Internal Bylaws
Decree No. 1762 dated 7 November 2025
Internal Bylaws 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 of 27 October 2016, as amended (Establishment of the National Human Rights Commission, Including the Committee for the Prevention of Torture), particularly Article 7 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),
Upon the proposal of the Minister of Justice,
After consultation with the Council of State (Opinion No. 294/2024–2025 dated 11 September 2025 and Opinion No. 7/2021–2022 dated 23 November 2021),
And following the approval of the Council of Ministers at its session held on 9 October 2025,
Hereby decrees as follows:
Chapter One – General Provisions
Article 1
Pursuant to the provisions of Law No. 62/2016 of 27 October 2016 on the establishment of the National Human Rights Commission, including the Committee for the Prevention of Torture, these bylaws shall be entitled: Internal Bylaws of the National Human Rights Commission, Including the Committee for the Prevention of Torture. They shall complement the provisions of the law establishing the Commission.
Article 2
The terms used in these Internal Bylaws shall have the following meanings:
a. The Commission: The National Human Rights Commission, Including the Committee for the Prevention of Torture.
b. Chairperson of the Commission: The Chairperson of the National Human Rights Commission, Including the Committee for the Prevention of Torture.
c. The Commission Board: The members of the National Human Rights Commission, Including the Committee for the Prevention of Torture, convened as a body.
d. The Committee: The Committee for the Prevention of Torture.
e. The Bureau of the Commission: Composed of the Chairperson of the Commission and the members of the Bureau, namely the Vice-Chairperson, the Secretary, and the Treasurer.
f. Vice-Chairperson: The Chairperson of the Committee for the Prevention of Torture and Vice-Chairperson of the National Human Rights Commission, Including the Committee for the Prevention of Torture.
g. Chairperson of the Committee: The Chairperson of the Committee for the Prevention of Torture.
h. Rapporteur: A member assigned to investigate any complaint received by the Commission within its mandate.
i. Commissioner: A member entrusted with the functions of a commissionerate within the Commission.
j. Standing Committees: Committees established to carry out ongoing functions within the Commission.
k. Ad Hoc Committees: Committees established to carry out specific tasks within the Commission.
l. Executive Director of the Commission: The Executive Director of the National Human Rights Commission.
m. Executive Director of the Committee: The Executive Director of the Committee for the Prevention of Torture.
n. Deprivation of Liberty: Any form of detention, imprisonment, or placement under supervision in a public or private place of detention from which persons are not permitted to leave at will, pursuant to an order issued by a judicial, administrative, or other public authority.
o. Expert: A specialist in a particular field whose services may be required by the Commission or the Committee for a specific assignment, or with whom either may enter into a contract for a period of one year or more.
p. Volunteer: Any person working with the Commission or the Committee without a fixed remuneration and without a defined professional or functional position or authority.
Chapter Two – Election and Powers
Section One – Election
Article 3 – Election of the Chairperson, Secretary, and Treasurer
a. Following the taking of the oath, the members shall convene upon the invitation of the eldest member or at the request of three members. They shall elect from among themselves (excluding members of the Committee) by secret ballot a Chairperson, a Secretary, and a Treasurer for a non-renewable term of six years.
A quorum for the first round shall be constituted by the presence of a two-thirds majority of the members. The candidate receiving an absolute majority of the votes cast shall be declared elected.
b. If the quorum is not achieved in the first round, a second round shall be held one hour later. The quorum shall then be deemed constituted by the members present. The candidate receiving a relative majority of the votes cast by those present shall be declared elected. In the event of a tie, the older candidate shall be declared elected.
c. The election session shall be chaired by the eldest member who is not a candidate. If that member is unable to attend, the session shall be chaired by the eldest member present who is not a candidate.
d. The youngest member present who is not a candidate shall record the proceedings of the session and shall sign the minutes together with the Chair of the session.
Article 4 – Election of the Chairperson of the Committee
Following the election of the Chairperson of the Commission, the Secretary, and the Treasurer, the members of the Committee shall meet in a separate room, subject to the quorum requirements applicable to the first or second round, to elect a Chairperson for the Committee, who shall automatically serve as Vice-Chairperson of the Commission, in accordance with the procedures and conditions set out in Article 3.
Article 5 – Nomination and Withdrawal Procedure
Members wishing to run for the positions of Chairperson, Vice-Chairperson, Secretary, or Treasurer shall declare their candidacy at least three days prior to the election session.
Candidates may withdraw their candidacy before the commencement of the election process.
Voting shall be conducted separately for each position. A member who is not part of the Committee may not run for more than one position within the Bureau of the Commission.
Section Two – Bureau of the Commission
Article 6 – Composition
The Bureau of the Commission shall consist of the Chairperson of the Commission as Chair, and the Vice-Chairperson, Secretary, and Treasurer as members.
Article 7 – Powers and Meetings
The Bureau of the Commission shall meet once a week upon invitation of its Chairperson and shall be responsible for the following:
a. Supervising the proper functioning of the Commission and overseeing the affairs of its personnel.
b. Deliberating on matters relating to the Commission and the Committee and submitting the necessary proposals and recommendations to the Commission Board.
c. Preparing the agenda of the Commission Board.
Section Three – Commission Board
Article 8 – Composition and Powers of the Commission Board
The Commission Board shall consist of all members of the Commission.
The Board shall determine the policy of the National Human Rights Commission, Including the Committee for the Prevention of Torture, and direct its activities in accordance with applicable laws, regulations, international conventions, and guiding principles, in order to fulfil the purpose for which the Commission was established and to ensure its proper functioning.
The Board shall exercise, in particular, the following powers, without limitation:
a. Amending the Internal Bylaws and Financial Regulations.
b. Adopting and amending the Code of Ethics and Rules of Professional Conduct.
c. Adopting and amending the Commission’s strategic action plan.
d. Adopting the annual budget, annual financial statements, annual balance sheet, and annual inventory.
e. Authorizing competitive examinations, tests, or interviews for the recruitment of Commission and Committee personnel, determining their conditions, appointing examination committees, and establishing their methodology.
f. Approving the appointment of employees, contractors, and wage earners.
g. Approving contracts with experts, lawyers, and consultants.
h. Establishing a roster of experts, specialists, and lawyers accredited by the Commission and the Committee.
i. Authorizing litigation before courts and arbitral tribunals.
j. Accepting donations and grants consistent with the Commission’s objectives and purposes.
k. Approving the acquisition of movable and immovable property.
l. Deciding upon proposals and recommendations submitted by the Bureau of the Commission.
m. Examining, reviewing, auditing, and approving the annual report.
n. Declaring a membership vacancy for any reason whatsoever at least one year before the expiry of the term of office.
o. Appointing a Rapporteur from among the Commission’s members to investigate any complaint falling within its mandate, in accordance with Article 19 of Law No. 62/2016.
p. Establishing and dissolving standing or ad hoc committees in accordance with Article 12 of Law No. 62/2016.
q. Deciding urgent matters raised by the Chairperson or Vice-Chairperson outside the agenda.
r. Mandating a member of the Commission or establishing a committee chaired by one of its members to investigate any complaint or information concerning professional misconduct, or to inspect the offices of the Commission or the Committee.
s. Providing opinions on matters referred to the Commission by competent authorities or initiated by the Commission itself concerning compliance with human rights standards.
t. Issuing opinions, on its own initiative, regarding all legislation, decrees, decisions, draft laws, draft decrees, and policies directly or indirectly related to the protection and promotion of human rights.
