The Fiji Human Rights and Anti-Discrimination Commission (FHRADC) has acknowledged that it suffered significant reputational damage following the 2006 coup, with current leadership noting that past commissioners appeared to favor the appointing authority. Chairperson Pravesh Sharma expressed to The Fiji Times online portal, The Lens@177, that the organization is now committed to restoring its integrity by ensuring that the appointments of commissioners are based on merit rather than personal connections.
Sharma highlighted the problematic nature of the previous method of hand-picking commissioners, which undermined the commission’s ability to fulfill its obligations to the Global Alliance of National Human Rights Institutions (GANHRI) based in Geneva. The commission lost its top “A-accreditation” status after the coup, taking 15 years to regain positive recognition in 2021.
An A-accreditation signifies full compliance with human rights standards, while B indicates near compliance and no status represents significant shortcomings. Sharma pointed out that post-coup evaluations concluded the commission was not adhering to its human rights principles, leading to a suspension that resulted in the loss of its A-status.
This move towards merit-based appointments is a positive step for the FHRADC, as it seeks to rebuild trust and enhance its capabilities in promoting and protecting human rights in Fiji. By focusing on transparency and accountability, the FHRADC aims to reclaim its vital role in safeguarding human rights principles within the nation.
In summary, the FHRADC is taking proactive steps to address its previous reputational issues and is set on a path to restore its credibility and commitment to human rights, paving the way for a stronger future in this crucial sector. This change not only benefits the commission but also serves the broader community, fostering a culture of respect for human rights in Fiji.
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