NATIONAL HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION 2.1. Establishment of the Commission and Work Division The National Human Rights Commission, authorized by law to protect and promote human rights, was established on 26 May 2000 as per the Human Rights Commission Act 1997. The Commission has completed four years and is in its fifth year. In line with Section 3 of the Human Rights Commission Act 1997, the Commission was established with the following office bearers: Mr. Nayan Bahadur Khatri Dr. Gauri Shankar Lal Das Mr. Kapil Shrestha Mr. Sushil Pyakurel Ms. Indira Rana Chairman Member Member* Member Member The functions of the office bearers mentioned above and the Commission’s new organizational chart have been approved. The work of the Commission’s various divisions as shown in the organizational chart is progressing smoothly. As the role of the Commissioners is important for the smooth functioning of the Commission, their work has been divided as given below until another arrangement is made. They fulfil their responsibilities as per their respective job descriptions approved by the Commission and are also required to report to the Chairman periodically about developments related to their work. Mr. Nayan Bahadur Khatri - General Administration and International Affairs Dr. Gauri Shankar Lal Das - Planning, Internal Monitoring and Evaluation Division Mr. Sushil Pyakurel - Protection, Monitoring and Promotion Division Ms. Indira Rana - Legislative Assistance Division 2.2. Structure of the Commission 2.2.1. Shape of the Organization Following the reinstatement of democracy in 1990, Nepal has declared its total commitment to protecting and promoting human rights. This pledge is reflected in the Human Rights Commission Act 1997, which has incorporated the human rights principles contained in international declarations in its definition of human rights. Believing that all-around development of Nepalese society would be possible only by accepting the international declarations related to human rights, the National Human Rights Commission was established with such a purpose in mind. The shape of the newly established Commission was decided after a series of discussions were held on how it should look like. The Commission has put together its organizational structure by enlisting permanent and temporary employees, personnel attached to projects and staff on deputation from His Majesty’s Government.The arrangement is reviewed periodically.A chart showing the present organizational structure adopted by the Commission is given in Annex 8. * As Member Mr. Kapil Shrestha is currently facing action, he has not been given any responsibilities in accordance with the Commission’s decision of 22 July 2002. 6