AMITY UNIVERSITY LUCKNOW

SOCIAL WORK FOR LAWYERS ASSIGNMENT

RESEARCH PAPER ON HUMAN RIGHTS ACTIVISM AND

THE ROLE OF NGOs

SUBMITTED BY- SUBMITTED TO-

SHREYA ATRI MRS. SHEEBA
KHALID
BALLB (HONS)
SECTION A
A811121026
Title: Human Rights Activism and the Role of NGOs: A Comparative Analysis
Author: Shreya Atri
Affiliation: Amity Law School, Lucknow, AUUP
Abstract:
This research paper investigates the intricate relationship between human rights activism and the
pivotal role played by non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in promoting and protecting
human rights globally. In an era marked by socio-political transformations and evolving global
dynamics, the study seeks to unravel the multifaceted contributions of NGOs in advancing the
human rights agenda.
Objective: The primary objective of this research is to examine and compare the methods,
impact, and challenges faced by NGOs engaged in human rights activism across diverse regions
and contexts. By doing so, the study aims to gain a comprehensive understanding of the
significance of NGOs in shaping human rights discourse and facilitating positive change.
Methodology: This research employs a mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative and
quantitative analyses. It includes an extensive review of literature, case studies of prominent
NGOs, and surveys conducted among human rights activists and organizations worldwide.
Qualitative data is analyzed using thematic coding, while quantitative data is subjected to
statistical analysis.
Findings: The study uncovers that NGOs have emerged as vital actors in the realm of human
rights activism, bridging gaps in government protection and advocacy. Through grassroots
mobilization, legal interventions, and awareness campaigns, NGOs have been instrumental in
challenging human rights abuses, holding perpetrators accountable, and elevating marginalized
voices. Furthermore, our research identifies variations in the strategies and effectiveness of
NGOs across different regions, underscoring the importance of context-specific approaches.
Implications: The findings of this research have far-reaching implications for policymakers,
human rights practitioners, and civil society. Recognizing the indispensable role of NGOs, it is
imperative for governments and international bodies to collaborate and create an enabling
environment for their work. Additionally, our study highlights the need for increased funding,
capacity-building, and strategic partnerships to bolster the impact of NGOs engaged in human
rights activism.
Conclusion: Human rights activism, in today's complex global landscape, heavily relies on the
dedicated efforts of NGOs. Their ability to effect change, challenge violations, and empower
communities is undeniable. To foster a more just and equitable world, it is imperative that NGOs
continue to be supported and recognized as vital agents in the pursuit of human rights.
Keywords: Human rights activism, NGOs, non-governmental organizations, civil society, human
rights advocacy, grassroots mobilization, human rights defenders, social justice.
 INTRODUCTION

Human rights are necessary for the survival of mankind. These rights protect our right to
freedom, right to life and liberty, freedom from slavery and torture, etc. These are universally
accepted principles governed by International law. However, there seems to remain a gap
between actual acceptance of these rights and laws which mention them. Weaker sections of the
society many times cannot cope with the existing legal structure on human rights. Hence, this is
where Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) intervene.
NGOs in simple words are organizations that think beyond money or financial profit and work
towards helping people grow. A very well-defined meaning of the term NGO is given by
the World Bank as, private organizations which conduct activities to promote the interests of the
poor, provide social services, and undertake community development.
Human rights have emerged as a cornerstone of contemporary global discourse, embodying
fundamental principles of dignity, equality, and justice. The universal recognition of human
rights, as enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights adopted by the United Nations
in 1948, marked a watershed moment in history. Since then, human rights have evolved from
lofty ideals to actionable norms, driving change at local, national, and international levels.
Central to this transformation has been the activism of individuals, groups, and institutions
committed to the cause of human rights, with non-governmental organizations (NGOs)
occupying a prominent and indispensable role.
NGOs, as key players in the realm of human rights activism, have demonstrated unparalleled
commitment, flexibility, and innovation in addressing human rights challenges around the world.
Their contributions span a wide spectrum of activities, from advocating for policy changes and
legal reforms to providing direct assistance to victims of rights abuses and raising public
awareness. In this research paper, we delve into the intricate dynamics of human rights activism
and explore the vital functions that NGOs fulfill within this context.
The objective of this paper is to critically examine the multifaceted relationship between human
rights activism and the role of NGOs. In doing so, we aim to shed light on the significance of
these organizations in advancing human rights, the challenges they encounter, and the variations
in their approaches across diverse regions and contexts.
 REVIEW OF LITERATURE
A review of the literature on Human Rights Activism and the Role of NGOs reveals a rich and
diverse body of work that underscores the significance of NGOs in advancing the human rights
agenda globally. Scholars and researchers have explored various dimensions of this complex
relationship, shedding light on the methods, impact, challenges, and implications of NGO
involvement in human rights activism. Here is a summary of key themes and findings from the
literature:
1. The Emergence of NGOs as Key Actors:

