Key Messages

• Although the Paris Principles set out the basic norms for the roles and responsibilities of NHRIs, they do not dictate NHRI models or structures.
• Since there is no ideal or single accepted structure for NHRIs, beyond that they comply with the Paris Principles, the best strategy for working effectively with an NHRI – or helping to establish one – is to understand the surrounding legal, political and regional institutional cultures.
• Particular models of NHRIs tend to be found in certain regions, which are in turn linked to the legal traditions of those regions. Care should be taken with names, which can be misleading and may mean different things in different areas. The main models typically referenced include: human rights commissions, human rights ombudsman offices, hybrid institutions and consultative/advisory human rights research institutions.
• The UN General Assembly passed two important resolutions in 2008 on the role of the NHRIs in the promotion and protection of human rights and also addressing the contributions that other institutions can make.
• UN staff should work towards establishing comprehensive, independent NHRIs rather than specialized institutions especially if those are not compliant with the Paris Principles. Compliance of NHRIs with the Paris Principles and membership in existing NHRI networks (e.g. the ICC) will ensure their increasing effectiveness for the promotion and protection of human rights.
• A variety of factors will influence the choice of model in establishing an NHRI. First and foremost, the decision rests with the country. However, UN staff can play a useful role in sharing information about the social, political and legal trends in a particular regional or legal tradition. Other factors include economic circumstances and philosophical differences as to the best approach and practical considerations.