The role of civil society participation in poverty alleviation and protection of economic, social and cultural rights

The role of civil society participation in poverty alleviation and protection of economic, social and cultural rights

Friday 9 June 2017 13.00-14.30 PM Room IX, Palais des Nations, Geneva

In this panel, we will discuss the crucial principle of participation by civil society, NGOs and human rights defenders in rights-based approaches to poverty alleviation at the national level.  In particular, UN experts on economic, social and cultural rights will reflect on how the experiences and resources of civil society assist them in their work to promote and protect ESC rights.

Opening remarks:

• Marta Maurás Perez, Ambassador of Chile to the UN in Geneva

Panelists:

• Prof Philip Alston, UN Special Rapporteur on extreme poverty and human rights

• Prof Sandra Liebenberg, Member of UN Committee on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights

• Stefan Luca, lawyer and Roma rights advocate • Sophie Richardson, Human Rights Watch

Moderator:

• Lucy McKernan, Global Initiative for Economic, Social and Cultural Rights