The Asia Pacific Forum of National Human Rights Institutions The Asia Pacific Forum of National Human Rights Institutions (APF) is an independent nonprofit organisation that supports, through regional cooperation, the establishment and development of national institutions in order to protect and promote the human rights of the peoples of the region. Established in 1996, the APF is comprised of independent national human rights institutions (NHRIs) that have been established in compliance with the minimum standards of the United Nations General Assembly-endorsed ‘Principles relating to the status of national Institutions’ (the Paris Principles). The APF plays a unique role in developing human rights dialogue, networks and practical programmes of support. With its member institutions the APF 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 Forum Council 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 five references: torture (2005); anti-terrorism legislation and the rule of law (2004); trafficking of women and children (2002); the death penalty (2000) and the regulation of child pornography on the internet (2000). Further information about the ACJ is available at: www.asiapacificforum.net/jurists/ The Asia Pacific Forum of National Human Rights Institutions Level 8, 133 Castlereagh Street Sydney NSW 2000 Australia Telephone: +61 2 9284 9845 Facsimile: +61 2 9284 9825 E-mail: apf@asiapacificforum.net Web: www.asiapacificforum.net 2