A/HRC/7/70 page 13 (a) Members of the governing body represent different segments of society as referred to in the Paris Principles; (b) Pluralism through the appointment procedures of the governing body of the National Institution, for example, where diverse societal groups suggest or recommend candidates; (c) Pluralism through procedures enabling effective cooperation with diverse societal groups, for example advisory committees, networks, consultations or public forums; or (d) society. Pluralism through diverse staff representing the different societal groups within the The Sub-Committee further emphasizes that the principle of pluralism includes ensuring the meaningful participation of women in the National Institution. 4. Selection and appointment of the governing body: The Sub-Committee notes the critical importance of the selection and appointment process of the governing body in ensuring the pluralism and independence of the National Institution. In particular, the Sub-Committee emphasizes the following factors: (a) A transparent process; (b) Broad consultation throughout the selection and appointment process; (c) Advertising vacancies broadly; (d) Maximizing the number of potential candidates from a wide range of societal groups; (e) Selecting members to serve in their own individual capacity rather than on behalf of the organization they represent. 5. Encouraging ratification or accession to international human rights instruments: The Sub-Committee interprets that the function of encouraging ratification or accession to international human rights instruments, set out in the Paris Principles, is a key function of a National Institution. The Sub-Committee therefore encourages the entrenchment of this function in the enabling legislation of the National Institution to ensure the best protection of human rights within that country. 6. Government representatives on National Institutions: The Sub-Committee understands that the Paris Principles require that Government representatives on governing or advisory bodies of National Institutions do not have decision-making or voting capacity. -----