The Code of Ethics

Decree No. …
Code of Ethics of the National Human Rights Commission, Including the Committee for the Prevention of Torture

The President of the Republic,

Pursuant to the Constitution,
Pursuant to Law No. 62 dated 27 October 2016, as amended (establishing the National Human Rights Commission, including the Committee for the Prevention of Torture), in particular Article Seven thereof,
Pursuant to Decree No. 3267 dated 19 June 2018 (formation of the National Human Rights Commission, including the Committee for the Prevention of Torture),
Pursuant to Decree No. 1762 dated 7 November 2025 (Internal Regulations of the National Human Rights Commission, including the Committee for the Prevention of Torture),
Upon the proposal of the Minister of Justice,
After consultation with the State Council, Opinion No. … dated …,
And following the approval of the Council of Ministers at its session held on …,

Hereby decrees as follows:

Code of Ethics of the National Human Rights Commission, Including the Committee for the Prevention of Torture

Chapter One: General Provisions

Article 1: Title and Legal Basis

Pursuant to Law No. 62/2016 dated 27/10/2016 on the establishment of the National Human Rights Commission, including the Committee for the Prevention of Torture, these regulations shall be entitled: “Code of Ethics of the National Human Rights Commission, Including the Committee for the Prevention of Torture.”
They shall constitute an integral and complementary part of the provisions of the Law establishing the Commission and the regulations issued in implementation thereof.

Article 2: Definitions

For the purposes of these Regulations, the following terms shall have the meanings set out below:

The Commission: The National Human Rights Commission, including the Committee for the Prevention of Torture.
The Committee: The Committee for the Prevention of Torture.
Members: Members of the Commission’s Board and members of the Committee for the Prevention of Torture.
Staff: Employees, contractors, trainees, and workers of the Commission or the Committee, whether full-time or part-time, and under any contractual arrangement.
Collaborators: Any natural or legal person providing services, consultancy, technical support, or voluntary assistance to the Commission or the Committee, including experts and representatives of associations and non-governmental organizations.
Code of Ethics: The set of principles and standards set out in these Regulations, supplementing the internal regulations of the Commission and the provisions of its establishing law.
Places of Deprivation of Liberty: Any facility, place, or location in which persons are held, legally or in practice, and are not permitted to leave at will, whether pursuant to an order issued by a judicial or administrative authority or any other public authority, or at its request, with its consent, or with its tacit approval. This includes detention centers, prisons, police stations, correctional facilities, administrative detention facilities, closed care institutions, disciplinary institutions, closed psychiatric hospitals or wards, and any other places where individuals are deprived of liberty for any reason.
Confidential Information: Any non-public information obtained by members, staff, or collaborators in the course of their duties, which must be protected from unauthorized disclosure.
Sexual Exploitation and Sexual Abuse: Any act of a sexual nature committed through the exploitation of vulnerability, power, or a relationship of trust, including sexual harassment, sexual violence, and sexual assault. Sexual exploitation means any abuse of a position of vulnerability, differential power, or trust for sexual, financial, social, or political gain. Sexual abuse refers to any actual or threatened physical intrusion of a sexual nature, whether by force or under coercive or unequal conditions. This definition also includes any sexual relationship with a child.
Conflict of Interest: Any situation in which a private material or moral interest of a member, staff member, or collaborator arises, or may arise, that could affect, or be perceived to affect, their impartiality, independence, or integrity in the performance of their duties. This includes any circumstance that may lead a person to prioritize personal interests or the interests of another party over the public interest or the requirements of their mandate, whether actual, potential, or apparent.
Integrity: Adherence to the highest standards of probity, honesty, and trustworthiness, and avoidance of any conduct that may harm the reputation or independence of the Commission.
Impartiality: Acting with full independence and without bias or favoritism, and refraining from taking positions or actions based on affiliations, personal interests, or external pressures.
Duty to Report: The obligation of every member, staff member, or collaborator to promptly report to the Commission or the Committee any potential violation of the Code of Ethics or any suspicious conduct, in particular cases of sexual exploitation and abuse.
Complaint: Any report or allegation containing information on alleged human rights violations submitted by an individual, group, or organization in accordance with the conditions set out in the internal regulations and these Regulations.
Field Visits: Any announced or unannounced visit conducted by members, staff, or collaborators of the Committee for the Prevention of Torture to places of deprivation of liberty for the purposes of assessment, monitoring, and the prevention of torture and other cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment or punishment.
Sources: Persons or entities providing information or testimony to the Commission or the Committee, including victims, witnesses, experts, and government officials.
Public Statements: Any statement, announcement, or position issued officially by the Commission, the Committee, or any of their members, staff, or collaborators, and published through the media or public platforms.
Social Media: Any electronic platform used for communication, publication, or public or private interaction, including blogs and various digital platforms.
Abusive Conduct: Any behavior that violates human dignity or causes verbal, physical, or psychological harm to others, including harassment, bullying, and violence.
Unethical Practices: Any act or omission that constitutes a breach of the principles of conduct set out in these Regulations, or that undermines the reputation, independence, or integrity of the Commission.
Official Duties: Any activity or task performed by a member, staff member, or collaborator within their functional authority and in accordance with the mandate of the Commission or the Committee.
Supervisory Positions: Any administrative or organizational functions within the Commission or the Committee whose holders are tasked with overseeing, guiding, or monitoring the performance of other staff members, or making decisions relating to their work or to operational processes, regardless of job title or contractual status.
Deep Learning: A subfield of artificial intelligence and machine learning based on multi-layered artificial neural networks capable of processing vast amounts of data, identifying patterns, and performing complex tasks such as image and speech recognition and natural language processing.
Deepfake: The use of deep learning algorithms to create or alter visual or audio content in a way that makes individuals appear to perform actions or make statements they did not in fact make, potentially leading to misinformation, defamation, or violations of human rights.

Chapter Two: Ethical Principles and Obligations

Article 3: Persons Subject to the Code of Ethics

The Code of Ethics issued by the National Human Rights Commission, including the Committee for the Prevention of Torture, shall apply to all members, staff, and contractors, as well as to any natural or legal person cooperating with the Commission or the Committee in the performance of their functions.
All such persons shall hereinafter be referred to in these Regulations as “members, staff, and collaborators.”

Article 4: Governing Principles of Professional Conduct

All members, staff, and collaborators shall adhere to the highest standards of professional and ethical conduct, reflecting the founding principles of the National Human Rights Commission. They are required to contribute to the achievement of the objectives of the Commission and the Committee and to ensure that their conduct is consistent with the rules set forth in these Regulations.

All members, staff, and collaborators shall familiarize themselves with the Code of Ethics, understand its contents, and adopt it as the guiding framework for their conduct, as it constitutes a fundamental pillar for safeguarding the reputation, independence, and integrity of the Commission and the Committee for the Prevention of Torture.

Article 5: Scope and Advisory Role of the Code of Ethics

The Code of Ethics does not seek to exhaustively address all ethical challenges that members, staff, and collaborators may face. Rather, it serves as a guiding reference that directs their conduct and assists them in assessing the implications of any action or decision.

Members, staff, and collaborators shall review and comply with these rules and acknowledge that their conduct may entail legal responsibility.

They shall devote sufficient time to studying each case and relevant provisions before selecting the most appropriate course of action to ensure compliance with ethical and professional standards.

