Arab Institute for Human Rights (AHRINET)
From TrustAfrica wiki - African Regional Organizations
Arab Institute for Human Rights (AHRINET)
14 Street El Jahedh, El Menzah I
1004 Tunis, Tunisia
Tel: 216.1.767889, fax 216.1.750911
E-mail: aihr.infocenter@gnet.tn
Description
The Arabic Network for Human Rights Information is a central repository for human rights information and websites in Arabic throughout the Middle East and North Africa.
In particular, there are critical areas that are not only taboo intellectually in the Islamic world and culture, but for which there are also no groups in the region today to even work on, such as, the death penalty, and rights of Christian minorities. The organization’s aim is to create a space where these issues and other vital information about human rights can be discussed freely, and where people who share an interest in these areas can create a community.
AHRINET’s objectives include making available Middle East and North African human rights organizations' reports and statements to Arabic readers worldwide; providing resources about human rights issues to the media, activists, and the general public; expanding the circle of Arabic readers interested in learning more about human rights issues and organizations; linking to major international organizations that feature content in Arabic and increasing access to information about specific human rights issues or abuses.
Track Record
Today, there are many millions of internet users in the Middle East, but it remains difficult for users to find information about human rights. AHRINET has provided a central website, HRINFO, where Arabic readers can easily find links to and information about all human rights groups and their work in the region. The Network also focuses on and seeks the expansion of freedom of expression with regard to the Internet throughout the Middle East.
The organization has completed a guide to information on the human rights organizations in the region, including their addresses, areas of work, and means to contact them. It has also offered training on secure communications and the use of internet technology for the exchange of information.
AHRINET has been highly successful in distributing the regional and international human rights treaties and instruments, as well as in publishing reports and studies on restrictions to freedom to of expression – including in relation to freedom to exchange information on the Internet. Publications also clarify the policies of Middle Eastern and North African governments regarding these rights, and to explain human rights concepts found in the regional and international instruments in ways that are accessible to diverse audiences.
