Brookings: Topics - Human Rights

Obama Shows Commitment to Asia

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

On the heels of President Obama's recent trip to Asia, Michael Fullilove reassures Australians about the United States' commitment to the Asia-Pacific, saying that they should take the president at face value when he says "Asia and the United States are not separated by this great ocean; we are bound by it."

The Hidden People of North Korea: Everyday Life in the Hermit Kingdom

Tue, 10 Nov 2009 10:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

November 10, 2009, 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM

On November 10, Brookings Nonresident Senior Fellow Kongdan Oh and Ralph Hassig, adjunct associate professor of psychology at the University of Maryland University College, discussed their new book The Hidden People of North Korea: Everyday Life in the Hermit Kingdom (Rowman & Littlefield, 2009). For decades, the people of North Korea have lived in extreme isolation under a closed and repressive regime, where individual rights are restricted and the regime exercises complete control over the political class and legal systems.

Humanitarian Response Index 2009: Clarifying Donor Priorities

Tue, 10 Nov 2009 15:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

November 10, 2009, 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM

Every year, humanitarian crises threaten the lives and livelihoods of over 250 million people worldwide, and donor governments must make the best use of their resources, knowledge and capabilities to respond to these challenges. On November 10, the Brookings-Bern Project on Internal Displacement will host the launch of the Development Assistance Research Associates Humanitarian Response Index 2009, which helps donor governments ensure that humanitarian assistance has the greatest possible impact for people suffering the effects of crises and disasters.

The Role of Humanitarians in Government: Perspectives on Advocacy and Impact

Wed, 04 Nov 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

November 04, 2009, 1:00 PM to 2:30 PM

On November 4, the Brookings-Bern Project on Internal Displacement hosted Eric Schwartz, assistant secretary of state for population, refugees and migration, to discuss the challenges of implementing humanitarian programs and affecting policy in government.

After Kim Jong-il: Can We Hope for Better Human Rights Protection in North Korea?

Tue, 27 Oct 2009 14:30:00 GMT

Event Information:

October 27, 2009, 2:30 PM to 4:00 PM

On October 27, the Center for Northeast Asian Policy Studies hosted a presentation by Kim Kwangjin of his report on North Korean succession and human rights issues. Mr. Kim defected from North Korea in 2003, and was previously manager of North Korea’s Northeast Asia Bank in Singapore and representative of the Korea National Insurance Corporation. This discussion also featured Roberta Cohen of Brookings and Bruce Klingner of the Heritage Foundation.

The Human Rights of Internally Displaced Persons

Mon, 26 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Since 2004 there have been encouraging trends related to internal displacement. Walter Kälin notes that the use of the Guiding Principles as the relevant framework for protecting IDPs and the development of national and regional laws and policies on internal displacement have been positive trends. However, despite such positive trends, the challenges presented by climate change, the disregard for civilian populations in conflict zones, a shrinking humanitarian space, and protracted displacement situations still remain unchanged.

African Union Convention on Protection and Assistance for Internally Displaced Persons in Africa

Fri, 23 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Forced displacement is a devastating experience that often takes years or even decades to recover from. Africa hosts the worlds largest population of internally displaced persons and, as Walter Kälin points out, has taken the initiative to go beyond the existing state of law by creating the first binding international law on internally displaced persons.

An African Solution to Internal Displacement: AU Leaders Agree to Landmark Convention

Fri, 23 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Decades of armed conflict, natural disasters and climate change, have given rise to sizable populations of internally displaced persons (IDPs) throughout Africa. On October 23, African heads of state and government signed a legally binding convention on internal displacement, which as Andrew Solomon notes, demonstrates their commitment to protect the fundamental rights and freedoms of IDPs, to facilitate durable solutions and to ensure that millions of people are no longer excluded from society as a whole.

Velvet Revolutions from Prague to Tehran: What, if Anything, Should We Do about Them?

Tue, 06 Oct 2009 09:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

October 06, 2009, 9:00 AM to 10:30 AM

As we approach the twentieth anniversary of Czechoslovakia’s Velvet Revolution, countries such as Iran, Russia, China and Cuba are trying to learn how to prevent similar "velvet revolutions" in their own countries. On October 6, the Brookings Institution hosted a discussion on the challenges and opportunities posed by nonviolent civic movements for political change around the world.

Fighting Radicalism, not 'Terrorism': Root Causes of an International Actor Redefined

Tue, 29 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

In the years since the September 11th attacks, Western policymakers, analysts and academics have debated the best approaches to confronting and ending terrorism. Brookings Fellow Omer Taspinar argues that the global fight against extremist violence must move beyond the "war on terror" to a broader strategy of fighting radicalism with human development - an approach that would address the political, economic and social conditions that foment violent radicalism.

Regional Workshop on Protection and Response in Situations of Natural Disaster

Wed, 23 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Central America is a region constantly exposed to risks from natural disasters. It is important for governments to develop a human rights based approach to disaster response in order to decrease the likelihood of human rights violations of the victims of natural disasters. In order to promote the development of such strategies as well as strengthen the cooperation of humanitarian and human rights agencies in the field, CONRED, CEPREDENAC, and the Brookings-Bern Project, with the support of the Embassy of Switzerland, convened a workshop on disaster response and protection in situations of natural disaster in El Salvador, Honduras, and Guatemala.

