Highlight the powers and functions of the Permanent Human Rights Commission of Zambia.

The Permanent Human Rights Commission of Zambia has the following powers and functions:

1. Investigate human rights violations: The Commission has the power to investigate alleged human rights violations in Zambia, including cases of discrimination, abuse, and violations of civil and political rights.

2. Monitor human rights situation: The Commission monitors the human rights situation in Zambia and reports on any trends or patterns of violations to the government and the public.

3. Conduct research and advocacy: The Commission conducts research on human rights issues in Zambia and advocates for the protection and promotion of human rights through public awareness campaigns and policy recommendations.

4. Provide advice and recommendations: The Commission provides advice and recommendations to the government, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders on how to improve the protection and promotion of human rights in Zambia.

5. Receive complaints: The Commission receives complaints from individuals or groups who believe their human rights have been violated and provides assistance in seeking redress through legal channels.

6. Engage in dialogue and cooperation: The Commission engages in dialogue and cooperation with government agencies, civil society organizations, and international human rights bodies to promote human rights in Zambia.

7. Educate and raise awareness: The Commission educates the public about human rights principles and raises awareness about the importance of respecting and protecting human rights for all individuals in Zambia.

Powers and Functions of the Permanent Human Rights Commission of Zambia

The Permanent Human Rights Commission of Zambia (PHRC) is a statutory body established under the Human Rights Commission Act No. 21 of 2011. It is an independent national human rights institution responsible for promoting and protecting human rights in Zambia.

Powers:

- Investigative powers: PHRC has the power to investigate alleged human rights violations, including complaints from individuals, groups, and organizations.
- Enforcement powers: PHRC can issue binding recommendations to government, public officials, and private entities to address human rights violations.
- Prosecution powers: PHRC can initiate criminal proceedings against individuals responsible for serious human rights violations.
- Monitoring powers: PHRC monitors the human rights situation in Zambia and reports on its findings to the government and the public.

Functions:

- Education and awareness-raising: PHRC conducts education and awareness-raising programs on human rights issues.
- Research and documentation: PHRC conducts research and documents human rights violations and trends.
- Advocacy and lobbying: PHRC advocates for the adoption and implementation of human rights laws and policies.
- Capacity building: PHRC provides training and technical assistance to government officials, civil society organizations, and the general public on human rights issues.
- Collaboration and partnerships: PHRC collaborates with other human rights organizations, both nationally and internationally, to promote and protect human rights.
- Reporting: PHRC issues annual reports that highlight its work, findings, and recommendations.

Additional Key Points:

- PHRC is composed of five commissioners appointed by the President with the approval of Parliament.
- PHRC operates independently from the government and is accountable to Parliament.
- PHRC has a mandate to cover a wide range of human rights issues, including civil, political, economic, social, and cultural rights.