CHR keeps Status ‘A’ accreditation with int’l body

MANILA – The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) has maintained its Status “A” accreditation with the Global Alliance of National Human Rights Institutions (GANHRI).

GANHRI is a representative body of national human rights institutions worldwide.

In a statement on Thursday, the CHR noted such status signifies that it adheres to the Paris Principles, meaning it has a “broad” mandate as a national human rights institution (NHRI).

The CHR has also pluralism in membership, broad functions, adequate powers and resources, cooperative methods and engages with international bodies.

NHRIs with Status “A” accreditations can participate and have independent access to United Nations (UN) human rights mechanisms, such as the UN Human Rights Council, its subsidiary bodies, as well as to some General Assembly bodies and mechanisms.

They are also granted full membership to GANHRI which includes the ability to vote and hold governance positions.

NHRIs apply for review and reaccreditation every five years.

The CHR said it is a rigorous process conducted by other NHRIs representing the regions of Africa, the Americas, Asia Pacific and Europe.

“Our Status ‘A’ accreditation status also allows CHR to be recognized as a credible and authoritative voice before international human rights bodies in reporting the human rights situation in the country, as well as in reviewing government’s laws, policies and practices,” it said.