What are NHRIs? Our point of difference NHRIs are independent bodies, established by law or by the constitution of their country, to promote and protect human rights. Importantly, they operate independently from government. The APF is one of four regional coordinating committees of NHRIs. Regional coordinating committees have also been established to support the NHRIs of Africa, the Americas and Europe. Based in Geneva, the Global Alliance of National Human Rights Institutions (GANHRI) promotes the establishment and operation of NHRIs in compliance with the Paris Principles. Strong and effective NHRIs help bridge the “protection gap” between the rights of individuals and the responsibilities of the State by: Our story Drawing on 25 years of human rights experience, a commitment to innovation and an outcomes-based approach to our work, our expertise lies in supporting the establishment of NHRIs and strengthening the capacity of our members to carry out their vital work. Monitoring the human rights situation in the country and making their findings available to the public • Providing advice to government so that laws and policies reflect national and international human rights standards • Receiving, investigating and resolving complaints so that victims of human rights violations can seek redress • Delivering human rights education programs that help change attitudes and behaviour • Engaging with the international human rights community to raise pressing issues and advocate for recommendations that make a difference back home. What sets the APF apart is the breadth and diversity of the services we offer our members, including capacity development programs, opportunities for collaboration and specialist advice on NHRI legislation and international accreditation. We also continue to be a leader among NHRI bodies in promoting and monitoring gender equality. Unlike in Africa, the Americas and Europe, there is no regional human rights court or protection system in the Asia Pacific to which people can turn when their rights are violated. This makes the role of the APF and our member NHRIs even more critical. About the APF Founded in 1996, the Asia Pacific Forum of National Human Rights Institutions (APF) has created a strong and united platform that brings together National Human Rights Institutions (NHRIs) from all corners of the Asia Pacific to address some of the most serious human rights challenges in our region. • strengthen the impact of our members as they work to build fair, inclusive, and resilient communities. From five founding members, the APF membership has expanded to 25 NHRIs. Our network now supports over 4000 dedicated human rights defenders who work tirelessly on the ground to protect the rights of those most vulnerable. Through the sustained and dedicated efforts of our members, the APF is helping to build an Asia Pacific where everyone can enjoy their human rights. We also work closely with governments, civil society organisations, regional human rights bodies, and the international community to build strong partnerships and 4 ASIA PACIFIC FORUM OF NATIONAL HUMAN RIGHTS INSTITUTIONS ANNUAL REPORT 2020/21 5