On 2 September, the APF, in partnership with the National Human Rights Commission of Korea (NHRCK), hosted a virtual dialogue to discuss the ratification and implementation of the Optional Protocol to the Convention against Torture (OPCAT).

The event, attended by over 50 participants, provided an opportunity for NHRIs across the Asia Pacific to exchange experiences, share strategies, and build partnerships to advance OPCAT ratification and implementation.

The dialogue aimed to support NHRIs by showcasing successful advocacy efforts and offering practical guidance for overcoming challenges. The event emphasised the critical role NHRIs play in advocating for OPCAT adoption by their States.

Moderated by Pip Dargan, Principal Adviser, APF Leadership Services, the session began with remarks from Ms. Chaewon Yoon, Director of Human Rights Policy at NHRCK, and featured insights from Ben Buckland, Senior Adviser at the Association for the Prevention of Torture (APT).

Representatives from Australia, Korea, and Mongolia shared their experiences, highlighting the varied stages of OPCAT engagement in the region. This progress includes:

Australia

Australia signed OPCAT in 2009 and ratified it in 2017, adopting a multi-body monitoring system with 12 bodies forming its National Preventive Mechanism (NPM). In Australia, The Commonwealth Ombudsman is the designated federal NPM and NPM Co-ordinator. The Australian Human Rights Commission has facilitated training and other initiatives in relation to the NPM.

Korea

Korea ratified the UN Convention Against Torture in 1995 but has yet to ratify OPCAT, with the government citing concerns over military secrecy and existing domestic systems. The NHRCK continues to push for ratification, gaining recent support from 39 National Assembly members.

Mongolia

Mongolia ratified OPCAT in 2014 and established its NPM within the NHRC in 2022. Despite some challenges, Mongolia’s progress offers valuable lessons for other countries.

The dialogue highlighted the complexities of OPCAT implementation while showcasing the importance of regional cooperation in advancing human rights protections. Part of the APF Virtual Dialogue Series, this event fostered engagement between APF members and prospective members, encouraging collaboration and knowledge-sharing on human rights advocacy.

Stay updated on future events in the APF Virtual Dialogue Series by following #APFDialogueSeries on social media.