Human Rights Commission Regulation – Saudi Arabia

The Human Rights Commission (HRC) of the Kingdom is a significant body established to promote and protect human rights in accordance with international standards and Shari’ah principles. This article provides a detailed explanation of the regulation that governs the HRC’s formation, responsibilities, and operational framework.
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Establishment of the Human Rights Commission
Article (1) outlines the creation of the HRC, which is directly accountable to the President of the Council of Ministers. The Commission’s primary goal is to protect and promote human rights in all aspects of governance, ensuring adherence to international human rights standards while considering Shari’ah law. The Commission also serves as the primary governmental authority, providing opinions and counsel on human rights issues.
Organizational Structure and Authority
Article (2) grants the Commission corporate status, giving it the authority to operate independently. The Commission’s head office is located in Riyadh, though it can establish branches elsewhere in the Kingdom.
Article (3) outlines the leadership structure, appointing the Chairman, who holds the rank of a minister, and the Vice-Chairman, appointed at an excellent grade.
Article (4) further details the composition of the Commission’s Board. The Board includes the Chairman, Vice-Chairman, eighteen full-time members with expertise in Shari’ah, law, political science, or education, and six part-time members. These individuals serve renewable four-year terms and are appointed by the President of the Council of Ministers.
Responsibilities of the Commission
The Commission’s Board has the ultimate authority over its operations, as outlined in Article (5). Key responsibilities include ensuring the implementation of human rights regulations, offering opinions on human rights laws, monitoring adherence to international human rights treaties, and reviewing the Kingdom’s compliance with international agreements. Furthermore, the Board is empowered to oversee complaints, develop public policies for human rights education, and organize conferences on human rights issues.
Operational Procedures and Meetings
Article (6) specifies that the Commission’s Board may invite representatives from ministries and private institutions to discuss human rights issues. As described in Article (7), the Board is required to meet at least once a month or as needed. Decisions and recommendations are made by majority vote, with the Chairman casting the deciding vote in case of a tie (Article 8).
Chairman and Vice-Chairman Duties
Article (9) defines the Chairman’s role in managing and representing the Commission, overseeing its work, and preparing key documents such as the annual report and budget. The Chairman also liaises with both domestic and international institutions on human rights matters.
As per Article (10), the vice-chairman assists the Chairman and assumes his duties in his absence.
Departmental Structure
Article (11) lists the Commission’s internal departments, each specializing in different aspects of human rights work. These include:
- Legal Affairs, Studies, and Research: Provides legal counsel on human rights issues.
- International Relations: Coordinates with global human rights organizations.
- Complaints: Handles and verifies complaints related to human rights violations.
- Follow-up and Investigation: Tracks complaints and conducts investigations.
- Public Relations: Manages communications and media relations.
- Financial and Administrative Affairs: Oversees the Commission’s budget and operations.
Publication and Awareness
Article (12) establishes a center for the publication, documentation, and translation of human rights materials. This center focuses on promoting human rights awareness, conducting comparative studies, and organizing conferences and courses to further human rights education.
Coordination with Other Agencies
Article (13) emphasizes the role of human rights departments in various ministries as liaison officers to ensure effective communication and coordination with the Commission.
Staffing and Budget
Article (14) allows the Commission to engage experts and specialists when needed to perform its duties. Commission employees are governed by the Civil Service Law and other relevant labor laws (Article 15).
The Commission’s budget is prepared separately and covers various income sources, including state allocations, generated income, donations, and other funds as per Article (17).
Accountability and Reporting
As per Article (18), the Commission is required to submit its annual closing account to the President of the Council of Ministers, alongside a copy for the General Audit Bureau. The regulation comes into effect sixty days after its publication, as detailed in Article (19).
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Human Rights Commission in Saudi Arabia?
The Human Rights Commission (HRC) is a government body established to promote and protect human rights in Saudi Arabia. It operates according to both international human rights standards and the principles of Shari’ah. The Commission is responsible for providing opinions, overseeing the implementation of human rights regulations, and advocating for awareness of human rights matters in the Kingdom.
Who oversees the Human Rights Commission?
The Commission reports directly to the President of the Council of Ministers. It has a chairman and a vice-chairman, both appointed by Royal Orders, and a Board consisting of appointed members who are experts in fields like law, Shari’ah, and political science.
Can the Commission visit prisons and detention centers?
Yes, the Commission has the authority to visit prisons and detention centers without prior permission from the relevant authorities. These visits help ensure that human rights are being upheld in such facilities.
How does the Commission handle complaints related to human rights violations?
The Commission’s Department of Complaints receives complaints, verifies them, and then refers them to the relevant department for investigation and resolution.
How does the Commission promote human rights awareness?
The Commission works to raise public awareness of human rights by coordinating educational programs, organizing seminars and conferences, publishing materials, and using media outlets to promote human rights in Saudi Arabia.
Can the Human Rights Commission cooperate with international organizations?
Yes, the Commission can cooperate with international human rights organizations, including governmental and non-governmental bodies, to strengthen human rights standards and improve its operations.
What powers does the Commission have to influence laws?
The Commission can propose amendments to existing human rights laws, offer opinions on draft laws, and monitor the Kingdom’s compliance with international human rights agreements.
How is the Human Rights Commission’s performance monitored?
The Commission is required to submit annual reports on its activities and the state of human rights in the Kingdom to the President of the Council of Ministers. Additionally, its financial accounts are subject to audits.
Is there any specific training or education related to human rights?
The Commission organizes specialized courses and programs to promote awareness and understanding of human rights among public employees and relevant stakeholders.
What is the role of the Commission in the Kingdom’s human rights reports?
The Commission plays a key role in preparing and approving reports on the state of human rights in the Kingdom. These reports are submitted to international bodies as part of Saudi Arabia’s commitment to global human rights standards.
How can individuals approach the Human Rights Commission?
Individuals can submit complaints about human rights issues to the Commission. They can also participate in the Commission’s public awareness programs or request information and support about human rights matters.
When did the Human Rights Commission Regulation come into effect?
The Human Rights Commission Regulation was published in the Official Gazette on 12 September 2005 and became effective 60 days later.
Conclusion
Human Rights Commission in Saudi Arabia plays a crucial role in promoting and protecting human rights within the Kingdom. By monitoring the implementation of human rights laws, investigating complaints, and collaborating with both national and international bodies, the Commission helps ensure compliance with international human rights standards while respecting the country’s cultural and religious values.
Its responsibilities, including raising public awareness, proposing legal reforms, and engaging with international organizations, are vital for fostering a society that respects and upholds human dignity and equality. The Commission’s structured approach, which includes various departments and an active board, ensures a comprehensive effort in addressing human rights challenges and advancing the cause of human rights in Saudi Arabia.