We developed a digital legal library to support NHRIs in their work Human rights defenders need access to legal resources, current research, and case examples to enable them to effectively carry out their monitoring, investigation and reporting work. In 2020, we commenced the development of the APF Digital Legal Library, an online searchable repository of NHRI legislation and other legal instruments that is designed to support NHRIs in their work and complement the APF’s legal advice to members. Currently in its development phase, the Digital Legal Library contains a comprehensive set of resources which will strengthen the capacity of NHRIs to carry out their mandate and assist governments and organisations that wish to establish NHRIs. The Digital Legal Library was developed with the support of Human Rights Information and Documentation Systems (HURIDOCS), a non-government organisation specialising in the development of tools and strategies to make human rights information more accessible. Looking forward With virtual accreditation sessions expected to continue until 2022, we will continue to support accreditation for our members and in our role as regional network observer. The past year saw a significant increase in Asia Pacific NHRIs scheduled for accreditation, with high numbers also predicted for the following year. Seventeen NHRIs from our region are currently scheduled for review, reflecting a consistently high demand for the APF’s accreditation support. We anticipate an increase in requests for advice and support over coming years as travel restrictions are lifted and governments re-focus on their domestic institution-building commitments. We are also predicting further legislation advice work with NHRIs from Fiji, Iraq and Malaysia, as a result of recent SCA reports, which have recommended amendments to their enabling legal statutes. In 2021-22 we will continue to work on the development of the APF Digital Legal library and will develop a workshop on accreditation for members. We will also continue to follow up with States on draft legislation for establishing an NHRI. Building stronger National Human Rights Institutions Outcome 2: Increased member capability to deliver their mandate The APF undertakes a variety of capacity development activities including online learning courses on thematic issues, the mandated functions of an NHRI and on operational issues such as monitoring, evaluation, accountability and learning (MEAL). We host professional networks to foster collaboration and learning between NHRIs through the exchange of good practices and lessons learned. We support capacity assessments and capacity assessment reviews, High-Level Dialogues, and develop resources specifically for NHRIs. Our impact We adapted our signature services, including our High-Level Dialogue (HLD) programme and Capacity Assessment Reviews (CARs) to a virtual environment, in response to the ongoing impact of COVID-19 travel restrictions. We launched the APF Community which continues to deliver high quality and relevant capacity development activities which supports NHRIs to more effectively deliver their mandate. 12 ASIA PACIFIC FORUM OF NATIONAL HUMAN RIGHTS INSTITUTIONS ANNUAL REPORT 2020/21 13