Article 6: Rules of Conduct and Legal and Professional Obligations

Members, staff, and collaborators shall:

Comply with the principles of human rights enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, and other relevant international treaties ratified by Lebanon.
Safeguard the interests of victims and witnesses at all times in a manner that respects their rights and preserves their dignity.
Uphold the highest standards of effectiveness, competence, and integrity, in particular probity, impartiality, fairness, honesty, and good faith.
Perform their functions with full independence and in accordance with their mandate, through professional and impartial assessment of facts based on internationally recognized human rights standards, free from any direct or indirect influence, pressure, threat, or interference from any source. Independence shall be understood as linked to functional position and freedom to assess human rights matters within the Commission’s mandate.
Perform their functions in accordance with Law No. 62/2016 and these Regulations, in line with the mandate of the Commission.
Focus exclusively on fulfilling the Commission’s mandate, with loyalty, honesty, and independence.
Refrain from seeking or accepting instructions from any government, individual, governmental or non-governmental organization, or pressure group.
Acknowledge the seriousness of their responsibilities and act in a manner that strengthens confidence in the Commission and preserves its reputation and independence.
Maintain the highest levels of transparency in financial and administrative systems, decision-making mechanisms, and financial management.
Cooperate and coordinate with directors, experts, staff, contractors, collaborators, volunteers, and trainees to ensure the proper functioning of the Commission and the Committee.
Immediately report any suspected violations or conduct that may breach the Code of Ethics.

Article 7: Ethical and Professional Obligations of Supervisory Personnel

Members, staff, and collaborators holding supervisory positions play a central role in promoting an ethical work culture and ensuring a safe, healthy, and respectful working environment. They shall respect their obligations toward supervised staff, including complete abstention from any form of retaliation against individuals who report violations in good faith or participate in authorized audits or investigations.

Supervisors are expected to lead by example and shall:

Act as models of integrity and probity in accordance with human rights standards and institutional principles.
Assume responsibility for their actions and team performance and ensure achievement of set objectives.
Promote fair and objective performance evaluations and properly document them.
Make decisions based on fair and factual assessments, free from internal or external pressure.
Fully understand the Code of Ethics and provide guidance on rights and obligations.
Encourage continuous dialogue on ethical conduct and enable staff to raise concerns without fear.
Promote reporting of misconduct, including fraud, negligence, and inappropriate behavior, and address such conduct promptly.
Support staff and collaborators who raise ethical concerns and protect them from retaliation or discrimination.
Foster a healthy work environment based on mutual trust and professional respect.
Encourage professional and ethical capacity-building.
Give due consideration to staff welfare and address concerns effectively, ensuring no harm is caused.

Article 8: Organizational Commitments to Integrity and Institutional Ethics

The good reputation of the Commission reflects collective efforts to uphold ethical and professional conduct. To protect its name, image, and standing, the Commission shall:

Fully comply with and effectively implement this Code of Ethics.
Lead by example at all levels through ethical conduct in all practices and decisions.
Recognize individual contributions to institutional objectives and values.
Disseminate, promote, and regularly update the Code of Ethics and enable personnel to understand their responsibilities, rights, and available support mechanisms.
Provide regular ethics training and include ethical principles in induction programs.
Inform collaborators of their ethical obligations and provide copies of the Code.
Provide advice and guidance on matters related to the mandate of the Commission and the Committee upon request.
Provide information on procedures, reporting mechanisms, and expected conduct.
Respond promptly and appropriately to alleged ethical violations and take necessary investigative measures.

Article 9: Prohibition of Disrespect

Any conduct showing disrespect, lack of basic courtesy, or dignity in interactions, including defamatory, degrading, humiliating, or disparaging remarks or actions, constitutes a breach of ethical principles and may result in disciplinary measures.

This includes public statements or positions that undermine human diversity, demean the work of others, or diminish the status, mandate, or values of the Commission.

Article 10: Non-Discrimination and Non-Favoritism

The Commission strictly prohibits all forms of discrimination, direct or indirect, based on sex, gender, race, religion, belief, nationality, ethnic or social origin, age, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, or any personal status.

Members, staff, and collaborators shall respect diversity and refrain from favoritism based on personal beliefs, preferences, or relationships. Ethical principles shall prevail over personal, social, or cultural considerations, especially in recruitment, cooperation, and professional dealings.

Article 11: Prohibition of Abuse of Power or Authority

Abuse of power includes any unlawful or unethical use of authority or position that harms others’ rights or adversely affects their professional paths or working conditions, including decisions relating to recruitment, assignment, contract renewal, evaluation, promotion, or working conditions.

Such abuse may occur through single acts or repeated behavior and may create a hostile, aggressive, or unsafe environment through intimidation, threats, coercion, blackmail, or exploitation of dependency or power imbalance.

Article 12: Prohibition of Harassment

Harassment includes any unwelcome conduct directed at an identifiable person that violates dignity or creates an intimidating, hostile, degrading, humiliating, or unsafe environment, thereby affecting job performance.

Harassment may occur through isolated incidents or repeated conduct, between individuals or groups, and may take the form of words, gestures, actions, or behaviors causing humiliation, fear, distress, or emotional harm, whether in person or through written communication, email, phone, or supervisory practices.

Harassment also includes bullying characterized by power imbalance and repeated use of physical, emotional, or coercive force to intimidate, dominate, silence, or exclude others.

Chapter Three: Protection from Sexual Harassment, Exploitation, Abuse, and Sexual Violence

Article 13: Disciplinary and Criminal Responsibility

Sexual harassment, sexual exploitation, and sexual abuse are classified as serious misconduct and shall result in immediate and stringent disciplinary measures, including summary dismissal, without prejudice to criminal prosecution under applicable laws.

Article 14: Prohibition of All Forms of Sexual Harassment, Exploitation, and Abuse

All members, staff, and collaborators are prohibited from engaging in any form of sexual harassment, exploitation, or abuse, as these constitute serious violations of ethical principles and national and international legal standards and directly undermine human dignity and fundamental rights.

Sexual harassment includes any unwelcome verbal, physical, or gestural conduct of a sexual nature, including advances, requests for sexual favors, sexually suggestive comments or behavior, or display of pornographic material, which may reasonably be perceived as offensive, humiliating, intimidating, or degrading, or as creating a hostile or unsafe work environment.

Such conduct may occur inside or outside the workplace, explicitly or implicitly, and may be used to influence employment-related decisions. It may occur through a single incident or repeated acts, between persons of the same or different genders, regardless of direct authority.

Article 15: Acts Constituting Sexual Exploitation or Abuse

Sexual exploitation and abuse include any act involving actual or attempted abuse of vulnerability, lack of protection, power imbalance, authority, or trust for sexual purposes or related gains, whether financial, social, political, or otherwise, including blackmail or coercion.

Sexual abuse includes any actual or threatened physical intrusion of a sexual nature committed by force, coercion, threat, or under unequal or oppressive conditions, or where free and informed consent is compromised.

These practices include, without limitation:

Any sexual activity with a child, regardless of apparent consent.
Use of authority or position for sexual gain.
Any act reasonably deemed to violate bodily integrity or sexual dignity.

All such acts constitute grave violations of ethical and legal standards and severely undermine the Commission’s mandate and public trust.

Article 16: Special Standards for the Protection of Vulnerable Groups

To strengthen protection of vulnerable groups, especially women and children, the following standards shall apply:

All sexual activity with persons under 18 is strictly prohibited, regardless of local age-of-consent laws. Ignorance or misjudgment of age is not accepted.
Members, staff, and collaborators shall establish and maintain an environment that prevents sexual exploitation and abuse. Managers bear special responsibility in this regard.
The exchange of sex for money, employment, goods, services, or assistance is strictly prohibited.
Sexual relationships between personnel and beneficiaries are strictly prohibited due to inherent power imbalances that undermine credibility and integrity.
Any person who suspects sexual exploitation or abuse shall immediately report through approved mechanisms, ensuring confidentiality and protection.

