About the Commission

The Independent National Commission on Human Rights (INCHR) was established by an Act of the National Legislature of Liberia in 2005. The Commission officially began operations in 2010, following the appointment and confirmation of its commissioners.

The establishment of the INCHR was one of the key recommendations of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Liberia, which was created after Liberia's two devastating civil wars (1989–1997 and 1999–2003). The Commission was intended to help prevent future human rights abuses by promoting accountability, reconciliation, and respect for human dignity.

The INCHR derives its legal authority from the INCHR Act of 2005, which mandates it to function independently of the Executive Branch while cooperating with all branches of government, civil society organizations, and international partners.

Mandate

The Commission's primary responsibilities include:

• Promoting and protecting human rights across Liberia.
• Monitoring and investigating alleged human rights violations.
• Advising the Government on human rights policies and legislation.
• Conducting human rights education and public awareness campaigns.
• Receiving and investigating complaints of human rights abuses.
• Supporting the implementation of international human rights treaties ratified by Liberia.
• Monitoring business and human rights issues in line with the United Nations Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights.
• Promoting transitional justice, peacebuilding, and national reconciliation.

Major Areas of Work

Over the years, the INCHR has worked on:

• Human rights monitoring and reporting.
• Civic and human rights education.
• Election observation and monitoring.
• Protection of human rights defenders.
• Business and Human Rights initiatives.
• Transitional justice advocacy.
• Monitoring detention facilities and prisons.
• Collaboration with civil society organizations and international partners.

International Status

The INCHR is Liberia's National Human Rights Institution (NHRI) and works toward compliance with the Global Alliance of National Human Rights Institutions Paris Principles, the international standards governing the independence and effectiveness of national human rights institutions.