Answer:
Their functions include: assisting individuals (through complaints handling or legal assistance); monitoring the human rights situation on the ground; advising government and parliament on compliance with international human rights norms; reporting to international human rights mechanisms; and promoting a culture of rights, through human rights education and awareness raising. As such, NHRIs act as a bridge between civil society and the state, and between the national and international arenas. It is in the interest of democratic states to ensure their independence, pluralism and accountability in line with the UN Paris Principles [1]. According to the UN Paris Principles, NHRIs have, among others, the role “to publicize human rights and efforts to combat all forms of discrimination, in particular racial discrimination, by increasing public awareness, especially through information and education and by making use of all press organs". Furthermore, the UN Paris Principles set out that “within the framework of its operation, an NHRI can address public opinion directly or through any press organ, particularly in order to publicize its opinions and recommendations”.
Press freedom and freedom of expression are therefore critical for NHRIs to fulfil their mission, as well as for the fulfillment and enjoyment of human rights in general.
