HOW WE DRIVE POSITIVE CHANGE Bringing about positive change on complex issues is difficult, long-term work. It requires many committed groups and individuals to work together for shared goals. We are committed to work with and alongside others – governments, civil society and international partners – to build communities across the Asia Pacific where the human rights of all people are respected, protected and fulfilled. Between 2015 and 2020, our goal is to deliver better human rights outcomes for: >> Children >> Women >> People with disabilities >> Asylum seekers, refugees, migrants and internally displaced persons >> Older persons. We are also working with governments and business groups to build understanding and respect for human rights. Other critical human rights issues – such as preventing torture and protecting the rights of marginalised groups – continue to be an important focus of our training and capacity building work. Our theory of change As independent bodies with powers to investigate and report on human rights violations, NHRIs have a unique role to stand up for those in need of protection and to hold their governments to account for human rights obligations. Across the region, their courageous work has helped generate genuine change in many different ways: removing discrimination in laws and policies, improving the practices of law enforcement and government officials, giving vulnerable groups a say in decisions that affect them, supporting business to develop better ways of operating, and challenging negative stereotypes about marginalised groups. Unlike the other regions in the world, there is no regional court or protection system covering the Asia Pacific that people can turn to when their human rights are violated. This makes the work of NHRIs in our region even more critical. The role of the APF is to support NHRIs in the Asia Pacific to deliver on their mandate and generate positive change that makes a difference for people, especially those on the edges of society. 4 Independent and effective NHRIs We provide advice and expertise so that NHRIs in the region meet international standards Acting individually and collectively We promote collaboration and knowledge sharing between our members Influence laws, policies, practices and attitudes We provide training and support so our members can be as effective as possible To create an improved human rights environment in the Asia Pacific APF members share a common vision for human rights, peace and security in our region