Part II: Preventing torture: NHRIs in action Chapter 11: Public Inquiries KEY QUESTIONS • What are the advantages and disadvantages of NHRIs conducting a public inquiry on torture and other ill-treatment? • What steps are involved in establishing and running an effective public inquiry? • How can NHRIs integrate gender in public inquiries on torture and other ill-treatment? LEGAL BASIS FOR NHRI INVOLVEMENT Paris Principles Competence and responsibilties 3. A national institution shall, inter alia, have the following responsibilities: (a) To submit to the Government, Parliament and any other competent body, on an advisory basis either at the request of the authorities concerned or through the exercise of its power to hear a matter without higher referral, opinions, recommendations, proposals and reports on any matter concerning the promotion and protection of human rights. The national institution may decide to publicize them. Introduction Conducting a public inquiry on systemic violations of human rights, such as torture and ill-treatment, can be a very effective strategy for NHRIs. A public inquiry is an investigation into a pervasive human rights problem, in which the general public is invited to participate through public evidence and written submissions from witnesses and experts. It results in the production of one or more reports with findings and recommendations. 143