Asia Pacific Forum of National Human Rights Institutions Strategic Plan 2022-27 Foreword About us For more than 25 years, the APF has brought together national human rights institutions (NHRIs) from across the Asia Pacific to address some of the most serious human rights issues in our region. Today, as the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, climate change, a rise in authoritarian regimes and a decline in fundamental freedoms and civic space are felt across the region, the unique role of NHRIs in protecting and promoting human rights is more important than ever. Our vision: In facing these challenges, the APF as a network of NHRIs is also presented with opportunities to find new and innovative ways to work and collaborate as we strive towards our common goals. The APF Strategic Plan 2022-27 sets out our vision for an Asia Pacific where human rights are universally enjoyed and respected. It describes in practical terms how we will work with our members, partners, and stakeholders to enable this vision to be realised. To support and strengthen national human rights institutions (NHRIs) in their efforts to promote and protect human rights throughout the Asia Pacific. The Plan details how we will strengthen the capacity of our members to carry out their human rights mandate. It outlines our commitment to supporting the establishment of new NHRIs in the region, leading to better protection of human rights for individuals and communities. It envisions a strong, engaged network committed to working together to address and advocate on a range of human rights issues. As a network of NHRIs working across such a broad and diverse geographical region, it is vital that we remain focused on the most pressing human rights challenges. Our new Strategic Plan outlines three priority areas identified by our members to guide our work: gender equality, environment and climate change, and human rights defenders and civic space. An Asia Pacific where human rights are universally enjoyed and respected. Our purpose: The Asia Pacific Forum of National Human Rights Institutions (APF) is a coalition of NHRIs from nations in the Asia Pacific. We provide a platform for NHRIs to collectively respond to the human rights challenges facing the region. We seek to build the capacity of NHRIs to create a region-wide culture and practice of respecting human rights. The APF works to achieve this by strengthening the capabilities of its members to safeguard human rights within their nation and supporting non-members in seeking a greater commitment and investment in human rights protection from their governments. The APF actively promotes the establishment of new NHRIs and assists NHRIs in undertaking the accreditation process to become internationally recognised as an effective NHRI. The Plan involved broad consultation with our members, stakeholders, and partners across the region and internationally. I am sincerely grateful for their contributions and participation in shaping the strategic direction of the APF. I am proud that the collaborative nature of the process has led to a Plan which reflects the rich diversity of our membership and their strong commitment to human rights. It is my hope that our new Strategic Plan inspires and motivates our members and partners to work collectively for change and provides an achievable roadmap to realising our shared vision for an Asia Pacific where human rights are universally enjoyed and respected. Emeritus Professor Rosalind Croucher AM Chairperson, Asia Pacific Forum of National Human Rights Institutions 4 5