Figure 4: Elements of a human rights community-led
development approach
The following set of principles were developed by Pacific NHRIs as part of a HRCLD pilot based in the
Cook Islands, Fiji and Samoa.
Lautoka Navigation Principles for HRCLD
We do not inherit the earth from our ancestors, we borrow it from our children.
We are not here to rock the boat, but to build a stronger sail that adds to its capabilities.
Recognising our distinct relationship with the land and the ocean as custodians of the Blue Pacific Continent,
Respecting past, present and future generations,
Reiterating our responsibility to maintain Pacific dignity, identity, culture, and way of life; and Reaffirming our interconnectedness,
2. Active and
meaningful
participation.
1. Non-discrimination;
Inclusion and accessibility;
Equality based on equity.
Intersectionality
3. Transformation to end
forced dependencies
through selfdetermination.
4. Do no harm
5. Accountability
6. Link to rights
We uphold these navigation principles during our human
rights community-led development work.
being responsive to ALL participants and contexts,
including by demonstrating respect for culture, faith
and protocols.
1. Non-discrimination; Inclusion and accessibility;
Equality based on equity. Intersectionality.
Ensuring everyone has equitable access to resources,
and decision-making. Moving from a deficit focus on
needs to a strength based focus on the fulfilment of
rights. Applying a perspective that takes into account
people’s overlapping identities and experiences to
understand the complexity of prejudice they face.
3. Transformation to end forced dependencies
through self-determination.
Recognising the historical and ongoing adverse
effects of colonialism in the region and being
conscious of our responsibility not to perpetuate
these
Ensure conscious dismantling of power structures
that prevent agency for a colonialism-free and
independent Pacific
For the Pacific, by the Pacific
2. Active and meaningful participation.
Ensuring there is a safe environment to participate,
avoiding tokenism and insensitive appropriation, and
APF HRCLD Guide
4. Do no harm.
Ensuring all those involved in a HRCLD process,
particularly those who experience human rights
violations, are protected throughout.
5. Accountability
Being responsible for our actions with regards to
our activities that are delivered in the community,
listening to those communities and enabling effective
and transparent communications throughout
6. Link to rights
Linking decision making at every level to community
cultural and faith-based values and human rights
standards. Prioritising those who are most affected
and balancing rights where necessary.
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