The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) has announced the renewal of its partnership with the Friedrich Naumann Foundation (FNF) Philippines to launch new initiatives focusing on advocating for human rights, justice, and dignity among the youth.

According to a recent statement, the CHR revealed that a Partner Agreement with FNF, an organization based in Germany with a presence in over 60 countries, was officially signed on June 9.

FNF is known for its efforts in promoting democracy, human rights, economic freedom, and addressing climate change. The foundation's core areas of focus include fostering an open and digital society, as well as supporting a social market economy.

The CHR's Caraga Regional Office will lead the third Tertiary Student Leaders Confab, which aims to bring together various higher education institutions to enhance the understanding of human rights among student leaders.

Additionally, the partnership will facilitate the establishment of Centers for Human Rights Education within these institutions, serving as sustainable platforms for human rights education.

A Civil Society Conference is also on the agenda to unite civil society organizations in identifying prevalent human rights and gender issues in the region, while fostering stronger collaborative networks.

Moreover, the CHR Region IV-A Office will conduct comprehensive human rights education programs for youth leaders, providing mentorship on human rights, gender equality, and children's rights.

The initiative will also involve inviting barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan officials to participate in mentoring sessions and complete modules on human rights-based leadership approaches.

CHR Chairperson Richard Palpal-latoc emphasized the importance of grassroots human rights education and capacity building in effecting lasting societal change. He highlighted the Commission's role as the country's national institution dedicated to promoting and protecting human rights.

Over the past years, the CHR and FNF have collaborated on various activities related to press freedom and enhancing digital privacy awareness, demonstrating their commitment to advancing human rights causes.