International non-governmental organizations date back to at least the late 18th century, and
there were an estimated 1,083 NGOs by 1914. International NGOs were important to the anti-
slavery and women's suffrage movements, and peaked at the time of the 1932–1934 World
Disarmament Conference.

The term became popular with the 1945 founding of the United Nations in 1945. The United
Nations gave non-governmental organizations observer status at its assemblies and some
meetings.

Twentieth-century globalization increased the importance of NGOs. International treaties and

organizations, such as the World Trade Organization, focused on capitalist interests. To
counterbalance this trend, NGOs emphasize humanitarian issues, development aid, and
sustainable development.

2. NGO Strategies and Approaches:

Researchers have examined the diverse strategies employed by NGOs. Some of them are-
 Advocacy and Lobbying:
NGOs often engage in advocacy efforts to influence government policies and practices
related to human rights. This may involve lobbying lawmakers, producing policy briefs, and
participating in public campaigns to raise awareness about specific issues.

 Awareness Campaigns:
NGOs use awareness-raising campaigns to educate the public and mobilize support for human
rights causes. These campaigns may involve public events, social media, documentaries, and
publications to bring attention to specific human rights violations or issues.
 Grassroots Mobilization:
Many NGOs work at the community level, mobilizing local populations to address human rights
abuses. Grassroots mobilization includes community organizing, workshops, and empowerment
programs to strengthen the capacity of affected individuals and communities to advocate for their
rights.
 Documentation and Reporting:
NGOs often engage in the systematic documentation of human rights abuses. They collect
evidence, testimonies, and data to build cases against perpetrators and advocate for
accountability. Human rights reports and documentation play a crucial role in raising awareness
and pressuring governments and institutions to take action.
 Litigation:
Some NGOs, particularly legal-focused organizations, use litigation as a strategy to seek justice
for victims of human rights violations. They may file lawsuits in domestic or international courts,
challenging laws, policies, or actions that violate human rights.
 Capacity Building:
NGOs work to strengthen the capacity of local communities, civil society organizations, and
activists to protect and promote human rights. This includes providing training, resources, and
support for advocacy efforts.
 International Advocacy:
Many NGOs operate on the international stage, engaging with international organizations
such as the United Nations. They use international mechanisms to draw attention to human
rights issues, submit reports, and advocate for global human rights standards and norms.

 Coalitions and Alliances:

NGOs often form alliances and coalitions with other organizations, both within and across
borders. Collaborative efforts amplify their impact and provide a united front for advocating
for human rights.

 Public Interest Litigation:

In some cases, NGOs take up legal cases on behalf of individuals or groups whose human
rights have been violated. This form of litigation serves not only to seek redress for the
victims but also to set legal precedents and influence policy.

 Community-Based Initiatives:
NGOs may initiate community-based projects aimed at addressing specific human rights
issues, such as access to healthcare, education, or clean water. These initiatives focus on
improving the well-being of marginalized populations.