Article 17: Duty to Report, Prohibition of Retaliation, and تنظيم Reporting Mechanisms

All members, staff, contractors, and collaborators of the National Human Rights Commission, including the Committee for the Prevention of Torture, shall immediately report any suspicion of, or knowledge about, the commission of any act of sexual exploitation, sexual abuse, or sexual harassment, or any conduct that may amount to such acts. Reporting is a legal and ethical obligation and shall not be withheld or delayed.
The Commission’s Board shall appoint a senior official to serve as the coordinator for receiving reports related to sexual exploitation and abuse. All members, staff, collaborators, and beneficiaries of the Commission’s services shall be informed, through appropriate means, of the existence of this coordinator, their role, and how to contact them.
All reports shall be submitted in strict confidentiality. The identities of the reporter, the victim, and witnesses, and any related information, shall be protected. Information contained in reports shall not be used except for the purposes for which it was provided, provided that it may be used, where necessary, for disciplinary or criminal proceedings in accordance with applicable laws and regulations.
Any form of retaliation, threat, discrimination, or harm against any person who, in good faith, reports a potential or confirmed incident of sexual exploitation, sexual abuse, or sexual harassment, or who participates in official investigations or audits, is strictly prohibited.
Protection from retaliation shall include, in particular:

Refraining from any adverse administrative or professional measure against the reporter, including forced transfer, exclusion, freezing of duties, or unjustified dismissal.
Providing appropriate support, including psychological, social, or legal support where needed.
Taking immediate measures to ensure the safety of the reporter, victim, or witnesses, including adjusting working conditions, reassigning duties, or other appropriate measures.

Malicious reports or reports submitted in bad faith constitute a serious violation of the Code of Ethics and shall expose their authors to appropriate disciplinary measures.
The Commission shall document all reports and actions taken and ensure that they are addressed effectively, with integrity and without delay, in accordance with best international practices and relevant national legal standards.
Non-exhaustive nature of prohibited practices
The standards set out in these Regulations are not exhaustive. Other conduct may fall within sexual exploitation or sexual abuse even if not expressly stated, where its nature or effects involve abuse of authority or exploitation of vulnerability, dependency, or a relationship of trust for a sexual purpose. Such acts, in whatever form, constitute grounds for administrative action or disciplinary measures, including summary dismissal, in accordance with the Commission’s internal regulations and other applicable rules in force within the Commission and the Committee for the Prevention of Torture.

Article 18: Binding Ethical Standards for External Partners

When entering into cooperative arrangements or partnerships with entities or individuals not affiliated with the Commission and/or the Committee, the relevant officials shall inform such entities or individuals of the conduct standards set out in this Code of Ethics and obtain from them an explicit written undertaking to comply with and respect these standards.
The Commission shall require all external partners, institutions and individuals, to adopt effective preventive measures against sexual exploitation and abuse and to ensure the existence of internal policies and clear procedures for reporting, investigation, and accountability consistent with applicable international principles.
Failure by such entities or individuals to adopt necessary preventive measures, to initiate serious investigations into related allegations, or to take appropriate corrective action where such acts are established, shall constitute legitimate grounds for terminating any arrangement or cooperation with the Commission and/or the Committee, without prejudice to any legal responsibilities that may arise for the concerned parties.
Prior due diligence obligation
Before entering into any cooperation or contractual arrangement, the Commission shall conduct prior due diligence that includes, at minimum:

Reviewing the partner’s internal policies on the prevention of sexual exploitation and abuse.
Verifying the existence of effective and confidential complaint-receiving mechanisms.
Ensuring the absence of a record of serious violations related to sexual exploitation and abuse or other misconduct involving abuse of authority.

The Commission may refrain from signing any agreement or partnership if the concerned entity does not meet the minimum required standards.

Prohibition on contracting with entities with confirmed records
The Commission and/or the Committee shall be prohibited from contracting or partnering with:

Any entity listed in national or international records or watchlists related to sexual misconduct, sexual exploitation, or sexual abuse.
Any natural person with documented prior records or files relating to similar acts.

Failure by the entity or person to disclose such records shall constitute immediate grounds for cancellation of the contract and for taking appropriate legal action.

Chapter Four: Protection of Vulnerable Groups and ضمان Equality and Non-Discrimination

Article 19: Child Protection

The Commission commits to safeguarding children’s protection, well-being, and rights, in accordance with the Convention on the Rights of the Child and relevant international standards. For the purposes of these Regulations, a child means any person under the age of eighteen. Guided by the best interests of the child, the Commission and all members, staff, and collaborators shall:

Take all necessary measures to ensure that the best interests of the child are considered in any decision, measure, or action concerning the child, whether administrative, preventive, monitoring-related, or linked to complaints or field visits.
Provide a safe environment that respects the child’s privacy and dignity and prevents any form of harm, whether physical, psychological, sexual, or emotional, whether resulting from direct action or negligence.
Ensure that children are not subjected to any form of violence, exploitation, neglect, or cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment, and take immediate appropriate measures upon suspicion of risks to their safety.
Respect children’s privacy, maintain confidentiality of information relating to them, and disclose such information only when consistent with the child’s best interests and only to the extent strictly necessary.
Provide reasonable accommodation and appropriate tools for children with disabilities or special needs to ensure their right to access and effective participation in procedures relating to their rights.
Provide specialized training for members, staff, and collaborators on child-appropriate communication and professional principles for interviewing minors, taking into account the child’s age, maturity, and ability to express themselves.
Adopt special protection measures for children who engage with the Commission, particularly detained children, children at risk, or those involved in complaints, and ensure referral to competent authorities when necessary, under procedures consistent with their best interests.
Raise awareness among children, their families, and communities regarding child rights and available protection mechanisms, and encourage reporting of violations without fear of retaliation or stigma.
Refrain from any statement or act that may be understood as undermining the child’s dignity, involving discrimination or bias, or hindering their emotional, social, or physical development.
Adopt an approach sensitive to age differences and maturity, ensuring respect for children’s right to express their views and participate in decisions affecting them, in accordance with the standard of evolving capacities.
Pay special attention to the most vulnerable categories of children, in particular:

Victims of domestic violence
Children in places of deprivation of liberty
Refugees and displaced children
Children with disabilities
Unaccompanied or separated children
Children at risk of exploitation, trafficking, or abuse

Article 20: Equity and Gender Equality

The Commission commits to ensuring equity and gender equality across all its work, policies, and procedures, and to fair treatment for persons of all genders, ensuring equal opportunities and respect for different needs, based on the following principles:

Ensure fair and equal treatment for all persons and adopt measures that guarantee equal participation in rights, duties, responsibilities, and professional opportunities.
Take into account differences in needs, experiences, and behaviors across genders and adopt an equity-based approach that ensures empowerment and substantive equality.
Prevent any form of discrimination based on sex or gender, direct or indirect, individual or structural, including implicit bias or practices leading to unequal opportunities or treatment.
Adopt internal policies and procedures that foster a workplace free from bias and gender stereotypes and ensure that all members, staff, and collaborators receive specialized training on gender equality.
Promote an institutional culture that respects gender diversity, encourages open dialogue on gender equality, and commits to best practices that support gender justice within and beyond the Commission.

Article 21: Rights of Persons with Disabilities

The Commission commits to respecting, protecting, and promoting the rights of persons with disabilities, in line with the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and relevant international standards, through the following commitments:

Prevent any form of discrimination based on disability, direct or indirect, and ensure that persons with disabilities enjoy all human rights and fundamental freedoms on an equal basis with others throughout all interactions.
Provide reasonable accommodation to ensure equal access to information, services, and facilities, including when submitting complaints, participating in activities, during field visits, or in any other engagement with the Commission or the Committee.
Remove physical, administrative, and communication barriers, including barriers relating to physical access, communication, technology, or organizational procedures, that prevent full and effective participation of persons with disabilities in public life and in the work of the Commission and its Committee.
Respect the inherent dignity of persons with disabilities and refrain from any conduct or practice involving exploitation, abuse, disparagement, or diminution of their human worth.
Promote participation of persons with disabilities, or their legal representatives, in decisions, policies, and programs affecting them, particularly in matters related to human rights, protection mechanisms, and prevention of violations.
Train members, staff, and collaborators on professional and human-centered principles relating to disability rights, and provide them with the knowledge and practical tools necessary to engage respectfully, without bias or preconceived assumptions.
Adopt an equality- and inclusion-based approach reflecting the Commission’s commitment to eliminating disability-related stereotypes and ensuring respectful and independent treatment of persons with disabilities, thereby entrenching justice and non-discrimination.

