Commissioner Simitie Lavaly, representing the Human Rights Commission of Sierra Leone (HRCSL), is actively engaged in the ongoing General Assembly meeting of the Network of African National Human Rights Institutions (NANHRI), hosted in Geneva, Switzerland.
The meeting was held on the margins of the Global Alliance of National Human Rights Institutions (GANHRI) Annual Meeting 2024.
NANHRI serves as a pivotal regional body, uniting African NHRI representatives to bolster human rights protection, promotion, monitoring, and advocacy across the continent. The meeting focused on the presentation of the NANHRI annual reports, audited financial statements and elections to vacant Executive positions.
The bigger GANHRI Annual Meeting agenda from 7th to 8th May, revolved around the overarching priorities outlined in GANHRI’s Strategic Plan, emphasizing the pivotal role of NHRIs, particularly focusing on Business and Human Rights. Furthermore, an outcome statement will be adopted on behalf of all participating members to delineate actionable steps for advancing human rights globally. Commissioner Lavaly underscores the paramount importance of this assembly, as a platform for exchanging NHRI experiences and best practices.
Key thematic areas include follow-up mechanisms regarding the 14th International Conference and the Kyiv Copenhagen Declaration on Torture and Ill-Treatment, as well as safeguarding the rights of displaced and stateless persons. In addition to reviewing progress in implementing GANHRI’s Strategic Plan, delegates will deliberate on emerging trends, opportunities, and challenges facing NHRIs across diverse regions. Discussions will also encompass updates on financial matters and the accreditation process, crucial for bolstering the effectiveness and credibility of NHRIs.
The high-level segment of the assembly witnessed statements delivered by representatives from the four Regional Networks – APF, ENNHRI, NANHRI, and RINDHCA, further emphasising the collaborative spirit underlying this global initiative. Beyond this assembly, Commissioner Simitie Lavaly is slated to participate in the Annual Meeting of the Commonwealth Forum of National Human Institutions (CFNHRI) on 9th May. There, she will advocate for Sierra Leone’s exemplary progress in advancing human rights policies, laws, and their effective implementations.
