News

The NHRI Accreditation Database features recommendations developed by the GANHRI Sub-Committee on Accreditation (SCA) since 2017, which seek to support and strengthen NHRIs to operate in compliance with the Paris Principles 
The recommendations are organised against the requirements set out in the Paris Principles and the General Observations, providing NHRIs with valuable insights into the criteria and steps that can be taken to promote their independence, effectiveness and credibility. 

The Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission has an incredibly diverse range of human rights mandates. Central to the Commission’s efforts to effect lasting change is ensuring that policymaking at all levels reflects and responds to the lived experiences of people at risk of human rights violations. Former Chief Commissioner Sinéad Gibney discussed the Commission’s priorities and principles at the 14th International Conference of NHRIs. 

National human rights institutions (NHRIs), including those designated as National Prevention Mechanisms (NPMs), can be powerful actors to prevent torture and ill-treatment, as well as safeguard the rights of those who face heightened risks when deprived of liberty. Barbara Bernath, Secretary General of the Association for the Prevention of Torture (APT), speaking at the 14th International Conference of NHRIs, describes some of the practical ways that NHRIs can use their unique mandate to drive change at the national level.   

While prohibited under the nation’s constitution, there is no law in Sierra Leone that makes torture a specific and punishable crime. In recent years, many individuals have come to the Human Rights Commission of Sierra Leone (HRCSL) to lodge complaints of torture and ill-treatment at the hands of police and military officials. As Vice Chairperson Victor Idrissa Lansana talled about their work at the 14th International Conference of NHRIs.