Article 22: Conducting Research in a Scientific Manner

The National Human Rights Commission, including the Committee for the Prevention of Torture, commits to ensuring the highest standards of scientific integrity and professional ethics in all research, studies, and monitoring activities it undertakes, and to producing reliable knowledge grounded in sound methodologies and transparent procedures. In this regard, the Commission, its members, staff, and collaborators shall be bound by the following obligations:

Adhere to scientific and ethical principles at all stages of research, including study design, information collection, analysis, drawing conclusions, report drafting, and publication.
Subject studies and research, whenever possible, to expert review or scientific peer review, thereby enhancing their quality, the reliability of their methodologies, and the accuracy of their findings.
Adopt effective, transparent, and auditable research methods that ensure the verifiability of findings and the availability of core data in accordance with applicable legal and ethical standards.
Ensure that research results and reports reach relevant stakeholders, including public institutions, civil society, and the public, unless confidentiality considerations or the protection of witnesses, children, or victims prevent such dissemination.
Respect confidentiality principles and personal data protection and refrain from disclosing any information that may endanger individuals or sources or undermine their dignity.
Avoid any distortion, selective use, or manipulation of data, and refrain from any other practices deemed misleading, unprofessional, or contrary to scientific ethics.
Clearly and accurately cite methodological foundations, references, and sources used, ensuring respect for intellectual property rights and authorship and copyright.
Cause no harm to research participants, directly or indirectly, and ensure free and informed consent where applicable.
Verify the soundness of tools and methodologies used for data collection and ensure they are not employed in any context that constitutes a human rights violation or compromises individuals’ dignity or safety.
Conduct periodic evaluations of research and studies, including impact assessment, methodological improvement, and addressing gaps or errors that may emerge during implementation.
Refrain from any form of bias or external influence, whether political, social, or cultural, and ensure findings are based exclusively on facts and objective analysis.
Cooperate with academic institutions, research centers, and international organizations to exchange knowledge and expertise and enhance the quality of human rights research.
Promote a research culture within the Commission through continuous training, capacity-building, and enabling staff and collaborators to access modern research tools and techniques.

Article 23: Use of Artificial Intelligence Technologies

The National Human Rights Commission, including the Committee for the Prevention of Torture, commits to the ethical and responsible use of artificial intelligence technologies and digital analysis and processing systems, in line with international human rights standards, in particular the principles of transparency, non-discrimination, privacy, and accountability. The following shall apply:

Ensure that AI tools are used exclusively for legitimate purposes consistent with the mandate of the Commission and its Committee, in a manner that preserves human dignity, promotes justice, and prevents any form of discrimination.
Refrain from relying solely on automated systems to make decisions affecting individuals’ rights or fundamental interests, and affirm that final decisions remain under direct and accountable human responsibility.
Apply the principle of transparency in developing or using any digital systems or algorithms, including, where applicable, disclosure of the nature of the data used, the purposes of processing, and potential outcomes.
Protect personal and confidential data from unlawful processing and prohibit their input into unauthorized AI platforms or tools, in accordance with best digital security standards.
Prohibit the use of AI to generate misleading, inciting, degrading, or human-rights-violating content, or content that may harm individuals or groups.
Ensure the accuracy of data used in AI systems, avoid the input of incorrect or incomplete data, and conduct periodic verification of data quality and integrity.
Observe international digital ethics principles, including fairness, avoidance of algorithmic bias, transparency, data privacy, and accountability.
Subject digital systems and algorithms to prior and periodic assessments to detect bias, discriminatory impact, or potential risks to vulnerable groups.
Prevent the use of AI to infer sensitive information about individuals or to predict personal tendencies or protected attributes, including political, religious, or gender-related views, or any information related to protected identity.
Train members, staff, and collaborators on the safe and responsible use of AI tools and on identifying associated risks.
Require external partners, when cooperating with the Commission in developing or operating any AI tools, to respect the conduct standards set out in these Regulations and adopt the relevant ethical and legal safeguards.
Promote a culture of responsible digital practice within the Commission, develop advanced digital security mechanisms, and conduct periodic trainings to enhance the capacity to address digital risks and cyberattacks.

Article 24: Regulating the Use of Deep Learning

The National Human Rights Commission, including the Committee for the Prevention of Torture, commits to the ethical and responsible use of deep learning technologies, ensuring respect for human dignity and human rights and guaranteeing transparency, accountability, and personal data protection. The following shall apply:

Ensure that deep learning technologies are used exclusively for legitimate purposes consistent with the Commission’s mandate, while preserving privacy, human dignity, and the principle of non-discrimination.
Prohibit the production or use of falsified content or any synthetic digital material intended to mislead, defame, manipulate public opinion, or harm individuals or institutions, including deepfake tools.
Commit to transparency in the design and development of algorithms, including, where applicable, disclosure of the nature of the data used, the purposes, and the limits of use.
Protect personal data from any unauthorized processing and ensure compliance with national and international data protection standards.
Permit the use of deepfake technologies only for restricted educational or training purposes, subject to strict protection and security safeguards, and prohibit their use for misleading or abusive purposes, for unlawful influence on public opinion, or to silence human rights defenders.
Adopt mechanisms to assess risks and potential biases in digital models, conduct independent auditing of outputs, and document any potential human rights impacts.
Prohibit exclusive or automatic reliance on deep-learning-based systems in decision-making affecting individuals’ rights, ensuring the final decision remains under clear human responsibility.

Article 25: Data Protection and Digital Privacy

The National Human Rights Commission, including the Committee for the Prevention of Torture, commits to respecting and protecting personal data and digital privacy for all individuals it engages with, and to following the highest relevant international standards, particularly those relating to lawfulness, transparency, necessity, confidentiality, and digital security. The following measures shall be adopted:

Collect and process personal data lawfully and transparently, and only to the extent necessary to perform the Commission’s and its Committee’s functions, for specific and clear purposes.
Obtain free and informed consent where applicable, in accordance with legal standards and international data protection norms.
Take all technical and organizational measures to protect data from unauthorized access, alteration, loss, damage, or leakage, ensuring its integrity and confidentiality.
Restrict data sharing with third parties, whether individuals or institutions, to cases permitted by law, required by the best interests of victims, children, or witnesses, or necessitated by monitoring and preventive functions.
Adhere to the principle of data minimization, collecting only necessary information and preventing retention of unnecessary or irrelevant data.
Refrain from transferring sensitive data through insecure electronic means or platforms that do not provide adequate protection, and use secure and encrypted communication when handling private information.
Establish an internal register for managing sensitive data, specifying the confidentiality level of each category of data, who is authorized to access it, storage and retention responsibilities, and legal retention periods.
Enable individuals, where applicable, to exercise their rights relating to their personal data, including the right of access, correction, updating, and restriction of processing, within the limits permitted by applicable laws and regulations.
Securely delete or archive data once it is no longer needed, or once the purpose for which it was collected has ended, while observing legal obligations to retain certain information.
Train all members, staff, and collaborators on data protection principles, best digital security practices, and proper handling of sensitive information, with periodic follow-up to update skills and knowledge.

Article 26: Cybersecurity and Responsible Digital Conduct

To protect the systems, data, and digital reputation of the National Human Rights Commission, including the Committee for the Prevention of Torture, members, staff, and collaborators shall adopt safe and responsible digital practices in accordance with the following standards:

Use only official email and approved digital communication channels for professional work, and refrain from using personal accounts or platforms to exchange professional documents or sensitive data.
Refrain from opening suspicious links or attachments of unknown origin, or those that may contain malware or viruses that could compromise or disrupt systems.
Regularly change passwords, use strong and complex passwords, and enable two-factor authentication whenever possible to enhance account security.
Do not use Commission-owned digital devices for personal purposes that may endanger data or system security, and maintain strict separation between personal and professional use.
Immediately report to the competent administration any hacking attempt, suspicious messages, unusual digital activity, or indicators of a potential security breach.
Refrain from sharing sensitive files or data through insecure or non-approved applications, and use only approved platforms and cloud storage tools.
Continuously update software, security systems, and devices in coordination with the competent administration to address emerging cyber threats.
Protect the Commission’s digital identity on websites and social media platforms, prevent misuse or impersonation, and do not create accounts or pages in the Commission’s name without official authorization.
Comply with professional digital conduct rules when using electronic media, including refraining from posting or circulating abusive, inciting, or unprofessional comments, whether officially or personally.
Maintain confidentiality of meeting content, digital documents, and internal work files, and refrain from reposting, circulating, or photographing them without official authorization from the Commission’s Board or the competent administration.
Refrain from storing sensitive data on personal or unprotected devices, and ensure encryption of data during transfer or archiving whenever necessary.

