Summary of Findings: Benin | National Human Rights Institutions (NHRI) and their Interactions with Civil Society Organizations (CSOs)

Scope & Method

The study in Benin was completed using literature review, 14 key informant interviews, and 12,739 online survey responses, and a stakeholder workshop to address the research questions below:

1. How does interaction with an NHRI or CSO change the way individuals move through their justice pathway?
2. Are there different points in an individual’s justice journey that show where trust in the state is increased or decreased?
3. What actionable strategies can NHRIs or CSOs take to strengthen the ability of NHRIs to seek justice for individuals who experience rights violations?

The Human Rights Support Mechanism

The HRSM is a global, multiyear, USAID-funded program implemented by the PROGRESS consortium composed of Freedom House, ABA ROLI, Pact, Search for Common Ground, and Internews. To learn more about HRSM, visit: HRSM Website

Objectives of the Study

The Study is in line with the HRSM Learning Plan and was conducted by the ABA ROLI in collaboration with Freedom House with the aim of filling the evidence gaps in the growing academic literature on the role of National Human Rights Institutions in pursuing justice.