The Foundation for Human Rights (FHR) is a human rights organization that supports civil society organizations (CSOs) in South Africa in order to protect and promote human right. Established in 1996 through a cooperation agreement between the European Union (EU) and the South African government, the FHR receives funding primarily from the EU, with additional contributions from other donors. The Supervisory Board, which comprises South African distinguished academics, experts, professionals and human rights activists, independently shapes the goals, strategies and direction of the FHR’s programmes. The FHR is incorporated as a non-profit company under the Companies Act 71 of 2008. 

The FHR supports civil society organizations (CSOs) and public institutions to promote and facilitate increased awareness, respect, protection and fulfilment of the rights enshrined in the South African Constitution. The FHR currently runs three programmes including the EU-funded Socio-Economic Justice for All (SEJA) programme, the Unfinished Business of the Truth Reconciliation Commission (TRC) programme, and the UNCHR Study Programme (the Programme in partnership with the United Nation High Commissioner for Refugees). In addition to these, the FHR has initiated a new programme titled “Sustaining Struggle for Human Rights”. The FHR implements its human rights programmes through grant-making, capacity-building, research and policy development, advocacy and civil society mobilisation, and regional and international cooperation.