New agreement on Norwegian support for UN human rights efforts

In Geneva today, Foreign Minister Børge Brende and UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Navi Pillay signed an agreement under which Norway will provide NOK 250 million to support the UN’s human rights efforts over the next three years.

For several years, Norway has been one of the largest contributors to the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR). This contribution is NOK 70 million higher than the previous contribution under the 2011–13 agreement.

“At a time when human rights are coming under increasing pressure, the UN’s and the High Commissioner’s efforts are crucial. The Government attaches great importance to human rights in its foreign and development policy, and this is why we are increasing our support for the work of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights,” said Mr Brende.

The agreement was signed in connection with the second review of the human rights situation in Norway at the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva on 28 April.

OHCHR seeks to increase understanding of human rights, to further strengthen human rights and to monitor their implementation at country level. This work includes anti-discrimination efforts, strengthening the rule of law and combating impunity, as well as protecting human rights in situations of armed conflict and violence.