Kerryann Ifill appointed as Barbados’ First Human Rights Commissioner

Former President of the Senate, the Most Honourable Kerryann Ifill, has been appointed as Barbados’ first Human Rights Commissioner, with her appointment—approved by Cabinet—taking effect on December 1, 2025.

On Tuesday, Ifill met briefly with Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley and Attorney General Dale Marshall at Parliament, ahead of International Human Rights Day. Their discussions focused on establishing the new Office and its responsibilities across traditional and emerging human rights concerns.

In a press release, Prime Minister Mottley emphasised that the Office would operate independently and could play a key role in strengthening national protections. She noted that while the Employment Rights Act provides safeguards in the workplace, gaps remain in other areas of public life.

“The Office of the HRC would be independent,” the Prime Minister stated, adding that she has invited the Commissioner to consider potential legislation that would protect citizens from discrimination outside of employment.

Attorney General Marshall underscored the importance of Barbados formalising the role. “Notwithstanding Barbados’ good record as far as human rights are concerned, it is now the gold standard for countries to establish an Office of Commissioner for Human Rights,” he said. He highlighted that such an Office promotes awareness, monitors complaints, supports compliance, and develops policies aligned with human rights standards.

Ifill said she was honoured by the appointment and stressed the personal and national significance of the work. She noted that the Commission will provide independent oversight and public education on human rights.

“When it is fully in place, the Human Rights Commission of Barbados will serve as an independent body dedicated to promoting, protecting, and upholding human rights across the nation,” she said. The Commission will investigate complaints, implement educational campaigns, monitor treaty compliance, and support behaviour change communication.

She added that the coming months will focus on laying the institutional groundwork, including reviewing regional and international human rights models and offering recommendations on a legislative framework.

Ifill, who holds an MBA in Management, served as President of the Senate from 2012 to 2018. She received the Order of Freedom of Barbados in 2023, the Silver Crown of Merit in 2018, and the Anthony N. Sabga Award for Caribbean Excellence in 2024. Her leadership roles span multiple regional and local organisations, including the Caribbean Council for the Blind, the Barbados Council for the Disabled, the Commonwealth Disabled People’s Forum, and the recent Constitutional Reform Commission.

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Human Rights Day is observed globally on December 10, marking the 1948 proclamation of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

The Office of the Human Rights Commissioner falls under the Office of the Attorney General and is temporarily located at Baobab Towers, Warrens, St. Michael.