process within the United Nations (UN) system that involves the continuous assessment of the human rights records of all 193 UN Member States. It is informed by reports submitted by NHRIs, Member States, civil society organisations, and UN agencies. The guide provides guidance and practical examples for NHRIs to engage with the UPR process prior to, during, and after the review.

These guidelines are part of the framework of a project to promote freedom of expression through the UPR and were produced through funding from United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO)'s Multi-Donor Programme on freedom of expression and safety of journalists.

As explained in the guide, "The UPR was established in March 2006 and has completed three cycles since then. It is a unique mechanism within the UN system for the periodic review of the human rights records of all 193 UN Member States. As one of the main features of the Human Rights Council (HRC), the UPR reformed and restructured how the UN system assesses respect for human rights. While aware that NHRIs cover a variety of human rights issues, and that they engage in the many elements that constitute their mandate, the UPR process is a unique lever to enhance visibility and impact that merits attention and investment of time. Engagement with it is a significant opportunity - within NHRI mandates - to maximize co-operation and use internationally-agreed processes to deliver on human rights protection in the country concerned. From the outset, NHRIs are in a privileged position to monitor policies that might promote and protect human rights, as well as monitor violations."

The UPR process provides an equal opportunity to all States to present the current situation regarding the respect of human rights in their respective countries. It ensures uniformity in the assessment process and in the decision and communication of recommended actions towards the States. Involving NHRIs in the UPR process from the outset increases the potential of implementation of recommended actions domestically. Their participation in the UPR also highlights their role as stakeholders in strengthening respect for human rights at the national level by monitoring and assisting governments in upholding their international human rights obligations.

The document includes the following sections, which feature good practice examples of how NHRIs can maximise their input into the process. Examples include coalition building, building media coverage around the UPR process, and organising consultative meetings prior to the review.

• What is The Universal Periodic Review? - Looks at how the process works, who is involved, and the review mechanisms before (when reports are submitted), during (when reports are reviewed), and after (when actions related to the outcome of the review are outlined) the review process.
• What is the role of NHRIs in the UPR process? - Discusses the unique position of the NHRIs in being able to influence the UPR process.
• What are the stages of engagement of NHRIs in the UPR process? - Examines what NHRIs can do before, during, and after the UPR process.
• What to include in a UPR contribution? - Explores this question in relation to freedom of expression and attacks and intimidation against journalists.
• How can NHRIs make practical contributions in order to improve Freedom of Expression, Safety of Journalists and Access to Information? - Covers: monitoring and national reporting; preventing violations and assisting human-rights-compliant transformation; recommending laws, policies, and practice; and building partnerships for impact on UPR recommendations.
• Connection with other UN mechanisms - Investigates some of the established formal and informal connections with other monitoring exercises with a high potential for fostering freedom of expression.
• Background materials and resources