Chapter 4 THE COMMISSION AND NATIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS 4.1 National Relations: 4.1.1 Relation with the Parliament: Following the restoration of democracy, parliamentarians had been demanding the bringing forth of the Human Rights Commission Act and the formation of the National Human Rights Commission in accordance with the Act for the protection, promotion and the full implementation of human rights. Taking theses demands positively, the parliament passed the Human Rights Commission Act in 1997. As a further indication of the gravity accorded to the issue of human rights by the parliament can be taken the formation, during the making of parliamentary committees, of two separate committees, namely the Foreign Affairs and Human Rights Committee in the House of Representatives and the Social and Judicial Committee in the National Assembly. After the formation of the Commission, there have been discussions and interactions between the Commission and the above mentioned parliamentary Committees, which have taken positively the views put forth by the Commission during the discussions and interactions. This has acted as an encouragement to the Commission. The Commission believes that the policies formed by the parliament and the directives issued to the government in the area of human rights will contribute to the full guarantee and protection and promotion of human rights. 4.1.2 Relation with the Civil Society: The Commission has a close and intimate relationship with the civil society. The nongovernment organizations have had an important role to play since the issuance of the Human Rights Commission Act and the formation of the Commission. The Commission has from time to time carried out deliberations and discussion programs with various non-government organizations, journalists and media persons, women and dalit society, statesmen, etc. The Commission, while preparing its strategy, received important suggestions from the nongovernmental sector. Whether it is the issue of celebrating the Human Rights Day or the passing of a bill in parliament related to women’s right to parental property, committees have been formed with the participation of the non-governmental sector and activities have been undertaken jointly by the Commission and the non governmental sector. Similarly, joint programs have been launched with some non-governmental organizations, through which the Commission has received valuable assistance. 4.1.3 His Majesty’s Government: (a) The Commission and the Government: The National Human Rights Commission has been formed as a result of the commitment of the government to human rights. The success of the Commission lies in