USAID/MAAC and ICHRP co-publish Armenian-language version of report on human rights and corruption
The USAID Mobilizing Action Against Corruption (MAAC) Activity, in partnership with the International Council on Human Rights Policy (ICHRP) has published the Armenian-language version of the Integrating Human Rights in the Anti-Corruption Agenda: Challenges, Possibilities and Opportunities Report.
Ms. Kate Donald, Research Associate at ICHRP, visited Yerevan on July 26-27 to present the report to the staff of the Human Rights Defender and to hold discussions with Armenian civil society organizations. She also conducted training for the legal staff of the Assistance and Advocacy Centers (AAC) network to acquaint them with human rights principles in order to better address corruption issues. The training strengthened AACs’ policy reform work in various areas, including provision of essential services and access to information.
“The report is based on the principle that fighting corruption and protecting human rights should complement each other, as significant outcomes can only be achieved as a result of combined efforts,” said Human Rights Defender of Armenia Karen Andreasian in his foreword. “The report looks at how human rights protection can strengthen anti-corruption strategies, having a particular impact on the anti-corruption agenda”.
The ICHRP report highlights the links between human rights and the fight against corruption, as well as the role that human rights organizations play in reducing corruption. Because the anti-corruption movement has its own history, standards, and practices, this report serves as a practical guide for action that can be taken by both human rights and anti-corruption actors in their efforts to fight corruption. It discusses case studies, policy recommendations, and the challenges that arise when anti-corruption programs integrate human rights.
In 2009, USAID/MAAC and ICHRP co-published the Armenian translation of ICHRP’s former report “Corruption and Human Rights: Making the Connection,” which discussed the impact that corruption has on securing human rights, including economic, social, and cultural rights. It also addressed situations where human rights principles and tools can help prevent corruption.
ICHRP is a non-profit organization located in Geneva that conducts applied research into current human rights issues.