defending universal human rights If we are unable to ensure the respect, protection, and fulfilment of human rights and fundamental freedoms of all – especially the poorest and the most marginalised – then the universal human rights project will indeed mean nothing. We are at a pivotal moment in the global story on human rights. The promise of human rights – articulated 70 years ago in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) – is under grave threat as forces of intolerance, grievance and division grow in power, in our region and around the world. JOSE LUIS MARTIN ‘CHITO’ GASCON CHAIRPERSON COMMISSION ON HUMAN RIGHTS OF THE PHILIPPINES As calls to embrace nationalism become louder and as communities become more fearful of difference, we have seen human rights violations become more commonplace, more extreme and, disturbingly, more accepted. In June 2018, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights issued a powerful rebuke against this growing “contempt for human rights”, arguing that it threatens the very structures that have been designed to ensure our common safety and prosperity. THIS IS HOW WE RESPONDED During the year, when human rights have faced serious and sustained challenges, the APF has: • Defended NHRIs under threat, especially the Commission on Human Rights of the Philippines, which has come under sustained attacks for its advocacy against extrajudicial killings that have occurred as part of the government’s “war on drugs” • Since its adoption in 1948, the global community has worked together to articulate a body of human rights standards that provide the basis for fair, just and inclusive communities. Strengthened NHRIs to promote and protect human rights, by providing professional training to 162 staff and Commissioners and leading capacity assessments and capacity reviews for five NHRIs • Instead of retreating from these standards, as some have chosen to do, it is more important than ever to stand firm in defence of universal human rights, to build solidarity, to promote inclusion and to secure justice for those whose rights have been violated. Fostered collaboration across the region, by hosting meetings of Commissioners, senior executive officers and communication experts from our members in order to share their knowledge and build new skills • Promoted the establishment of new NHRIs, especially in the Pacific, where the Parliament of Tuvalu passed legislation to expand the role of the Ombudsman and other countries have expressed strong interest in establishing an NHRI • Encouraged NHRI advocacy on international forums, with APF members appearing before human rights treaty bodies in Geneva, as well as contributing to UN forums on the rights of older people, the rights of indigenous peoples and the rights of women in New York • Assisted our members seeking international reaccreditation, with the Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka being upgraded to ‘A status’. The UDHR – drafted in the wake of two devastating world wars, overwhelming genocide and a crippling economic depression – sought to affirm our common humanity and set a pathway to peace and development for all people, founded on the principles of equality and non-discrimination. NHRIs in the Asia Pacific are committed to upholding international human rights standards. Many do so in the face of serious threats and reprisals. Our members conduct investigations, monitor places of detention, appear before courts, advocate to parliaments and stand resolutely against the prejudice that can lead to discrimination, harassment and violence. Their sustained work makes a tangible difference for women, children, racial and ethnic minorities, indigenous peoples, LGBTI communities, people with disabilities and others who are vulnerable to abuse and violations. 4 ASIA PACIFIC FORUM OF NATIONAL HUMAN RIGHTS INSTITUTIONS