Asia Pacific Forum of National Human Rights Institutions Strategic Plan 2022-27 Our strategy in detail Our vision: An Asia Pacific where human rights are universally enjoyed and respected. Our purpose: To support and strengthen national human rights institutions (NHRIs) in their efforts to promote and protect human rights throughout the Asia Pacific. Our role: We play multiple and interconnected roles with NHRIs, governments, civil society organisations and intergovernmental bodies, as: Adviser: We deliver expert advice to support the establishment of independent and resilient NHRIs, based on the Paris Principles and international best practice. Capability developer: We support capability development of NHRIs, providing them with resources and advice to effectively deliver on their mandate and respond to human rights abuses. Facilitator: We convene NHRIs and other key stakeholders to collaborate, exchange expertise and contribute to human rights knowledge in regional and international settings Advocate: We advocate for the protection and security of independent NHRIs when facing reprisals as well as compliance with the UN Paris Principles. Our human rights priorities The Asia Pacific is the most diverse and populous region in the world. We support our members to work on a wide range of human rights issues across the region, as they face ever-increasing demands on their time and resources. The APF will focus on the following priorities: Gender equality Promoting gender equality involves working towards equitable rights, responsibilities and opportunities for all genders. Gender inequality is pervasive and entrenched in all societies across the world, and without achieving gender equality, full human potential is disregarded, and we cannot achieve the human rights outcomes we envision. Environment and climate change All human beings depend on a safe, clean, healthy and sustainable environment in which to live. The interlinked crises of climate change, pollution and loss of biodiversity are severely impacting human rights and threatening the rights of future generations. The exercise of rights, including the right to environmental information, participation and access to remedies, are vital to the protection of a healthy environment. Human rights defenders and civic space Human rights defenders (HRDs) are individuals and organisations that seek to promote and protect human rights through non-violent means. They face increasing threats of reprisals in the context of shrinking civic space and rising authoritarianism globally, which impacts on their ability to work effectively and in safety. NHRIs are in a unique position as both supporters of HRDs, and also as HRDs themselves. Representative: We serve as a collective voice for NHRIs at the regional and international level. 10 11