Article 9 – Meetings of the Commission Board
a. The Commission Board shall meet once a week and whenever necessary upon invitation by the Chairperson of the Commission or upon a written request from the Chairperson of the Committee or at least three members. Such request shall be submitted to the Chairperson of the Commission, who shall be required to convene a meeting within one day of receiving the request.
A meeting shall be validly constituted in the presence of at least an absolute majority of the members. Decisions shall be adopted by consensus or by relative majority. In the event of a tie, the Chairperson shall have the casting vote.
b. Invitations, accompanied by the agenda, shall be sent via the official email addresses of the Commission members. Electronic acknowledgment of receipt shall constitute sufficient proof of notification. Invitations shall be sent at least 48 hours before the meeting, except in urgent cases, where invitations may be sent through mobile communication applications and shall also include the agenda.
Article 10 – Attendance at Meetings
a. Pursuant to Article 11 of the Law establishing the Commission, any member who is absent from three consecutive ordinary meetings without a legitimate excuse, as determined by the Commission Board, after having been duly notified and where such absence has been recorded in the minutes, shall be deemed to have resigned automatically.
Such automatic resignation shall be declared by a decision of the Commission Board adopted by a two-thirds majority of its members.
b. The Chairperson shall send a written notice to any member who is absent from two consecutive meetings without a legitimate excuse, requesting an explanation for the absences.
A member deemed to have resigned automatically shall not participate in the vote concerning the declaration of such resignation but shall have the right to present a defence before the Commission Board.
c. The Chairperson of the Commission shall notify the Council of Ministers and the authority responsible for proposing nominations of the vacancy in membership so that a replacement may be appointed in accordance with the procedures set out in Article 8 of the Law establishing the Commission.
Section Four – Powers of the Chairperson, Secretary, and Treasurer
Article 11 – Chairperson
The Chairperson of the Commission shall oversee the proper implementation of the decisions of the Commission Board and shall take all necessary measures to ensure the smooth functioning of the Commission.
The Chairperson shall preside over meetings of the Commission Board. In the Chairperson’s absence, the Vice-Chairperson shall act in his or her place. If the Vice-Chairperson is also absent, the oldest member of the Commission shall preside.
For this purpose, the Chairperson shall exercise the powers assigned under Law No. 62/2016 and shall, in particular, but not exclusively:
a. Represent the Commission before national authorities, international organizations, and institutions, and may delegate this function to the Vice-Chairperson or another member of the Commission when necessary.
b. Convene ordinary and extraordinary meetings of the Commission. The Chairperson shall be required to convene an extraordinary meeting within one day of receiving a written request from the Chairperson of the Committee or from three members.
c. Sign the draft budget and submit it to the Minister of Finance within the prescribed time limits and in accordance with the procedures set forth in the Public Accounting Law.
d. Authorize expenditures of the Commission in accordance with the Public Accounting Law, the Commission’s Financial Regulations, and other applicable legal provisions.
e. Sign employment and consultancy decisions and contracts following approval by the Commission Board.
f. Submit the Commission’s and the Committee’s consolidated annual report, including the annual programme, achievements, and challenges encountered, to the Presidency of the Republic, the Presidency of the Parliament, the Presidency of the Council of Ministers, and the President of the Supreme Judicial Council, and publish it in the Official Gazette after approval by the Commission Board.
g. Present a summary of the annual report before Parliament if Parliament decides to discuss it.
h. Invite individuals and organizations to attend or participate in Commission meetings and activities, subject to approval by the Commission Board.
i. Deposit the Commission’s funds into its accounts against receipts signed jointly by the Treasurer and the Head of the Finance Department.
j. Delegate certain powers to the Vice-Chairperson or to another member of the Commission Board.
Article 12 – Secretary and Treasurer
a. Secretary
The Secretary shall exercise the powers assigned under Law No. 62/2016 and shall, in particular:
Maintain attendance records of members and verify the quorum at the beginning of each meeting;
Record the minutes of meetings of the Bureau and the Commission Board in cooperation with the Executive Director of the Commission;
Sign the minutes jointly with the Chairperson; all minutes shall be accurately numbered and dated;
Maintain the minutes of meetings and the personal files of members.
b. Treasurer
The Treasurer shall exercise the powers assigned under Law No. 62/2016 and within the regulatory framework established by the Commission’s Financial Regulations.
Section Five – Ad Hoc Committees and Standing Committees
Article 13 – Ad Hoc Committees
a. Pursuant to Article 12 of Law No. 62/2016, the Commission may establish ad hoc committees from among its members to carry out specific tasks.
b. The Commission Board shall appoint the Chairperson and members of an ad hoc committee upon the proposal of the Chairperson of the Commission or upon a proposal submitted by three members through the Chairperson. The committee’s mandate and membership shall be specified in the decision establishing it, and it shall consist of no fewer than three members.
c. Each committee shall determine its own priorities and hold the meetings necessary to carry out the tasks assigned by the Commission Board. Each committee shall adopt a work programme indicating the expected completion date of its work, a tentative timetable for the tasks assigned to it, and the number of meetings allocated to each task.
Article 14 – Standing Committees
a. Pursuant to Article 12 of Law No. 62/2016, four standing committees shall be established within the National Human Rights Commission, each composed of at least three members:
International Humanitarian Law Committee;
Committee for Complaints by Child Victims of Violations of Children's Rights;
Committee for the Protection of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities;
Committee for Combating Trafficking in Persons.
b. Each standing committee shall be chaired by a member of the Commission elected by the Commission Board in accordance with the nomination and election procedures applicable to the Bureau.
c. The Commission may establish additional standing committees or dissolve an existing standing committee by decision of the Commission Board upon the proposal of the Chairperson or three members.
Article 15 – Common Provisions Applicable to Standing Committees
a. Standing committees shall be assisted in their work by the Commission’s Commissionerates and Executive Directorate established under these Bylaws. Their recommendations and proposals shall be submitted to the Commission Board for decision.
b. Within their respective mandates and under the authority of the Commission Board, standing committees shall manage cooperation and partnership relations with national and international public and private administrations, institutions, and bodies.
c. Each standing committee shall prepare its annual budget proposal and submit it to the Commission Board for consideration in the Commission’s annual budget.
d. Each standing committee shall submit quarterly reports summarizing its activities to the Commission Board. At the end of each year, each committee shall prepare an annual report on its activities, together with proposals and recommendations for the following year, for inclusion in the Commission’s annual report.
e. Subject to approval by the Commission Board, standing committees may engage experts and specialists as necessary and may request information, documents, studies, and reports from relevant authorities, in accordance with applicable administrative procedures.
