A new edition of the training session on the United Nations Human Rights Mechanisms, co-organized by the CCIG and the UN Etxea (UNESCO Basque Country Centre) took place in Geneva from the 16 to the 19 of September 2024, in conjunction with the 57th session of the Human Rights Council. The training session was addressed to young people from the Basque Country, who are particularly active in the field of formal and informal education. Interestingly, the OHCHR Study on solutions to promote digital education to young people and ensure their protection from online threats was presented at the HRC during the same days.

Having already a very good expertise in education at the local level, 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 empower young people through human rights based education interventions in schools and beyond. 

Accordingly, trainers’ presentations addressed the functioning of relevant UN bodies and mechanisms such as the Human Rights Council, the Universal Periodic Review, and the Treaty bodies. Furthermore, participants met with OHCHR officers and received insights on useful sensitization tools, such as the Advocacy toolkit for youth (YES) and the Stories of Changemakers.

Finally, the training was complemented by the attendance at some sessions of the Human Rights Council, including the Panel on Quality Education for Peace and Tolerance for Every Child, as well as of the Treaty Bodies. 

The participants expressed their appreciation for the training received and committed to continue their efforts to ensure better human rights education in their local communities.