In a bid to strengthen human rights initiatives in Sierra Leone, the Human Rights Commission, in collaboration with the Commonwealth Human Rights Secretariat, engaged the Parliamentary Oversight Committee on Human Rights on Thursday March 27th, 2025.

The event, which was held at The Hub Hotel, Wilberforce, Freetown, focused on providing an overview of human rights mechanisms and discussing emerging human rights issues in the country.

In his welcome address, the Deputy Clerk of Parliament, Mr. Gilbert Bosco Nhabay, reaffirmed Parliament’s commitment to supporting all its committees to function effectively. He highlighted that the Human Rights Committee in Parliament is constituted in accordance with the Standing Orders and the Constitution of Sierra Leone, underscoring its critical role in advancing human rights within the legislative framework.

Mr. Nhabay also outlined key progressive legislations enacted by Parliament to uphold human rights, emphasizing Sierra Leone’s adherence to international human rights standards and best practices. He expressed gratitude to the Commonwealth Secretariat for its continuous support in strengthening the country’s development.

Representing the Chairman of the Parliamentary Human Rights Committee, Hon. Paul Samba Conteh who is Deputy Chairman of the Committee commended the Commonwealth Secretariat for its support and assured a strong partnership between the Sierra Leone Parliament and human rights organizations globally.

The Chairperson of the Human Rights Commission of Sierra Leone (HRCSL), Mrs. Patricia Narsu Ndanema, acknowledged the Commonwealth Secretariat’s contributions to the Commission’s capacity-building efforts and other human rights-related initiatives. She emphasized the importance of collaboration between Parliament and the Commission in promoting and protecting human rights in the country.