The recruitment process for a new Human Rights Tribunal panel has begun with a selection committee seeking applications.

Seth Darrell, head of the Selection and Appointment Committee (SAC) for Human Rights, said they hoped to find a diverse panel of candidates to adjudicate human rights complaints.

Mr Darrell said: “The work of the Human Rights Tribunal, and of human rights defenders more broadly, is essential to equity, justice, fairness, respect and dignity for all.”

He added: “The SAC is very much committed to attracting a diverse group of persons reflective of Bermuda’s community who each will uphold those principles necessary to foster greater public confidence in the integrity, independence, impartiality and effectiveness that the Human Rights Tribunal panel ought to possess and exercise for Bermuda and her residents.

“The SAC believes that this is both a tremendous opportunity and a tremendous responsibility for persons to meaningfully steer the protection and promotion of human rights.”

Mr Darrell said the SAC had started its radio and digital recruitment drive yesterday and urged interested parties to apply online at the Human Rights Tribunal website.

The Human Rights Tribunal panel will consist of 12 to 15 persons, including a chair and deputy chair.

A spokeswoman said that in addition to candidates with experience, interest in, understanding or knowledge of human rights law, the SAC seeks applicants with sufficient availability to efficiently adjudicate proceedings – which may require three to five days to complete – and ability to draft reasoned decisions.

For more information, visit www.humanrights.bm/sac-application-home/ or e-mail SAC@gov.bm.