CHAPTER 3: INTEGRATING REPRODUCTIVE RIGHTS: INNOVATIONS AND EMERGING GOOD PRACTICES Jordan: Involving religious authorities in discussion of sensitive issues The National Centre for Human Rights of Jordan recently organized a workshop at the University of Jordan on the issue of abortion in cases of foetal deformity/disability. The workshop focused specifically on whether national law and international conventions would allow abortion in such circumstances. The Centre ensured that the debate included a cleric who was able to pronounce on the religious law aspects. The workshop came up with detailed recommendations that were widely shared. The event received much publicity and, in the view of the organizers and participants, succeeded in raising awareness and discussion on one potentially controversial aspect of reproductive rights. The Commission on Human Rights of the Philippines also noted the importance of involving religious authorities in discussions about reproductive rights - citing its previous work on sexuality as an example of the value of such an approach in building common ground. The Commission intends to involve leaders and members of faith-based groups to participate in discussions on a future strategy for reproductive health rights (see further below). 3.5. Innovations and good practices related to NHRI working methods and procedures The work practices of NHRIs are directly related to their capacity to effectively integrate reproductive rights. For example, the way in which the complaints procedure is structured, or monitoring is undertaken, can determine whether or not issues of reproductive rights are brought to the attention of the NHRI. The capacity of the NHRI to establish and maintain strong working relations with relevant government ministries and service providers is also relevant. Several respondents pointed out that these bodies had the information, data and contacts that allowed the NHRI to monitor reproductive rights and identify areas for action or intervention. As one NHRI noted, “our cooperation with the Ministry of Health gives us focus and provides more cohesion with our activities”. “National human rights institutions need the support of the executive and the engagement of civil society. Without this support and engagement they can, unfortunately, do very little in the area of reproductive rights” Afghanistan Independent Human Rights Commission: telephone communication Another relevant consideration is whether the NHRI has created a ‘space’ within which reproductive rights can be considered, addressed and reported on. It was noted in the previous section that very few NHRIs have identified reproductive rights as a specific area of work for their institution. This is slowly changing and several NHRIs are currently engaging in consultations aimed at providing the structure for a future work plan or strategy on reproductive rights. One NHRI has begun to include information on reproductive rights in its annual reports. 29