“The SCA notes that Section 7 (2) (c) of the Law, provides for the HRCSL to review existing legislation and advise the Government concerning compliance of such legislation with the obligations of Sierra Leone under international treaties or agreements. 

 The SCA acknowledges that the HRCSL interprets its mandate broadly and carries out activities in this regard in practice. However, the SCA notes that the Law does not explicitly mandate the HRCSL to encourage ratification of or accession to international human rights instruments. 

 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 to, are key functions of an NHRI. The Paris Principles further prescribe that NHRIs should encourage the harmonization of national legislation, regulation, and practices with these instruments. 

 The SCA therefore considers it important that these duties form part of the enabling law of an NHRI. The SCA reiterates its previous recommendation urging the HRCSL to advocate for appropriate amendment to make this mandate explicit.”