A/HRC/22/26
based on clear criteria, and underpinned by an appropriate, explicit, and uniformly applied
standard of evidence. This should include an effective, accessible independent review
mechanism, capable of providing effective reparation in cases where human rights are
violated.3 The High Commissioner urges Member States to give due consideration to these
criteria when developing suggestions for the Council’s consideration.
B.
Activities of the United Nations Counter-Terrorism Implementation
Task Force
9.
The Office continues to lead the CTITF Working Group on Protecting Human
Rights While Countering Terrorism, with the aim of supporting Member States’ efforts to
enhance their knowledge, understanding and implementation of the international human
rights framework and the rule of law in the fight against terrorism, and to support them in
their efforts to implement measures included in Pillar IV of the United Nations Global
Counter-Terrorism Strategy.
10.
In 2011 and 2012, the CTITF Working Group on Protecting Human Rights While
Countering Terrorism organized three in a series of four regional expert workshops on
ensuring the right to fair trial and due process in the context of countering terrorism, with a
fourth workshop scheduled for early 2013. Details including highlights of the discussions at
the three workshops held to date are reflected in section III below.
11.
In October 2012, the CTITF Working Group on Protecting Human Rights While
Countering Terrorism also launched a new project on human rights training and capacitybuilding for law enforcement officials involved in counter-terrorism-related activities. With
support from donor governments, the project aims at assisting Member States in their
efforts to ensure that law enforcement policies and activities are consistent with their
obligations under international human rights law. First steps will include developing
training modules and other materials, and establishing a roster of experts who can provide
training and technical advice to States as needed.
12.
The CTITF Working Group on Protecting Human Rights While Countering
Terrorism has also developed a series of human rights reference guides, which aim to
provide clear and practical guidance on human rights-compliant counter-terrorism measures
in selected areas and to form the basis for training at the national and regional levels. The
United Nations Counter-Terrorism Centre (UNCCT) has approved the allocation of funds
for the translation into all official United Nations languages and publication of the existing
two Basic Human Rights Reference Guides, The Stopping and Searching of Persons and
Security Infrastructure. Funds have also been approved for the development of further
guides on detention in the context of countering terrorism; conformity of national counterterrorism legislation with international human rights law; proscription of organizations; and
the right to a fair trial and due process in the context of countering terrorism.
13.
In September 2012, the Working Group adopted its annual workplan, through which
it will seek funding for the organization of a series of regional workshops on the promotion
of accountability in the counter-terrorism context, applying a victim-centred approach;
taking stock of counter-terrorism legislation adopted at national level since 11 September
2001, and the impact of such legislation on the enjoyment of human rights; and the
implementation at the practical level of the Basic Human Rights Reference Guide on the
right to a fair trial and due process in the context of countering terrorism. The Working
3
See also Report of the Special Rapporteur on the promotion and protection of human rights while
countering terrorism to the General Assembly (A/67/396).
5
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