The Sindh Human Rights Commission (SHRC) was established in 2013 under the Sindh Protection of Human Rights Act 2011 for the promotion and protection of human rights in Sindh.
The commission, a sub-national human rights institution, is endowed with various powers and functions to fulfill its mandate effectively under Section (4) of the Sindh Protection of Human Rights Act 2011.
Below are the details of its powers and functions:
Inquiry and Sou Moto: The SHRC has the power to inquire and take sou moto action into human rights violations and abuses in Sindh.
Authority to Summon and Witnesses: The commission has the authority to summon witnesses and require the production of documents during its inquiries and investigations. This power ensures that relevant parties provide necessary information for a comprehensive assessment of the human rights situation.
Recommendations and Reports: Upon completing an investigation or inquiry, the SHRC can make recommendations to the concerned authorities for the effective protection of human rights. It can also issue reports on the human rights situation in Sindh and suggest measures to address any prevalent issues.
Monitoring Detention Centres: The commission has the mandate to visit and monitor detention centres, prisons, and other places of detention within Sindh. This allows the commission to assess the conditions of detainees and ensure that their rights are being protected.
Public Awareness and Education: One of the functions of the SHRC is to promote awareness and education about human rights among the public through seminars, workshops, and campaigns on human rights principles and legal entitlements.
Cooperation with NGOs and Institutions: The SHRC collaborate with non-governmental organizations (NGOs), academic institutions, and other relevant entities working in the field of human rights. This cooperation facilitates a comprehensive approach to human rights promotion and protection.
Review of Laws / Policies/ Practices: The commission has the authority to review existing laws, policies, and practices concerning human rights in Sindh. It recommends amendments or suggestions to enhance the protection and promotion of human rights in Sindh.
Implementation of International Obligations: The commission SHRC monitors the implementation of international human rights treaties to which Pakistan is a party and collaborate with international human rights organizations and institutions to exchange information and best practices related to human rights.
Business and Human Rights: The SHRC have been given added responsibility under the Sindh Protection of Human Rights (Amendment) Act, 2023 to assist the Sindh government in implementation of the National Action Plan on Business and Human Rights 2021-2026, and to serve as an alternate dispute resolution and accountability mechanism for business-related abuses of human rights, The Commission can also visit business enterprises or corporate entities to investigate reported violations or abuses and assess working conditions of employees, workers, or inmates within the supply or value chain.
For more information about the SHRC, please visit the website at https://www.shrc.org.pk