Internal Displacement and Peace Mediation

Wed, 23 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The need to protect the rights of persons displaced by conflict and find durable solutions to their displacement is inextricably linked to achieving a viable, sustainable peace. Therefore, as Andrew Solomon argues, no realistic plan for peace and reconciliation should ignore the rights and interests of internally displaced persons.

Protection in Natural Disasters

Tue, 22 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

People affected by natural disasters such as floods, cyclones, earthquakes, volcanoes, and other calamities often face urgent protection needs that may not be immediately visible to humanitarian actors caught up in trying to provide water, food, shelter, medical care and other lifesaving assistance. In this paper, Elizabeth Ferris and Diane Paul provide an overview of protection challenges confronting those affected by natural disasters.

Up Close and from the Tower: Two Views of Refugee and Internally Displaced Populations

Wed, 02 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The numbers are startling. There are close to 40 million refugees and internally displaced persons (IDPs) in the world today, uprooted by conflict and human rights violations. The problems facing the refugees and IDPs are daunting. While reviewing two books, Cohen argues that the overall problem of forced migration goes beyond humanitarian and human rights solutions, requiring multilateral action aimed at preventing and resolving the crises at the heart of displacement.

Democracy In Egypt: Necessary Ingredient in a U.S.-Egyptian Partnership

Mon, 17 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak recently visited Washington for the first time since 2004. Tamara Cofman Wittes and Michele Dunne examine how he and President Obama can achieve shared goals for the Middle East. Wittes and Dunn analyze areas in which the relationship could be improved and offer suggestions for strengthening the partnership with both the citizens and government of Egypt.

Morocco’s King Mohammed VI: 10 Years and Counting

Wed, 05 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

On July 30, notables from all corners of Morocco gathered at the Royal Palace in Tangier to celebrate the tenth anniversary of King Mohammed VI’s ascendance to the throne. Maati Monjib and James Liddell investigate what has changed in the country since King Mohammed first took power with a commitment to an open and democratically ruled society.

Report of the Representative of the Secretary-General on the Human Rights of Internally Displaced Persons

Mon, 03 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Internal displacement continues to be one of the world's major humanitarian and human rights challenges and many internally displaced persons (IDPs) experience serious violations of their human rights. In his annual report to the UN General Assembly, Walter Kälin argues that it is important to translate the increasing recognition of the human rights dimension of internal displacement at the international and regional levels into effective action at the national and local levels of government.

Pressing Pyongyang on Rights

Fri, 31 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The now-defunct six-party talks in which the U.S., South Korea, Japan, Russia, and China participated focused almost exclusively on North Korea's nuclear weapons program. But, as Roberta Cohen argues, with a struggle for succession underway in Pyongyang and some of the country's internal controls reportedly beginning to erode, it's the time to rethink the near-exclusion of human rights from the U.S.-North Korean dialogue.

Raising Human Rights with North Korea

Thu, 23 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The U.S. government's policies toward North Korea in recent years have drawn criticism for focusing primarily on denuclearization, while neglecting human rights issues, even as the country's human rights situation remains dire. Roberta Cohen says arguments against including human rights in discussions with North Korea are flawed and recommends integrating human rights as part of an overall U.S. policy toward North Korea.

Iran: Recent Developments and Implications for U.S. Policy

Wed, 22 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Suzanne Maloney testified before the House Committee on Foreign Affairs on recent developments in Iran after the June 12 election and resulting protests across the country. Maloney addressed the current internal political crisis, the efficiency of additional international sanctions against Iran and offered suggestions for U.S. policy going forward.

Protecting the Displaced in Colombia: The Role of Municipal Authorities

Tue, 21 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

In most societies, citizens have more interaction with municipal authorities than with national government officials. The same is true in Colombia. However, policies that address displacement are often developed by the national government and left to the municipal authorities to implement. In this report, the Brookings-Bern Project presents the issues discussed at a workshop for municipal authorities in how to better respond to the needs of Colombia's IDPs.

Ethnic Tensions in China

Thu, 09 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Ethnic riots in western China in July left at least 156 dead and thousands injured or imprisoned. Brookings China expert Cheng Li joined Diane Rehm to speak about the Uighur protests and the response from China's leadership.

Peace, Reconciliation, and Displacement

Tue, 07 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Displacement is one of the tragic consequences of conflict. Elizabeth Ferris argues that once a conflict ends, resolving displacement and preventing future displacement is inextricably linked with achieving a lasting peace.

At Long Last: Finally Peace for Sri Lanka

Tue, 07 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

On May 16, 2009, the Sri Lankan government announced that it had overrun the last insurgent stronghold and that 26 years of civil conflict had finally come to an end. Despite the end of the war, the humanitarian emergency continues. And, as Elizabeth Ferris argues, the underlying causes of the Tamils' demands—whether for autonomy or simply greater respect for their human rights—have yet to be addressed.