Article 27: Protocol for Responding to Cybersecurity Breaches

To safeguard digital systems and protect sensitive data of the National Human Rights Commission, including the Committee for the Prevention of Torture, the cybersecurity incident response protocol shall apply as follows:

Immediate reporting: Every member, staff member, or collaborator shall promptly report to the competent digital security body any suspected cyber incident, hacking attempt, or unusual activity affecting system or data integrity.
Activation of response: Upon receipt of a report, the competent body shall immediately activate the incident response team and take urgent measures to contain the incident and assess risks.
Containment and remediation: Affected systems or accounts shall be isolated, and necessary technical measures taken to prevent the spread of harm, while ensuring continuity of operations with minimal disruption.
Technical investigation: An investigation shall be initiated immediately to determine the source, scope, and nature of compromised data, prioritizing protection of sensitive and confidential information and applying internationally recognized technical standards.
Documentation and notification: The competent body shall prepare a brief report submitted to the Board, describing the incident, measures taken, and initial findings. Where necessary, coordination shall occur with relevant oversight or security authorities.
Recovery and preventive measures: Remedial work shall be completed, systems restored to a secure state, and preventive measures adopted to prevent recurrence, including software updates, strengthened digital security policies, and user training and awareness programs.

Article 28: Duty of Care

Members, staff, and collaborators shall exercise the highest degree of professional diligence and apply due diligence in all work relating to the Commission’s mandate, as follows:

Professional verification of facts: Make the greatest possible efforts to verify information, rely on credible and relevant sources, and confirm accuracy within reasonable professional limits.
Comprehensiveness and accuracy: Ensure thoroughness and temporal accuracy in handling information within the Commission’s mandate, taking into account all relevant data in full and in a timely manner to avoid omission of essential elements.
Assessment against human rights standards: Assess information and conclusions based on international human rights standards and treaties to which Lebanon is a party, ensuring consistency of actions and recommendations with the State’s human rights obligations.

Article 29: Sources of Information

In collecting and assessing information, members, staff, and collaborators shall comply with the following standards:

Guiding principles for information gathering: Be guided by confidentiality, transparency, impartiality, and integrity throughout the collection, analysis, and evaluation of information.
Protection of sources: Preserve the confidentiality of the identity of sources of testimony and information whenever disclosure may harm the persons concerned or expose them to risks.
Objectivity of information: Rely exclusively on objective, reliable facts, while observing standards of proof appropriate to the non-judicial nature of the Commission’s reports and findings.
Right of reply: Provide relevant government representatives an appropriate opportunity to comment on the assessments of the Commission and the Committee for the Prevention of Torture, respond to allegations attributed to them, and annex any written replies received by the Commission to the relevant reports.

Article 30: Handling Complaints

In addition to the provisions set out in the Commission’s internal regulations, and with a view to ensuring the effective handling of complaints relating to human rights violations, members, staff, and collaborators of the National Human Rights Commission shall adopt clear and transparent procedures for receiving and examining complaints, in accordance with the following standards:

Factual basis: The complaint shall not be manifestly unfounded and shall not lack an apparent basis or preliminary factual elements on which the Commission can rely.
Factual description: The complaint shall include a factual account of the alleged violations in a manner that enables the Commission to understand the nature of the allegation and its basic circumstances.
Respectful language: The complaint shall be free of obscene words or abusive expressions, and the Commission reserves the right not to accept complaints submitted in a form that is inconsistent with the principles of respect and propriety.
Standing of the complainant: The complaint shall be submitted by a person or a group of persons claiming to be victims of violations, or by any person or group of persons, including non-governmental organizations, acting in good faith and confirming that they possess direct or reliable knowledge of the alleged facts, based on clear information.

Article 31: Field Visits

Members of the Committee for the Prevention of Torture of the National Human Rights Commission, and any accompanying staff and collaborators, shall have full authority to enter and visit all places, facilities, and premises of deprivation of liberty in Lebanon, without exception, for the purpose of protecting detainees from arbitrary detention, torture, and other cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment or punishment.

In carrying out field visits, members of the Committee, its staff, and collaborators shall adhere to the following:

Cooperation and institutional dialogue: Cooperate with the competent authorities and engage in constructive dialogue with them to activate and further develop laws and regulations relating to detainees and places of deprivation of liberty.
Regular and unannounced visits: Conduct regular or unannounced visits at any time, without prior notice and without the need for authorization from any authority, whether administrative, judicial, or otherwise.
Interviews without monitoring: Conduct individual or group interviews with detainees in private, away from any monitoring, with the assistance of an interpreter where necessary, ensuring detainees’ freedom of expression and protection from pressure.
Interviewing relevant persons and access to information: Interview any person whom Committee members consider to possess relevant information or to be able to provide necessary assistance, and obtain unrestricted access to information, including confidential information, to the extent required for the Committee’s tasks.
Confidentiality of information: Refrain from disclosing any confidential information without the consent of the person concerned or the source of the information, except where permitted by law and in a manner not contrary to the best interests of the victim.
Receiving requests and complaints: Receive complaints or requests for interviews, inspections, or medical examinations, and examine them within the Committee’s competence and in accordance with professional standards.
Compliance with international standards: Ensure that visits are carried out in accordance with applicable international standards, in particular those of the Subcommittee on Prevention of Torture and the Optional Protocol to the Convention against Torture.
Security protection: Obtain official security protection during visits when requested and in consultation with State representatives, provided that this does not compromise the confidentiality or privacy required by the nature of the Committee’s tasks.

Article 32: Public Statements and Communication with Authorities

In preparing public statements or engaging in official communication with authorities, members and staff of the National Human Rights Commission shall adhere to the following:

Accuracy and objectivity: When issuing considered opinions, particularly in public statements concerning allegations of human rights violations, they shall present facts and positions accurately and objectively and clearly set out the responses provided by the concerned government, without distortion.
Respect for the mandate and institutional neutrality: Ensure that all statements issued by the Commission on the human rights situation in Lebanon remain consistently aligned with its legal mandate and with the requirements of integrity, independence, and neutrality, thereby contributing to constructive dialogue and cooperation among stakeholders to protect and promote human rights.
Official communication and right of reply: Ensure that findings and recommendations are communicated to the competent government authorities through official channels, and grant those authorities an appropriate period to respond or engage with them before publication or any related action, thereby reinforcing transparency and institutional fairness.

Article 33: Fair and Transparent Procurement

Overall objective of procurement: The guiding objective of all procurement undertaken by the National Human Rights Commission and the Committee for the Prevention of Torture is to achieve best value for money by selecting the most advantageous offer based on a range of elements, including price, quality of goods or services, timely delivery capacity, environmental performance, and compliance with social and labour standards.
Contracting criteria and selection of offers: To ensure best value for money, the solicitation and selection process shall take into account the following criteria:

Encouraging competition among bidders to ensure equal opportunity and procedural transparency.
Ensuring impartial and comprehensive evaluation of all bids on the basis of clear criteria disclosed in advance, preventing any form of bias or favoritism.
Selecting the most suitable and practical offer that is expected to meet the requirements of the National Human Rights Commission and the Committee for the Prevention of Torture in the best manner, as set out in the request for proposals or invitation.

Article 34: Use of Official Time and Office Property

Proper use of resources: Members, staff, and collaborators are responsible for ensuring the proper and prudent use of the Commission’s resources, including computers, communication tools, vehicles, and all office equipment, and restricting their use to official business. During working hours, members, staff, and collaborators shall devote their time exclusively to activities related to the Commission’s mandate and functions.
Limited personal use: Any personal use of office equipment or resources, including internet, email, and telephone, shall remain minimal and shall be reasonable, not conflict with the Commission’s interests, not affect official duties or work efficiency, and not expose information security or the Commission’s systems to risk.

