“The SCA notes concerns from third parties of a lack of cooperation and responsiveness of the Ombudsman regarding human rights violations, as the human rights situation in Turkmenistan does not allow for independent human rights work.

The Ombudsman reports that they carry out some educational activities jointly with civil society and that civil society forms part of its Expert Council, which provides advisory assistance to the Ombudsman. While the SCA acknowledges these initiatives, it recommends that the Ombudsman broaden its engagement with civil society organisations in carrying out its mandate.

The SCA is of the view that regular and constructive engagement with all relevant stakeholders is essential for NHRIs to effectively fulfil their mandate. NHRIs should develop, formalize and maintain working relationships with a wide range of civil society organizations.

The SCA encourages the Office of the Ombudsman to take visible and clear steps to strengthen its working relationship with civil society organizations.

The SCA refers to Paris Principles C(f) and (g) and to its General Observation 1.5 on ‘Cooperation with other human rights bodies’.”

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