NHC Receives Quality Management System Certification

In July 2018 the NHC officially received ISO 9001:2015 Certification (ISO Certification), an internationally recognized Quality Management System aimed at ensuring an organization runs effectively. Specifically, the certification concerns “carry[ing] out programmes to reinforce and support the activities of international and national governmental and non-governmental organizations in conflict prevention, human rights protection, upholding the rule of law, and promotion of democracy in Europe.”

The day certification was confirmed Pepijn Gerrits, NHC Executive Director thanked the staff, saying, “together we have worked very hard to make sure processes are better in place, procedures are properly described and a systematic way of working is ingrained in our operations. I’m very grateful for the support and cooperation.” ISO Certification demonstrates the use of professional and effective procedures in the NHC’s operations, signaling to current and future partners the organization’s quality of work.

…together we have worked very hard to make sure processes are better in place, procedures are properly described and a systematic way of working is ingrained in our operations…“- Pepijn Gerrits, NHC Executive Director

The process began early 2018 and took around six months. Certification required external party assessment of the NHC to ensure its compliance with ISO standards. During the process, internal staff also received training to highlight the procedures already in place that conformed with ISO 9001:2015 standards and the additional processes required for full compliance.

Erika Marseille, member of the NHC Supervisory Board, oversaw the portfolio for the ISO Certification process.