“The SCA acknowledges that the PCRS provided information in relation to its activities and efforts to address human rights violations in the field of economic, social, and cultural rights, excessive use of force by state actors, and the safety of journalists, media workers and media freedom more broadly. However, the SCA encourages the PCRS to continue to address all violations of human rights and to ensure effective follow-up so that the State makes the necessary changes to ensure that human rights are clearly protected. The SCA further encourages the PCRS to ensure that its positions on these issues are made publicly available, as this will contribute to the strengthening of the credibility and accessibility of the institution for all people in Serbia.

An NHRI’s 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. NHRIs are expected 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. Where serious violations of human rights are imminent, NHRIs are expected to conduct themselves with a heightened level of vigilance and independence.”