“it takes courage and commitment” The past year marked an important milestone that touches all our lives. On 10 December 2018, we celebrated the 70th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. It is a document that simply and eloquently sets out our common aspirations as people, founded on the principle that each one of us is born free and equal in dignity and rights. Some might argue that there is little to celebrate today when hundreds of thousands of people in our region have been forced to flee brutal violence or when members of our community are attacked and abused because of who they are or the faith they profess. What is there to celebrate when some countries now seek to redefine or reprioritise human rights, or just walk away from the international community altogether? We celebrate the Universal Declaration because it has endured for seventy years. And it has endured through turbulent times and political storms because people the world over continue to draw inspiration from its vision: for a life of dignity, equality, respect and opportunity. I am proud of the courageous work of my colleagues in NHRIs across the region and for what we have achieved collectively as the APF. Our goal is to make a tangible difference in the lives of all people, especially those who are vulnerable to abuse and violations. This annual report showcases the many practical ways the APF has made that difference and is helping realise our vision for Asia Pacific where everyone is ‘free and equal’ to enjoy their human rights. Making that vision a reality, however, takes courage and commitment. It takes more than the effort of governments alone. It requires commitment and effort from all of us. NHRIs play a vital role in helping build the strong, fair and inclusive communities that the Universal Declaration envisions. In the past year, NHRIs across the Asia Pacific have stood shoulder-to-shoulder with individuals and communities who have faced discrimination, violence and harassment. They have advocated for justice and forged partnerships to bring about positive change. Emeritus Professor Rosalind Croucher AM President, Australian Human Rights Commission Chairperson, Asia Pacific Forum of National Human Rights Institutions They have done this by investigating complaints of human rights violations, monitoring places of detention, appearing before courts, advocating to parliaments and standing resolutely against the voices of prejudice and division, no matter how loud or powerful they may be. They have been vocal in their opposition to extrajudicial killings. They have led community conversations on taboo subjects, such as tackling family violence and ensuring LGBTI people can live in safety and dignity. And many have done this in the face of serious threats and reprisals. 4 ASIA PACIFIC FORUM OF NATIONAL HUMAN RIGHTS INSTITUTIONS WWW.YOUTUBE.COM/USER/ASIAPACIFICFORUM