Body

The selection process includes all the elements that go in appointing or electing members in accordance with OPCAT requirement of independence, and the ‘required capabilities and professional knowledge’ (art. 18 .2 OPCAT) to carry out the NPM mandate. 

Selection processes vary according to the NPM model and national context. In most cases, NPM members (including ombudspersons and their deputies, human rights commissioners, and members of new specialised institutions) are elected or appointed by parliament or by the executive. In most contexts, a dedicated selection committee is established to lead the process of choosing candidates. 

In case of new specialised institutions with several members, the different categories of professional background may be defined in the law (for example, lawyers, medical doctors, psychologists, social workers, and representatives of civil society or other groups). 

Whatever the model, it is important that a clear, inclusive, and transparent process for selection and appointment is set out in law. The law should include: 

  • The selection process, method and criteria of appointments 
  • The period of office of members 
  • The grounds and process for dismissal of members.

The selection process should be merit-based and, in the case of NPMs with multiple members, it should also aim to result in NPMs that are multi-disciplinary in their expertise, gender-balanced, and from a diverse range of backgrounds. 

NPM Category
Institutional development
NPM Topic
Selection of NPM Members and Staff