Arbitrary Detention Redress Unit

You are free to apply to module-based projects and to the stand-alone arbitrary detention project at the same time, but note that this stand-alone project will require 4-6 hours of your time per week from late October to the end of June (and the module-based projects will require approximately 8-10 hours of your time per week from late October to the end of June) on top of the coursework for all other modules. We recommend you do not overstretch your commitments.

You will be assigned tasks in conjunction with the cases. These tasks will include:

• receiving specialized training on key legal and human rights concepts related to arbitrary detention
• reviewing and analyzing complaints of arbitrary detention, as well as government responses thereto
• researching novel issues regarding detention-related human rights violations, and discussing potential approaches to these issues within the ADRU team
• preparing briefings on countries of particular interest in relation to arbitrary detention, and briefings of thematic issues regarding arbitrary detention
• adhering to non-disclosure obligations

• you will develop exceptional skills regarding the assessment and redress of human rights violations
• you will obtain extensive knowledge of the law and key UN human rights institutions regarding arbitrary detention
• you will form strong research and writing skills
• you will develop the ability to analyse, process and summarize legal texts, as well as an understanding of the requirements of confidentiality

The Working Group was established by the then Commission on Human Rights, in its resolution 1991/42, and was most recently extended by the Human Rights Council resolution 42/22 of 2019.

The group is composed of five independent experts of balanced geographical representation: Africa; Latin America; Western European and Other States (which includes New Zealand, Australia, Canada, the USA, and Israel); Eastern Europe; and Asia. UN Special Mandate holders act with independence, impartiality, and integrity.

There are three main areas of activity. First, the Working Group investigates individual complaints of arbitrary detention. In this respect, the Working Group invites responses from the relevant governmental authorities and, based on all the information received, it issues opinions as to whether the detention is arbitrary and in violation of international human rights standards. Second, the Working Group conducts country visits to assess the situation regarding detention in particular states. Third, the Working Group carries out broader inquiries into patterns of arbitrary detention and its impact.