 Media Engagement:
NGOs work with the media to raise awareness about human rights violations and advocate
for change. This may involve press releases, interviews, and partnerships with journalists to
ensure that human rights stories receive adequate coverage.
 Technology and Digital Activism:
In the digital age, NGOs harness technology and social media platforms for advocacy and
awareness campaigns. Online petitions, social media hashtags, and digital storytelling are
common tools used to reach wider audiences.

3. NGO Impact and Effectiveness:

NGOs have demonstrated significant impact and effectiveness in the realm of human rights
activism. They serve as critical watchdogs, advocating for justice, and challenging human rights
abuses globally. Through diverse strategies such as advocacy, documentation, grassroots
mobilization, and litigation, NGOs have not only brought attention to violations but also held
perpetrators accountable. Their work contributes not only to immediate relief for victims but also
to long-term systemic change. However, challenges, including funding constraints and political
backlash, persist. Despite these obstacles, NGOs remain indispensable in promoting and
protecting human rights, empowering marginalized communities, and shaping a more just and
equitable world.
4. Challenges and Critiques:
While NGOs play a crucial role in advancing human rights, they are not without their limitations
and controversies. Here are some key challenges and critiques often raised in the literature:
 Funding Dependency:
Many NGOs rely heavily on external funding, often from foreign governments, foundations,
or international organizations. This financial dependence can compromise their independence
and autonomy, potentially leading to agenda-setting influenced by donors rather than the
communities they serve.
 Accountability and Transparency:
Critics argue that NGOs should be more transparent in their operations, especially
concerning their financial management and decision-making processes. There can be
concerns about the misuse of funds, lack of accountability to local communities, and
inadequate reporting on project outcomes.
 Elitism and Professionalization:
As NGOs grow and professionalize, they may become distant from grassroots movements
and lose touch with the communities they intend to help. This can result in a disconnection
between the organization and the people they claim to represent.
 Fragmentation and Competition:
The NGO sector can be highly fragmented and competitive, with numerous organizations
working on similar issues in the same geographic areas. This can lead to duplication of
efforts, inefficiencies, and competition for resources.
 Ethical Dilemmas:
NGOs often face difficult ethical decisions, such as whether to work in authoritarian regimes,
engage with corporations with questionable human rights records, or prioritize immediate
relief over long-term systemic change.
 Political Instrumentalization:
In some cases, governments or political actors may use NGOs as instruments for advancing
their agendas or as a means to legitimize certain policies. This can compromise the neutrality
and independence of NGOs.
 Security Risks:
Human rights activists and NGOs working in conflict zones or repressive environments face
significant security risks. They may be subject to harassment, violence, or legal persecution,
which can hinder their work.
 Environmental and Ethical Footprint:
Some NGOs have been criticized for their environmental and ethical footprint, particularly in
terms of travel, resource consumption, and the carbon footprint associated with their
operations.

5. Context Matters:

Research emphasizes the importance of recognizing the contextual differences in NGO

operations. NGOs operate in diverse political, cultural, and social environments, and their
strategies must be tailored to specific challenges and opportunities in each context. Here's a more
detailed exploration of why context matters in NGO operations:

