“The SCA had previously raised concerns about the NHRCT’s effectiveness in addressing all human rights issues in a timely manner. It acknowledges information received from the NHRCT in relation to its activities and efforts to promote a range of human rights, by producing reports and statements, and making recommendations to relevant authorities. This includes issuing press statements in relation to the demonstrations in Thailand in 2020.

Annual, special and thematic reports of NHRIs serve to highlight key national human rights concerns and provide the means by which these bodies can make recommendations to, and monitor respect for human rights by public authorities.

An NHRI mandate should be interpreted in a broad, liberal and purposive manner to promote a progressive definition of human rights which includes all rights set out in international, regional and domestic instruments, including civil and political rights, as well as economic, social and cultural rights. NHRIs are required to promote and ensure respect for all human rights, democratic principles, and the strengthening of the rule of law in all circumstances, and without exception.”