Article 16 – International Humanitarian Law Committee
The International Humanitarian Law Committee shall work to ensure respect for all treaties, protocols, and customary rules of international humanitarian law to which Lebanon is a party, whether through ratification or accession.
The Committee shall, in particular:
Monitor, document, and follow up on violations of international humanitarian law and seek to combat impunity through all available means;
Review legislative and administrative texts to ensure consistency with international humanitarian law and related international instruments;
Develop an annual action plan for the dissemination and promotion of international humanitarian law and its implementation mechanisms;
Submit recommendations to all authorities for the effective implementation of relevant legal and administrative provisions;
Promote awareness of international humanitarian law in cooperation with ministries, public institutions, universities, schools, and civil society organizations;
Exchange information and expertise with humanitarian organizations, international committees, and civil society bodies and maintain relations with equivalent committees within national human rights institutions belonging to the Global Alliance of National Human Rights Institutions;
Coordinate with the National Committee for International Humanitarian Law established by Decree No. 4382 of 21 June 2010, without prejudice to the Commission’s independence.
Article 17 – Committee for Complaints by Child Victims of Violations of Children's Rights
This Committee shall serve as the national complaints mechanism for child victims of violations of children’s rights.
Its work shall be guided by the principle of the best interests of the child and shall respect the rights and views of the child, giving due weight to those views according to the child’s age and maturity.
The Committee shall, in particular:
Receive complaints submitted directly by child victims, their legal guardians, or third parties;
Ensure that persons acting on behalf of a child do not adversely affect the child’s interests and may decline to examine any communication that is not in the child’s best interests as defined by the Convention on the Rights of the Child;
Investigate, review, process, and determine complaints without delay;
Hold hearings and summon relevant parties, witnesses, experts, and any person whose testimony may be useful;
Request, through the Commission Board, urgent interim protection measures from the competent judicial authorities;
Recommend that the Commission Board refer cases involving actual violations to the competent judicial authorities together with all relevant information and documentation;
Promote and monitor implementation of the Convention on the Rights of the Child and its Optional Protocols;
Coordinate with all relevant stakeholders while preserving the Commission’s independence.
Article 18 – Committee for the Protection of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities
Without prejudice to the powers of the competent authorities, this Committee shall serve as the national mechanism for the protection of persons with disabilities.
Its functions shall include:
Receiving complaints submitted by persons with disabilities, their representatives, or third parties;
Investigating complaints and contributing to their resolution without delay;
Holding information sessions and inviting parties, witnesses, experts, and other relevant persons;
Acting on its own initiative in cases of violations of the rights of persons with disabilities, provided that the person concerned is informed and does not object;
Recommending referral of proven violations to the competent judicial authorities;
Promoting and monitoring implementation of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and its Optional Protocol;
Coordinating with relevant stakeholders while maintaining the Commission’s independence.
Article 19 – Committee for Combating Trafficking in Persons
Without prejudice to the powers of competent authorities, this Committee shall be responsible for combating trafficking in persons and ensuring the protection of victims and witnesses.
Its functions shall include:
Receiving complaints and reports concerning trafficking in persons and referring them to the competent judicial authorities;
Raising awareness of guidelines enabling stakeholders to identify and report trafficking in persons;
Investigating complaints without delay;
Organizing hearings and inviting concerned parties, witnesses, experts, and other relevant persons;
Promoting research, studies, and activities aimed at updating legislation related to trafficking in persons in light of international standards;
Monitoring implementation of laws and international agreements concerning trafficking in persons and issuing recommendations to address shortcomings;
Coordinating and cooperating with all stakeholders involved in combating trafficking in persons while preserving the Commission’s independence.
Chapter Three – Administrative Structure of the Commission
Section One – Number of Commissionerates and Directorates and their Establishment
Article 20 – Number of Commissionerates and Directorates
The administrative structure of the Commission shall consist of five Commissionerates and one Executive Directorate as follows:
a. Complaints Commissionerate;
b. Studies and Monitoring Commissionerate;
c. International Relations Commissionerate;
d. Education and Development Commissionerate;
e. Media and Information Technology Commissionerate;
f. Executive Directorate.
Article 21 – Establishment of Commissionerates
The Commission may establish, merge, or abolish Commissionerates as needed by decision of the Commission Board.
The Chairperson and members of the Commission, excluding members of the Committee for the Prevention of Torture, may be assigned responsibility for one or more Commissionerates by decision of the Commission Board.
The Commissioner shall be the administrative supervisor of the personnel assigned to the Commissionerate and shall be responsible for overseeing and coordinating their work.

Section Two – Complaints Commissionerate
Article 22 – Objectives and Functions
The purpose of this Commissionerate is to establish mechanisms ensuring the full protection of the rights of all persons.
Its functions shall include receiving complaints and reports concerning human rights violations through the mechanism established by these Bylaws and contributing to their resolution through negotiation and mediation.
Any person whose human rights or fundamental freedoms guaranteed by the Constitution, applicable laws, or international treaties undertaken by Lebanon have been violated shall have the right to submit a complaint to the Commission.
Article 23 – Submission of Complaints and Reports and Conditions of Admissibility
Complaints and reports shall be submitted to the Complaints Commissionerate and shall be admissible where:
a. They are submitted in writing and delivered personally, by an interested party, or by a legal representative. They may also be submitted by fax, email, or registered mail. Where this is not possible, the complainant or representative may present the complaint orally, in which case the responsible officer shall record it on an official form, register it, and provide a copy to the complainant.
b. They are signed by the complainant or his or her legal representative.
c. They are accompanied by supporting evidence, documents, or indicia, including photographs and audio, video, or electronic recordings where available.
d. They specify any steps already taken before the competent authorities, where applicable.
e. The Commissioner or designated representative shall issue the complainant an acknowledgment of receipt indicating:
The complaint registration number and date;
The Commissionerate’s telephone number and email address;
Notification that the complainant will be informed of the identity of the Rapporteur assigned to document, review, and process the complaint.
f. Submission of a complaint shall not suspend or interrupt any procedural deadlines prescribed by law or by civil and/or criminal procedural rules.
Article 24 – Jurisdiction over Complaints
The Commission shall not consider complaints falling outside its jurisdiction, including:
a. Complaints relating to violations committed more than one year before the complaint was filed and known to the complainant, except in exceptional circumstances and in cases of serious or continuing violations.
b. Complaints concerning matters previously examined by the Commission and on which it has already expressed an opinion, unless new information has emerged.
Article 25 – Rights of Complainants and Informants
Where a person submits a complaint to the Commission or the Committee:
a. That person shall not be dismissed or threatened with dismissal from employment because of the complaint.
b. That person shall not be subjected to discrimination or threatened with discrimination in employment because of the complaint.
c. That person shall not be intimidated, punished, or subjected to disciplinary, financial, or other sanctions because of the complaint.
Article 26 – Complaints and Reports Concerning Torture or Other Cruel, Inhuman, or Degrading Treatment or Punishment
Every person deprived of liberty shall have the opportunity, on any day, to submit requests or complaints to the Committee for the Prevention of Torture without any person or authority, official or otherwise, having access to their contents.