Going Home? Prospects and Pitfalls for Large-Scale Return of Iraqis

Thu, 02 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Recently discussion has turned to the prospects for the large-scale return of refugees and internally displaced persons (IDPs) to Iraq. More than 4 million Iraqis have been displaced, either internally or externally. And while the Iraqi and US governments, policymakers in the region, and humanitarian actors assume that most will return to Iraq in the near future, Elizabeth Ferris points out that experience with other displacement crises indicates that return will be neither automatic nor straightforward.

Protecting and Promoting Rights in Natural Disasters in South Asia

Wed, 01 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

South Asia is a "theater for disaster." In the past decade alone floods, cyclones, earthquakes, droughts, and a devastating tsunami destroyed hundreds of thousands of lives and livelihoods and left millions more homeless. In each disaster, humanitarian responders rushed to the scene to preserve human life and reduce immediate suffering. However, many times, human rights protection has been a secondary concern. This new report, based on a regional meeting in Chennai, India, discusses the challenges in incorporating human rights into disaster response in South Asia.

Refugees and Internally Displaced Persons in Serbia

Tue, 30 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

It is positive, and a clear step forward, that Serbian authorities like the Serbian Commissioner for Refguees have started programs to help IDPs leave collective centers, move to their own houses, and regain their livelihoods. Yet, as Walter Kälin points out in an address to the Parliament of Serbia, bureaucratic obstacles continue to make it unnecessarily difficult for many IDPs to access public services.

Comparative Perspectives on Laws and Policies Addressing Internal Displacement

Sat, 27 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

To date, over twenty countries, including Turkey, have already adopted policies or legislation specifically addressing internal displacement—many of which are based on the Guiding Principles on Internal Displacement—and other countries are in the process of doing so. In this statement, Elizabeth Ferris puts the issue of law and policy development into the broader framework of national responsibility and gives an overview of the ways in which governments have addressed internal displacement in their laws and policies, including in the search for durable solutions.

Protracted Displacement in Europe

Wed, 24 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Over the last few years, the internal displacement situation in Europe has remained stagnant. Europe continues to have more than 2.5 million IDPs, over 99% of whom find themselves in situations of protracted displacement. In order to improve the situation of IDPs in Europe, Walter Kälin argues that both the adoption of the Draft Resolution before the Parliamentary Assembly as well as a national laws and policies "would radically change the fate of these forgotten people."

The Failure to Protect: Battle-Affected IDPs in Southern Afghanistan

Mon, 22 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Civilians have long borne the brunt of the conflict in Afghanistan. According to the UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan, civilian casualties in 2008 were 40% higher than the previous year. However, although civilian casualties are widely covered and are being addressed, Alex Mundt and Susanne Schmeidl point out that the broader protection concerns, particularly the plight of battle-affected IDPs, remain invisible and largely unacknowledged.

HIV/AIDS and the Protection of the Rights of Internally Displaced Persons

Mon, 22 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The phenomenon of internal displacement, affecting between 24-26 million people, combined with the estimated 10.5 million refugees worldwide, has been characterized by UN Secretary General Ban Ki-Moon as "arguably the most significant humanitarian challenge we face." Further, as Walter Kälin points out, this challenge is even more serious where it overlaps with other key humanitarian challenges such as the global AIDS epidemic, whose impact on the internally displaced is unclear.

Afghan Star: The Impact of Independent Media in Afghanistan

Fri, 12 Jun 2009 10:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

June 12, 2009, 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM

On June 12, the Brookings Project on U.S. Relations with the Islamic World hosted a discussion on the role of independent media in Afghanistan. Discussion centered on holding government accountable, fostering critical thinking, and empowering women to the most effective strategy for the United States in supporting independent media and the societal changes it promotes.

Pakistani Displacement: Lessons Learned from Other Mass Displacement Situations

Thu, 11 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Once again the newspaper headlines report a massive displacement crisis. This time the displaced are fleeing counter-insurgency campaigns in Pakistan. Though the situation of displacement in Pakistan will have its own unique circumstances, Ferris points out that there are some lessons learned from other displacement situations that may be applicable to planning an appropriate response.

Internal Displacement in Iraq: The Process of Working toward Durable Solutions

Thu, 11 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

With increased levels of security in Iraq in 2008-9, displaced persons have begun to make decisions about their future: whether to return to their place of origin, locally integrate or resettle in a third location. As Jamille Bigio and Jen Scott argue, the time is ripe to assess how the government of Iraq, with the support of international and national actors, can advance the process of achieving durable solutions to displacement.

Mass Displacement Caused by Conflicts and One-Sided Violence

Mon, 08 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Massive displacement of people within and across borders has become a defining feature of the post-cold war world. It is also a major feature of human insecurity in which genocide, terrorism, egregious human rights violations and appalling human degradation wreak havoc on civilians. Though there has been a critical shift in thinking at the international level with regards to forced displacement, Cohen and Deng argue that concepts of sovereignty as responsibility and the responsibility to protect remain far ahead of international willingness and capacity to enforce them.

