Human rights and civil society
Norwegian development cooperation aims to promote democracy, protect human rights, and strengthen civil society’s ability to contribute to sustainable development and social change. This effort is particularly important in a time marked by war, conflict, and polarisation.
Why
The situation for human rights and democracy is today marked by setbacks in several areas. In many countries, authoritarian forces are on the rise and basic human rights are being violated. Democratic institutions and processes are undermined, and the civic space is restricted in several parts of the world. Human rights, the rule of law and democracy are values that must be promoted and defended continuously. Targeted efforts within these areas are therefore essential in the work for sustainable social development where no-one is left behind.
What
In the work to promote human rights and democracy, cooperation with a wide range of actors at both global, regional, national and local level is important. That is why Norad supports, among others, research institutions, multilateral actors and Norwegian and international civil society organisations that work closely with national and local partners. The effort includes both strengthening international systems to promote human rights, democracy and the rule of law, and work to improve compliance with international human rights obligations at country level.
Where
Efforts for human rights and democracy and an active civil society take place in several parts of the world and in collaboration with a wide range of actors. The support includes work at a normative level towards the UN system, strengthening of relevant institutions at national level, protection of human rights defenders, promotion of selected human rights and strengthening of local civil society partners. In 2023, 22,5% of total Norwegian development aid, corresponding to approximately NOK 13,2 billion, went to or via civil society.