In November 2020, the SCA expressed concern about the gender imbalance within the CNDH, both in its decision-making body and among its staff. While the CNDH reported that women currently represent approximately 30% of its staff complement, it is unclear how many women encumber senior positions.

During the interview, the CNDH acknowledged that the current level of representation of all ethnic groups in the country and people with disabilities, has not yet reached an optimal level.

The SCA reiterates that pluralism and diversity in the membership and staff of an NHRI facilitate 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 for all people in Mauritania in the context marked by continued cases of discrimination.

The SCA encourages the CNDH to take concrete steps to ensure pluralism, including appropriate gender balance, in its composition.

The SCA refers to Paris Principles B.1 and to its General Observation 1.7 on ‘Ensuring pluralism of the NHRI’.