RESEARCH AND ANALYSES
STRATEGY
2018-2020
RESEARCH AND ANALYSE S STRATEGY 2018-2020
© June 2018 Danish Institute for Human Rights Denmark’s National Human Rights Institution
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The Danish Institute for Human Rights is an A-accredited national human rights
institution in both Denmark and Greenland. One of the biggest strengths of the Institute is our knowledge-based approach, as research and analysis within this important field is one of our main duties. This ensures that the Institute has unique expertise and impact in relation to our international efforts, as well our specialised knowledge in Denmark creating a qualified foundation for our human rights recommendations.
The Institute engages in research as well as varied analyses. To a wide extent, the researchers contribute with knowledge and competences to analytical work and in qualifying current agendas and debates. They conduct independent research at an international level within the research strategic framework of the Institute.
Furthermore, our staff includes a number of analysts, of whom many have a background in research, who produce analyses on significant human rights and equal treatment subjects. The Institute’s engagement withhigh quality, knowledge-based analyses is a catalyst for change.
In regards to the knowledge-based efforts, we highly value cooperation, networking and partnerships. Universities, VIVE – The Danish Centre for Social Science Research,
Statistics Denmark and researchers at European and non-European institutions, for instance in the Global South, are significant partners, just as we have initiated and supported a network for Danish human rights researchers. The Institute has, for a number of years, played a key role in AHRI, the Association of Human Rights Institutes.
PREFACE
In parallel, we work with methodology development and synergies across the organisation to ensure the best possible use of our different knowledge subjects. In recent years, we have increasingly focused on the incorporation of quantitative data, and the Institute has recently been granted authorisation to access Statistics Denmark’s data.
The purpose of this strategy is to create an even clearer framework for a strong
analytical and research effort which supports the Danish Institute for Human Rights in its daily task of protecting and advocating the rights of citizens in Denmark as well as abroad.
This strategy will be further defined in an action plan, which will ensure an effective implementation.
FOCUSED RESEARCH AND ANALYSES WHICH IMPROVE HUMAN RIGHTS
MISSION
The Danish Institute for Human Rights protects and promotes human rights in Denmark and internationally – including through analyses and research.
VISION
The research of the Danish Institute for Human Rights is practice-relevant (applied), of a high international standard, and must qualify as the basis for improving human rights in Denmark and abroad.
In the coming years, we will strengthen and increase the research and analyses contributions of the Institute in the following areas:
FOCUS: Our research will be even more focused
RELEVANCE: Our research will support the analyses
QUALITY: Our research must be of a high international standard
TOPICALITY: We must, to an even greater extent, deliver research and analyses regarding current issues
NEW OPPORTUNITIES AND STABLE RESOURCES: We will be alert to new opportunities and will procure more resources for research
CHAPTER 1
OUR RESEARCH IS FOCUSED
We wish to create even stronger connections between our research and the overriding priorities of the Institute. This is a central part of the strategy of the Institute for 2017- 2020.
The scientific personnel – the staff members employed as researchers – are
independent and freely conduct research within the strategic research framework of the Institute when they are not assigned to other duties.1,2 The individual researcher has the freedom to choose the subject and the methodology, within the above priorities, as well as a right and a duty to convey the results of their research. 3
That the research of the Institute must underpin the priorities of the Institute means that this free and independent research is concentrated within areas where it will most effectively support the concrete and current task of promoting and protecting human rights.
The Danish Institute for Human Rights is a cohesive organisation, but there is a
difference between how we work in Denmark and abroad. The strategic framework for research, which provides the framework for the free and independent research, differs in these two areas, just as the financial circumstances are decisive for the prioritisation of the research efforts.
The strategic framework for research has been established based on an overall assessment of how the research effort is most appropriately prioritised. In this prioritisation, we emphasise three main criteria:
1 Pursuant to the institute act § 2, stk. 6.
2 In 2014, a normative distribution was established, which means that the personnel employed as researchers are expected to spend 40% of their time on independent research, within the strategic framework for research (as described in this section), 40% of their time on ‘required/commissioned’ tasks and 20% on communication, networking and administration. This normative distribution is maintained, although it is added that applications to foundations and fundraising in general form part of the 20%.
