Human RightS Initiative


The Human RightS Initiative (HRSI) is an awareness raising and capacity building organization based at Central European University (CEU). It was founded in 1999 by the students of the CEU Legal Studies Human Rights Program. Since then it has grown into an internationally-recognized human rights organization, focusing on youth involvement, education and active student participation. HRSI's mission is to promote social engagement through awareness raising and capacity building. Our main target groups are CEU students and alumni, local and regional students, NGO staff and activists as well as local and regional NGOs.

HRSI works with local and regional human rights organizations, as well as international organizations such as the Council of Europe. HRSI is composed of a Coordinating Body and an Executive Board. HRSI's Coordinating Body consists of one staff member, who work in the HRSI Office.  Please stop by the HRSI Office and visit us anytime.

Find us at:

Location: QS A606, CEU Vienna Campus

Find all our events here

Don't forget to check CEU's privacy notice here.

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CALLING ALL CREATIVES, DIY'ERS & ECOWARRIORS

October 11, 2023
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Let's Repurpose a Phone Booth in the Fifth District! 
Dive into a cool community project.
We're on the hunt for dynamic students like YOU to give a vintage out of service phone booth a modern twist. We are working with a local organization and the municipality on this project!
Think mini-library, artsy corner, chill-out zone, or even a green oasis!

16th Annual HRSI NGO Fair | NGO List

NGO Fair 20 and 21 May, 17:30 CEST

We are excited to announce the NGOs participating in the 16th Annual Human RightS Initiative NGO Fair. Representatives from the following NGOs will present their work at the fair and highlight opportunities for participants to get involved with their organization!

Please see the attached file for short bio of all the organizations. 

CALL FOR SUBMISSIONS - The Activist 2021

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Is there a human rights issue that you wish more people knew about? Do you have a specific take on the state of the world regarding human rights, politics, and society? What makes you feel worried, angry, or inspired about the future? We invite you to share your ideas. 

The Activist 2020 Released

The Activist

We are happy to announce the release of HRSI's "The Activist" for the academic year 2019-2020. Congratulations to everyone involved!