The same right shall extend to the lawyer of the person deprived of liberty.
Where the person deprived of liberty or his or her lawyer is unable to exercise this right, a family member or any other person familiar with the case may do so on their behalf.
Article 27 – Rights of Complainants Deprived of Liberty
a. Every request or complaint shall be handled promptly and answered without delay. No prisoner or other person deprived of liberty shall be exposed to retaliation, intimidation, or any adverse consequences as a result of submitting a request or complaint to the Committee.
b. Allegations of torture or other cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment or punishment shall be dealt with immediately and shall result in a prompt investigation by a Rapporteur appointed by the Committee from among its members.
Article 28
A staff member of the Commission or the Committee, officially designated by his or her superior according to the nature of the complaint, shall carry out the necessary investigations without delay under the supervision of the Director, Rapporteur, Chairperson of the Commission, or Chairperson of the Committee, as appropriate.
The initial objective shall be to resolve the complaint through negotiation and mediation with the competent authorities.
The Complaints Commissionerate shall have the authority to:
a. Investigate, document, and help preserve facts and evidence relating to complaints within the framework established by these Bylaws and in accordance with applicable laws.
b. Request access to and copies of files, data, documents, and audio and/or video recordings held by public authorities where necessary for the performance of its duties.
c. Interview and hear witnesses without restriction, including civilian, military, and diplomatic public officials, subject to applicable legal procedures.
d. Interview any person whose testimony is considered necessary in relation to an ongoing investigation.
e. Ensure that cooperation by any public official with the Commission or Committee shall not constitute grounds for disciplinary action.
f. Require parties involved in a complaint to provide all relevant documents and assistance necessary to the investigation, while taking their physical and psychological condition into consideration.
Article 29
Where mediation fails, the Chairperson shall refer the matter to the competent Public Prosecutor’s Office, which shall keep the Commission informed of the progress and outcome of its inquiries, or shall assist the complainant in pursuing the necessary remedies before the competent authorities.
Pursuant to decisions of the Commission Board, the Commissionerate shall, in particular:
a. Inform complainants or reporting persons of their rights and available remedies and provide legal guidance through qualified professionals to facilitate recourse to the competent courts.
b. Monitor the status of all reports and claims submitted by the Commission before judicial authorities and keep affected persons and reporting parties informed of developments.
c. Ensure that conclusions, reports, and information resulting from complaints submitted to the Commission are not considered final official evidence admissible in legal or judicial proceedings, but may serve as a basis for analysis, consultation, or guidance.
Section Three – Studies and Monitoring Commissionerate
Article 30
The Studies and Monitoring Commissionerate shall be responsible for preparing legal studies and monitoring legislation, draft laws, decrees, draft government budgets, government plans, and administrative decisions to assess their compliance with human rights principles. It shall also monitor all actual or alleged violations and/or abuses of human rights.
Pursuant to decisions issued by the Commission Board, the Commissionerate shall, in particular:
a. Review government policies, legislation, decrees, plans, and budgets by reading and analyzing them from a human rights perspective, in order to assess the extent to which they take into account the rights of various groups and regions, particularly marginalized groups, and whether they comply with human rights standards based on the principles of equality and non-discrimination, the provisions of the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, other international human rights treaties, and international humanitarian law.
b. Provide legal studies and recommendations periodically, upon request, or on an exceptional basis to the Commission and the Committee, and provide technical, professional, and legal support to assist them in formulating opinions and advice on laws, amendments, draft legislation, and legislative proposals.
c. Prepare legal reports concerning issues affecting public and individual rights and freedoms, whether political, civil, economic, social, or cultural.
d. Review and provide opinions on legislation, including draft laws, ministerial decrees, and administrative decisions, and analyze them from a human rights perspective with a view to integrating human rights principles and standards into such legislation.
Article 31 – Library
A public library shall be established within this Commissionerate, comprising physical, digital, and audiovisual collections that include legal and human rights references, international instruments, and academic theses relating to human rights.
The library shall promote legal and human rights awareness by making legal and human rights resources available. It shall be open to students, educators, researchers, human rights activists, and all persons interested in learning about human rights.
Article 32 – Monitoring and Documentation
The Studies and Monitoring Commissionerate shall investigate, monitor, document, follow up on, and inquire into human rights violations in order to promote accountability and combat impunity.
It shall also monitor and document all violations, abuses, and infringements of human rights through all legally authorized means.
The Commissionerate shall prepare monthly reports, and additional reports whenever necessary, and submit them to the Commission Board for consideration and approval, with a view to enabling the competent authorities to pursue those responsible for the violations and abuses identified.

Section Four – International Relations Commissionerate
Article 33
The purpose of this Commissionerate is to prepare periodic reports and to coordinate, cooperate, and consult with international and regional organizations and bodies, regional and Arab human rights mechanisms, economic and development institutions, and regional and international networks and groups working for the protection and promotion of human rights, in a manner consistent with applicable Lebanese laws governing cooperation, communication, and coordination with foreign entities and individuals.
Pursuant to decisions of the Commission Board and in compliance with applicable Lebanese laws, the Commissionerate shall, in particular:
a. Prepare draft reports for United Nations treaty bodies, the United Nations Human Rights Council, and international organizations, and monitor implementation of the recommendations issued by those bodies.
b. Provide opinions on government reports submitted to treaty bodies, the Human Rights Council, and international organizations.
c. Cooperate, communicate, and consult with international and regional alliances of National Human Rights Institutions and their accreditation systems.
d. Ensure the preparation and submission of all documents and requirements requested by the Global Alliance of National Human Rights Institutions (GANHRI) for accreditation under the Principles Relating to the Status of National Institutions for the Promotion and Protection of Human Rights (the Paris Principles), particularly for obtaining “A Status” accreditation.
e. Ensure compliance with the requirements necessary to maintain “A Status” accreditation and inform the Commission of any failure to meet such requirements. In coordination with the Committee, undertake periodic assessments to ensure continued compliance with the Paris Principles and prepare for reaccreditation processes.
f. Subject to the guidance and approval of the Commission Board, deliver oral statements under all thematic agenda items of the United Nations Human Rights Council; participate through video statements in Human Rights Council plenary discussions, including during the adoption of Lebanon’s Universal Periodic Review outcomes, interactive dialogues following reports by Special Procedures mandate holders after missions to Lebanon, and annual panel discussions; submit written contributions issued as United Nations documents; and occupy independent seating in all sessions.
g. Develop international cooperation relations with frameworks and institutions working with National Human Rights Institutions.
h. Strengthen cooperation with the United Nations system and international organizations concerned with human rights.
i. Strengthen relations with the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights.
j. Coordinate with international and regional entities regarding the organization of and participation in human rights conferences.
Article 34 – Preparation of Reports
a. This Commissionerate shall assist the Commission and the Committee in preparing periodic and ad hoc reports, as well as the consolidated annual report containing the Commission’s annual programme, achievements, and challenges.
