We are proud to share that the outcomes of our recent benchmarking study provided a unique and valuable opportunity for cross learning between the Commission for Human Rights and Administrative Justice in Ghana (CHRAJ) and the Office of Public Independent Conciliator (PIC) in Cameroon’s North West region. This study evaluated key areas such as complaint resolution efficiency, case success rates, citizen engagement, and transparency, offering critical insights to guide future improvements.
A central finding of the study highlights the transformative impact of digital innovation on public institutions. The implementation of a case management system at CHRAJ significantly enhanced efficiency, accountability, and transparency in handling citizen complaints. The study also underscores the importance of civic engagement and public education in strengthening democratic governance. Engaging the public not only builds trust but also empowers citizens to understand and exercise their rights. Increasing outreach and educational efforts in the North West region of Cameroon remains a key priority to bridge the gap between local institutions and the communities they serve.
One of the most valuable aspects of this study has been the cross-institutional collaboration between the Office of Public Independent Conciliator (PIC) in Cameroon’s North West region and the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) in Ghana. This partnership has enabled a meaningful exchange of best practices and highlighted the importance of shared learning in tackling complex administrative and human rights challenges. By fostering cross-border cooperation, both institutions have strengthened their strategies to protect citizens’ rights and ensure that duty bearers remain accountable to service users.
More Information
For more information about the project, contact the project manager at [email protected].
Benchmarking helps identify best practices and areas for improvement, enabling ombudsman institutions to adopt more efficient procedures, strengthen complaint-handling mechanisms, and build capacity to address citizens’ grievances more effectively.
Strengthening the work of ombudsman institutions is particularly important in light of the ongoing crisis in Cameroon’s English-speaking regions, where long-standing economic and political marginalisation has deeply eroded public trust. The benchmarking process contributes to broader goals of good governance and the protection of fundamental rights—especially critical in this context. Promoting the rule of law and ensuring equal access to economic, social, and cultural rights for minorities is essential to building stable, transparent, and democratic societies, and to fostering social cohesion.
