National Commission for Human Rights
NCHR
Summary
The National Commission for Human Rights (NCHR) is Rwanda's principal statutory body for independent investigation of human rights violations, established under Organic Law N°19/2013. It has a mandate covering all state organs including the Rwanda National Police and Rwanda Correctional Service. Commissioners are elected by Parliament for 5-year terms. The NCHR may visit any place of detention without prior notice, compel testimony from officials, access official records, and issue public reports to Parliament. Its findings are advisory — it recommends prosecutorial referrals or administrative measures but cannot itself impose discipline on officers.
Independence Scorecard
| Appointment | Legislative appointment |
|---|---|
| Term length | 5 years |
| Removal standard | For cause only |
| Budget independence | Legislative line item |
| Subpoena power | Yes |
| Compel testimony | Yes |
| Records access | Full access |
| Public reports required | Yes |
| Pre-publication review | None — reports published directly |
Statute
- Name
- Organic Law Establishing the National Commission for Human Rights
- Citation
- Organic Law N°19/2013 of 25/03/2013
- Full text
- Full text of law →
Jurisdiction scope
Investigates human rights violations by all state actors including Rwanda National Police, Rwanda Correctional Service, and any other security or detention authority; may visit places of detention and make recommendations to competent authorities.