3 See Retningslinjer om Forskningsfrihed på Institut for Menneskerettigheder, 2012.
CHAPTER 2
COMPLEXITY
The research of the Danish Institute for Human Rights must be focused within areas which are of such complexity that the Institute is in need of more extensive knowledge in order to manage the human rights questions which might arise within this area.
EFFECT
The Danish Institute for Human Rights is working to protect and promote citizens’ rights and takes responsibility for creating practically applicable and sustained improvements.
Our research must contribute to this, and this is of importance to our prioritisations. We emphasise whether the Danish Institute for Human Rights can specifically contribute with research-related expertise and thereby strengthen our impact.
TOPICALITY
The research of the Danish Institute for Human Rights must underpin the daily efforts within topical areas whose actuality raises the demand for research knowledge. In relation to this, we have emphasised four global trends or societal circumstances:
Increased migration and a growing number of refugees
The increased security focus of states, especially in relation to the threat of terror
The proliferation of the use of new technology
Sustainable development as a change-making agenda
The choice of strategic framework for research is influenced by the fact that these circumstances create current human rights challenges and opportunities of great complexity, which demand a special knowledge in order for us to have an impact.
Experience has shown that there is a need for research-based human rights expertise in regards to the subject of children. Moreover, our special mandate within the field of equal treatment implies that research within this field is currently relevant.
To the extent that it is relevant in relation to the individual themes, it must be expected that additional topics are also included as part of the research, without constituting the core focus. For instance, there can be a focus on Greenland in relation to, amongst other concerns, children and equal treatment. In addition, the EU domain will often play a part, just as religion may contribute in relation to challenges such as discrimination.
This means that:
All research that is not related to specific projects or tasks will be concentrated within the strategic framework for research.
THE STRATEGIC FRAMEW ORK FOR RESEARCH
The strategic framework for research consists of seven themes:
FOREIGNERS
In the last few decades, circumstances surrounding foreigners in Denmark have given rise to a number of human rights issues in regard to both newly arrived as well as permanently residing foreigners, e.g. issues regarding family reunification,
naturalisation, confinement, deportation, extradition and exceptional leave to remain (tolerated stay). This concern places international and human rights law under pressure and raises issues about which the Danish Institute for Human Rights must be informed in a research-based manner.
The research, which primarily focuses on national affairs, could include, for instance, questions regarding the rights of refugees and asylum seekers, family reunification, humanitarian residency, and naturalisation.
SECURITY
The threat of terror in particular has resulted in a number of political initiatives which have had significant human rights implications. In Denmark, the authorities have been granted extended powers in the following domains: New criminal legislation has been passed, travel bans introduced, increased anti-radicalisation efforts in prisons
implemented, municipality alert measures introduced, increased observation in schools and asylum centres, as well as surveillance, and an extension of the powers of PET – The Danish Security and Intelligence Service and FE – The Danish Defence Intelligence
Service. On the international scene, Denmark has led an active international and security policy and has participated in a number of international military operations to combat terrorism. Danish citizens who have travelled to areas of conflict in order to combat Danish forces and allies are now returning to Denmark, and constitute a security risk. At the same time as the security agenda is pressuring human rights, there is a rising awareness globally that respecting human rights can prevent terror and conflicts. The issue of security gives rise to several complex questions, to which there is a need for the Danish Institute for Human Rights to contribute with research-based insights.
The research can, for instance, include questions regarding de-radicalisation, combatting terror, the use of surveillance and the role of human rights in improving security.
The research can encompass national as well as international affairs.
NEW TECHNOLOG Y
The increased proliferation of new technology gives rise to complex issues regarding human rights, in relation to both public and private actors, which demand in-depth research to fully comprehend and address. The rights to privacy as well as freedom of speech are being challenged in new ways, and this is an agenda which is simultaneously
developing rapidly. Therefore, it is crucial for the Institute to conduct research in this area.
