The exercise of the rights to freedom of peaceful assembly and of association in the context of multilateral institutions 2014, para. 82
Paragraph
Paragraph text
To counterbalance critical voices at home and abroad, States have resorted to sending GONGOs (government-operated NGOs) to multilateral arenas. Such organizations have made statements, and organized side-events in the margins of sessions, in support of States' policies (e.g. GONGOs from the Islamic Republic of Iran and the Sudan). While the Special Rapporteur recognizes that they are a manifestation of the exercise of the right to freedom of association, he notes with concern that such organizations have often monopolized the space meant for independent associations. In his view, multilateral institutions should strike a balance, bearing in mind the principles of broad-mindedness, tolerance and diversity of voices.
Legal status
Non-negotiated soft law
Body
Special Rapporteur on the rights to freedom of peaceful assembly and association
Document type
Special Procedures' report
Means of adoption
N.A.
Topic(s)
Governance & Rule of Law
Person(s) affected
N.A.
Year
2014
Paragraph type
Other
Reference
SR Freedom of Assembly, Report to the UNGA (2014), A/69/365, para. 82.