Spring Academy for Human Rights organized by the Helsinki Committee for Human Rights

The Spring Academy for Human Rights brought 22 students to the Scout Center in Ohrid, in the period from 20.05.2019 to 26.05.2019, with different profiles and interests. The methodology used was based on the principle of non-formal education, practical exercises, critical historical review and space for discussions and debates.

Within the Academy, participants had the opportunity to work on real cases in which human rights violations occurred. The examples used are taken from the day-to-day work of the Helsinki Committee and our partner organizations within the projects, including discrimination on various grounds, hate speech and hate crimes, domestic violence, violation of workers’ rights and violation of the rights of LGBTI people. Through these practical exercises the participants were encouraged to think critically and recognize human rights violations in various areas, as well as to start thinking in which direction they would like to work and act, especially given the fact that most of the participants were students in law, or related social sciences.

The evening part and free time from the Academy were reserved for film evenings followed by discussions, scout games and excursions.

The academy is funded by the German Embassy in North Macedonia.