Brookings-Bern Project on Internal Displacement: Annual Report 2008

Fri, 05 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

2008 marked the tenth anniversary of the Guiding Principles on Internal Displacement—an occasion both to commemorate efforts over the past decade to uphold the human rights of IDPs and to remind ourselves that much remains to be done. In this report, the Project presents its work from 2008 and discusses the challenges that lie ahead.

Obama's Egypt Speech: What He Said to the Muslim World

Thu, 04 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

On June 4, President Obama delivered what was billed as a “major speech to the Muslim world” in Cairo, Egypt. As a follow up to commentary prior to the speech, the Saban Center at Brookings’s Project on U.S. Relations with the Islamic World asked leading experts and policy-makers from the United States and the Muslim world to submit their thoughts on the speech.

Reactions to President Obama's Speech to the Muslim World

Thu, 04 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

President Barack Obama delivered a highly anticipated address in Cairo, Egypt on June 4 in an attempt to improve U.S. relations with the Muslim world. Brookings experts offered comments on the President’s speech.

Obama's Egypt Speech: What He Should Say to the Muslim World

Tue, 02 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

On June 4, President Obama delivered what was billed as a “major speech to the Muslim world” in Cairo, Egypt. To provide context for this event, the Saban Center at Brookings’ Project on U.S. Relations with the Islamic World asked leading experts and policy-makers from the United States and the Muslim world to submit commentary on what they hoped to hear from President Obama’s speech.

Crossroads on Cuba: Will Democracy or Sovereignty Prevail?

Tue, 02 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Ted Piccone writes that the future of the Organization of American States (OAS) depends on how it manages the readmission of Cuba to the regional organization. Piccone urges member states not to depart from the organization’s core democratic and human rights principles.

Between a Rock and a Hard Place: The Return of Internally Displaced Persons to Northern Afghanistan

Mon, 01 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

At first glance, the return of hundreds of displaced Pashtun families from war-torn Kandahar province in southern Afghanistan to their villages of origin in the comparatively peaceful north would seem an obvious and attractive option. It is a solution welcomed by a beleagured Afghan government and supported by the United Nations agencies. But, as with many things in Afghanistan, as Mundt, Schmeidl, and Ziai argue, apperances often deceive.

Obama in Egypt and His Speech to the Muslim World

Sun, 31 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Tamara Cofman Wittes and Martin Indyk joined a group of Middle East experts, journalists and activists to discuss what should be said by President Obama during his trip to Egypt in June. Wittes argued Obama must redefine how America's role is viewed and Indyk stated that, among other things, a sincere commitment to the Israeli-Palestinian dispute is necessary.

Civilian Humanitarian Action Needed in Pakistan

Fri, 15 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Pakistan's aggressive military campaign against the Taliban's growing threat has resulted in almost a million Pakistanis being displaced in the past two weeks—in addition to the 500,000 who were displaced last fall by fighting. Despite the turmoil, Beth Ferris says there is an opportunity to strengthen civilian government, build strong civil society organizations and support internally displaced people in a way that builds confidence in their government.

Obama Chooses Egypt for His Muslim World Speech

Thu, 14 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Tamara Cofman Wittes writes that the selection of Egypt for President Obama’s long-awaited speech to the Muslim world was not an easy choice, but it is a significant one. Wittes believes Egypt is a crucible for the challenges facing many Muslim societies and it embodies Washington's central dilemmas in the wake of Bush's Freedom Agenda.

Human Rights in North Korea: Some Recommendations for the Obama Administration

Thu, 30 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The North Korean human rights record is one of the most egregious in the world, yet the United States has not to date found an effective way to address the issue. Brookings Nonresident Senior Fellow Roberta Cohen proposes to the Obama administration the development of a strategy for integrating human rights into any future dealings with North Korea, be they multilateral or bilateral.

Humanitarian Perspectives on the International Law Commission's Report "Protection of Persons in the Event of Disasters"

Tue, 21 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

All humanitarian work is, or should be, grounded in international human rights law.

The Deepening Humanitarian Crisis in Sri Lanka: An Update from the Field

Mon, 20 Apr 2009 15:30:00 GMT

Event Information:

April 20, 2009, 3:30 PM to 5:00 PM

On April 20, the Brookings-Bern Project on Internal Displacement will host a discussion offering different perspectives on the humanitarian crisis in Sri Lanka, moderated by Project co-director Elizabeth Ferris, and including representatives from the United Nations, US Department of State, Human Rights Watch, and the Point Pedro Institute.

Will Obama Retreat on Democracy in Latin America?

Tue, 14 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

As the Summit of the Americas draws near, Ted Piccone analyzes Obama's debut before the hemisphere’s main gathering of democratically elected leaders and discusses what should come from the meeting. Piccone believes Obama should lead by example by implementing human rights reforms at home and by reminding colleagues they share a responsibility to follow universal democratic standards.

