APF takes part in global effort against torture at 14th International Conference of NHRIs

The APF took part in the 14th International Conference of National Human Rights Institutions (NHRIs), hosted by the Global Alliance of National Human Rights Institutions (GANHRI) in collaboration with the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), the Ukrainian Parliament Commissioner for Human Rights, and the Danish Institute for Human Rights (DIHR).

Held in Copenhagen, Denmark, from 6-8 November 2023, the conference brought together around 300 participants, including representatives from United Nations (UN) agencies, leading anti-torture NGOs, and international experts.

The focus of the conference was on exploring the role of NHRIs in addressing and preventing torture, emphasising the commitment to uphold the right of all individuals to live with dignity and free from torture. The event was also an opportunity for the APF to engage with the other regional NHRI networks: the Americas Network of National Human Rights Institutions (RINDHCA), the European Network of National Human Rights Institutions (ENNHRI) and the Network of African National Human Rights Institutions (NANHRI).

The conference featured panel discussions, interactive working sessions, and insights shared by guest speakers from the European Union (EU), UN, and NGOs. At the conclusion, participating NHRIs, including the APF, adopted the Kyiv-Copenhagen Declaration, outlining the practical actions that NHRIs commit to in their efforts related to promotion, prevention, and protection work on torture and other ill-treatment.

Expressing grave concern over the ongoing practice of torture worldwide, the Kyiv-Copenhagen Declaration emphasises the impact on access to justice, the effective administration of justice, the rule of law, and civic space. 

NHRIs pledged to adopt a victim-centred approach, acknowledging the experiences of victims and survivors and seeking responsive redress to their needs. The declaration also underscores the commitment to uphold the rights of individuals in situations of vulnerability, recognising the heightened risks they face.

GANHRI, its regional networks, and all NHRIs expressed a joint commitment to collaboration, mutual capacity building, and knowledge sharing. The aim is to strengthen the collective efforts of NHRIs globally in preventing and addressing torture and other ill-treatment. 

The APF, aligning with this commitment, continues to play an active role in advancing human rights and preventing torture in the Asia Pacific region.

Date: 27 November 2023