“The SCA notes that the enabling Law does not explicitly mandate the DHCR to establish working relationships with civil society. It further notes that DHCR cooperation with civil society has weakened since its last review. The SCA highlights that regular and constructive engagement with all relevant stakeholders is essential for NHRIs to fulfil their mandates effectively.  

The SCA reiterates its previous recommendation from 2016 and recommends that the DHCR develops, formalizes, and maintains working relationships, as appropriate, with other domestic institutions established for the promotion and protection of human rights, including 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.”