“The enabling law is silent with regard to the pluralism and diversity of members and staff of the HREIT. The SCA notes that, at present, out of the eleven members of the HREIT Board, only two are women and one, a person with disabilities. It also notes that out of 180 staff members, 79 are women and six are persons with disabilities.  

The SCA emphasizes that pluralism refers to broader representation of national society. Consideration must be given to ensuring pluralism in the context of gender, ethnicity, geographic, and minority status. This includes, for example, ensuring the equitable participation of women in the NHRI. This facilitates its appreciation of, and capacity to engage on, all human rights issues affecting the society in which it operates. In addition, it promotes the accessibility of the NHRI.  

The SCA recommends that the HREIT advocates for the inclusion in its enabling law of a requirement that the members of the HREIT Board be reflective of the principles of pluralism and diversity, including gender representation.  

The SCA further recommends that the HREIT take steps to ensure that these principles are implemented in practice.”