 Political Environment:
Political contexts vary widely across the globe. Some countries have stable democracies, while
others are marked by authoritarian regimes or conflict situations. NGOs operating in different
political environments must adapt their strategies accordingly. For example:
In democratic societies, NGOs may engage in advocacy, lobbying, and public awareness
campaigns to influence policy and law.
In authoritarian regimes, NGOs often operate discreetly, emphasizing security measures to
protect their staff and beneficiaries.
In conflict zones, NGOs may focus on immediate humanitarian relief and peace-building efforts,
prioritizing the safety of affected populations.
 Cultural Factors:
Cultural norms, values, and traditions differ significantly from one region to another. NGOs need
to be culturally sensitive in their interactions with local communities to build trust and ensure
their interventions are culturally appropriate. For instance:
NGOs working on women's rights issues must understand and respect local gender dynamics and
traditions.
Language and communication styles must be adapted to the local culture to facilitate effective
dialogue.
Cultural competency is crucial to avoid inadvertently offending or alienating community
members.
 Social Dynamics:
Social factors, including economic disparities, social hierarchies, and community structures,
influence the dynamics of NGO work. NGOs need to consider these factors to design programs
that are inclusive and address the specific needs of the communities they serve. For example:
In marginalized communities, NGOs may need to prioritize economic empowerment programs to
address poverty and inequality.
In regions with deeply entrenched social hierarchies, NGOs must work to empower
disadvantaged groups and challenge discrimination.
 Legal and Regulatory Frameworks:
The legal and regulatory environment in which NGOs operate can vary widely. Some countries
have strict laws governing NGOs, while others have more permissive regulations. NGOs must
navigate these frameworks carefully to avoid legal risks and ensure compliance. For instance:
NGOs may need to register with local authorities, which can be a complex and time-consuming
process in some countries.
In countries with restrictive laws, NGOs may operate under the radar to avoid government
scrutiny.
Legal advocacy and human rights litigation strategies may be used where the legal system can be
accessed effectively.
 Resource Availability:
The availability of resources, including funding, infrastructure, and skilled personnel, can vary
significantly by context. NGOs must adapt their strategies based on resource constraints and
opportunities. For example:
In resource-scarce environments, NGOs may need to focus on community mobilization and
capacity-building to leverage local assets.
In economically developed regions, NGOs may have access to more funding and advanced
technology, enabling them to pursue ambitious projects.
6. Globalization and transnational activism:
Globalization and transnational activism have significantly transformed the landscape of NGO
and human rights activism. Here's a concise overview:
Globalization's Impact:
 Globalization has facilitated the spread of information and ideas across borders, creating
opportunities for international collaboration in human rights activism.
 NGOs increasingly engage in transnational advocacy, addressing global human rights issues
such as climate change, refugees, and cyber rights.
 Globalization has enabled NGOs to access funding, technology, and support from
international networks, amplifying their impact.
Transnational Activism by NGOs:
 NGOs engage in transnational activism by advocating for human rights beyond their home
countries, leveraging international platforms.
 They work in solidarity with like-minded organizations worldwide to address cross-border
issues and influence global policies.
 Transnational activism allows NGOs to bring attention to issues that may be ignored by local
authorities and promote global human rights norms.
7. Legal and Ethical Issues
Legal and ethical issues are paramount considerations in the realm of Human Rights Activism
and the Role of NGOs. As NGOs engage in activities to promote and protect human rights, they
often navigate complex legal and ethical landscapes that can shape the effectiveness and
legitimacy of their work.
Legal Issues: NGOs operating in various countries must contend with a range of legal
challenges, including:
 Registration and Compliance: Many countries require NGOs to register with government
authorities, and the registration process can be onerous and politicized. Failure to comply
with registration requirements can result in legal sanctions or even closure.
 Foreign Funding Restrictions: Some governments impose restrictions on foreign funding for
NGOs, often with the aim of curtailing their activities. These restrictions can impede the
financial sustainability of human rights organizations.
 Legal Harassment and Repression: In some regions, NGOs face harassment, surveillance,
and legal actions intended to intimidate or silence them. These actions may include
defamation suits, criminal charges, or restrictions on freedom of expression.
 State Sovereignty and Non-Interference: The principle of state sovereignty can conflict with
the interventionist role of NGOs, raising questions about the legitimacy and legality of
external actors' involvement in domestic affairs.
Ethical Issues: In addition to legal challenges, ethical considerations are integral to human rights
activism by NGOs:
 Humanitarian Principles: NGOs must adhere to humanitarian principles, including neutrality,
impartiality, and the prioritization of human rights and humanitarian needs over political or
partisan agendas. Striking the right balance between advocacy and neutrality can be ethically
challenging.
 Informed Consent: When working with marginalized or vulnerable populations, NGOs must
ensure informed consent, respecting the autonomy and dignity of those they aim to assist.
Ethical dilemmas may arise when balancing the urgency of intervention with the need for
informed consent.
 Cultural Sensitivity: NGOs must navigate cultural differences and respect local customs and
values when working in diverse contexts. This involves making ethical decisions about how
to promote human rights while respecting cultural diversity.
 Accountability and Transparency: NGOs are expected to maintain high levels of
accountability and transparency in their operations, particularly regarding the use of funds.
Ethical concerns can arise when financial mismanagement or corruption is suspected.
 Potential Unintended Consequences: NGOs should carefully consider the potential
unintended consequences of their actions. Well-intentioned interventions can sometimes have
negative repercussions, such as inadvertently exacerbating conflict or dependency.
 Safeguarding Whistleblowers: Protecting whistleblowers within NGOs who expose
wrongdoing or unethical behavior is an ethical imperative. Ensuring the safety and well-
being of those who expose human rights abuses can be challenging in hostile environments

