Refuge and Asylum

The German Institute for Human Rights, Berlin, informs about human rights issues in Germany and in other countries. Its intention is to contribute to the prevention of human rights violations and to the promotion and protection of human rights. The various functions of the institute include information and documentation, research, policy advice und human rights education within Germany. The Institute co-operates with international and national partners. In particular, it is concerned with the promotion of human rights treaties, with issues in the framework of security policy, peace policy and human rights, and with strategic issues with regard to human rights policy. The Institute offers seminars, lectures, and services in the field of human rights education. The Institute was founded in March 2001 following an unanimous decision by the German Bundestag of December 7, 2000. Three federal ministries provide the financial basis of the Institute: the Ministry of Justice, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Ministry of Economic Cooperation and Development.