Asia Pacific Forum of National Human Rights Institutions
Almost all participants in the review described the process itself as having had “an impact” or having
“made a difference” and as being of benefit to the NHRI. The review’s recommendations were accepted
by the CAP in 2013. They were incorporated into the CA procedure and the revised manual in 2014 and
again in 2019.
In 2013 the Tripartite Partnership of GANHRI, OHCHR and UNDP agreed to undertake research
into CA experiences and methodologies, lessons learned and common challenges, having regard to
regional specificities. The research resulted in the development and adoption of the Global Principles
for the Capacity Assessment of National Human Rights Institutions, consisting of eight principles
drawn from evidence and practice to offer guidance to NHRIs in their efforts to enhance effectiveness
and accountability. The revised manual of 2019 reflects these Principles. Among other things, a CA
examines whether the NHRI undertaking the CA is gender sensitive and mainstreams gender in its
work, internally and externally. The APF has adopted a Gender Policy and it has developed gender
mainstreaming guidelines as part of the implementation of the Gender Policy. The guidelines provide
a gender mainstreaming checklist for CAs. The Policy and guidelines are incorporated into the revised
manual of 2019.
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