8. Future Directions and Recommendations:

As the landscape of human rights activism and the role of NGOs continues to evolve, it is
essential to consider future directions and offer recommendations to enhance the effectiveness of
this vital work:
 Strengthen Collaboration and Coordination: NGOs should strive for greater collaboration
and coordination among themselves, as well as with governments, international
organizations, and civil society groups. Multi-stakeholder partnerships can amplify the
impact of human rights advocacy efforts.
 Diversify Funding Sources: Overreliance on a single source of funding can make NGOs
vulnerable to external pressures. NGOs should actively seek diverse funding sources,
including grassroots fundraising, philanthropic foundations, and partnerships with private
sector entities that share their human rights values.
 Focus on Long-term Systemic Change: While immediate relief and attention to pressing
human rights abuses are essential, NGOs should also prioritize efforts that address the root
causes of systemic violations. Advocating for legal and policy reforms, education, and
community empowerment can create lasting change.
 Capacity Building and Training: NGOs should invest in the capacity building and training
of their staff and volunteers. Equipping individuals with the necessary skills, knowledge, and
resources enhances their ability to navigate complex human rights challenges effectively.
 Embrace Technology and Innovation: In an increasingly digital world, NGOs should
leverage technology and innovative tools for advocacy, documentation, and mobilization.
Digital platforms can facilitate information sharing, networking, and rapid response to human
rights crises.
 Community-Centric Approaches: Adopting community-centric approaches ensures that the
voices and needs of affected communities are at the forefront of human rights activism.
 Empowering individuals to advocate for their own rights can lead to more sustainable
change.
 Promote Accountability and Transparency: NGOs should maintain high standards of
accountability and transparency in their operations. Clear reporting mechanisms and ethical
practices build trust with stakeholders and donors.
 Global Advocacy: NGOs should continue to engage in global advocacy efforts to influence
international policy and norms. Collaborative efforts can address cross-border human rights
issues and hold governments accountable on the global stage.
 Education and Awareness: NGOs should prioritize human rights education and awareness
campaigns to inform the public about their rights and responsibilities. Informed and engaged
citizens are more likely to support human rights causes.
 Adapt to Emerging Challenges: NGOs must remain adaptable and responsive to emerging
human rights challenges, such as climate change-induced displacement, digital rights
violations, and new forms of discrimination. Staying ahead of these challenges requires
ongoing research and innovation.
 ANALYSIS OF REVIEW OF LITERATURE
The review of literature on Human Rights Activism and the Role of NGOs provides a
comprehensive overview of the key themes, findings, challenges, and recommendations related
to this important field of study. Here's an analysis of the main points:
Historical Context: The literature review highlights the historical development of NGOs and
their involvement in human rights activism. It shows how NGOs have evolved over time,
emphasizing their role in key historical movements, such as anti-slavery and women's suffrage.
This historical context helps readers understand the long-standing significance of NGOs in
advancing human rights.
NGO Strategies: The review outlines various strategies employed by NGOs, ranging from
advocacy and awareness campaigns to litigation and capacity building. This analysis provides
insights into the versatility of NGOs and their ability to adapt to different contexts and
challenges. It also underscores the importance of a multifaceted approach to human rights
activism.
NGO Impact and Effectiveness: The literature review highlights the positive impact of NGOs
in promoting human rights, emphasizing their role as watchdogs, advocates, and agents of
change. This analysis underscores the importance of NGOs in addressing both immediate human
rights violations and long-term systemic issues.
Challenges and Critiques: The review acknowledges the challenges and critiques faced by