The research could, for instance, include questions regarding surveillance, the use of big data and profiling, digital rights, the regulation of content on social media platforms, as well as Internet governance. The research will primarily be concerned with the
protection of rights in Denmark.
CHILDREN
When human rights are violated in a country like Denmark, it is most frequently vulnerable children who are severely affected. New cases of the serious abuse of children are still being uncovered, just as children are caught up in legislation aimed at their parents – e.g. asylum seekers or families who must survive at the lowest social income level.
Despite the authorities focusing on protecting children against abuse, and the existence of several civil society organisations working in the field, there is a need for the Institute to contribute with research-based and rights-oriented perspectives on the conditions of children’s lives and the very complex issues which can arise when children are caught between authorities and their parents.
The research could include questions regarding children who are placed outside the home, child abuse and the handling of cases relating to children by the municipalities.
The research will focus on the protection of rights in Denmark.
EQUAL TREATMENT
The Danish Institute for Human Rights has an especially important role to play regarding equal treatment, where we receive earmarked funds. A research effort will constitute a natural addition to the comprehensive analytical work which is already being carried out in the field of equal treatment. This provides the opportunity to conduct more in-depth investigations than would be allowed by analyses alone. Where analyses exclusively seek to cast light on very specific issues, research additionally provides the opportunity to explore overriding problems. Furthermore, research allows for methodological development.
The research could potentially include questions regarding methods to promote the integration of equal treatment in the work of public authorities. The research will be concerned with the protection of rights in Denmark.
INSTITUTIONS
The international strategy of the Institute seeks to strengthen public institutions, which contribute to improving human rights. A significant effort is focused on national human rights institutions, while other efforts focus on the central or local civil service and judicial institutions. In order to promote the development of national human rights systems in collaborating countries, the Institute needs insights into the mandate of the
public institutions, their interactions and effectiveness. At the national level, the theme of institutions is relevant in relation to the role of the Institute as a national human rights institution.
The research can include questions regarding state institutions on a central or decentralised level, as well as national human rights and judicial institutions. In
Denmark, the focus could also be, for example, on the implementation of human rights in the municipalities.
SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPM ENT
Human rights constitute part of the foundation of the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals, through, amongst other aspects, concepts such as equal treatment and the rule of law. The sustainable development agenda can contribute to the promotion of the implementation of human rights, just as human rights may risk getting caught up in a more general agenda towards achieving broader goals. This is an especially complex area and therefore the Institute must possess in-depth knowledge of the relation between the Sustainable Development Goals and human rights protection, just as we must have a profound understanding of the private sector as an actor operating in both the area of human rights and in sustainable development.
The research may, for instance, include questions regarding the private sector’s
incorporation of human rights, the more general connection between human rights and the economy, as well as the connection between world development goals and human rights. The research will focus on international affairs.
THE RESEARCH SUPPORTS ANALYSES
The research at the Danish Institute for Human Rights qualifies the foundation of the work on improving the human rights conditions in Denmark as well as abroad. In other words, the research – and analyses – elevate and strengthen the many efforts of the Institute, benefitting those whose rights we are working to protect and improve.
The research and analyses underpin the efforts as a national human rights institution, including regarding ongoing monitoring of the human rights situation in Denmark and when we submit responses to consultative hearings to international organisations such as the UN committees.
Regarding the area of equal treatment, we have successfully implemented analyses as an integrated part of our change-driven efforts. This will further strengthen the general national area within the timeframe of the strategy. We achieve the best results when our recommendations are founded in comprehensive knowledge.
In the international efforts we are experiencing an increasing demand to prove our worth and relevance to both partners and donors. Documentation of results and impact measurements are in demand, just as our ability to combine human rights expertise with knowledge about the geographical, political and economic context is a considerable basis for these efforts. A knowledge-based approach ensures access to both partners and donors and thereby increases the chances of effecting changes. Our research plays an obvious role in achieving this, which will be strengthened during the timeframe of the strategy.
