A scenario based on a fictional NHRI, the Human Rights Commission of Assuwa1 (HRCA), is threaded throughout the Toolkit to provide a practical example of the processes discussed. The Human Rights Commission of Assuwa The Nation State of Assuwa Assuwa is an archipelago of many islands, most of which are inhabited. These islands form two main groups – northern and southern – and are surrounded by seas bordering many other countries. Assuwa is known for its varied landscapes, including coastal areas and rugged inland areas. While the mountains reach thousands of meters, the highest areas of some of the smaller islands are not much more than 10 meters. The Human Rights Commission of Assuwa In 2025, Assuwa’s population was just over 22 million. Inhabitants are diverse, influenced by a complex history of original inhabitation and waves of colonisation. It was most recently occupied by the Spanish but gained independence in 1898. As a result, Assuwa is a multi-cultural country with several distinct languages and cultural practices. Islam is the dominant religion but others are also followed – Buddhism, Christianity, and Hinduism. It has a developing economy heavily reliant on oil and gas revenues and foreign aid. Tourism is a growing source of income. The president of Assuwa is both head of state and head of government. Government holds the executive powers. Elections for president are held every six years, while elections for members of the house and all other governing bodies are held every three years. Historically, a masculine bias has dominated the Assuwan culture. However some progress has been made in recent years. Women have become progressively engaged in political leadership, have better employment prospects and increased educational opportunity. Laws to protect the rights of women, transgender and gender diverse peoples have recently been passed. However while there have been modest gains for the rights of women, girls and gender diverse people, the overall situation is concerning. The Human Rights Commission of Assuwa The Human Rights Commission of Assuwa (HRCA) was established as an independent body in 2005 following several years of protests that broke out after a violent military coup. Pro-democracy demonstrators demanded the formation of an organisation that would promote and protect human rights in the country. HRCA has spent the first ten years since it was established, developing itself as a credible national human rights institution. Recognising the concerning issues for women, girls and gender diverse people in Assuwa, the Commission has decided to include the promotion and protection of gender equality as a human rights priority issue in its strategic plan. 1. While the name, Assuwa, has ancient roots in the Asia Pacific Region it does not indicate an existing country. Gender Strategy Toolkit 2026 14