“Section 68(3) of the Act requires that “[i]n making appointments under this section, the Secretary of State shall as far as practicable secure that the Commissioners, as a group, are representative of the community in Northern Ireland”.

The SCA acknowledges NIHRC reporting that there is room for greater gender balance and minority representation among its Commissioners and staff members.

The SCA emphasizes that pluralism and diversity in the membership and staff of an NHRI facilitates its appreciation of, and capacity to engage on, all human rights issues affecting the society in which it operates. In addition, it promotes the accessibility of the NHRI.

The SCA encourages the NIHRC to advocate for pluralism, including gender balance and minority representation in its composition and staffing.”