“The law does not explicitly mandate the Ombudsman to encourage the state to ratify or accede to international human rights instruments. However, the SCA acknowledges that the Ombudsman interprets its mandate broadly and carries out activities in this regard in practice.

The SCA is of the view that encouraging ratification of, or accession to, international human rights instruments, and the effective implementation of those instruments to which the State is a party, are key functions of an NHRI. The Paris Principles further prescribe that NHRIs should promote and encourage the harmonization of national legislation, regulations, and practices with these instruments.

The SCA therefore considers it important that these duties form part of the enabling legislation of an NHRI. The SCA encourages the Ombudsman to advocate for an appropriate legislative amendment to make this mandate explicit.”