3 Key national priorities, initiatives and commitments
Paris Principles set minimum standards for national human rights institutions to operate credibly and effectively across jurisdictions.
Summary
The Paris Principles set out the minimum standards required by national human rights institutions to be considered credible and to operate effectively. [94] In order to be effective and granted an ‘A status', national human rights institutions must be independent, adequately funded and have a broad human rights mandate. ACHRA encourages the new Government to ensure that the Australian Human Rights Commission receives adequate core funding through the regular federal budget process. ACHRA further notes that the Commission's functions could be enhanced, through legislative amendment, to provide a clearer focus on individual liberties, fundamental freedoms and human rights reflected in the common law.
- As Australia moves into the second half of its UPR cycle, ACHRA encourages the Government to continue its commitment to the UPR process and employ the same level of consultation and engagement with civil society and the Australian Human Rights Commission in the lead up to the next appearance in October – November 2015.
[94] Principles relating to the Status of National Institutions (The Paris Principles) adopted by UN General Assembly, National institutions for the promotion and protection of human rights, UN Doc A/RES/48/134 (20 December 1993).