Building stronger National Human Rights Institutions Outcome 2: NHRIs have strengthened capability to effectively promote, protect and respond to human rights issues Our goal is to strengthen the capacity of NHRIs to protect and promote human rights by focusing on four key areas: operational efficiency, leadership, addressing human rights issues, and enhancing technical capabilities. To achieve this, we deliver tailored capacity development programs, capacity assessments, training, mentoring, and NHRI resources. We also foster engagement, dialogue, and collaboration on key thematic issues to support our members. Supporting our members to strengthen their capacity Our Capacity Assessment (CA) program, delivered in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), aims to strengthen the ability of NHRIs to protect and promote human rights at the national level. CAs provide a detailed evaluation of the skills and resources needed to achieve institutional and human rights objectives. By comparing existing capacities with required ones, the assessments help identify strengths, gaps, and opportunities for growth. This structured self-evaluation, facilitated by external experts, offers NHRIs valuable insights into their current capabilities and future needs, enabling them to develop strategies for improvement. Led by experts from the APF, UNDP, OHCHR, along with a peer NHRI, the process culminates in a draft report with actionable recommendations, guiding the NHRI’s capacity development strategy and outlining steps to address challenges, enhance skills, and improve internal processes. In early 2024, we facilitated a CA of the National Human Rights Commission of Nepal (NHRC). The CA team, in collaboration with the NHRC, reviewed key documents, conducted surveys and interviews with over 175 staff across their offices in Kathmandu, Karnali, and Madhesh provinces, and held virtual meetings with staff from five other provinces. They also engaged with government and civil society representatives in Karnali and Madhesh. The CA resulted in a detailed report outlining strategies to strengthen the NHRC’s capacity, staff development, internal processes, along with recommendations to address identified gaps. APF Annual Report 2023-24 19