“The CNCDH reported a 25% increase of its budget over a 5-year period. However, the SCA notes that during this period, the CNCDH has been vested with significant additional responsibilities and that this increase may not be sufficient.

The SCA emphasizes that, to function effectively, an NHRI must be provided with an appropriate level of funding in order to guarantee its independence and its ability to freely determine its priorities and activities. It must also have the power to allocate funding according to its priorities. An insufficient budget can limit an NHRI from reaching its full effectiveness. In particular, adequate funding should, to a reasonable degree, ensure the gradual and progressive realisation of the improvement of the Institution’s operations and the fulfilment of its mandate.”