universal human rights and provide a global standard.
6. As NHRIs play a crucial role in promoting, protecting and monitoring the effective
implementation of international human rights standards and bringing together
stakeholders at the national level, NHRIs encourage Governments and other
stakeholders to make national pledges under the ‘Human Rights 75 Initiative’ to bring
about concrete changes towards the greater enjoyment of human rights for all.
7. At the regional level, we pledge to support the continued establishment of new NHRIs
and strengthening the independence and effectiveness of existing NHRIs in
compliance with the Paris Principles, and further strengthening regional human rights
mechanisms through capacity-building, sharing of experiences and good practices.
8. We recognize that global business practices have undergone great transformation
leading to the development of new business models, but further reform is needed. We
note the issues related to the protection of human rights of informal workforce
especially inequality and lack of social security benefits leading to their vulnerability
and exploitation. We highlight the need for engaging with businesses to ensure
respect for human rights throughout supply chains and support the development of
policy instruments that promote responsible and ethical business practices.
9. We note the impacts of the recent developments in Information and Communication
Technologies and Artificial Intelligence on human rights. There is a need to ensure
responsible development and deployment of digital technology and artificial
intelligence to further the goals of inclusive human development and build a just
society. To this end, we commit to support the protection of human rights of all,
including the most vulnerable.
10. We recall the adoption of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and its 2030
Agenda by the UN Member States and reaffirm that the goal of a peaceful, inclusive
and developed society is interrelated and mutually reinforced by the protection and
promotion of rights envisaged in the UDHR and codified by various international
instruments. We highlight that the work of NHRIs will contribute to the achievement
of the SDGs.
11. We resolve to make sustained efforts towards awareness generation, outreach,
training, advocacy and mutual cooperation to secure human rights to all.
Climate Change and Human Rights
12. We note that one of the most urgent human rights issues facing communities across
the Asia Pacific region is the adverse impact of climate change and environmental
harm on lives and livelihoods. Millions of people are at risk from rising sea levels,
climate change induced extreme weather events, saltwater intrusions, drought, loss of
biodiversity, pollution, land degradation and desertification, disease and other
changes caused by a warming planet.
13. Certain industrial activities and operations of businesses result in emissions, pollution
and other environmental damage that compromises the health and livelihoods of
communities. NHRIs resolve to work for the mitigation of environmental degradation
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