The CNDH has informed the SCA that it is currently working on a draft amendment of its enabling law aimed at establishing a selection process in line with the Paris Principles. 

The SCA reiterates its previous recommendation for the CNDH to continue advocating for the formalisation and application of a process that includes requirements to promote broad consultation and/or participation in the application, screening, selection, and appointment process, which allows for a sufficient timeline for applications as well as public participation. Such processes must allow the NHRI to be independent from government in its structure, composition, decision-making, method of operation and free from political interference. 

Moreover, the CNDH indicated that the proposed amendments also relate to the selection and appointment procedures, an increase in the number of the current 9 members, the strengthening of civil society participation and pluralism, and the vesting of the commission with the function of NPM under OPCAT. 

The SCA notes that these proposals have not reached the stage of formal endorsement by a Ministry nor has it been scheduled for review by Parliament. The SCA therefore recommends that the CNDH strengthen its advocacy efforts to advance national-level discussions on the relevant amendments to its enabling law. 

The SCA refers to Paris Principle B.1 and to its General Observation 1.8 on ‘Selection and appointment of the decision-making body of NHRIs’. 

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