reluctance from the SCA to develop universally applicable expectations for NHRI performance on specific thematic issues in the General Observations. While this may be a notable absence in the General Observations, the SCA routinely cites the failure of an NHRI to effectively address specific thematic issues as a reason for adverse accreditation recommendations. As a framework of standards under constant development, it is open to the SCA to consider revisions to the General Observations to establish clearer expectations on how NHRIs should address the rights of women and girls in practice. However, the desire for predictable and universal performance standards should be balanced against the benefit of maintaining some flexibility for the SCA to provide more contextually relevant recommendations. Gender Equality and the Paris Principles 13