The Human Rights Commission of Sierra Leone (HRCSL) maintains its Grade A National Human Rights Institution status, according to a ranking by the Global Alliance of National Human Rights Institutions (GANHRI), a statement by the Commission says.
According to the Chairman of the HRCSL, Brima Sheriff the country is the only one in the Mano River Union and one of only four in West Africa with a Grade A status.
The commission says the ranking indicates the Sierra Leonean rights monitor has fulfilled its obligations under the Paris Principles, among others.
“It also means that we are staying by our mandate and also playing a crucial role in promoting and monitoring the effective implementation of international human rights standards at the national level, a role which is increasingly recognised by the international community,” Sheriff said.
HRCSL was first accredited an A status in 2011 for the promotion and protection of Human Rights.
The accreditation certificate confirms the commission’s full compliance with the Paris Principles governing the establishment and operations of National Human Rights Institutions (NHRIs), the statement quotes Sheriff as saying.
He praised the efforts of previous leadership of the Commission for their role in attaining the feat in the first place.
He used the opportunity to call on government and partners to celebrate with the Commission by considering improving on its commitment and support to the institution.
The 1993 UN Paris Principles provide international benchmarks for the establishment and operation of effective and independent NHRIs.
The International Criminal Court conducts reviews of and accredits national human rights institutions on the basis of the UN Principles every five years. The next status review of HRCSL is due in 2021.
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