Internal Displacement and the Role of Parliamentarians in Times of Crises

Thu, 09 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

One of the tragic and yet regular consequences of the absence of peace is forced displacement. All too often, civilian populations become the target of armed forces and insurgents who drive them away from their lands. National parliaments and their members play a key role in addressing this challenge.

An Institutional Gap for Disaster IDPs

Mon, 06 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Climate change is expected to sharply increase the number and severity of natural disasters, displacing millions on all continents. Roberta Cohen argues that the international community needs to recognize "disaster IDPs" and establish new institutional arrangements to protect their human rights.

Internal Displacement and Peacebuilding in Colombia

Mon, 06 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The advances in laws related to IDPs have not addressed the relationship between internal displacement and peacebuilding in Colombia. Elizabeth Ferris explores the issue.

China's Religious (Re)Awakening: The Impact of Religion on Chinese Society

Mon, 06 Apr 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

April 06, 2009, 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM

On April 6, the John L. Thornton China Center at Brookings hosted a panel discussion on the re-emergence of religion in Chinese society. The panelists specifically addressed the role of Christian, Muslim and Tibetan Buddhist groups within China.

The Danger of a U.S.-China Strategic "G-2" Alliance

Thu, 02 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

From Japan to India, there are concerns that America's search for a solution to its worst economic crisis since the Great Depression may lead the Obama administration into not only expanded strategic economic and political dialogues with China but a full-blown strategic partnership. Dennis Wilder argues that U.S. relations with Asia's democracies can't take a back seat to cooperation with China.

The Scouting Report: Humanitarian Crises in Iraq and Darfur

Wed, 25 Mar 2009 12:30:00 GMT

Event Information:

March 25, 2009, 12:30 PM to 01:30 PM

Brookings expert Elizabeth Ferris and Senior Politico Editor Fred Barbash took questions about humanitarian issues in Iraq and Darfur as well as the ICC's arrest warrant for Sudanese President Omara Hassan al-Bashir in this week’s edition of the Scouting Report.

Human Rights and Internal Displacement

Thu, 12 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Marking the 10th Anniversary of the adoption of the Guiding Principles on Internal Displacement has provided an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of the Guiding Principles. However, according to Walter Kälin, the dire situation on the ground for the world's over 26 million IDPs indicates that more work needs to be done.

China: Trumping Human Rights

Sat, 28 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Saleem Ali writes that China is a great nation from which the U.S., and indeed Pakistan, have much to learn. However, as friends we must engage in a relationship that builds on our common humanity.

Forced Displacement and Housing, Land, and Property Ownership Challenges in Post-Conflict and Reconstruction

Sat, 28 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Post-conflict reconstruction and stabilization requires protecting and assisting internally displaced persons (IDPs) who have been uprooted from their homes and made vulnerable to violence, exploitation, discrimination and other human rights violations. In this paper, Andrew Solomon and others review the international standards and best practices for protecting the housing, land and property rights of IDPs.

Assessing Damage, Urging Action: Report of the ICJ Eminent Jurists Panel on Terrorism, Counterterrorism and Human Rights

Fri, 27 Feb 2009 09:30:00 GMT

Event Information:

February 27, 2009, 9:30 AM to 12:00 PM

On February 27, the Brookings Institution and the International Commission of Jurists (ICJ) hosted the U.S. launch of the “Eminent Jurists Panel Report on Terrorism, Counterterrorism and Human Rights.” The Eminent Jurists Panel is an independent body comprised of eight distinguished judges and lawyers from around the world, established by the ICJ to conduct a global inquiry into the impact of counterterrorism laws, polices and practices on human rights.

The Responsibility to Protect: Human Rights and Humanitarian Dimensions

Fri, 20 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Everyone would agree that international human rights standards are the foundation of the responsibility to protect (R2P). States have an obligation to protect their populations from the worst atrocities on the basis of international human rights precepts. However, it was not until the advent of R2P that the international community accepted for the first time the collective responsibility to act should states fail to protect citizens from genocide, ethnic cleansing, war crimes or crimes against humanity.

Humanitarian Space, Humanitarian Principles: Experiences from Iraq and Afghanistan

Fri, 20 Feb 2009 12:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

February 20, 2009, 12:00 PM to 2:30 PM

The basic principles of humanitarian action are being challenged from all sides. Upholding the neutrality of humanitarian action and protecting humanitarian space is increasingly difficult and perhaps nowhere as much as in Afghanistan and Iraq.

Displacement in the Muslim World

Mon, 16 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Throughout the Muslim world, millions of people have been forced to flee their homes and communities for many reasons, including both conflicts and natural disasters. This massive displacement of people affects both national development plans and individual human development, affecting relationships between countries, UN Security Council discussions, and peace processes. In short, as Hady Amr and Elizabeth Ferris argue, understanding—and resolving—displacement is central to development, peace, and security.

Displacement in the Muslim World: A Focus on Afghanistan and Iraq

Mon, 16 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Iraq and Afghanistan face displacement crises of massive proportions. According to best estimates, the number approaches two million refugees and 2.8 million IDPs. Although the pace of displacement has slowed since mid-2007, few IDPs and refugees have been able to return, their resources are running out, and international assistance has been inadequate. The longer displacement lasts, the more complicated it will be to resolve.

