NATIONAL HUMAN RIGHTS INSTITUTIONS AS A HUMAN RIGHTS PROTECTION MECHANISM: THE CASES OF THE OMBUDSMAN AND HUMAN RIGHTS AND EQUALITY INSTITUTION OF TURKEY Currently, NHRIs which have been established in accordance with Paris Principles are important elements in national protection regimes whereby they undertake significant roles in ensuring that governments respect human rights and fulfil obligations arising from human rights treaties. NHRIs’ independence and safeguards afforded to their members are crucial criteria for them to be able to fulfil this role. Independence, in addition to being the basis of their legitimacy, is also pivotal for their credibility and effectiveness. While legislation in Turkey concerning these bodies does underline independence, that is not the case in practice. Adherence of both bodies to universal principles is dubious. This report which was prepared by independent academics focusing on the two institutions is the first of its kind in Turkey. The report aims to bring to light the role the Ombudsman (KDK) and TİHEK plays, or fails to do so, in protection and promotion of human rights. Should our report be a guiding light for both institutions as well as the legislative branch, it will have reached its aim. Dr. D. Çiğdem Sever has prepared the part on the Ombudsman and the part on TİHEK has been prepared by Assoc. Prof. Ulaş Karan. We would like to thank both authors for all their work. Association for Monitoring Equal Rights 6