Records Management and Human Rights at Kenya National Comission on Human Rights

Abstract

Proper management of records is crucial for good governance as well as the attainment of human rights in all societies. However, the mismanagement of records in most institutions today continues to undermine human rights. The aim of the study was to investigate the extent to which records management underpins human rights activities undertaken by Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) and to make recommendations aimed at enhancing human rights through the strengthening of records management. The specific objectives of the study were to: conduct business process analysis in order to establish the human rights activities undertaken by KNCHR and the types of records created or received; establish what records are considered useful in upholding human rights at KNCHR; establish the policies and procedures put in place by KNCHR and the extent to which they safeguard KNCHR records and information. The study also sought to identify challenges faced by human rights officers when obtaining information pertaining to human rights and to suggest a records management framework for managing human rights related records at KNCHR. The study was based on two models namely: the Records Continuum Model and the Calvert-Henderson Human Rights Indicator. Literature review was structured around records management and human rights themes. The study population sample size constituted thirty two (32) respondents drawn from KNCHR headquarters. The study utilized face-to-face interview and analysis of documentary sources. Qualitative and quantitative approaches were used to analyze, present and interpret data. Key findings of the study showed that records underpinned all the activities at KNCHR, provided evidence and led to the protection of human rights. The study established that KNCHR was faced with various challenges such as limited funding and inadequate records management staff, issues that needed to be addressed urgently. The study concluded that there was a strong connection between sound records management and human rights. The study recommended development of policies and procedures to provide a holistic way of managing records at KNCHR.