Brookings Doha Center International Advisory Council Inaugural Meeting

Sun, 15 Feb 2009 18:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

February 15, 2009, 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM

On February 15, 2009, His Excellency Sheikh Hamad bin Jassim bin Jabr Al-Thani, Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the State of Qatar, convened the inaugural Brookings Doha Center International Advisory Council meeting in Doha, Qatar.

The Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza: Beyond Band-Aid Solutions

Wed, 14 Jan 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

January 14, 2009, 2:00 PM to 3:30 PM

The latest conflict in Gaza has exacerbated an already fragile humanitarian situation and created another humanitarian crisis in the Middle East. The Brookings-Bern Project on Internal Displacement hosted a discussion on the humanitarian situation in Gaza within the broader context of the ongoing Israel-Palestine conflict.

Internally Displaced Persons: A Neglected Issue on the International Agenda

Mon, 05 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

As the world commemorates the 60th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, Elizabeth Ferris writes that it is timely to focus on international efforts to uphold the rights of those who have been forced to leave their homes and communities.

The Genesis and the Challenges of the Guiding Principles on Internal Displacement

Wed, 31 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

In this article, Roberta Cohen and Francis Deng explain that the need for international standards to protect and assist internally displaced persons arose directly from the explosion of civil wars in the last decade of the 20th century. These wars left tens of millions uprooted within the borders of their own countries.

Iraq's Displaced: Where to Turn?

Wed, 31 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Refugees and internally displaced persons are hardly a new phenomenon for Iraq. Under Saddam Hussein's regime, forced displacement was a tool used to subdue recalcitrant populations and punish political opponents. Roberta Cohen says that the U.S. invasion and the toppling of Saddam Hussein, far from resolving the problem however, made it worse. The ensuing conflicts increased the number of people forced to flee their homes and a combination of national and international steps needs to be taken.

Guiding Principle 29 and the Right to Restitution

Wed, 31 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The emergence of the right to post-displacement property restitution represents a significant development in human rights law in the ten years since the Guiding Principles were submitted. While Guiding Principle 29 has contributed to the development of this right, significant obstacles remain to its consistent application in displacement settings.

The Future of the Guiding Principles on Internal Displacement

Wed, 31 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

In this article, Walter Kälin explains that while it is hard to take an objective view on an enterprise in which you have been closely involved, he thinks that it is fair to say that over the last ten years the Guiding Principles have demonstrated their utility and impact but also their limitations.

Assessing the Impact of the Guiding Principles: An Unfinished Task

Wed, 31 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The Guiding Prinicples' objectives were clear but, ten years on, how can we assess their impact? The late Sérgio Vieira de Mello identified four ways the Principles might benefit IDPs: raising awareness of their needs; mobilizing support within the humanitarian community; helping field staff find solutions; and assisting governments to provide for IDPs' security and well-being. In this article, Elizabeth Ferris examines the impact of the Guiding Principles by examining their progress made on Vieira de Mello's points.

Minorities, Displacement, and Iraq's Future

Tue, 23 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

It is no coincidence that many internally displaced persons and refugees are members of minority groups. In every region of the world, minorities have been repressed, killed and displaced by governments and other armed actors seeking to take over their territory, command their loyalty, and control their actions. In this paper, Elizabeth Ferris & Kimberly Stoltz examine the relationship between minorities and displacement, with a particular emphasis on Iraq's smaller minorities.

Returns to Iraq: Questions and More Questions

Fri, 19 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

As violent incidents decrease in Iraq and as US combat troops prepare to withdraw, expectations will grow that Iraqis will return to their communities in growing numbers. In fact, UN Officials and political leaders in Iraq, the region, and the US have always expected that return will be the durable solution for Iraqi IDPs and refugees without giving serious consideration to other options. For returns to be successful, the government of Iraq and the international community need to learn from the lessons of other mass returns of displaced populations and refugees.

Putting Principles Into Action: Ten Years of the Guiding Principles on Internal Displacement

Wed, 17 Dec 2008 15:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

December 17, 2008, 3:00 PM to 4:30 PM

In 1998, 30 basic principles describing human rights standards for the internally displaced were presented to the United Nations. These principles were adopted and are today known as the Guiding Principles on Internal Displacement and are the international standard on protecting the rights of internally displaced persons (IDPs). The Brookings-Bern Project hosted a panel discussion on the successes of the Guiding Principles as well as challenges that remain in protecting the rights of IDPs.

The Current Detainee Population of Guantánamo: An Empirical Study

Tue, 16 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

On January 22, 2009, President Obama signed an executive order to close down the detention facility at Guantánamo Bay, Cuba. Benjamin Wittes and his colleagues identify and describe, in as much detail as the public record will permit, the current population of detainees at Guantánamo, what the government alleges about them and what they claim about their own affiliations and conduct.