This means that:
Regarding national efforts, we will produce more research-based analyses with human rights recommendations
Regarding international efforts, we will strengthen research within two main types of analysis: explorative/context-driven and evidence oriented, focusing on
measuring results and effects
CHAPTER 3
HIGH INTERNATIONAL STANDARDS OF RESEARCH AND ANALYSES
In order to ensure a strong research environment which can also attract excellent researchers, we emphasise that the research is of a high international standard. This means, amongst other aspects, that we publish in internationally recognised peer- reviewed journals and with recognised publishers. We will carry on using this standard.
To date, the Institute has not utilised the BFI system (bibliometric research indicators), which all of the eight national universities in Denmark have used for a number of years to measure the output of their research. We will introduce the BFI scale as a guideline in order to document the quantity and quality of the research output of the Institute and enable us to compare our production of research with that of the universities.
It is our ambition to undertake peer exchange with Danish and international researchers beyond the Institute. Consequently, we will introduce an external research panel, which will meet approximately once a year to discuss the research of the Institute from a professional and strategic perspective.
The Institute’s analyses must be reliable and of a high standard. Therefore, we will strengthen the cooperation across the organisation, so that researchers are
systematically involved in all greater investigation and documentation efforts, which is an integral part of the international work of the Institute.
Furthermore, a prerequisite for ensuring the high quality of our work is the cooperation with other research institutes and networks. Alongside many other advantages, this paves the way for the Institute to acquire and utilise knowledge and expertise.
This means that:
As a guiding benchmark, a BFI score of 2 per researcher per year on average, over a 3-year period
An advisory research panel composed of Danish and international researchers will be established
A model for quality control, envisaging researchers’ participation in all greater knowledge efforts will be developed
CHAPTER 4
OUR KNOWLEDGE ENGAGEMENT IS UP-TO-DATE
The Danish Institute for Human Rights is expected to contribute with a human rights- based monitoring and assessment of current issues. We must be able to meet this expectation in the majority of cases.
The media landscape entails that the current agenda is changing more rapidly than we have previously been accustomed to. This is also the case regarding human rights issues.
As such, there is a demand for securing dynamism and consistency in the work of the Institute. This is not least relevant to the knowledge engagement, because there is a demand for us to provide qualified evaluations and contributions towards solving current human rights challenges at short notice – almost regardless of the complexity of the issue.
In this area, close cooperation with the Communications department of the Institute is a crucial element.
It is also essential that the prioritisation and project management of the individual analyses is continuously of the highest level. This will entail a focus on the timeframe of the strategy.
This means that:
The efforts in regards to brief analyses, fact sheets and policy briefs will be further strengthened
The researchers at the Institute will contribute to the current public debate with their knowledge and insights to an even greater extent
An action plan to strengthen the project management of general analyses will be produced and implemented
CHAPTER 5
CHAPTER 5
KAPITEL 6
NEW OPPORTUNITIES AND STABLE RESOURCES
The Institute has, for a number of years, employed a somewhat steady number of researchers; the cap on the salary shares in the total budget has meant that positions of resigning researchers were not replaced. The new strategy suggests that limited growth and a favourable funding situation would increase the research capacity.
A more tangible growth could be based on external funding from private and public foundations, which would allow for the appointment of fixed-term employees in connection with specific research projects.
The overall strategy is to increase the focus within analyses and research efforts;
however, in a changing world, there is a need for us to be able to also initiate efforts in entirely new directions, which may prove to be influential. Here, external funding would prove an appropriate source.
The capacity for research-based analyses is already at a high standard nationally, where research access to Statistics Denmark and the expansion of Data and Analysis section in the administration in and of itself increases resources. This strategy aims to create a situation where the international area will also be further supported by research-based analyses.
Both the national and the international areas play a central role in developing relevant applications for external funding for research, related to their work.
This means that:
We will aim to increase the full-time equivalents in the research department by 20 percent – corresponding to two-three project researchers and a PhD via a goal- oriented effort with international project applications and applications for national research foundations
We will continuously be on the lookout for new possibilities and subjects
We will operate with fixed-term project employments of postgraduate researchers as well as short-term associated guest researchers to an even greater extent
