1. • Legal character The Declaration is not, in itself, a legally binding instrument. However, it contains a series of principles and rights that are based on human rights standards enshrined in other international instruments that are legally binding – such as the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. Moreover, the Declaration was adopted by consensus by the General Assembly and therefore represents a very strong commitment by States to its implementation. States are increasingly considering adopting the Declaration as binding national legislation. • 2. • The Declaration’s provisions The Declaration provides for the support and protection of HRDs in the context of their work. It does not create new rights but instead articulates existing rights in a way that makes it easier to apply them to the practical role and situation of HRDs. It pays attention to, access to funding by organizations of HRDs and, gathering and exchange of information on human rights standards and their violation. The Declaration outlines some specific duties of States and the responsibilities of everyone with regard to defending human rights, in addition to explaining its relationship with national law. Most of the Declaration’s provisions are summarized in the following paragraphs. It is important to reiterate that HRDs have an obligation under the Declaration to conduct peaceful activities. (a) • • • • • • Rights and protections accorded to HRDs Articles 1, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 11, 12 and 13 of the Declaration provide specific protections to HRDs, including the rights: (b) • To seek the protection and realization of human rights at the national and international levels; the D to th • To conduct human rights work individually and in association with others; • • To form associations and non-governmental organizations; • To meet or assemble peacefully; • To seek, obtain, receive and hold information relating to human rights; • To develop and discuss new human rights ideas and principles and to advocate their acceptance; • • 10 •