The reports shall avoid including personal data or detailed information that could reveal the identity of victims or witnesses without their consent.
b. The Commissionerate shall liaise with all other Commissionerates, particularly the Studies and Monitoring Commissionerate, to gather information necessary for the preparation of reports.
Reports shall be submitted to the Commission Board for decision.
c. The Commissionerate shall organize and facilitate discussion sessions, workshops, and meetings with parliamentary, governmental, and official committees, as well as consultations with civil society organizations, concerning the preparation of reports.

Section Five – Education and Development Commissionerate
Article 35
The Education and Development Commissionerate shall promote and disseminate a culture of human rights and international humanitarian law and encourage the implementation and development of human rights education programmes.
Pursuant to decisions issued by the Commission Board, the Commissionerate shall, in particular:
a. Encourage and cooperate with the Ministry of Education and Higher Education and all public and private educational institutions, including schools, universities, and institutes at all levels, to incorporate theoretical and practical human rights and international humanitarian law components into their curricula and to develop the related educational materials and teaching methods.
b. Promote the protection of diversity and pluralism and disseminate information and knowledge relating to human rights among the general public and specific target groups in order to foster a national human rights culture.
c. Coordinate and cooperate with media authorities to contribute to media campaigns and awareness programmes concerning human rights standards and international humanitarian law.
d. Liaise with the Supreme Judicial Council, the Institute of Judicial Studies, the Council of State, and the Beirut and Tripoli Bar Associations in order to strengthen human rights and international humanitarian law as core subjects of legal education and training, both theoretical and practical.
e. Prepare studies and organize conferences, seminars, and training sessions for public and private institutions on all matters relating to human rights and international humanitarian law, particularly for law enforcement agencies.
f. Organize and implement activities within a strategic plan prepared by the Commissionerate and approved by the Commission Board, with the aim of raising public awareness of fundamental rights, informing citizens about the role of the Commission and the Committee, and explaining complaint procedures. Activities shall also target labour unions, municipalities, public and private sector employees, journalists, civil society organizations, university students and faculty members, and any other groups deemed appropriate for strengthening human rights.
g. Provide advice and recommendations on human rights matters to central and local authorities following approval by the Commission Board.
h. Communicate, coordinate, and consult with civil society organizations active in the field of human rights in order to exchange expertise and strengthen human rights protection.
i. Advocate for marginalized groups and ensure that their concerns occupy a prominent place within the Commission’s activities.
j. Publish and distribute books and publications relating to matters within the mandate of the Commission and the Committee, subject to approval by the Commission Board.

Section Six – Media and Information Technology Commissionerate
Article 36
The Media and Information Technology Commissionerate shall oversee issues relating to media coverage, develop relations with stakeholders, and provide technical support to the Commission and the Committee.
Pursuant to decisions of the Commission Board, it shall, in particular:
a. Address public opinion directly by disseminating its views, recommendations, and reports and by responding to questions addressed to the Commission and the Committee.
b. Monitor all matters relating to media coverage through the Commission’s official website, social media platforms, and all other media outlets.
c. Prepare and disseminate media and promotional materials covering the activities and events of the Commission and the Committee concerning human rights issues.
d. Develop and strengthen relations with representatives of media organizations and institutions in support of human rights causes.
e. Monitor and document media content relating to human rights in Lebanon.
Article 37 – Information Systems
The Media and Information Technology Commissionerate, in coordination with all departments of the Commission and the Committee, shall:
a. Establish and implement an integrated information systems framework.
b. Assist the departments of the Commission and the Committee in automating their operations according to priorities established by the Commission Board.
c. Manage, expand, and maintain information networks and connect Commission and Committee members and staff thereto.
d. Design, update, and provide technical support for the media platforms of the Commission and the Committee.
e. Prepare training programmes for Commission and Committee personnel in information and communications technology, automation systems, and the use of widely recognized secure encrypted communication applications.
f. Conduct studies concerning the development of information systems and related equipment, software, and applications.
g. Monitor maintenance activities and prepare reports identifying the Commission’s and Committee’s hardware, software, and maintenance needs.
h. Take all necessary technical measures to protect databases and prevent unauthorized access under any circumstances.
i. Ensure the integrity and security of the Commission’s database.
Section Seven – Executive Directorate of the Commission
Article 38 – Executive Director of the Commission
The Executive Director shall be appointed in accordance with the applicable legal provisions and shall perform the following functions:
a. Ensure the proper functioning of the Executive Directorate.
b. Implement and follow up on decisions of the Commission Board.
c. Take all measures necessary to prepare the work of the Commission Board and prepare documents and records relating to meetings, plans, and programmes.
d. Supervise the registration of referrals received from national and international human rights organizations, public administrations, and public and private institutions.
e. Oversee the maintenance and archiving of the Commission’s records, reports, files, and documents.
f. Assist the Secretary in maintaining records of Board decisions and in drafting and documenting meeting minutes.
g. Manage daily operations and supervise employees, contractors, trainees, and professional staff.
h. Ensure the flow and exchange of information among Commissionerates, departments, and standing committees through periodic reporting.
Article 39 – Executive Directorate
The Executive Directorate shall consist of two departments, each headed by a Head of Department and operating under the authority and supervision of the Executive Director:
a. Administrative Affairs Department;
b. Financial Affairs Department.
Article 40 – Administrative Affairs Department
Pursuant to decisions of the Commission Board, the Administrative Affairs Department shall, in particular:
a. Prepare all personnel-related administrative files and transactions.
b. Maintain and organize personal files of employees, contractors, and other personnel.
c. Register incoming correspondence and ensure its distribution.
d. Maintain separate records for the correspondence of the Commission and the Committee and a joint register for incoming and outgoing correspondence.
e. Register decisions issued by the Chairperson and/or the Commission and maintain a dedicated register thereof.
f. Ensure maintenance, cleanliness, security, and safeguarding of the Commission’s and Committee’s premises, offices, and assets.
g. Prepare draft tender specifications, requests for proposals, and procurement documentation.
h. Request the Financial Affairs Department, following approval by the Commission Board, to reserve the appropriations necessary for procurement contracts, works, and services.
Article 41 – Financial Affairs Department
Pursuant to decisions of the Commission Board, the Financial Affairs Department shall, in particular:
a. Manage the financial resources of the Commission and the Committee.
b. Maintain accounts relating to programmes and activities.
c. Prepare the draft budget and explanatory memorandum and submit them to the Chairperson of the Commission and the Chairperson of the Committee for comments before submission to the Commission Board.
d. Prepare salary scales, wages, allowances, bonuses, and assistance payments and ensure timely payment of all entitlements.
e. Process expenditure settlement procedures.
f. Maintain the accounts of the Commission and the Committee.
g. Examine requests for transfers, opening, and carry-over of appropriations.
h. Perform any duties assigned under the Financial Regulations.
