3.4 Describe each strategic priority and why it is a priority for your NHRI This section provides more detail about each strategic priority. It helps people who were not involved in developing the Strategy understand why these priorities were chosen. The previous section explained that the priorities were identified through a rigorous prioritisation process. In this section, you can briefly explain: • W  hat each priority means • W  hy it is important for your NHRI • The key issues or evidence that informed it • H  ow the priority supports gender equality and the NHRI mandate. You can also note that priorities will be reviewed during implementation of the Strategy to ensure they remain relevant and effective. Example: Human Rights Commission of Assuwa PRIORITY 1: Promote gender equality in national laws and policies. Why is this a priority? Laws and policies shape the framework through which rights are protected and discrimination is prevented. Ensuring that national legislation reflects international human rights standards addresses systemic barriers faced by women and gender-diverse people, while also creating a foundation for equal participation across society. By focusing on this area, the Commission aims to ensure that the legal framework of Assuwa reflects international human rights standards, protects against gender-based discrimination, and sets a clear standard for state institutions, employers, and communities. It is a priority that aligns with Assuwa’s obligations under global human rights treaties and provides a concrete pathway to address systemic barriers faced by women, men, and gender-diverse people. PRIORITY 4: Embed gender equality outcomes throughout the HRCA. Why is this a priority? The Commission recognises that to be a credible champion of equality externally, it must lead by example internally. Mainstreaming gender equality into its policies, processes, culture, and day-today operations will ensure that the organisation reflects the values it promotes. This priority strengthens institutional integrity, ensures the equitable treatment of all genders within the Commission, builds staff capacity and confidence to integrate gender perspectives in their work, and ensures that all programmes and services are responsive and inclusive. By embedding gender equality throughout the organisation, the HRCA sets a standard for accountability and demonstrates its commitment to living its mandate in practice, not just in principle. Gender Strategy Toolkit 2026 52