Who we work with

Equalinrights works with grassroots organisations, social movements, development non-governmental organisations (NGOs), trade unions, human rights NGOs, church-based and other civil society groups. We engage with both individual organisations and existing networks, committed to a common vision on which the mission and goals of equalinrights are founded.

At this stage, we are prioritising development organisations that seek to adopt a human rights-based approach (HRBA) in their work. However, we do not require our partners to follow this approach to development in all their programs or in their organisational structure. While holistic application of the HBRA is an overriding long-term goal, we realise that its substantial internationalisation and application is a significant and ongoing process of learning and adopting. It can even be counter-productive to move too fast in mandating this approach within an organisation.

Moreover, applying a HRBA means a lot more than just putting new names to old ways. Equalinrights stands strongly against the common overzealous application of the term. Therefore, we support a real process of change - from agenda setting to program implementation - through an honest application of the principles of human rights-based strategies. Where partners act in conflict with essential elements of these principles, we will discuss the issue and seek to negotiate a solution acceptable to all parties. If this is not possible, Equalinrights reserves the right to withdraw its support.

Partners

Partners may engage with Equalinrights in various activities. They include resource sharing and networking; joint research projects; on-going support in applying a HRBA; support for exchange visits and for the development of required training materials. It is up to our partners to determine the extent of engagement, to use our resources and request our support where they feel it would be of benefit.

From 2006 - 2007, one such partner was EACOR - the Eastern Africa Coalition on Economic Social and cultural rightsof church based and non-church based development actors in the Eastern Africa region. Its goal is to empower organisations to effectively pursue the social, economic and cultural rights of people living in poverty.