About BHRC
The Bar Human Rights Committee of England and Wales (BHRC) is the independent, international human rights arm of the Bar of England and Wales, working to protect the rights of advocates, judges, and human rights defenders around the world. BHRC is concerned with defending the rule of law and internationally recognised legal standards relating to human rights and the right to a fair trial. It is autonomous of the Bar Council.
BHRC works around the world to uphold international human rights law, as well as internationally recognised human rights norms and standards. We provide expert guidance and advice to local partner NGOs, legal professionals and State institutions.
BHRC supports and protects lawyers, judges and human rights defenders, all those who are oppressed in their work or face retaliations through harassment, persecution, violence or arbitrary arrest, detention and death.
BHRC improves understanding and implementation of international human rights protections through education, awareness-raising and bespoke international human rights law training.
BHRC works with domestic and international organisations to advance human rights and promote justice and respect for human rights through the rule of law.
BHRC undertakes trial observations, prepares amicus curiae briefs, publishes reports and submissions on global human rights issues, holds events and training sessions, and lends expertise to public events on human rights around the world.
The remit of BHRC extends to all countries of the world, apart from its own jurisdiction of England and Wales. This reflects the Committee’s need to maintain its role as an independent but legally qualified observer and critic.
BHRC is dedicated to promoting principles of justice and respect for fundamental human rights through the rule of law
Our vision is for a world in which human rights are universally protected, through every government and state actor’s adherence to international law obligations and internationally-agreed norms.
Join the Bar Human Rights Committee of England & Wales
We rely on membership subscriptions and individual donations to fund our ongoing work around the world.
BHRC Biennial Report 2022-2023
Key highlights from BHRC's programmes, events, advocacy and global outreach
The Bar Human Rights Committee is the independent,
international human rights arm of the Bar of England
and Wales, dedicated to promoting justice and respect
for human rights through the rule of law.