Human Rights, Asia and the New Administration

Tue, 09 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

December 10 marks the 60^th anniversary of the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights by the United Nations General Assembly. Catharin Dalpino writes that the Obama administration will face unprecedented challenges in the promotion of human rights in Asia, but is also likely to find new opportunities and should adopt a fresh approach.

Nuts and Deadbolts: A Blueprint for the Closure of Guantanamo Bay

Mon, 08 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The U.S. Congress has voted overwhelmingly to block the $80 million President Obama requested to close the Guantanamo Bay prison. On May 21, the president gave a national security address to discuss in greater detail his plan for closing Guantanamo. Brookings expert Ben Wittes offers a checklist of important decisions the president must make before he can shutter the detention camp.

Public Policies to Assist Internally Displaced Persons: The Role of Municipal Authorities

Wed, 03 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The intensification of the armed conflict in Colombia during the 1990s provoked the forced displacement of more than 2.4 million people, with the vast majority of municipalities either losing or receiving persons displaced by the conflict. Though Colombia has several national laws and decrees on internal displacement, implementation has been slow and uneven throughout the different state and municipal institutions. In this new report commissioned by the Brookings-Bern Project, Ana María Ibañez and Andrea Valásquez, examine the obstacles to greater involvement by municipal authorities with IDPs, focusing on four cases: Bogotá, Medellín, Antioquia, and Santa Marta.

Protracted Displacement in Europe: Perspectives and Solutions

Wed, 26 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

While Africa could be considered the continent of internal displacement because it has more than 12 of the roughly 25 million displaced by armed conflict worldwide, Europe, with its estimated 2.5 million internally displaced persons (IDPs), could be called the continent of protracted displacement, since 99% of Europe's remaining displaced fled their homes some 15-25 years ago. In recent years, some governments have taken important steps to improve their situation, but overall the situation of most IDPs remains a cause for concern.

The Future of Humanitarianism: A Conversation with the ICRC’s Pierre Krähenbühl

Mon, 24 Nov 2008 09:30:00 GMT

Event Information:

November 24, 2008, 9:30 AM to 11:00 AM

The growing number and complexity of emergency situations in the world today places increasing pressure on the humanitarian community to respond effectively. On November 24, Brookings will host Pierre Krähenbühl, director of operations for the International Committee of the Red Cross, for a discussion on the future of humanitarianism.

Wrenching Choices on Guantanamo

Fri, 21 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

President-elect Obama has reiterated his campaign promise to close Guantanamo Bay. As Benjamin Wittes writes, the incoming administration must create a systematic and rigorous review of the detainee population, whose handling will require wrenching choices with no easy answers.

Internal Displacement, Transitional Justice, and Peacebuilding: Lessons Learned

Tue, 11 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

There is a close relationship between finding solutions for displaced persons and peacebuilding as peacebuilding involves: re-establishing security and law and order, reconstruction and economic rehabilitation, reconciliation and social rehabilitation, and political transition to creating more accountable governance structures and institutions. If IDP concerns in these areas are not taken seriously, it may jeopardize the sustainability of peace in the country.

Gaps in the Protection of Those Displaced by Climate Change

Fri, 31 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Gaps in protection still remain for those people displaced by climate change within their own countries.

Disaster Risk Mitigation – Why Human Rights Matter

Fri, 31 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Existing human rights obligations, according to Walter Kälin and Claudine Haenni Dale, already require states to take measures to mitigate the risks of natural or man-made disasters — including those due to climate change — and thus to prevent displacement.

Renewed Effort Needed to Help the Displaced

Thu, 30 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Ten years after the UN defined legal rights for them, internally displaced people - refugees in their own countries - remain a neglected global responsibility.

Durable Solutions for IDPs in Protracted Situations: Three Case Studies

Tue, 28 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Though there are important similarities in the impact of prolonged displacement on the lives of IDPs and refugees, there are also significant differences in their situations -- particularly when it comes to solutions. While return is often the desired solution for both IDPs and political actors, Alex Mundt and Elizabeth Ferris argue that local integration and return should not be seen as mutually exclusive alternatives, as they can encourage IDPs to build new lives elsewhere without having to give up the possibility of an eventual return.

Taking Stock and Moving Forward: RSG Statement to the UN General Assembly

Mon, 27 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Despite important achievements, people continue to be displaced and their rights continue to be violated. Millions of internally displaced persons continue to languish in protracted situations. Humanitarian access in particular to persons displaced during armed conflicts is often not possible. While we should indeed be proud of the improvements since the adoption of the Guiding Principles, much remains to be done.

Natural Disasters, Human Rights and the Role of National Human Rights Institutions

Sat, 25 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Most people who are displaced by natural disasters remain within the borders of their country, making them internally displaced persons (IDPs) as defined by the Guiding Principles on Internal Displacement. Therefore, it is the responsibility of the national government to provide protection and assistance to them and to facilitate durable solutions for their displacement. In disaster response, Elizabeth Ferris argues, it is necessary to develop a rights-based approach to guarantee that the rights of those who've been displaced by the disaster are protected.

