Our achievements in 2016–17 NEW PARTNERSHIPS TO COUNTER VIOLENCE AND DISCRIMINATION Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex (LGBTI) people in the Asia Pacific can experience shocking levels of violence, harassment and discrimination. However, a series of groundbreaking APF-UNDP workshops has helped establish country-level partnerships across the region to better promote and protect the rights of LGBTI people. These workshops brought NHRIs and LGBTI civil society groups together for the first time in order to build mutual understanding and identify areas where they could work together for genuine change. The workshops were part of a comprehensive program of activities delivered by the APF and UNDP over the past year. ADDRESSING THE ROOT CAUSES OF FAMILY VIOLENCE A landmark national inquiry was launched by Samoa’s NHRI in December 2016 to identify the factors contributing to the widespread incidence of family violence in the Pacific island nation. It will also seek to improve support for the women and children affected. The Ombudsman of Samoa first drew attention to the disturbingly high levels of violence and abuse, including sexual abuse of children, in his 2015 State of Human Rights report. With gender equality a priority for the APF, we have provided financial and technical assistance to support the NHRI undertake this important work, including providing training for staff members in all aspects of conducting a national inquiry. NHRIs GIVEN PARTICIPATION RIGHTS AT UN BODY The unique contribution that NHRIs can offer to international discussions of human rights has been recognised in an historic decision to include them as independent participants in the work of the UN Open-Ended Working Group on Ageing (OEWG). The decision was adopted during the 7th session of the OEWG, held in December 2016. It means that ‘A status’ NHRIs are now be able to contribute directly to the work of the OEWG as it deliberates on a possible convention on the rights of older persons. This outcome is the end result of consistent and ongoing advocacy by the APF and GANHRI to secure independent participation for NHRIs in the work of New York-based UN bodies. 8 ASIA PACIFIC FORUM OF NATIONAL HUMAN RIGHTS INSTITUTIONS