Vision
.A Gambia where everyone enjoys their fundamental human rights and freedoms.
- A Gambia where everyone enjoys human rights and freedoms.
- Secretariat | (+220) 446 1717 | 5200272
- info@gm-nhrc.org
National Human Rights Commission
The Gambia
About Us
Promoting and protecting human rights for everyone in The Gambia
The National Human Rights Commission works through law, policy, education and partnership to ensure every person enjoys their fundamental human rights and freedoms.
Mission
.To promote and protect the fundamental human rights and freedoms of everyone through law, policy, education and partnership.
How we serve
.Monitoring, investigating and resolving complaints, educating the public, and supporting better laws and policies.
Our Values
The principles that guide every action we take
- Independence
- Integrity
- Impartiality
- Equality
- Inclusivity
- Confidentiality
- Accountability
- Accessibility
Who We Are
A permanent, independent guardian of human rights
The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) is a permanent and independent institution established by an Act of National Assembly in 2017 to protect and promote human rights in The Gambia. The Commission comprises five Commissioners with diverse backgrounds and expertise ranging from fundamental human rights and freedoms to constitutional and international law, social justice and child protection.
Within its broad mandate, the Commission serves the general public by:
- Monitoring, receiving, investigating, and considering complaints of human rights violations; recommending appropriate remedial action to the Government; and seeking appropriate redress on behalf of victims.
- Nurturing a culture of respect for human rights through public education and awareness creation.
- Supporting the Government in formulating appropriate policies and laws to guarantee human rights.
Core functions
Education & awareness creation
Building a culture of respect for rights through training, outreach and the media.
Research, investigation & monitoring
Investigating violations and monitoring compliance with national and international obligations.
Powers of the Commission
Similar powers to the High Court at trial
When investigating a human rights violation, the Commission may also access any government office, government facility, place of detention and non-classified government documents.
- Hear any complaint of a human rights violation.
- Summon witnesses to testify at a hearing.
- Examine witnesses on oath, affirmation or otherwise.
- Compel the production of documents.
- Issue an order or request to examine witnesses abroad.
- Enforce its decisions, including measures to protect the life and safety of an individual.
Education & awareness creation
The NHRC seeks to boost human rights standards in The Gambia and nurture a culture of respect for the rights and freedoms guaranteed by the rule of law, through:
- Online platforms and print media, social media, TV, radio and newspapers.
- Training, conferences, seminars and press briefings.
- Outreach programmes to rural communities, regional government offices and CSOs.
- Publishing guidelines and manuals for a better understanding of rights, duties and obligations.
Research, investigation & monitoring
A dedicated legal and investigations unit addresses human rights violations and supports complainants in seeking clarification and redress by:
- Conducting research to support The Gambia in developing standard operating procedures and best-practice guidelines on human rights.
- Monitoring observance and compliance of State institutions with their obligations under national and international human rights law.
- Conducting investigations into violations of human rights.
- Supporting the review and formulation of policies and legislation that improve human rights standards.
Outside our mandate
Matters the Commission cannot investigate
- Any human rights violation that occurred before the 2017 National Human Rights Act came into effect, unless it is a continuing infringement.
- A matter between the Government of The Gambia and another government or international organisation.
- A case where the President is exercising the right to prerogative of mercy, such as pardoning a convict.
Have your rights been violated?
The Commission serves every person without discrimination. Reach out and we will help you seek redress.
Need to file a complaint?
The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) of The Gambia.