NGOs, such as funding dependency, accountability concerns, and ethical dilemmas. By
presenting these challenges, the review provides a balanced perspective and encourages critical
reflection on the role of NGOs in human rights activism.
Contextual Considerations: The literature review underscores the importance of considering
the unique political, cultural, social, legal, and resource-related contexts in which NGOs operate.
This analysis highlights the need for context-specific strategies and approaches, promoting a
more nuanced understanding of NGO work.
Globalization and Transnational Activism: The review recognizes the impact of globalization
on NGOs, facilitating international collaboration and transnational activism. This analysis
highlights how NGOs leverage global networks to address global human rights issues,
underscoring the interconnectedness of human rights challenges.
Legal and Ethical Issues: The review addresses legal and ethical considerations in human rights
activism, emphasizing the complex legal landscapes and ethical dilemmas faced by NGOs. This
analysis highlights the importance of navigating these issues with integrity and accountability.
Future Directions and Recommendations: The review concludes by offering future directions
and recommendations for enhancing the effectiveness of NGOs in human rights activism. These
recommendations emphasize collaboration, diversification of funding, a focus on systemic
change, capacity building, technology adoption, community-centric approaches, and global
advocacy.
In summary, this literature review provides a comprehensive and insightful analysis of the field
of Human Rights Activism and the Role of NGOs. It covers a wide range of topics and
perspectives, making it a valuable resource for scholars, practitioners, and policymakers
interested in human rights and NGO work. The review's balanced approach, acknowledging both
achievements and challenges, contributes to a holistic understanding of the subject.
 CONCLUSION
In the realm of human rights activism, the role of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) is
both profound and indispensable. This comprehensive review of the literature and observations
regarding "Human Rights Activism and the Role of NGOs" underscores the vital contributions,
challenges, and future directions in this dynamic field.
NGOs, as catalysts for change, have historically played a pivotal role in advancing human rights.
They fill gaps left by governments and international institutions, acting as advocates, watchdogs,
and service providers. The literature confirms that NGOs employ a diverse range of strategies,
from grassroots mobilization to litigation, documentation of abuses, and global advocacy. These
strategies empower individuals and communities, challenge violations, and drive long-term
systemic change.
While NGOs have achieved remarkable successes, they also face significant challenges. Funding
constraints, political repression, and questions about accountability and transparency are among
the obstacles they encounter. However, this review highlights that NGOs are adapting and
innovating to address these challenges. They embrace technology, prioritize community-centric
approaches, and foster partnerships to enhance their impact.
The global landscape of human rights activism is evolving rapidly. Intersectionality, climate
justice, and the intersection of human rights and technology are emerging as critical areas of
focus. NGOs are recognizing the interconnectedness of rights issues and the need to empower
local communities. Moreover, the COVID-19 pandemic has underscored the importance of
human rights, with NGOs actively engaged in advocating for equitable responses.
In conclusion, the future of human rights activism and the role of NGOs is promising, albeit
complex. As the world grapples with diverse challenges, from climate change to political
repression, the work of NGOs remains critical in safeguarding and promoting human rights. By
implementing the recommendations outlined in this review, including greater collaboration,
diversified funding, and a focus on long-term systemic change, NGOs can continue to be
catalysts for positive change. They contribute to a world where every individual's rights and
dignity are upheld, and the promise of human rights is realized for all.