“The Act does not explicitly mandate the Chancellor of Justice to encourage ratification of and accession to regional and international human rights instruments. However, the SCA acknowledges that the Chancellor of Justice interprets its mandate broadly and carries out activities in this regard in practice, and it encourages the institution to continue to do so.

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.”