Protecting Human Rights across Borders: Inter-National Human Rights Institutions Collaboration in the Protection and Promotion of Rights of the Migrant Workers

Abstract

This paper employs a qualitative research approach based on secondary sources, explores the emerging role of National Human Rights Institutions (NHRIs) in the promotion and protection of the human rights of migrant workers. National Human Rights Commission of Nepal and the National Human Rights Committee of Qatar signed their first Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on 16 November 2015. The study investigates how inter-NHRI collaboration facilitates the protection of migrant workers' rights across borders. The paper addresses the research question: Do NHRIs have transborder jurisdiction, and how has the collaboration between the NHRIs of Nepal and Qatar contributed to the protection and promotion of migrant workers' rights? The study demonstrates that such partnerships are vital for bridging national limitations in human rights protection, particularly in contexts where labor migration intersects with state responsibility beyond borders. The article also reviews international and regional practices and explores how NHRIs can act as effective agents of cross-border human rights accountability, especially when supported by formal agreements, shared monitoring mechanisms, and collaborative advocacy.