The Asia Pacific Forum of National Human Rights Institutions
The Asia Pacific Forum of National Human Rights Institutions (‘APF’) is an independent nonprofit organisation that supports, through regional cooperation, the establishment and development
of national institutions in order to protect and promote the human rights of the peoples of the
region.
Established in 1996, the APF is comprised of independent national human rights institutions that
have been established in compliance with the minimum standards of the United Nations General
Assembly endorsed ‘Principles relating to the status of national Institutions’ (‘the Paris
Principles’).
The APF plays a unique role in developing human rights dialogue, networks and practical
programmes of support. With its member institutions the APF is well positioned to directly
influence the development of human rights law and practice in the Asia Pacific.
The Advisory Council of Jurists
The Advisory Council of Jurists (‘ACJ’) advises the APF Forum Council on the interpretation and
application of international human rights standards. The ACJ is comprised of eminent jurists who
have held high judicial office or senior academic or human rights appointments.
The establishment of the ACJ reflects the Forum Council’s recognition of the need for access to
independent, authoritative advice on international human rights questions and to develop regional
jurisprudence relating to the interpretation and application of international human rights standards.
The ACJ has considered five references: torture (2005); anti-terrorism legislation and the rule of
law (2004); trafficking of women and children (2002); death penalty (2000); and the regulation of
child pornography on the internet (2000).
Further information about the ACJ is available at: www.asiapacificforum.net/jurists/
The Asia Pacific Forum of National Human Rights Institutions
Level 8, 133 Castlereagh Street
Sydney NSW 2000
Australia
Telephone: +61 2 9284 9845
Facsimile: +61 2 9284 9825
E-mail: apf@asiapacificforum.net
Web: www.asiapacificforum.net
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