Role of National Human Rights Institutions at the International and Regional Levels

Rachel Murray is a Professor of Law at the University of Bristol.

This book is an excellent piece for the busy practitioner, students and bureaucrats who want to find what they want in an instant without having to scan through voluminous material...It is written in such a way that both the lay person and the most sophisticated professional will be able to follow...a book one must have on one's desk or bookshelf. It is a useful tool for activists and lobbyists of human rights, including NGOs, academics, NHRIs, government officials, international organisations, students and others. Michelo Hansungule African Human Rights Law Journal Vol 7, No 2, 2007 While much has indeed been written about elements of the domestic functioning of NHRIs, little careful analysis has been undertaken concerning the increasingly important role of these institutions within the UN treaty body system and before the African Commission on Human and Peoples' Rights (African Commission). Murray's book fills this gap...In NHRIs, Murray both takes a step back and reflects on the emerging practice of NHRIs' ad hoc participation in international fora, and takes a leap forward towards the formulation of a clear and coherent theory of this phenomenon. The book is a pleasure to read. Its sober and concise use of language makes the book accessible. Its analyses are accurate and thoroughly substantiated. The addition of five appendices containing the most relevant legal instruments enhances the user-friendly nature of the text. Frans Viljoen Leiden Journal of International Law 22-1, 2009 ...a useful starting point for those interested in learning key elements and themes on the place and future of NHRIs. M. A. Stein The Cambridge Law Journal Dr Murray has written a readable discourse on how the NHRIs in Africa operate vis-a-vis the state in which they are located, whom they advise domestically, and, in respect to international regional for a where they have a voice, reception of their input on compliance, shortcomings and recommendations...Every aspect concerning NHRIs is covered in this relatively short book. A good index is included that will help scholars retrace their steps. David Turack Journal of Third World Studies Fall 2008 In her book, Murray delivers a very engaging and innovative presentation of a topic that so far has only insufficiently been discussed in legal literature. She masters the challenge of writing a book that will most probably be a valuable read for quite a few more years to come, despite dealing with legal arrangements and institutions of a rather short half-life. The book is extremely thought provoking and does not shy away from taking controversial standpoints. As it rightly makes clear, NHRIs cannot be a substitute for the development of civil society in human rights matters. Lukas Knott International and European Law Book Reviews Online 2011

• Chapter 1: The Role of National Human Rights Institutions at the International and Regional Levels Chapter 2: Legitimacy of NHRI Participation Chapter 3: The Role of NHRIs in the United Nations Chapter 4: NHRIs at the Regional Level Chapter 5: NHRIs as State or Non-State Actors Chapter 6: Ensuring the Accountability of NHRIs: What Role for the International and Regional Bodies? Chapter 7: Conclusion