Democracies: In a League of their Own?

Thu, 23 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Ted Piccone outlines several versions of the League of Democracies concept that has reemerged during the 2008 U.S. presidential campaign. Though it finds support in both conservative and liberal circles, Piccone argues that the current framework will not succeed in today’s political environment. However, Piccone believes democracy promotion should remain a top priority for the next administration, and he offers recommendations for strengthening multilateral approaches.

Displacement, Natural Disasters, and Human Rights

Fri, 17 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

In the course of the past year, over 400 natural disasters took 16,000 lives, affected close to 250 million people and displaced many millions. But many humanitarian actors continue to see natural disasters and those displaced by them as marginal to the central thrust of humanitarian action: responding to those affected by conflict.

Protecting Internally Displaced Persons: A Manual for Law and Policymakers

Thu, 16 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Currently an estimated 26 million men, women and children have been displaced within their countries' borders because of conflict, with even larger numbers displaced by natural disasters and development projects. While this is a global phenomenon, responsibility rests with national governments.

Strengthening the Rights of Internally Displaced Persons

Thu, 16 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Forced displacement is not just a passing event in people's lives. It is a devastating transformation that shatters lives. In order to protect the rights of the displaced, through all phases of displacement, the Guiding Principles on Internal Displacement were drafted and adopted by the United Nations. Today, ten years later, they are as relevant as ever in protecting those displaced by conflict, natural disasters and development projects.

Displacement and Human Rights: A Continuing Challenge

Thu, 16 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Sixty years ago the international community responded to the needs of those crossing national borders because of persecution and conflict by adopting a convention on refugees and creating a UN refugee agency; however, the fate of those displaced within their countries' borders was largely ignored. In an effort to address this gap in the international humanitarian system, the Brookings Project on Internal Displacement took on the task of developing basic standards for the treatment of internally displaced persons.

2008 U.S.-Islamic World Regional Forum in Kuala Lumpur

Mon, 13 Oct 2008 09:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

October 13, 2008, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
October 14, 2008, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM

On October 13-14, The Brookings Institution in partnership with The Asia Foundation and the Institute of Strategic and International Studies (ISIS) Malaysia, brought together 50 key leaders from Southeast Asia, the broader Muslim world, and the United States for open and frank dialogue directed at developing actionable programs for government, civil society, and the private sector.

Displacement Caused by the Effects of Climate Change

Fri, 10 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Most causes of displacement triggered by climate change, such as flooding, hurricanes, desertification or even the "sinking" of stretches of land, are not new. However, their frequency and magnitude are likely to increase. The challenge is to better analyze these causes of displacement, to identify the areas where the effects of climate change are most likely to occur and to examine the character of forced displacement and other population movemetns they could trigger.

Moving Beyond Rhetoric: Consultation and Participation with IDPs

Thu, 09 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The importance of engaging directly with populations affected by poverty, conflict and disaster is a common theme in the literature on humanitarian aid, development and peacebuilding. However, despite the many documented benefits, consultation with and participation by affected populations -- including IDPs -- remains limited.

Iraqi Elections and Displacement

Thu, 02 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Provincial elections are an important step toward national reconciliation in Iraq, but steps must be taken to ensure that the displaced— both refugees and internally displaced persons (IDPs)— are able to participate. Despite the passage of the provincial elections law, there are no provisions for Iraqis living outside the country to vote, meaning that close to 10% of Iraq's populatioin will be disenfranchised, with serious consequences for the legitimacy of the elections.

Obama, McCain, un juriste et un militaire face aux droits humains

Wed, 01 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Justin Vaisse discusses how Obama and McCain approach human rights issues, from capital punishment to Guantanamo and torture. (French)

The Potential Impact of the Indictment of Bashir on Darfur’s Humanitarian Situation

Fri, 26 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

At first glance, the reaction of humanitarian actors on the ground in Darfur to potential indictments of the Sudanese president Omar Bashir seems pretty obvious. Darfur's 2.5 million internally displaced people, the 4.2 million in need of food assistnace and the 17,000 or so humanitarian workers would make easy targets for an angry Sudanese government. But like everything in Darfur, Elizabeth Ferris explains, the situation is more complicated than it seems at first glance.

Finding Durable Solutions for Sri Lanka's Displaced

Tue, 23 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Arbitrary displacement as a consequence of violence or threats thereof, ethnic persecution or cleansing, as well as displacement as a consequence of natural disasters, is not just a passing event in peoples' lives. Rather, displacement means that, from one day to the next, families lose their homes and livelihoods, leaving behind all they had cherished, shattering lives. In responding to displacement situations, it is necessary to look for long-term, durable solutions for all groups of displaced persons, rather than focusing on one specific group.

Listening to the Voices of the Displaced: Lessons Learned

Tue, 16 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

When those working with IDPs develop programs and policies without taking the time to listen to those most affected — the IDPs themselves — plans often go wrong. In order to ensure their needs not only are met but also that lasting solutions are found for their displacement, Roberta Cohen explains that it is critical to listen to the voices of IDPs.