Human Rights Commission of Zambia
HRC
Summary
The Human Rights Commission of Zambia is established under the Human Rights Commission Act No. 39 of 1996 (Cap 48). Commissioners are appointed by the President subject to ratification by the National Assembly; the Chairperson and Vice-Chairperson must be persons qualified to hold high judicial office. Commissioners serve terms of up to three years, renewable, with rotation provisions in the founding instrument. The Commission investigates complaints of human rights violations and maladministration against state actors, conducts public inquiries, and makes recommendations to government. It is accredited as a national human rights institution (NHRI) and reports to the National Assembly. The Commission performs ombudsman-type functions on administrative matters alongside its core human rights mandate.
Independence Scorecard
| Appointment | Mixed (multi-branch) |
|---|---|
| Term length | 3 years |
| Removal standard | For cause only |
| Budget independence | Legislative line item |
| Subpoena power | No |
| Compel testimony | No |
| Records access | Case-by-case |
| Public reports required | Yes |
| Pre-publication review | None — reports published directly |
Statute
- Name
- Human Rights Commission Act, 1996 (Act No. 39 of 1996), Cap 48
- Citation
- Act No. 39 of 1996 (Cap 48)
- Full text
- Full text of law →
Jurisdiction scope
All state actors and public bodies; investigates human rights violations, maladministration, and complaints from any person; covers all constitutional rights