The United States, despite being a global leader, notably lacks a National Human Rights Institution (NHRI), a critical body that empowers communities and advocates for human rights at the federal level. This absence is increasingly highlighted against the backdrop of more than 120 countries that have already established independent NHRIs in compliance with the Paris Principles.
In Pittsburgh, community coalitions focused on affordable housing could benefit immensely from the support of a federal NHRI. Meanwhile, in Los Angeles, local authorities tackling homelessness would have access to a worldwide clearinghouse for best practices aligned with human rights standards. Additionally, Indigenous, rural, and farming communities confronting water contamination would have the necessary backing to reinforce their rights to clean water, a fundamental human necessity.
New York City lawmakers working on LGBTQIA+ rights could leverage national research to bolster their local initiatives. Sanctuary cities such as Boston could find independent support for resisting federal immigration policies that undermine the safety of their residents. Cities across the nation could also seek guidance on budgeting practices that prioritize human rights, especially amidst any federal funding cuts.
This vision of a national NHRI may not be as improbable as it seems. The global context shows a growing trend of local governments as critical players in human rights implementation, as communities harness local activism in response to federal disengagement.
Cities have become innovative hotbeds for human rights initiatives, channeling the global movement for human rights into local governance. The Human Rights Cities Alliance (HRCA) is leading the charge in North America, advocating for human rights in city policies to promote accountability, transparency, and public engagement. This movement has gained momentum, particularly during politically tumultuous times, as seen during the Trump administration when local leaders proactively filled gaps left by the federal government.
For instance, the Cities for CEDAW initiative has propelled municipalities to adopt policies aligned with the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women, despite the lack of federal ratification. Similarly, amid the U.S. withdrawal from the Paris Climate Agreement, the Climate Mayors coalition continues to push for climate-related human rights initiatives at the local level.
A national NHRI in the United States would play an instrumental role as the country prepares for its upcoming Universal Periodic Review (UPR) in November 2025. By conducting nationwide consultations, an NHRI would ensure that underrepresented voices from diverse communities are front and center. This would lead to a thorough, independent evaluation of the country’s human rights track record, reinforcing the importance of community input in shaping policies.
One of the most vital functions of an independent NHRI would be to promote consistency and continuity in human rights commitments across different administrations. The variability in how UPR recommendations are received from one administration to the next exemplifies the need for a stable institution that actively preserves institutional memory and accountability. For instance, during the last UPR review in November 2020, the Trump administration denied any issues related to police violence, while the Biden administration later acknowledged the problem and supported related recommendations.
To be effective, the proposed NHRI must be established with a robust legal framework, ensuring its independence from the fluctuating political climate. This requires legislative backing that defines its mandate and secures funding, protecting it from the uncertainties of annual budget negotiations. The selection process for human rights experts to serve on the commission should involve multiple stakeholders, ensuring a diversity of voices and perspectives in the decision-making process.
Building resilience within the NHRI can also be enhanced by linking it to existing state and local human rights mechanisms, demonstrating its relevance to immediate local concerns.
Currently, the vision of a U.S. NHRI is just that—a vision—drawing attention to the pressing need for cohesive action to address human rights issues. In its absence, a grassroots effort termed a “shadow” NHRI could be formed, leveraging the human rights cities movement to create a structured approach driven by civil society. This shadow NHRI would engage local human rights experts to perform essential functions such as offering recommendations and fostering knowledge-sharing initiatives, thereby establishing a connection between municipal leaders and UN reporting protocols.
Inspired by initiatives like the Human Rights Cities and Cities for CEDAW movements, this grassroots approach empowers communities rather than waiting for national leadership. By actively fostering human rights practices at the local level, this shadow NHRI could provide immediate benefits to communities struggling with pressing issues. For example, the LA County Human Relations Commission is taking proactive steps to prepare for the upcoming 2028 Olympics, highlighting human rights narratives at Olympic venues.
Furthermore, cities throughout the United States have taken initiative, submitting their own human rights reports to UN entities and implementing frameworks like the Sustainable Development Goals in the absence of federal direction. This evolution illustrates how city leadership in human rights can have tangible and meaningful outcomes.
While a shadow NHRI cannot replace a government-supported, internationally recognized NHRI, it can significantly impact communities and build pathways for more formal institutions in the future. Local networks forged through human rights activism can amplify calls for establishing a U.S. NHRI. Partnerships with international sister cities can offer support and inspiration to emerging human rights cities in America.
As civil society rallies behind the idea of a shadow NHRI, the potential exists for collaborative efforts that address immediate challenges, engage directly with communities, and weave international human rights standards into local governance. This movement not only paves the way for lasting national reform but also builds political momentum crucial for the establishment of a U.S. NHRI. The urgent need for such an institution has never been clearer, as the landscape of human rights continues to evolve. Cities, through their innovative approaches, are indeed leading the way forward.
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