Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about INCHR’s mandate, operations, and how we serve the people of Liberia.

The Independent National Commission on Human Rights (INCHR) is Liberia’s apex human rights institution, established by an Act of the National Legislature in 2005. The Commission is mandated to protect, promote, and monitor human rights across Liberia. Its work includes investigating human rights complaints, conducting public awareness campaigns, advising the government on human rights obligations, monitoring detention facilities, and engaging with international human rights mechanisms.

The INCHR is composed of four Commissioners, including a Chairperson and a Vice Chairperson, who are appointed by the President with the consent of the Senate. The Secretariat, led by an Executive Director, handles the day-to-day operations and is divided into departments including Programs, Investigations, Administration & Finance, Legal Affairs, Communications, and Planning & Policy. Each department is headed by a Director who reports to the Executive Director.

You can file a human rights complaint by visiting our office at the corner of Johnson & Gurley Streets in Monrovia, calling +231 555 123 456, or sending an email to info@inchrliberia.org. Complaints should include a detailed description of the incident, the date and location, the parties involved, and any supporting evidence. Our investigations team will review your complaint and initiate the appropriate process. All complaints are handled confidentially.

The INCHR investigates a broad range of human rights violations including unlawful arrests and detention, torture and ill-treatment, violations of due process and fair trial rights, land rights disputes, discrimination, gender-based violence, violations of economic and social rights, and infringements on freedom of expression, assembly, and association. The Commission also monitors the human rights situation in detention centres, refugee camps, and communities across all 15 counties of Liberia.

Yes. The INCHR is an independent national human rights institution (NHRI) operating in accordance with the Paris Principles adopted by the United Nations. While the Commission receives funding from the national budget, it operates independently in the exercise of its mandate. The Commission’s independence is protected by law, ensuring that it can investigate and report on human rights issues without interference from any branch of government.

The INCHR does not provide direct legal representation or assign lawyers to individuals. However, the Commission can provide legal guidance, refer cases to appropriate legal aid providers, and facilitate mediation processes. For serious human rights violations, the Commission may issue recommendations to relevant authorities, including the Ministry of Justice, and monitor the progress of cases through the justice system.

The INCHR regularly engages with international and regional human rights mechanisms including the United Nations Human Rights Council, the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights, and various UN treaty bodies. The Commission submits shadow reports, participates in review sessions, and follows up on the implementation of recommendations made to Liberia. This engagement ensures that Liberia meets its international human rights obligations and maintains credibility within the global human rights community.

The INCHR is funded primarily through appropriations from the national budget of Liberia. Additionally, the Commission receives technical and financial support from international partners and development agencies including the United Nations, the European Union, and bilateral donors. These contributions support specific programs and capacity-building initiatives. The Commission maintains transparent financial management and reporting in accordance with national laws and donor requirements.

Yes. Our office is open to the public Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. We are located at the corner of Johnson & Gurley Streets in Monrovia, Liberia. Visitors are welcome to submit complaints, request information about human rights, or schedule meetings with our staff. We encourage members of the public, civil society organizations, and government institutions to visit and learn more about our work.

You can stay informed about INCHR activities by visiting our website regularly, following our social media channels on Facebook, Twitter/X, Instagram, and LinkedIn, and subscribing to our newsletter for updates on events, publications, and human rights news. We also issue press releases and publish annual reports that provide comprehensive overviews of our work and the state of human rights in Liberia.