Article 35: Accuracy of Records

Professional documentation: Members, staff, and collaborators shall record all activities they undertake and prepare accurate, complete, and clear records in accordance with procedures and practices in force within the Commission, ensuring sound workflow and the traceability of decisions and related actions.
Prohibition of record tampering: Members, staff, and collaborators are prohibited from recording time or dates inaccurately, deliberately providing false or misleading information, making untrue claims, or falsifying any official document of the Commission. Any such act constitutes a serious violation requiring appropriate disciplinary action.

Article 36: Confidentiality and Protection of Information

Duty to protect confidentiality: Members, staff, and collaborators are responsible for safeguarding the security of any confidential information submitted to the Commission or the Committee for the Prevention of Torture, or generated by the Commission or the Committee. They shall exercise the highest degree of caution in handling such information to prevent unauthorized disclosure, misuse, or access by unauthorized persons.
Prohibition of improper use of information: Members, staff, and collaborators are prohibited from using information accessed through their functions for personal benefit or for any purpose other than the official purpose for which it was collected. Those who, by virtue of their tasks, have access to personal data relating to colleagues or any other person shall respect privacy and handle such data with due care and strict confidentiality, in accordance with applicable legal standards.

Article 37: Intellectual Property Rights

Ownership of produced works: All rights, including ownership rights, copyright, patents, and intellectual, research, or technical works produced or developed by members, staff, or collaborators in the course of their official functions shall be the exclusive property of the National Human Rights Commission, as the entity for whose benefit the work was created.
Rights of use and disposition: The National Human Rights Commission shall have full right to use and dispose of such works in any manner it deems appropriate, including publication or non-publication, amendment, adaptation, reproduction, or use for purposes different from the original purpose, without giving rise to any additional financial or moral rights for the creators, unless otherwise stipulated in the contractual arrangement.

Article 38: Personal Conduct

The private lives of members of the National Human Rights Commission and the Committee for the Prevention of Torture, its staff, and collaborators remain a personal matter. However, circumstances may arise in which personal conduct or activities outside work affect the image and reputation of the Commission or public trust in it, even if such conduct is not directly related to official duties.

Accordingly, members, staff, and collaborators shall be mindful of the potential impact of their private conduct on the Commission and on their professional standing and shall act, both within and outside work, in a manner consistent with the ethical principles and institutional values upon which the National Human Rights Commission is founded, preserving its dignity, independence, and integrity.

Article 39: Compliance with National Laws

Members of the National Human Rights Commission and the Committee for the Prevention of Torture, its staff, and collaborators shall at all times comply with applicable national laws and regulations and refrain from any conduct that may be construed as an abuse of the powers, privileges, or immunities granted to them by virtue of their functions.
More specifically, members, staff, and collaborators shall:

Fulfil all personal legal obligations and fully comply with applicable regulations of all kinds.
Strictly comply with relevant laws and standards, particularly those relating to bank accounts, currency transactions, taxation, vehicle purchase and transfer of ownership, traffic violations, import and export operations, employment of domestic workers, and other similar legal obligations.
Fully cooperate with law enforcement authorities, including paying due fines on time and respecting administrative and security procedures imposed by competent authorities.

Article 40: Work Environment and Occupational Safety

The National Human Rights Commission is committed to providing a safe and healthy working environment for all its members, staff, and collaborators. It shall not tolerate, under any circumstances, any level of violence or threat of violence, regardless of its form or where it occurs, whether within the Commission’s premises or elsewhere. Any act of violence or threat of violence shall constitute grounds for appropriate disciplinary action.
Members, staff, and collaborators are prohibited from attending the workplace or participating in official missions under the influence of alcohol or any substance that impairs professional capacity or may harm the image and reputation of the Commission.
Smoking is strictly prohibited inside all workplaces of the National Human Rights Commission, in any form or by any means, including conventional smoking (combustion), heated tobacco products, electronic smoking (e-cigarettes and vaping), vaporizing devices or similar inhalation devices, waterpipes (shisha), cigars, or pipes. Smoking shall be permitted only in designated areas outside buildings, in accordance with applicable regulations.
Members, staff, and collaborators are expected to exercise the highest level of professional judgment and to refrain from any conduct that may negatively affect their performance, cause harm to themselves or colleagues, or expose the working environment or the Commission’s reputation to any risks.

Article 41: Professional Conduct Rules Related to Drugs

Legal compliance: Members of the National Human Rights Commission and the Committee for the Prevention of Torture, as well as staff and collaborators, shall comply with all relevant national and international laws relating to drugs. Accordingly, the possession, distribution, or use of any legally prohibited narcotic substances is forbidden, whether inside or outside the workplace.
Prohibition of illicit drug use: Members, staff, and collaborators are strictly prohibited from using any illegal narcotic substances at any time or in any place, whether during working hours or outside work.
Misuse of medication: Members, staff, and collaborators are prohibited from misusing medications that may lead to addiction, whether prescribed or over-the-counter. They are also prohibited from using such medications in a manner that impairs professional capacity, endangers themselves or colleagues, or harms the image and reputation of the Commission.
Reporting violations: Members, staff, and collaborators shall report any breach of these professional conduct rules related to drugs, or any suspected incident involving misuse of prohibited substances, to the competent authority within the Commission, ensuring confidentiality and following applicable procedures.

Article 42: Personal and Intimate Relationships in the Workplace

The National Human Rights Commission acknowledges that personal or intimate relationships may arise or develop among individuals working within it, and that the presence of a spouse, partner, relative, or close friend within the Commission’s workforce is not, in itself, a reason to automatically consider a conflict of interest to exist.

However, such relationships must remain within the personal sphere and must not affect professional performance, the discharge of duties, or create any perception of lack of integrity or favoritism, or generate a work environment in which colleagues feel discomfort, unfairness, or discrimination.

Persons involved in such relationships shall:

Take all necessary measures to ensure that the relationship does not affect workflow or the objectivity of professional decisions.
Refrain from any conduct that may be interpreted as favoritism or abuse of position.
Comply with professional conduct rules and the principles of integrity and conflict-of-interest prevention applied within the Commission.
Inform the competent authority within the Commission, where appropriate, of any relationship that may create a potential conflict of interest, to ensure that appropriate measures are taken to preserve professional neutrality.

The Commission reserves the right to take appropriate administrative measures where personal conduct has a direct or potential negative impact on the work environment, colleagues’ rights, or the reputation and independence of the Commission.

Article 43: Abuse and Domestic Violence

Abuse and domestic violence constitute serious acts contrary to the ethical principles and institutional values of the National Human Rights Commission, due to their serious implications for the Commission’s image and reputation and their incompatibility with the Commission’s duty to ensure a safe environment based on respect and physical and psychological safety for all members, staff, and collaborators.
The Commission treats cases of abuse and domestic violence with the utmost seriousness and will not tolerate any such conduct by any of its members, staff, or collaborators, whether occurring within the family or within influential personal relationships connected to personnel of the Commission.
Abuse and domestic violence include, by way of example and without limitation, the following acts:

Any statement or act reasonably understood to be intended to cause physical, psychological, or emotional harm to another person, regardless of gender.
Any act or threat of physical or sexual assault that results, or may result, in bodily harm or suffering to another person.
Sexual assault in all its forms.
Intimidation, verbal harassment, emotional abuse, threats, or any similar abusive conduct.
Destruction of property with the intent to harm, threaten, or intimidate.

The Commission reserves the right to take appropriate measures, including disciplinary measures, where an individual’s conduct has a direct or potential impact on performance of duties, the work environment, or the Commission’s reputation and independence.

