This position paper is based on the AHRC's and the VEOHRC’s collective experience and research in the area of freedom of religion and human rights. In addition, the two Commissions convened joint roundtables in Sydney (11 June 2019) and Melbourne (27 June 2019) on the topic of serious harms on the basis of religion.

The Optional Protocol to the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (OPCAT) aims to improve how people’s human rights are protected when they are detained. The Australian Human Rights Commission believes that there needs to be greater momentum in Australia towards implementation.

New technologies are changing our lives profoundly—sometimes for the better, and sometimes not. This discussion paper sets out the Australian Human Rights Commission’s preliminary views on protecting and promoting human rights amid the rise of new technologies.

In this video, Human Rights Commissioner Edward Santow and Whitlam Institute Director Leanne Smith discuss the implications of emerging technologies and Artificial Intelligence (AI) on Human Rights.

Australia’s new Human Rights Commissioner, Edward Santow, will use his first year in office to focus on the treatment of people in detention in Australia.