The SCA notes that the IHCHR continues to be without a Board of Commissioners since August 2021. The IHCHR indicates that it has continuously engaged Parliament as the responsible body for the selection process of commissioners and that a significant part of the screening and evaluation process has been completed. The IHCHR states that the final appointment is pending the outcome of the Parliamentary elections, which are slated for November 2025.

The SCA also notes allegations from third parties that the selection and appointment process is being conducted under the control of political parties and that there is no provision in the IHCHR Act that safeguards against prolonged vacancies in the leadership of the institution in case of a delay in the appointment process.

While noting the efforts of the IHCHR to remain functional and continue implementing its mandate despite the absence of commissioners since 2021, the SCA reiterates its previous recommendations and urges the IHCHR to continue advocating for the expedited appointment of a new Board of Commissioners in a transparent, open and participatory manner as well as an amendment to its enabling Law to prevent prolonged vacancies in the leadership of the institution.

The SCA refers to Paris Principle B.1 and to its General Observations 1.1 on ‘The establishment of NHRIs’ and 1.8 on ‘Selection and appointment of the decision-making body of NHRIs’.

.