Intro

ECCHR’s human rights work is about more than merely applying the law as it stands. Law is an expression of societal power relations and thus an instrument of hegemony. However, law also has an emancipatory potential and we use that potential to highlight unjust power relations and to further social justice. ECCHR’s approach is unique in the way that it combines legal theory and practice. The Institute for Legal Intervention focuses on critical perspectives on the law, particularly concerning power and power dynamics. We aim to make a long-term contribution to societal, legal and political debates through exchange with universities and research institutions, through our training and co-learning activities, through collaboration with our partners worldwide as well as in dialogue with artists and activists.

Research & Academia

ECCHR seeks to develop the law and its interpretation within academic discourse. In order to further critical perspectives on power, we work with universities and research institutions worldwide. We participate in research projects and combine the theory and practice of human rights.

Training & Co-learning

The education and training of future human rights lawyers are part of ECCHR's organizational philosophy. Our Critical Legal Training curriculum provides trainees with critical perspectives and contextualises the practical experience gained from working on the individual cases.

Networks & Exchange

Alliances with other civil society actors, exchange in transnational networks, with partner lawyers and organizations worldwide is a fundamental prerequisite for our work. The Bertha Justice Network and the cooperation with ECCHR alumn* play a special role in this work.

Activism & Art

Societal power relations are decisive for a sustainable transformation of the law. We participate in law-related societal as well as political debates. We also believe in the power of art to highlight discrepancies between law and justice.