KATHMANDU, Oct 21: The Accountability Watch Committee (AWC) has raised concerns regarding the government's recent initiative to amend the Bill related to the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) in light of the imminent downgrading threat it faces. The NHRC has been in the spotlight due to questions about the constitutional validity of the appointment of its office-bearers and the perceived ineffectiveness of its operations.
Last year, the Global Alliance of Human Rights Institutions (GANHRI), an organization representing national human rights commissions, recommended downgrading the NHRC from an "A" category commission to a "B" category due to these concerns and called for necessary reforms to be undertaken within a year. This critical deadline is fast approaching. The United Nations' Paris Principles stipulate that the appointment process of commission officials should adhere to constitutional and transparent standards. If unconstitutional appointments occur, the commission's international ranking is at risk, which is the situation facing the NHRC.
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AWC has also taken into account a case filed in the Supreme Court, challenging the constitutionality of appointments in various constitutional bodies, including the NHRC. In alignment with GANHRI's recommendations, the government is urged to amend the commission's bill to meet international standards. However, AWC emphasizes the importance of a consultative revision process, insisting that it can only gain broad acceptance if it involves victims of conflict, civil society, and human rights workers and incorporates their insights.
The NHRC, established after prolonged efforts and struggles by the human rights community, has historically benefited from cooperation and harmony. To preserve the commission's stability, transparency, and effectiveness, the AWC calls on the NHRC to rectify any unconstitutional activities that tarnish its image and undermine its human rights activities, thus ensuring its legitimacy and credibility.
In order to maintain the commission's integrity, the AWC requests the current officials to take responsibility and facilitate new appointments in accordance with established rules and procedures. Moreover, the government is encouraged to collaborate with stakeholders in formulating a comprehensive action plan for strengthening the NHRC. Addressing the perceived lack of government commitment to improve the current situation of the commission in line with GANHRI's suggestions, the AWC requests GANHRI to grant the government additional time to enhance the commission's credibility through prompt and effective measures.
