Introduction This report is a joint initiative of the Asia Pacific Forum of National Human Rights Institutions (APF) and the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA). Its focus is on reproductive rights and the extent to which these rights are, or could be, integrated into the work of national human rights institutions. The report includes information and insights secured through a comprehensive survey involving 15 member institutions of the APF. It analyses the current work practices and views of these institutions and considers the major challenges and risks they face in dealing effectively with this important issue. The report also identifies the special features of NHRIs that make them uniquely appropriate vehicles for promoting and protecting reproductive rights. It explores how NHRIs can best be supported in this work and proposes a set of steps for APF and UNFPA to consider in taking this initiative forward. Background At the 13th Annual Meeting of the APF, held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia in July 2008, APF Forum Councillors considered and formally approved a proposal to undertake joint activities with the UNFPA in the area of reproductive rights. The principal activity agreed between the APF and UNFPA is the development of a publication on integrating reproductive rights into the work of APF member institutions. That publication was intended to serve as the starting point for the development of targeted approaches by UNFPA and APF to promote and support the integration of reproductive rights into the work of NHRIs. In discussions between UNFPA and APF it was agreed that the report would focus on the following: l l l Mapping the extent to which national human rights institutions in the region are already addressing reproductive rights promotion and protection in their work; plus an identification of their perceived needs, gaps and challenges Identifying and analyzing case studies from the region that demonstrate good practice and lessons learned in relation to the integration of reproductive rights into the work of national human rights institutions A draft strategy containing selected interventions for follow up action by APF, UNFPA’s Asia Pacific Regional Office, the Gender, Human Rights and Culture Branch in New York, and country offices to further strengthen the capacity of NHRIs to promote and protect reproductive rights and women’s rights. Methodology In developing the report, the following methodology was adopted: l Review of relevant information including documentation provided by APF and UNFPA and individual NHRIs; xi