Article 44: Employment of Domestic Workers

Members of the National Human Rights Commission and the Committee for the Prevention of Torture, as well as staff and collaborators, shall ensure respect for the fundamental rights of domestic workers and protect them from any form of exploitation, discrimination, or forced dependency. In particular, any practice that constitutes an extension of the kafala system is prohibited, including confiscating passports, restricting freedom of movement, or imposing forced labour, consistent with the principles adopted by the Commission regarding the regulation of domestic work in Lebanon.

First: Rights of domestic workers that must be respected
a. Right to rest and decent work: Ensure a paid weekly day off, compliance with daytime working hours, daily rest of no less than eight consecutive hours, and rest breaks during the day, and refrain from assigning night work except under conditions that ensure safety and adequate rest.

Right to humane treatment and non-discrimination: Ensure working conditions that preserve human dignity, prevent all forms of abuse, exploitation, threats, or harassment, and guarantee a safe working environment. Any discrimination based on nationality, color, religion, or social status is prohibited and constitutes a grave violation of ethical rules and the law.

Second: Obligations toward domestic workers
a. Responsible recruitment: Use reputable local agencies that comply with the code of conduct issued by the Syndicate of Owners of Domestic Worker Recruitment Offices in Lebanon.

Legal and administrative compliance: Verify the legality of migration documents, ensure full payment of wages on time, and comply with applicable tax regulations and mandatory insurance requirements.
Prohibition of violence and abuse: All forms of violence or abuse against domestic workers are strictly prohibited. Such conduct constitutes a serious violation warranting appropriate disciplinary action in accordance with the Code of Ethics.

Article 45: Conflict of Interest

A conflict of interest means any situation in which the private interests of a member, staff member, or collaborator of the National Human Rights Commission overlap, or may reasonably be perceived to overlap, with their ability to act with independence, integrity, and impartiality, or may affect the performance of their duties in the best interests of the Commission and its mandate. This includes any circumstance that may affect, or could be likely to affect, professional objectivity or public confidence in the Commission.
A conflict of interest does not require the conflicting interests to be actually present. The appearance of a conflict of interest, or the reasonable foreseeability of such a conflict, is sufficient to negatively affect the image, reputation, and independence of the Commission. All members, staff, and collaborators shall immediately disclose any actual, potential, or apparent conflict of interest and take appropriate measures to manage it and avoid its effects.
Members of the National Human Rights Commission shall devote themselves fully to their work throughout the term of their mandate and shall not engage in any paid or unpaid work that may conflict with their functions, compromise their independence, or affect their professional performance, whether directly or indirectly.
Members of the National Human Rights Commission are prohibited from holding any position incompatible with their independence, including the office of minister, any governmental position, membership of Parliament, chairmanship or membership of the board of a public institution, chairmanship or membership of a municipal council, holding a senior party political position, or any trade union or professional role that may affect their independence or create a conflict of interest. They are also prohibited from holding any position in an entity that directly or indirectly participates in the appointment or nomination of Commission members.
Members of the National Human Rights Commission are prohibited from running for parliamentary or municipal elections, or for the position of mukhtar, during their term. They may not assume any political or public administrative office until two full years after the end of their term, in order to preserve independence, prevent political influence, and avoid actual, potential, or apparent conflicts of interest.

Article 46: Neutrality and Independence in Expression and Institutional Relations

Members of the National Human Rights Commission and the Committee for the Prevention of Torture, as well as staff and collaborators, shall refrain from seeking or accepting any instructions, guidance, or interference from any government official, public authority, or any external party, under all circumstances, particularly where such interference aims to:

Influence internal deliberations, policy-making, or the overall direction of the Commission or the Committee for the Prevention of Torture.
Change or amend any procedure or decision, whether favorable or unfavorable.
Secure a promotion, benefit, reward, or any form of undue or unlawful advantage.

Members, staff, and collaborators shall maintain neutrality and avoid publicly expressing, by any means, their personal opinions or beliefs, including religious or ideological beliefs, or engaging in political or partisan activities that may conflict with their duties or affect their neutrality or independence, or that may undermine public confidence in the Commission.
Members, staff, and collaborators, whether acting in an official or personal capacity, shall refrain from any speech or conduct that glorifies violence or incites hatred or hostility against any group in society, including ethnic, national, or religious minorities, or persons based on sex, gender, sexual orientation, political opinions, social status, or any other personal status. Any such speech or conduct constitutes a grave violation of the Code of Ethics and fundamental human rights principles.

Article 47: Relations with Non-Governmental Actors

The National Human Rights Commission establishes working and cooperative relationships with non-governmental actors, including local and international NGOs, private sector entities, charitable and humanitarian organizations, academic and research institutions, for the purpose of strengthening human rights protection, promoting human rights culture, and supporting the Commission’s mandate. Such cooperation shall be conducted in accordance with the principles of transparency, independence, and neutrality.

In dealing with such actors, members of the Commission and the Committee for the Prevention of Torture, as well as staff and collaborators, shall:

Preserve the integrity, independence, and neutrality of the Commission and ensure that no cooperation, support, or communication affects its ability to perform its functions independently and free from any direct or indirect external influence.
Avoid any relationship or engagement that could result in an actual, potential, or apparent conflict of interest, and immediately disclose any circumstance that may affect objectivity or negatively reflect on the Commission’s reputation or institutional independence.
Ensure that all cooperation, support, or partnerships are consistent with the principles of the Commission and with relevant international standards, in particular the Paris Principles on the status, independence, and mandate of national human rights institutions.
Maintain transparency in relations with NGOs and the private sector, and ensure that any memoranda of understanding, agreements, or cooperation projects are subject to internal oversight and applicable financial and administrative rules, ensuring accountability and preventing misuse of resources.
Refrain from accepting gifts, donations, or benefits from any private entity if they may influence the Commission’s decisions, compromise its integrity or neutrality, or create a perception of influence or bias that could harm its reputation or public trust.
Ensure that any cooperation with the private sector or academic institutions serves the public interest and protects human rights, free from narrow commercial objectives or political or personal interests incompatible with the Commission’s mandate or institutional values.

Article 48: Freedom of Association and Restrictions Related to Political Activity

Members of the National Human Rights Commission and the Committee for the Prevention of Torture, as well as staff and collaborators, have the right to establish or join an official association or organization for the purpose of developing staff and collaborators’ activities, enabling discussion of workplace matters, and submitting proposals relating to public policies and conditions of service, within limits that do not conflict with the Commission’s principles, independence, and the applicable Code of Ethics.
Members of the National Human Rights Commission and the Committee for the Prevention of Torture, as well as staff and collaborators, are prohibited from engaging as active members in any political group or political party, whether local, regional, or international, in accordance with the requirements of neutrality and independence inherent in the Commission’s mandate.
If a member, staff member, or collaborator was affiliated with a political group or party prior to joining the Commission, they shall freeze their membership throughout their service and fully refrain from any direct or indirect political activity, in order to preserve institutional neutrality and avoid any appearance of political influence on the Commission’s work or that of the Committee for the Prevention of Torture.
All members, staff, and collaborators shall provide a written disclosure upon commencement of service of any previous or current political affiliation, or any leadership role or active membership in any political group or party. This disclosure must be updated immediately upon any change in the political or associational status of the member, staff member, or collaborator.
Failure to disclose, providing inaccurate information, or continuing prohibited political activity constitutes a serious violation of the Code of Ethics and shall subject the perpetrator to appropriate disciplinary measures, including suspension or termination of service, in accordance with applicable regulations.

Article 49: Acceptance of Gifts, Medals, and Decorations

Members, staff, and collaborators of the National Human Rights Commission shall refrain from requesting or soliciting any gift, service, or benefit, whether directly or indirectly, that is linked to their official duties. They are prohibited from accepting any gift that may reasonably be understood as intended to influence their performance, or that may place them in an improper or non-neutral position, or raise suspicion of undermining the Commission’s independence, neutrality, or institutional reputation.
By way of a narrow exception, symbolic gifts may be accepted where refusal could reasonably cause embarrassment or harm institutional or diplomatic relations, provided that such gifts are of modest value, are not connected to any benefit, privilege, or interest, and do not create any express or implied obligation.
Where a symbolic gift is accepted in the exceptional circumstances permitted, it shall be disclosed in accordance with applicable internal procedures and, if of an official nature or bearing the identity of the donor entity, shall be deposited with the competent administrative body. This shall be done to enhance transparency and prevent any suspicion of conflict of interest or misuse of office.
No medal, decoration, or commemorative shield may be accepted unless it is addressed to the National Human Rights Commission in its institutional capacity, or unless an explicit prior administrative decision authorizes acceptance of such an honor. Members, staff, and collaborators are prohibited from accepting any medal or shield granted to them in a personal capacity where it is linked to their official functions or may be perceived as affecting their independence, unless the Commission provides prior written approval.