Chapter Four – Committee for the Prevention of Torture
Section One – Functions and Mandate of the Committee
Article 42 – Functions and Mandate
Without prejudice to the provisions of Chapter Four of Law No. 62/2016, the Committee for the Prevention of Torture shall perform, inter alia, the following functions:
a. Examine, monitor, and address the conditions of persons deprived of liberty in places of detention as defined by the Optional Protocol and Law No. 62/2016, including, without limitation, prisons, detention facilities, police stations, holding cells, juvenile institutions and centres, ports, airports, hospitals, and psychiatric institutions in Lebanon where persons are or may be deprived of their liberty, with a view to strengthening their protection against torture and other cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment or punishment in accordance with applicable laws.
b. Obtain all information relating to persons deprived of liberty in places of detention as defined by the Optional Protocol to the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment and Law No. 62/2016, including the number and location of such places, the identity of detainees, the duration of detention, and its legal basis.
c. Obtain all information relating to the treatment of such persons and the conditions of their detention.
d. Access all places of detention, including their facilities and installations, without hindrance, and conduct regular, systematic, or unannounced visits.
e. Conduct private or collective interviews, in complete confidentiality, with persons deprived of liberty without restriction or condition and, where necessary, with the assistance of interpreters; interview any other person who may provide relevant information or assistance; and exercise unrestricted authority to obtain confidential information necessary for the performance of its mandate.
f. Cooperate with civil society organizations active in the field of protection of persons deprived of liberty and engage external experts as needed.
g. Formulate observations, recommendations, and proposals regarding places of detention and the conditions of persons deprived of liberty and submit them to the Commission Board and competent authorities with the aim of improving detention conditions and preventing violations of human rights, torture, and other cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment or punishment.

Article 43 – Functions Provided for in the Optional Protocol
In addition to the functions set out in Articles 22 to 27 inclusive of Law No. 62/2016, the Committee shall also perform the functions provided for in the Optional Protocol to the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment, ratified by Law No. 12/2008. In particular, the Committee shall be enabled to carry out its mandate through:
a. Access to all information concerning the number of persons deprived of their liberty in places of detention, as well as the number and location of such places;
b. Freedom to choose the places it wishes to visit and the persons it wishes to interview;
c. The right to communicate with, provide information to, and meet with the Subcommittee on Prevention of Torture;
d. Protection of the confidentiality of information collected by the Committee. No personal data shall be disclosed without the express consent of the person concerned;
e. Ensuring that competent authorities examine the Committee’s recommendations within a reasonable period and engage in dialogue regarding possible implementation measures.
Article 44 – Commission Members Outside the Committee
Members of the Commission who are not members of the Committee for the Prevention of Torture shall, by virtue of their office, be considered experts and may be called upon to assist the Committee in carrying out its functions whenever necessary and upon its request.
Article 45 – Confidentiality of Information
Without prejudice to the provisions of Law No. 62/2016, the Committee shall not disclose any information to any entity unless it determines that such disclosure serves the protection of the rights of persons deprived of liberty.
All files and information relating to the Committee shall be confidential and may only be disclosed by decision of the Committee.
Under all circumstances, information whose disclosure would be contrary to the provisions of the Optional Protocol shall be exempt from disclosure and/or publication. No personal or detailed information revealing the identity of victims or witnesses may be disclosed or published without their prior informed consent.

Section Two – Chairperson and Members of the Committee
Article 46 – Chairperson of the Committee
The Chairperson of the Committee shall oversee the implementation of its decisions and take all necessary measures to ensure the proper functioning of its work.
For this purpose, the Chairperson shall exercise the powers conferred by Law No. 62/2016 and shall, in particular:
a. Represent the Committee before national authorities and international organizations and institutions and may delegate this function to a member of the Committee.
b. Prepare the agenda of Committee meetings and the agenda of joint matters between the Committee and the Commission Board and transmit them to the Bureau of the Commission for inclusion on the Board’s agenda.
c. Convene ordinary and extraordinary meetings of the Committee. The Chairperson shall be required to convene an extraordinary meeting upon a written request from two Committee members. The invitation shall include the agenda.
d. Consult with the Chairperson of the Commission in preparing the portion of the Commission’s budget relating to the Committee, which shall adequately cover all Committee activities and shall not be less than one quarter of the Commission’s budget.
e. Enter into contracts, on behalf of the Committee, with experts, consultants, and lawyers in matters falling within its mandate.
f. Prepare the draft annual report describing the Committee’s programme, achievements, and challenges and, following Committee approval, submit it to the Chairperson of the Commission pursuant to Article 15(d) of Law No. 62/2016.
g. Publish special and periodic reports concerning Lebanon’s compliance with human rights and international humanitarian law standards relating to the prevention of torture and other cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment or punishment, following approval by the Committee.
h. Propose amendments to the Internal Bylaws, Financial Regulations, and Code of Ethics and submit them to the Commission Board for approval after obtaining the Committee’s approval.
i. Contact Lebanese and foreign authorities and agencies and request documents and information deemed useful for the performance of the Committee’s functions.
j. Invite Lebanese and foreign personalities and organizations to participate in the Committee’s meetings and activities, subject to Committee approval.
k. Designate a Committee member to represent the Committee at conferences held in Lebanon or abroad.
l. Communicate with constitutional authorities and all relevant entities regarding cooperation and assistance necessary for the fulfilment of the Committee’s mandate pursuant to Article 27(a) of Law No. 62/2016.
m. Communicate directly with the United Nations Subcommittee on Prevention of Torture and provide information to it whenever necessary.
n. Request information from relevant authorities, particularly concerning the number and location of places of deprivation of liberty, the full identity of persons deprived of liberty, their places of detention, the commencement date and duration of detention, their complete medical and health records, their complete judicial files, and the legal basis for detention.
Article 47 – Meetings of the Committee
The Committee shall meet at least once every fifteen days and whenever necessary, upon invitation by its Chairperson or upon a written request submitted by three Committee members.
In such case, the Chairperson shall be obliged to convene the meeting.
The rules governing the issuance of meeting notices shall be those provided for in Article 9 of these Bylaws.

Section Three – Administrative Structure of the Committee
Article 48 – Executive Director of the Committee
The Executive Director of the Committee shall be appointed in accordance with applicable legal provisions and shall perform the following duties:
a. Ensure the proper management of the Committee’s administration.
b. Implement and monitor implementation of Committee decisions.
c. Take all necessary measures to prepare and organize Committee activities and prepare documents and records relating to its meetings, plans, and programmes.
d. Supervise registration of referrals received by the Committee from national and international human rights organizations, public administrations, and public and private institutions in matters within its mandate.
e. Supervise the maintenance of Committee records, reports, files, and documents and ensure their archiving.
f. Manage the Committee’s day-to-day operations and supervise employees, contractors, trainees, and professional staff.
g. Ensure the flow and exchange of information relating to the Committee’s mandate among its departments through periodic reporting.
h. Joint activities and meetings involving both the Commission and the Committee shall fall within the competence of the Executive Director of the Commission.
Article 49 – Executive Directorate of the Committee
The Executive Directorate of the Committee shall consist of the following departments, each headed by a Head of Department and operating under the supervision of the Executive Director:
a. Visits Affairs Department;
b. Administrative and Financial Affairs Department;
c. Monitoring and Complaints Department;
d. Planning and Programmes Department;
e. Scientific Research, Experts and Volunteers Department;
f. Torture Prevention Awareness Department.

