The Asia Pacific Forum of National Human Rights Institutions Established in 1996, the Asia Pacific Forum of National Human Rights Institutions (APF) is a regional membership based organisation that supports, through cooperation, the establishment and development of national human rights institutions that protect and promote the human rights of the peoples of the region. The APF is comprised of independent national human rights institutions (NHRIs). Full members of the APF are those NHRIs that have been established in compliance with the minimum standards of the UNGA endorsed ‘Principles relating to the status of National Institutions’ (‘Paris Principles’). The APF plays a unique role in developing human rights dialogue, networks and practical programmes of support, and, through its member NHRIs, 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 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 six references: education (2006); 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). The meeting of the ACJ in 2007 were made possible with the support of the MacArthur Foundation. Further information about the ACJ is available at: www.asiapacificforum.net/acj/ The Asia Pacific Forum of National Human Rights Institutions Level 8, 133 Castlereagh Street Sydney NSW AUSTRALIA 2000 Telephone: +61 2 9284 9845 Facsimile: +61 2 9284 9825 E-mail: apf@asiapacificforum.net Web: www.asiapacificforum.net - ii -