“The SCA welcomes the introduction of Art.33 of the Law which provides for the CNDH budget to be allocated in a specific budget line of the State budget and classifies the CNDH as an administrative independent authority. While the SCA acknowledges that the CNDH has undertaken activities within its existing budget, it notes that the CNDH has reported that it does not have sufficient funding, particularly in view of its efforts to increase its regional presence.
Provision of adequate funding by the State should, at a minimum, include the following:
- The allocation of funds for premises, which are accessible to the wide community, including for persons, including for persons with disabilities. In certain circumstances, in order to promote independence and accessibility, this may require that offices are not co-located with government agencies. Where possible, accessibility should be further enhanced by establishing a permanent regional presence;
- Salaries and benefits awarded to staff comparable to those of civil servants performing similar tasks in other independent institutions of the State;
- Remuneration of members of the decision-making body (where appropriate);
- The establishment of a well-functioning communications system including telephone and internet; and
- The allocation of a sufficient amount of resources for mandated activities. Where the NHRI has been designated with additional responsibilities by the State, additional financial resources should be provided to enable it to assume the responsibilities of discharging these functions.
The SCA encourages the CNDH to continue to advocate for an appropriate level of funding to carry out its mandate.”