“The CNDH notes that it does receive and handles various types of complaints but cannot provide disaggregated data on the number of complaints received on trafficking for sexual exploitation, threats against HRDs, cases of sexual violence, cases of summary execution by armed groups, as well as violation of rights of IDPs.

The SCA notes the limited number of complaints and cases received and handled by the CNDH despite the human rights situation in the country and the density of DRC’s population.

The SCA therefore encourages the CNDH to take steps to improve accessibility, public awareness and confidence in the complaints handling process.

Where an NHRI has been provided with a mandate to receive and consider complaints alleging violations of human rights, an NHRI should ensure that complaints are dealt with fairly, transparently, efficiently, expeditiously, and with consistency.

The SCA refers to Paris Principles A.1 and D and its general observation 2.9 on “The quasi-judicial competency of NHRIs (complaints-handling)”.”