Norwegian Helsinki Committee
The Norwegian Helsinki Committee, founded in 1977, is a non-government organization working to ensure respect for human rights. It undertakes rights monitoring, reporting, and teaching. The Norwegian Helsinki Committee’s work focuses on countries in Europe, Central Asia and North America. The NHC monitors and reports on the human rights situation in individual countries and places particular emphasis on freedom of speech, freedom of association, the right to self-determination, minority rights, the right to freedom of thought and religion, and personal security. The NHC publishes reports and presents them to the authorities in each country, as well as to Norwegian authorities, international organizations and other relevant stakeholders. It also has particular expertise in observing elections. The NHC aims to influence public opinion and authorities on important issues through the media and participation in public debate. Human rights education is another important activity of the Norwegian Helsinki Committee. Additionally, the NHC seeks to support democratic development through the transfer of knowledge and financial support to independent organizations, media and institutions.