A quasi-judicial investigation into allegations of corruption concluded that Charif Kazal had engaged in conduct which could amount to criminal offences. There was insufficient evidence to prosecute him, yet no means by which he could challenge this finding. The inquiry was held publicly.

Mr Kazal alleged breaches of his right to be presumed innocent and the right to have a conviction reviewed by a higher tribunal (art 14) and alleged arbitrary attacks on his privacy, honour and reputation (art 17). The Committee decided his article 14 claims were inadmissible because the matter was not heard in a court.

It found he had suffered interference with his privacy and reputation in breach of art 17: “even interference provided for by law” should adhere to the ICCPR and be reasonable, proportionate and necessary.

The UN Human Rights Committee called on Australia to compensate Mr Kazal.