About Uganda Human Rights Commission(UHRC)
The Uganda Human Rights Commission (UHRC) serves to monitor and advance human rights in Uganda.
The UHRC is a body established under the 1995 Constitution Article 51 under the Bill of Rights found in Chapter four of the Constitution. It is based on the Paris Principles which are the guidelines for the establishment of a national human rights institution. Its mandate is spelled out in Article 52 of the Constitution.
The Commission is composed of a Chairperson and not less than three other persons, appointed by the President with the approval of Parliament. There are at this time seven commissioners. The Chairperson and Members of the Commission have to be persons of high moral character and proven integrity. They serve for a period of six years and are eligible for re-appointment.
UHRC Mandate
The Uganda Human Rights Commission (UHRC) was established under the 1995 Constitution of the Republic of Uganda to promote and protect human rights and freedoms in the country inrecognitionof Uganda’sviolent and turbulent history that had been characterized by arbitrary arrests, detention without trial, torture and brutal repression with impunity on the part of security organs during the pre and post independence era.
The Uganda Human Rights Commission was established under the provisions of Article 51(1) of the 1995 Constitution of the Republic of Uganda and its functions and powers were operationalized under the Uganda Human Rights Act of 1997.
UHRC Vision
A society that respects human rights and fulfils civic obligations.
UHRC Mission Statement
To protect and promote fundamental Human Rights and freedoms in Uganda for sustainable development.
UHRC Values and Principles
- Integrity
- Transparency
- Accountability
- Fairness
- Dignity of the person
- Independence
- Professionalism
- Non-discrimination
FUNCTIONS OF THE COMMISSION
Article 52 (1) of the 1995 Constitution lays down the following functions of the Commission:-
- To investigate , at its own initiative or on a complaint made by any person or group of persons against the violation of any human right.
- To visit jails, prisons, and places of detention or related facilities with a view of assessing and inspecting conditions of the inmates and make recommendations.
- To establish a continuing programme of research, education and information to enhance respect of human rights.
- To recommend to Parliament effective measures to promote human rights including provision of compensation to victims of violations of human rights or their families.
- To create and sustain within society the awareness of the provisions of this constitution as the fundamental law of the people of Uganda.
- To educate and encourage the public to defend this Constitution at all times against all forms of abuse and violation.
- To formulate , implement, and oversee programmes intended to inculcate in the citizens of Uganda awareness of their civic responsibilities and an appreciation of their rights and obligations as free people.
- To monitor the Government’s compliance with intentional treaty and convention obligations on human rights; and
- To perform such other functions as may be provided by law.
Article 52 (2) also requires the Commission to publish periodical reports and submit annual reports to Parliament on the state of human rights and freedoms in the country.
Articles 52(3) and 48(1) also provide for other for other functions, powers, and guidelines of the commission.
[Compliances and Memberships/Affiliations]