In the context of an ongoing review by a Scottish parliamentary committee, ENNHRI has addressed the committee in support of the Scottish National Human Rights Institution (NHRI). In a public letter, it highlights the value of NHRIs for human rights, democracy and the rule of law, alongside the Scottish NHRI’s key role in advancing these nationally.

Tomorrow, the Scottish Parliament’s Supported Bodies Landscape Review Committee is convening to review the Scottish Human Rights Commission (SHRC) as part of its broader examination of public bodies. The inquiry represents an opportunity to strengthen the SHRC.

In a letter addressed to the Committee, ENNHRI encourages recognition of the unique role and value of the SHRC in promoting and protecting human rights in Scotland. It also encourages the strengthening of the institution in line with international standards. This includes in follow-up to recommendations of the GANHRI Sub-Committee on Accreditation (SCA) and in compliance with international standards on NHRIs.

The Scottish NHRI has been recognised as an A-status institution since 2010 by the SCA. This demonstrates the institution’s compliance with the United Nations Paris Principles, as well as its credibility and independence.

Strong and independent NHRIs are an indispensable element of the system of checks and balances in a healthy democracy. They support Parliament and other state authorities to meet their human rights obligations, and to carry out their oversight and scrutiny functions.

ENNHRI remains available to provide further information to national authorities on relevant international and regional standards applicable to NHRIs and their unique role and position within the international and national human rights protection system.

Read and download the letter here.

Learn more about ENNHRI’s work supporting NHRIs under threat.