A new edition of the training session on the United Nations Human Rights Mechanisms, co-organized by the CCIG and the UNESCO Etxea (UNESCO Basque Country Centre) took place in Geneva from the 25 to the 28 of September 2023, in conjunction with the 54th session of the Human Rights Council. The training session was addressed to young activists from the Basque Country, focusing especially on Human Rights Education. 

Training participants come to Geneva with the expectation to learn more about the UN Human Rights mechanisms and receive insights on how these mechanisms, together with the OHCHR, are contributing to enhance the promotion and protection of youth rights. Accordingly, trainers’ presentations addressed the functioning of relevant UN bodies such as the Human Rights Council, the Universal Periodic Review, and the Treaty bodies. Furthermore, thematic inputs were provided on “The World Program for Human Rights Education – The fourth phase (2020-2024) and beyond” and “Empowering Youth for the Promotion of Human Rights in the HRC: The commitment of the OHCHR”.

The participants also had the chance to meet with representatives of peer organizations and learn how different actors contribute to the promotion of human rights globally.

Finally, the training was complemented by the attendance at some sessions of the 54th UN Human Rights Council and in particular the Panel discussion on “Young people’s engagement with climate change and global environmental decision-making processes” held on September 26, 2023.

The participants have shown their appreciation for the training received and demonstrated a growing sense of commitment to search for concrete ways to ensure better human rights implementation in their local communities.