Article 50: Media Relations and Public Statements

When expressing public opinions or positions, members, staff, and collaborators shall ensure that their official performance is not influenced by their political or personal views, orientations, or convictions. Their analyses, conclusions, and recommendations shall be based exclusively on objective assessments of cases and on relevant international and national human rights standards.
When members, staff, or collaborators speak to the media on matters within their responsibilities or fields of expertise, they do so as representatives of the National Human Rights Commission, not in their personal capacity as individuals, academics, or independent experts. Their statements shall reflect the Commission’s official positions and legal mandate and shall be accurate, measured, and consistent with its principles.
Before providing any information or statements to the media, or issuing any public statement relating to the work of the Commission or the Committee for the Prevention of Torture, prior approval of the Commission’s Board shall be obtained, in accordance with internal mechanisms and procedures, to ensure the accuracy of the information and its alignment with institutional policies and positions.
In all media engagement, members, staff, and collaborators shall act with transparency and responsibility, respect the confidentiality of information accessed through their functions, and refrain from statements that may be understood as biased or misleading, or that may harm the Commission, undermine its neutrality and independence, or negatively affect its reputation.

Article 51: Post-Service Obligations

Former members, staff, and collaborators of the National Human Rights Commission remain bound, without time limitation, by the duty of confidentiality and non-disclosure regarding all official information, data, and files they accessed or obtained in the course of their duties. After the end of their service or mandate, they are prohibited from disclosing any confidential information acquired by virtue of their positions, or from using it, directly or indirectly, for personal, professional, or financial gain, or for the benefit of any other party.
Former members, staff, and collaborators are prohibited, when making public statements or publishing materials relating to the National Human Rights Commission through media, digital platforms, or other channels, from claiming or implying any official or representative capacity for the Commission after the end of their service, or from issuing statements that may be understood as expressing the Commission’s positions, policies, or orientations without explicit written authorization.
Former members, staff, and collaborators shall refrain from exploiting their previous status or relationship with the Commission to obtain privileges, benefits, or professional opportunities, or to influence any ongoing procedures, decisions, or processes within the Commission, in order to preserve its independence, neutrality, and institutional reputation.
All documents, records, correspondence, data, and reports prepared or used during service remain the exclusive property of the National Human Rights Commission. Former members, staff, and collaborators may not retain copies, use, or transfer such materials, except where explicit written approval is granted by the Commission in accordance with applicable internal controls.

Article 52: Use of Official Email

The use of email addresses belonging to the National Human Rights Commission, including the Committee for the Prevention of Torture, whether sent from or received by it, shall be restricted to professional purposes exclusively connected to the Commission’s mandate and functions. Official email shall be used as a means for administrative communication, coordination, and engagement, in accordance with applicable rules of professional conduct and ethics.
Any improper use of official email constitutes a violation that may expose the Commission to multiple risks, including, by way of example and without limitation:

Dissemination or circulation of inaccurate or misleading information.
Infringement of intellectual property rights and copyright.
Harm to the Commission’s reputation or negative impact on its independence and credibility.

Members, staff, and collaborators shall refrain from sending or circulating any confidential information, prohibited data, or unauthorized content via email. They are also prohibited from sharing any material that may be understood as abusive, biased, misleading, or inconsistent with the Commission’s mandate and legal functions.
Members, staff, and collaborators shall use precise and clear professional language in all official email correspondence, refrain from inappropriate expressions, and exercise caution before forwarding or sharing any content, ensuring its necessity, appropriateness, and the reliability of its source.

Article 53: Preventing and Addressing Cyber Risks

Members, staff, and collaborators are prohibited from engaging in any online activity that may expose the Commission, its systems, or its data to risk, including opening suspicious messages, links, or files, or using insecure digital platforms. They are required at all times to comply with the highest standards of digital security.
Participation in any form of online gambling, or the use of betting websites, applications, or online games of chance, is strictly prohibited, due to the financial, personal, and security risks that may affect the Commission, its devices, or stored information.
Members, staff, and collaborators shall take all precautions to avoid phishing traps, including refraining from:

Opening attachments or links from unknown sources.
Providing personal or professional information through unofficial links or messages.
Entering passwords on unprotected or unknown websites.
Responding to messages requesting updates to financial or technical information without verification through official channels.

Members, staff, and collaborators are prohibited from directly engaging with any attempt at cyber blackmail or threats targeting the individual or the Commission, and shall immediately:

Refrain from responding or interacting.
Report to the competent administrative authority within the Commission.
Preserve all digital evidence (messages, images, links).
Refrain from providing any information or data of any kind.
Fully comply with the technical and legal instructions issued by the Commission for handling such incidents.

The Commission commits to providing guidance and training to strengthen awareness of cybersecurity, including digital verification tools, methods for detecting online fraud, and mechanisms for data protection and digital privacy.
Members, staff, and collaborators shall use strong passwords, enable two-factor authentication, regularly update devices and software, and refrain from using public or insecure networks to access Commission platforms or official email.
Any member, staff member, or collaborator who suspects a security breach, is subjected to an attempted fraud or phishing attack, or observes suspicious digital activity, shall immediately inform the competent administration to take necessary technical measures and mitigate potential harm.

Article 54: Use of Social Media

Social media platforms shall be used, where appropriate, in a manner that enhances the Commission’s communication and public engagement, without compromising the neutrality and independence required by its mandate.
Members, staff, and collaborators, when using social media in their personal or professional capacities, shall be mindful of their official standing, ethical obligations, and the dignity associated with their work, and shall ensure they do not take any position or publish any content contrary to the Commission’s institutional values.
Members, staff, and collaborators shall refrain from publishing or sharing any opinions, information, or materials that may undermine the Commission’s neutrality, independence, or integrity, or negatively affect public confidence, whether or not they disclose their identity or official position.
Members, staff, and collaborators are prohibited from engaging, on social media, in any discussion or interaction relating to matters before the Commission or likely to be brought before it, including complaints, mediation requests, and sensitive human rights files.
Members, staff, and collaborators shall use restrained professional language when posting or commenting, think in advance about the potential impact of any post, comment, image, or share on the Commission’s image and mandate, and refrain from commenting on any content that may harm the Commission or be misunderstood.
Members, staff, and collaborators shall review any digital content posted prior to their appointment or engagement with the Commission and assess whether it may harm their neutrality or independence. Where necessary, such content shall be removed or guidance sought from competent internal bodies on how to address it.
Members, staff, and collaborators shall be aware of the risks associated with disclosing personal data or location information through social media, especially risks arising from posts by family members, friends, or colleagues.
Members, staff, and collaborators shall remain vigilant regarding their conduct in public places, given the possibility of being photographed or recorded and having such material disseminated via social media, which may affect the Commission’s image or reputation.
Members, staff, and collaborators shall refrain from publishing or disclosing any confidential, unpublished, or prohibited information, and from misusing social media in a manner that misleads colleagues, partners, or the public, violates the Code of Ethics, or exposes the Commission to risk.

Chapter Eight: Final Provisions

Article 55: Amendment of the Regulations

The provisions of these Regulations may be amended by a decision issued by the Commission’s Board and approved by a decree adopted by the Council of Ministers, upon the proposal of the Minister of Justice.

Article 56: Entry into Force

These Regulations shall enter into force immediately upon their publication in the Official Gazette.

هذه المقالة متاحة أيضًا بـ: العربية (Arabic)