By Chernor Alimamy Kamara
The United Nations (UN) through its autonomous body known as Global Alliance for National Human Rights Institutions (GANHRI) has again awarded the Human Rights Commission of Sierra Leone with a Grade A Certificate.
The re-accreditation certificate was presented at GANHRI’s Annual General Assembly in Geneva, Switzerland on 15th March, 2023 and was received by the Chair and Vice Chairpersons of the Commission, Patricia Nansu Ndanema and Lawyer Victor Idrissa Lansana .
This was disclosed by the commission in a press statement on the 15th March, 2023.
GANHRI is the international statutory UN body charged with the responsibility to assess National Human Rights Institutions (NHRIs) in respect to compliance with the UN Paris Principles, the global legal instrument that sets out the establishment and operationalization of NHRIs.
According to the statement, the independence, pluralism, broad mandate and broad functions, effectiveness of work, adequate funding by government, international cooperation, among other pillars were the key criteria considered in assessing an institution for accreditation or re-accreditation by GANHRI in accordance with the Paris Principles.
The commission in the statement thanked the Government of Sierra Leone for its non-interference, financial support and compliance with the Paris Principles. It also registered gratitude to other major partners including the Embassy of Ireland, UNDP, OSIWA,Civil Society Organisations and traditional leaders.
The commission ended the statement by assuring everyone that it will ‘jealously’ continue to protect its independence and ensure the human rights of all persons especially vulnerable compatriots are protected at all times.
Reacting to the latest development, the Executive Secretary of Human Right Defenders Network, Sierra Leone, Alphonso Gbanie said it shows the country is progressing when it comes to human rights issues.
He explained to Politico that the re-accreditation is an ‘’added value’’ which would raise the confidence of development partners and investors to do business in Sierra Leone.
“Let us all continue the good work as the commission has continued maintaining its grade A status. Let’s continue to engage the government to fulfill its national and international human rights obligations’’.
Copyright © 2023 Politico (17/03/23)
