Minnesota Advocates for Human Rights is a volunteer-based, non-governmental, non-profit, 501(c)3 organization dedicated to the promotion and protection of internationally recognized human rights.



Founded in 1983, Minnesota Advocates is one of the largest Midwest-based non-governmental organizations engaged in international human rights work. Our organization has more than 4,000 members, including more than 600 active volunteers who contribute an estimated $2.8 million annually of in-kind services. Minnesota Advocates also has Special Consultative Status with the United Nations.



Minnesota Advocates for Human Rights works locally, nationally, and internationally on human rights issues impacting children, women, refugees & immigrants, and marginalized populations. Minnesota Advocates documents human rights abuses, advocates on behalf of individual victims, educates on human rights issues, and provides training and technical assistance to address and prevent human rights violations.



Minnesota Advocates has received international recognition for a broad range of innovative programs to promote human rights and prevent the violation of those rights. Minnesota Advocates provides investigative fact finding, direct legal representation, collaboration for education and training, and a broad distribution of publications. Minnesota Advocates has produced more than 50 reports documenting human rights practices in more than 20 countries; educated over 10,000 students and community members on human rights issues; and provided legal representation and assistance to over 3,000 disadvantaged individuals and families.