August 28, 2020, 3pm CEST vis WebEx

Good evening from the Philippines. We are grateful for the opportunity to participate in this consultation to comment on the synergy between national human rights institutions and the treaty body system.

The Commission on Human Rights of the Philippines submits to the treaty bodies its independent and evidence-based information on the compliance of government with international human rights conventions.  We strive to provide reliable indication on the human rights situation in areas where implementation of concluding observations require considerable action.

[Our active engagement with the treaty body mechanism include submissions of independent reports, participation in formal interactive dialogues among other activities. These provide venues for treaty bodies and NHRIs to exchange insights on various human rights situations that could assist in their issuances.]

NHRIs draw from the expert advise opinion of treaty bodies to ensure effective on-the-ground implementation of commitments and fulfillment of obligations under various human rights instruments.

Having engaged with the Treaty body mechanism for over two decades,  the Commission echoes the call of the Global Alliance of National Human Rights Institutions for the harmonization of treaty body working methods to include the   simplified reporting procedure as well as their important role in addressing cases of reprisals  including those faced by NHRIs as a result of their mandated activities, among other recommendations contained in the GANHRI submission to strengthen NHRI participation in the treaty body mechanism.

Treaty bodies have a vital function in the protection and promotion of human rights worldwide – to monitor the implementation of binding international human rights conventions through independent and impartial members.  And in this case, we support, of course, the transparent and open nomination process for the members of Treaty bodies.  Their function is even more relevant and needed these days when human rights are threatened or violated.

Lastly, we welcome the efforts of the OHCHR in making online sessions inclusive and accessible.  As the world is adjusting to the new normal, restrictions of physical meetings should not hinder treaty bodies in shifting sessions through hybrid formats such as this. The CHR along with other NHRIs stand ready to engage and adjust as we live through this pandemic. 

Thank you very much.