Article 50 – Visits Affairs Department
The Visits Affairs Department shall be responsible for, including but not limited to, the following tasks:
a. Maintaining records of places of deprivation of liberty and preparing reports and recommendations concerning their conditions and the conditions of persons held therein.
b. Developing plans for conducting all types of visits to places of deprivation of liberty, including regular visits, unannounced visits, and follow-up visits, without delay.
c. Preserving and reviewing reports and records prepared by Committee members, employees, or contractors as a result of systematic inspection visits to places of deprivation of liberty and their facilities, and formulating recommendations and proposals, in accordance with established methodologies, for submission to the competent authorities in order to improve and develop laws and regulations relating to detainees and to improve places of deprivation of liberty so that they comply with humanitarian and international standards.
d. Preparing draft periodic and annual reports describing the Committee’s achievements and challenges and submitting them to the Committee.
Article 51 – Administrative and Financial Affairs Department
This Department shall be responsible for, including but not limited to, the following tasks:
a. Preparing administrative transactions relating to employees and contractors.
b. Maintaining and organizing the personal files of employees, contractors, experts, and other persons working within the Committee.
c. Registering incoming correspondence and ensuring its distribution.
d. Recording incoming and outgoing correspondence of the Committee.
e. Requesting the Head of the Financial Affairs Department of the Commission, following Committee approval, to reserve appropriations relating to Committee expenditures and projects.
f. Preparing financial transactions relating to the salaries and remuneration of Committee personnel and those relating to the implementation of programmes, activities, and projects, and transmitting them to the Financial Affairs Department of the Commission.
g. Preparing the Committee’s budget allocation within the draft budget of the Commission and assisting the Chairperson of the Committee in ensuring the proper expenditure of annual appropriations allocated to the Committee.
Article 52 – Monitoring and Complaints Department
This Department shall be responsible for, including but not limited to, the following tasks:
a. Monitoring incidents of torture and other cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment or punishment, as well as cases of arbitrary deprivation of liberty, arbitrary detention, or arbitrary arrest.
b. Informing the Visits Affairs Department of complaints concerning torture, other forms of cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment or punishment, or arbitrary deprivation of liberty that require immediate inspection.
c. Receiving and registering complaints or interview requests relating to torture, other forms of cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment or punishment, or arbitrary deprivation of liberty in the complaints register.
d. Applying to such complaints the procedures and rules established under Article 24 of these Bylaws concerning the Commission’s Complaints Commissionerate.
e. Where the nature of the complaint requires an urgent examination of the victim’s condition, the Chairperson of the Committee shall assign a member or a specialist physician to conduct an immediate assessment and prepare a detailed report on the victim’s physical and psychological condition for submission to the Committee.
f. If it is established that the person concerned has been arbitrarily detained or has been subjected to torture or other cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment or punishment, the Chairperson of the Committee shall notify the competent administrative and judicial authorities so that the necessary legal and judicial measures may be taken without delay to end the unlawful detention and to pursue those responsible for the detention and acts of torture or ill-treatment, both disciplinarily and judicially.
Article 53 – Planning and Programmes Department
This Department shall be responsible for, including but not limited to, the following tasks:
a. Surveying places of deprivation of liberty and assessing their suitability and requirements to ensure compliance with international human rights standards, including the United Nations Standard Minimum Rules for the Treatment of Prisoners (Nelson Mandela Rules) and the United Nations Rules for the Treatment of Women Prisoners (Bangkok Rules).
b. Compiling statistics on persons deprived of liberty and prisoners according to age, gender, profession, offences charged or convicted, and the manner of their distribution among detention centres, prisons, and places of custody.
c. Developing a comprehensive timetable and strategy for improving conditions of deprivation of liberty and preventing torture in Lebanon.
d. Developing plans and programmes for the rehabilitation of male and female prisoners and for providing vocational, professional, or recreational training so that they may become economically productive during and after imprisonment.
e. Submitting such plans and programmes to the Committee for approval and subsequent transmission to the legislative, executive, judicial, and administrative authorities concerned, as well as for publication in the Official Gazette and communication to relevant international donor organizations.
Article 54 – Scientific Research, Experts and Volunteers Department
For the purposes of this Article, an Expert means a specialist in a particular field whose services may be required by the Committee for a specific task or who may be contracted for a period of one year or more, such as a specialist physician, lawyer, or engineer.
A Volunteer means any person who works with the Committee without fixed remuneration and without a formally defined professional position or authority.
This Department shall be responsible for, including but not limited to, the following tasks:
a. Cooperating with civil society organizations active in supporting persons deprived of liberty or exposed to torture.
b. Participating with such organizations in seminars, training activities, and public awareness campaigns concerning the protection of the rights of persons deprived of liberty and persons exposed to torture or other cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment or punishment.
c. Meeting with any volunteer or activist working in the field of deprivation of liberty or torture prevention who wishes to provide useful information to the Committee. Such information shall remain confidential and shall not be disclosed except with the informed written consent of its provider.
d. Receiving and maintaining the files and curricula vitae of expert candidates wishing to assist the Committee.
e. Liaising with the Forensic Medicine Department of the Ministry of Justice and with Lebanese scientific medical associations specializing in forensic medicine in order to establish scientific criteria for the selection of medical experts and to benefit from their expertise.
f. Referring nominations of experts and their files to the Chairperson of the Committee for consideration and selection by the Committee.
g. Maintaining a register of experts accredited by the Commission and the Committee, including their addresses, telephone numbers, and email addresses.
h. Maintaining an individual file for each accredited expert, including the expert’s curriculum vitae, assignments undertaken, work performed, and the Committee’s observations regarding such work.
i. Where expertise required by the Committee is unavailable among accredited experts, the Committee may rely on the roster of court-accredited experts in order to benefit from their knowledge and specialization.
Article 55 – Torture Prevention Awareness Department
This Department shall coordinate with the Commission’s Education and Development Commissionerate on all matters relating to the prevention of torture and other cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment or punishment, as well as deprivation of liberty. It shall also coordinate with the Commissionerate regarding the publication, dissemination, and distribution of books and publications on matters falling within the Committee’s mandate.
The Department shall be responsible for the following tasks:
a. Providing the Commission’s Education and Development Commissionerate and Media and Information Technology Commissionerate with non-confidential materials and information relating to the prevention of torture and other cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment or punishment, as well as places of deprivation of liberty.
b. Preparing studies and organizing conferences, seminars, and training activities for various public and private bodies on matters falling within the Committee’s mandate, particularly law enforcement agencies, security and military institutions, and the Institute of Judicial Studies.
c. Cooperating and engaging in dialogue with the competent authorities in order to improve and develop laws and regulations relating to detainees and places of deprivation of liberty.
d. Providing opinions and advice on laws, implementing decrees, draft laws, and draft implementing regulations with respect to the inclusion of mechanisms for the prevention of torture in accordance with international and humanitarian standards relating to places of deprivation of liberty.

