Chairperson’s message During 2024-25, National Human Rights Institutions (NHRIs) in the Asia Pacific continued to operate in complex environments including escalating conflicts, humanitarian crises, and threats to democratic institutions. NHRIs responded to human rights violations amidst increasing pressure on civic space, rapidly evolving digital risks and surveillance and worsening climate injustice. Despite these challenges, NHRIs remained a vital pillar of national accountability, safeguarding rights, engaging with communities, advising governments, and advancing practical solutions that uphold human dignity. The APF’s strength lies in our membership and our shared commitment to cooperation and peer support. Our network has 27 members drawn from across the region, with a diversity of contexts and mandates that strengthens our collective efforts and reinforces the impact of a trusted regional network. A central priority in 2024-25 was supporting our members to comply with the Paris Principles and to strengthen their independence and effectiveness. We provided targeted accreditation support to seven NHRIs and maintained a strong emphasis on practical capacity development, including leadership engagement, peer exchange through the Senior Executive Officers Network, and tailored support for torture prevention initiatives across the region. We also advanced gender equality through a regional baseline assessment, targeted programmes, and support to members to integrate gender data and promote regional learning through an intersectional approach. The APF continued to amplify NHRI voices at regional and international levels, including through close engagement with GANHRI, participation in the UN Human Rights Council, and partnerships with relevant UN entities. In parallel, we sustained advocacy for respect of international human rights law in response to the ongoing conflict in Gaza, with a focus on the protection of civilians. I extend my sincere appreciation to APF members for their dedication and leadership, and to our partners and donors for their continued support. I also acknowledge the members of the APF Governance Committee and Secretariat, whose commitment enables our network to deliver timely, responsive, and high-quality support. Samar Khaled Haj Hassan Chairperson, Asia Pacific Forum of National Human Rights Institutions Chairperson, Jordan National Center for Human Rights 8 APF Annual Report 2024-25