The Danish Institute for Human Rights (DIHR) was established as the Danish Centre for Human Rights by a parliamentary decision in 1987. In 2002, DIHR was established as a national human rights institution through the Act on the Establishment of the Danish Institute for International Studies and Human Rights (Act No. 411 of 6 June 2002). According to the Act, the Institute must endeavour to strengthen the collection, development and communication of knowledge about human rights in Denmark and Europe, and internationally.

DIHR must base it activities on the human rights recognised by the international community at any given time, including in particular the human rights laid down in the Universal Declaration, the conventions of the United Nations and the Council of Europe, and the civil rights contained in the Danish Constitution. The Institute must promote human rights work in times of peace and during armed conflict. This applies to research, advisory services to the Danish parliament and the promotion of education and public information as well as in other connections.