APF holds preparatory meetings for Capacity Assessment of Kyrgyz Ombudsman
The APF, in collaboration with UNDP and OHCHR held a four-day virtual planning meeting to prepare for the upcoming Capacity Assessment of the Ombudsman of the Kyrgyz Republic.
The APF, in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), held a four-day virtual planning meeting to prepare for the upcoming Capacity Assessment (CA) of the Ombudsman of the Kyrgyz Republic.
Held from 13–16 May, the meeting brought together key stakeholders such as the Deputy Prime Minister, government agencies, civil society and UN agencies to discuss the purpose and process of the CA.
Meetings were also held with the Ombudswoman, Ms Dzhamilia Dzhamanbaeva, her deputies, and staff, facilitated by representatives from the APF, OHCHR and UNDP. The session marked the first step in Kyrgyzstan’s CA, scheduled for 8–21 June 2025.
CAs support National Human Rights Institutions (NHRIs) to enhance their institutional effectiveness in promoting and protecting human rights. By examining internal systems, governance structures, and staff capabilities, NHRIs identify areas of strength and opportunities for development, laying the foundation for a strategic five-year roadmap. They are a flagship service available to APF member and prospective members.
The CA process supports NHRIs to take a reflective and strategic approach to their development, strengthening their ability to respond to evolving operational and human rights challenges."
Pip Dargan, Principal Adviser, APF Leadership Services
CAs also help improve internal processes, guide staff development, and build stakeholder confidence - often resulting in increased engagement and support from national and international partners.
NHRIs across the Asia Pacific region have already benefited from this approach. Most recently the APF, in cooperation with UNDP and OHCHR, have facilitated Capacity Assessments with the NHRIs of Turkmenistan (2022), Kazakhstan (2023) and Nepal (2024). A Capacity Assessment Review (CAR) was also facilitated with Fiji’s NHRI in 2024, and a virtual CAR was undertaken with Bahrain’s NHRI in 2021.
Feedback from these engagements has highlighted improvements in institutional performance, along with increased recognition and resourcing from governments and donors.
For more information on how the APF’s Capacity Assessment program is helping NHRIs strengthen their impact, please contact Pip Dargan, Principal Adviser, APF Leadership Services at pipdargan@asiapacificforum.net
