Strengthening the legislation operationalizing the Human Rights Commission

The Human Rights Commission Act requires amendment to ensure that it fully meets the requirements of a National Human Rights Institutions (NHRIs) as prescribed by the Principles Relating to the Status of National Human Rights Institutions (Paris Principles). The Paris Principles require NHRIs to be independent in law, membership, operations, policy and control of resources. They also require that NHRIs have a broad mandate; pluralism in membership; broad functions; adequate powers; adequate resources; cooperative methods; and engage with international human rights bodies. The amendment of Human Rights Commission Act will address the gaps and assist the Commission to be independent and thereby fully protect and promote of human rights in the country.