Introduction Over the years, NHRIs have enhanced their roles and efforts to urge governments and other stakeholders to support and safeguard human rights. Despite this progress, NHRIs continue to face challenges in carrying out their mandate. The lack of full cooperation or adherence from governments and other public authorities obstruct the ability of NHRIs to effectively monitor and address human rights violations. The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated existing vulnerabilities, leading to a notable increase in human rights violations, authoritarianism, and restricted civic space. These circumstances intensify the pressure on NHRIs and HRDs in their efforts. The impacts of these government-imposed restrictions are still ongoing. NHRIs play an increasingly vital role in promoting and ensuring the effective application of international human rights standards at the national level. Yet, they often lack the necessary resources to fulfil this role. In 2021, the APF endorsed its Regional Action Plan on Human Rights Defenders (the Regional Action Plan), which underscores the shared commitment of APF members to safeguard and advance the rights of HRDs in the Asia Pacific region. This fouryear initiative delineates both regional and national strategies aimed at acknowledging the dignity of defenders and enhancing respect for their rights. Furthermore, it reinforces our members’ significant commitment outlined in the Marrakesh Declaration. The Regional Action Plan contains seven regional and eight national actions that the APF and its members will implement by 2025 to improve respect for the rights of HRDs. Regional actions include: 1. Supporting regional policy-making on HRDs; 2. Engaging with regional civil society actors and international partners; 3. Facilitating collaboration between NHRIs; 4. Facilitating relocation and respite for HRDs; 5. Supporting the establishment of NHRIs; 6. Developing regional data on HRDs; and 7. Strengthening the capacity of NHRIs. National actions, which will be implemented by APF members with the support of the APF, include: 1. Advocating for national legal protections: 2. Promote gender equality and mainstream and the recognition of women HRDs; 3. Raising awareness of the rights of HRDs; 4. Developing ‘early warning systems;’ 5. Monitoring violations against HRDs; 6. Reporting on violations against HRDs; 7. Engaging with the international human rights system; and 8. Strengthening national networks of HRDs. APF Human Rights Defenders Working Group: Annual Report 2024-25 8