Contents Acknowledgements 1 foreword 3 introduction 5 Methodology 5 Types of national human rights institutions 5 The Paris Principles 6 Elements contributing to the effectiveness of NHRIs 7 Assessing effectiveness – benchmarks and indicators 9 I. BENCHMARKS  1. Character of the national institution 11 12 A. Independence 12 B. Established by law/Constitution 13 C. Appointments procedure 14 D. Criteria for membership of a national institution 14 E. Composition of a national institution’s membership 15 F. Professional skills and knowledge of human rights 15 G. Relations with civil society 15 H. Accessibility 16 2. Mandate 17 A. Commenting on existing and draft laws 18 B. Monitoring domestic human rights situations 18 C. Monitoring and advising on compliance with international standards and co-operating with regional and international bodies 19 D. Educating and informing in the field of human rights 20 E. Receiving complaints or petitions from individuals or groups (where appropriate) 20 F. Monitoring government compliance with their advice and recommendations 22 3. Public accountability 23 A. Reporting annually on all aspects of their work 23 B. Regular consultations with all stakeholders 23