The Control Yuan President, Chen Chu, announced today the new appointments for the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) in accordance with the Organic Act of the Control Yuan National Human Rights Commission. Lin Wen-cheng and Yeh Yi-jin, both serving members of the Control Yuan, have been appointed as new commissioners, while Wang Yu-ling, an ex officio commissioner, has been elected by the entire Commission to serve as the new Vice Chairperson. Their terms will commence on August 1st, 2024, and conclude on July 31st, 2025.
As the NHRC Chairperson, Chen Chu praised Commissioner Lin Wen-cheng for his unwavering commitment to advancing Taiwan's interests globally, particularly in the fields of academia and human rights. Lin has successfully forged robust collaborations with human rights organizations across Europe, the Americas, and Asia. Commissioner Yeh Yi-jin, known for her extensive public service experience, has been a vocal advocate for initiatives such as judicial reform. Chairperson Chen expressed confidence that Lin would leverage his expertise to strengthen Taiwan's human rights diplomacy, while Yeh would continue her advocacy for marginalized communities, drawing from her rich grassroots background.
Chairperson Chen lauded the newly elected Vice Chairperson, Wang Yu-ling, for her longstanding dedication to the rights of marginalized groups, including persons with disabilities and migrant workers. She highlighted Wang’s professionalism and commitment, asserting that her leadership will significantly bolster human rights efforts at the NHRC.
Chen aextended her gratitude to outgoing Vice Chairperson Tsai Chung-yi, recognizing his legal expertise in addressing complaints and legislative affairs during his tenure. She also acknowledged Commissioner Pu Chung-cheng for his contributions in overseeing NHRC’s initiatives to monitor the Taiwan government's approach to "ethnic mainstreaming" and indigenous rights, while offering practical recommendations for advancement.
According to Article 3 of the Organic Act of the Control Yuan National Human Rights Commission, the President of the Control Yuan appoints two commissioners each year, and then the entire Commission elects one commissioner to serve as Vice Chairperson.
Commissioner Lin Wen-cheng brings a wealth of experience from both academia and public service, having previously served as Executive Director at the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy, where he advanced democracy and human rights in Taiwan. He has established strong partnerships with human rights organizations across the globe. At this year's 13th International Ombudsman Institute (IOI) World Conference, Lin presented on the vital role of ombudsmen in promoting indigenous rights, representing the voices of Taiwan's indigenous communities.
Commissioner Yeh Yi-jin, recognized for her extensive experience in Taiwan’s Provincial Consultative Council and Legislative Yuan, has been a passionate advocate for human rights. She was instrumental in the campaign for dismantling the Special Investigation Division due to its human rights abuses, a campaign that successfully led to its closure. Chairperson Chen is optimistic that Commissioner Yeh will proactively address emerging human rights challenges, including those related to business and human rights, technological rights, and climate justice.