The £75,000 post will empower a chair who is independent, but nominated by Parliament and appointed by the Queen, to “promote widespread awareness, understanding of and respect for human right” according to the Scottish Parliament. 

The Commission, proposals for which were the subject of fierce debate in the previous Parliament, will also have four other part-time members. 

A selection panel of MSPs representing a  range of political parties, as set out in the Parliament’s standing orders, will interview candidates before nominating one for approval by the Parliament. 

The post is for an initial five year term, with the option of renewal for a further four years.