The Future of Human Rights Measurement and Tracking

Human Rights Conversations

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This event, the first in the Human Rights Conversation Series for 2025, will bring together leading organizations and experts in the field to discuss the future of human rights measurement and tracking. The primary objectives are to highlight cutting-edge innovations, address challenges in adopting new technologies, foster collaboration among stakeholders, and develop future-proof strategies to adapt existing platforms to a rapidly changing global context. Discussions will delve into specific tools, databases, and approaches that can enhance human rights monitoring and implementation.

Background

Human rights measurement, analysis, and tracking are pivotal to advancing human rights implementation and accountability. In a rapidly evolving technological landscape, the tools and methods used to monitor and report on human rights have undergone significant transformation. The integration of artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and advanced analytics into these processes has opened up new opportunities while simultaneously introducing new challenges. Specific tools, such as HRMI’s Rights Tracker and IMPACT OSS, databases such as UPR Info’s Database, and strategies, such as those put in place by the new Innovations and Analytics Hub of Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, are at the forefront of this transformation, representing both innovation and complexity in human rights monitoring.

Technological advancements such as AI and ML are transforming human rights monitoring by enhancing data processing, predictive analytics, and decision-making. However, these advancements also bring challenges related to fragmented data systems, ethical considerations, and sustainability. Addressing these challenges requires a forward-looking approach that not only identifies and resolves current gaps but also anticipates future needs. Effective data management, the development of standardized formats, and strategies for fostering interoperability are crucial to creating coherent global human rights monitoring systems.

Ethical considerations play a significant role, particularly in ensuring privacy, minimizing biases, and maintaining accountability. Furthermore, the sustainability and impact of human rights tracking initiatives hinge on mobilizing resources effectively and fostering collaborations among stakeholders. By examining the trajectory of human rights monitoring systems and exploring specific tools and strategies, this event aims to equip stakeholders with the knowledge and insights needed to navigate the complex interplay between technology, human rights norms, and practical implementation.

Agenda

15:45 – 16:00 Welcome Coffee

16:00 – 16:05 Welcome and Introductory Remarks

16:05 – 17:00 Panel Discussion

Thalia Kehoe Rowden and Melissa C. del Aguila, Executive Directors, Human Rights Measurement Initiative (HRMI): The future of HRMI’s flagship Rights Tracker, including new functionalities, data innovations, and strategies to improve global human rights measurement.

Nicoletta Zappile, Deputy Director, UPR Info: The evolution of DHRTTDs – including UPR Info’s database and how these tools and new technologies might impact the role of the UPR as a monitoring and reporting mechanism for the human rights situation in UN member states.

Adrian Hassler, Programme Management Officer, Innovation and Analytics Hub, OHCHR: OHCHR’s forward-looking digital transformation roadmap, focusing on innovations to streamline data collection and analysis. The discussion will highlight how advanced technologies, including AI, are being integrated into the organization’s workflows to bolster strategic and operational decision-making

Milica Mirkovic, Research Consultant, Geneva Human Rights Platform: Overview the new GHRP Working Paper “AI Decoded: Key Concepts and Applications of Artificial Intelligence for Human Rights and SDG Monitoring”, highlighting its implications for future strategies and innovations in the field.

Moderator: Domenico Zipoli, Project Coordinator, Geneva Human Rights Platform

17:00 – 17:30 Open Discussion

About Human Rights Conversations

Human Rights Conversations are a series of events, hosted by the Geneva Human Rights Platform, aimed at discussing contemporary issues and challenges related to the promotion and protection of human rights in Geneva and beyond.

Disclaimer

This event may be filmed, recorded and/or photographed on behalf of the Geneva Academy. The Geneva Academy may use these recordings and photographs for internal and external communications for information, teaching and research purposes, and/or promotion and illustration through its various media channels (website, social media, newsletters, annual report, etc.).

By participating in this event, you are agreeing to the possibility of appearing in the aforementioned films, recordings and photographs, and their subsequent use by the Geneva Academy.