Protecting human rights worldwide is not something that the European Union can do alone. Partners in the campaign include non-governmental organisations (NGOs) active on the ground.

NGOs play a crucial role in the fight to protect human rights worldwide. Being close to the ground means that they are well-placed to obtain information and to determine priorities. The EU holds regular consultations with NGO networks such as CONCORD, the European Network of Foundations for Democracy Support, the European Network of Independent Political Foundations in Democracy Promotion and Development Cooperation, the European Peacebuilding Liaison Office and the Human Rights and Democracy Network.

Consultations take place regularly throughout the year. They can also take place on an ad-hoc basis prior to Human Rights Dialogues and Consultations with non-EU countries, or during the drafting of priorities for the next funding period of the European Instrument for Democracy and Human Rights (EIDHR).

Every year the EU meets with NGOs active in human rights as well as experts and international organisations during the EU NGO Human Rights Forum. The event is an opportunity to further dialogue and understanding between all of those working to protect human rights.