Chapter Five – Rights and Duties of Members
Section One – Duties and Vacancy of Office
Article 56 – Duty of Full-Time Service
Members shall devote themselves fully to their duties within the Commission and the Committee and shall be prohibited from engaging in any other professional activity during their term of office.
Article 57 – Continuity of Service
Members of the Commission shall ensure the regular functioning of the Commission and the Committee. Absences due to travel shall not result in the number of members of the Commission Board falling below seven members at any one time, nor the number of Committee members falling below three members at any one time.
Article 58 – Termination of Membership
Membership in the Commission and the Committee shall terminate in the following cases:
a. Death.
b. Resignation: A member may resign by submitting a written resignation to the Commission Board. The Board shall decide on the resignation within one month from the date of submission. The member may withdraw the resignation by written notice submitted to the Board within the same one-month period and before the Board issues its decision. The resignation shall be deemed accepted automatically upon expiry of the one-month period without a decision.
c. If the member’s physical or mental condition prevents the performance of his or her duties, as established by a documented medical report.
d. If the member is convicted by a final judgment of a felony or a dishonourable misdemeanour, provided that membership shall be automatically suspended upon the issuance of an indictment order or a decision charging the member.
e. Failure to file a declaration of assets and interests before the competent authority in accordance with applicable legal requirements.
f. Expiry of the term of office. Where the outgoing member holds an office within the Commission, the remaining members shall meet within one week to elect a replacement for that office without waiting for the Council of Ministers to appoint a replacement member.
Article 59 – Automatic Resignation
a. A member shall be deemed to have resigned automatically in the following cases:
Absence from three consecutive meetings without a legitimate excuse, in accordance with Article 10 of these Bylaws.
Violation of Article 4 of Law No. 62/2016.
Commission of a serious breach of the Code of Ethics and Rules of Professional Conduct.
b. Any violation leading to automatic resignation shall be established through an investigation conducted by an Investigating Member appointed by the Commission Board. The Investigating Member shall prepare a report of the investigation and submit the findings to the Board, which shall determine whether the violation has been established.
c. Upon completion of the investigation, the Chairperson of the Commission shall convene a meeting at which the Investigating Member shall present the findings. The Board shall then hear the member concerned, who shall have the right to be represented by a lawyer. A decision confirming or rejecting the violation shall be adopted by a two-thirds majority of the members participating in the vote. If the Board determines that the violation has been established, it shall declare the member automatically resigned.
d. Neither the Investigating Member nor the member concerned shall participate in the vote on whether the violation has been established. If the member concerned is the Chairperson of the Commission, the Vice-Chairperson shall preside over the meeting and perform all functions of the Chairperson.
Article 60 – Notification of Vacancy in Membership
Where a membership position becomes vacant for any reason provided for in Law No. 62/2016 or these Bylaws, the Chairperson of the Commission shall notify the Council of Ministers and the authority responsible for proposing nominations.
The Council of Ministers shall appoint a replacement member within three months from the date on which it becomes aware of the vacancy, based on the lists of candidates previously submitted by the relevant nominating authorities pursuant to Article 2 of Law No. 62/2016.
Where reliance on the previous candidate lists is not possible, the replacement shall be appointed within three months from the date on which the relevant authority submits new nominations.
Section Two – Provisions Applicable to Members and Staff
Article 61
No member of the Commission shall participate in deliberations or voting on any matter in which one of the conflict-of-interest situations set out in Article 120 of the Code of Civil Procedure exists, particularly in matters concerning:
A natural person related to the member by family ties or affinity up to and including the fourth degree;
A person with whom the member maintains a friendship or any other relationship capable of influencing the member’s position or decision;
A legal entity in which the member has a personal interest.
In all cases, members shall disclose any such conflict of interest throughout their term of office and prior to the commencement of any meeting in which such conflict arises.
Article 62
Where the Chairperson, the Vice-Chairperson, or any member finds himself or herself in one of the conflict-of-interest situations listed in Article 120 of the Code of Civil Procedure, that person shall recuse himself or herself, inform the Commission Board, and refrain from participating in deliberations, voting, or any related matter.
If the Chairperson recuses himself or herself, the Vice-Chairperson shall preside over the meeting.
If the person recusing himself or herself is the Chairperson of the Committee, the oldest member shall preside over the meeting.
Article 63
Without prejudice to Article 4 of Law No. 62/2016, members of the Commission shall remain members of their respective professional associations or bar associations and shall continue to benefit from their services and benefits.
Members shall be granted a period of six months to wind up their professional affairs and suspend the practice of their profession or occupation. This period shall commence one month after the issuance of all implementing decrees relating to the Commission.
Article 64
a. Subject to Article 9 of Law No. 62/2016, any request to lift the immunity of a member of the Commission or the Committee, including the Chairperson and the Vice-Chairperson, shall be submitted to the Commission Board and recorded in the joint register.
Immunity may only be lifted following a detailed explanation of the grounds for the request and by a decision adopted by a two-thirds majority of the members.
b. Requests to lift the immunity of employees in relation to acts committed in the course of performing their duties shall be submitted to the Commission Board and recorded in the joint register.
Such immunity may only be lifted by a two-thirds majority of the members present in accordance with the quorum requirements of the meeting.
Article 65
Members of the Commission and all persons working therein shall be subject to the obligation to declare their assets and financial interests in accordance with the conditions established by applicable legislation.
Article 66
Any natural or legal person having an interest in a matter before the Commission may request the disqualification of any member, including the Chairperson and the Vice-Chairperson, under the same conditions applicable to the disqualification of judges as provided in Article 120 of the Code of Civil Procedure.
Such request shall be submitted through a reasoned written application addressed to the Commission or the Committee, as appropriate.
The member whose disqualification is sought shall have the right to review the request and submit observations thereon.
Article 67
The Commission or the Committee, as appropriate, shall decide on the request for disqualification within two weeks from the date of its registration, by a majority of members in accordance with the quorum requirements.
The member whose disqualification is sought shall not attend the meeting or participate in the vote.
Where the request concerns the Chairperson, the Vice-Chairperson (Chairperson of the Committee) shall preside over the meeting, and the Chairperson shall not attend.
Where the request concerns the Vice-Chairperson (Chairperson of the Committee), the oldest member shall preside over the meeting, and the Vice-Chairperson shall not attend.

Chapter Six – Final Provisions
Article 68
As an exceptional measure and for establishment purposes, the first term of office of the National Human Rights Commission, Including the Committee for the Prevention of Torture, shall commence immediately upon the issuance of all implementing decrees relating to the Commission.
Article 69
The staffing structure of the Commission’s Commissionerates, the Executive Directorates of the Commission and the Committee, and the rules governing employment and contracting within the Commission and the Committee shall be determined by a decree issued by the Council of Ministers upon the proposal of the Minister of Justice, pursuant to Article 31 of Law No. 62/2016.
Article 70
The provisions of these Bylaws may be amended by a decision of the Commission Board and approved by decree adopted by the Council of Ministers upon the proposal of the Minister of Justice.
Article 71
These Bylaws shall enter into force upon their publication in the Official Gazette.