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The Human Rights Commission of Sierra Leone (HRCSL) has called on the government to approve its proposed annual one-off budget disbursement at the start of each year, a move aimed at enhancing the Commission’s independence and operational capacity.
HRCSL Vice Chairperson, Victor Idrissa Lansana Esq., made the appeal during the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) Pre-session in Geneva, noting that while the government has increased budget support over time, delays in disbursement continue to hinder the Commission’s ability to respond promptly to human rights issues.
“HRCSL is tasked with holding government accountable on its human rights obligations. Governments must provide adequate support to National Human Rights Institutions (NHRIs),” Lansana said.
He highlighted ongoing logistical challenges, revealing that since its establishment in 2004, the Commission has received only one government vehicle—allocated in 2022—limiting operational efficiency.
Lansana also commended the Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment (GEWE) Act, 2022, emphasizing its importance in empowering women, particularly those with formal education. He expressed concern over slow implementation in rural areas and urged authorities to expand access to finance for women to start or grow businesses.
On child rights, he called attention to the Child Rights Act 2025, stressing that it does not explicitly criminalize Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) on girls under 18. Lansana urged an immediate amendment to Section 19 to clearly prohibit the practice, noting that FGM undermines girls’ health, education, dignity, and life.
