Representatives from 19 National Human Rights Institutions (NHRIs) across the Asia Pacific gathered in Kathmandu, Nepal, from 3-5 September, for the International Conference on Gender Inclusion in National Human Rights Institutions.

Organised by the National Human Rights Commission of Nepal (NHRC) with support from the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), UN Women, and the APF, the conference aimed to tackle global challenges and institutional barriers to advancing gender equality, while fostering regional collaboration to drive meaningful change.

Participants shared strategies and experiences in promoting gender equality, emphasising the crucial role NHRIs play in advocating for the rights of women, girls and people of diverse gender identities. They also discussed the current progress and obstacles NHRIs face in integrating gender perspectives into their operations and governance structures.

The conference, inaugurated by Nepal's Prime Minister, Khadga Prasad Sharma Oli, featured a panel on the ‘Implementation Status of the Amman Declaration’, focusing on the progress NHRIs have made in promoting gender equality since its adoption in 2012.

Panellists reviewed international policies supporting gender equality and pluralism, identified gaps in the Amman Declaration, and discussed the need for context-specific approaches to address current challenges and future actions.

Another key session explored ‘Climate Change and Gender Justice’, emphasising the disproportionate impact of climate change on women and girls. Discussions centred on gender-based violence, the rights of indigenous and marginalised women, compensation for loss and damages, and NHRIs’ strategies for addressing climate change from a gender perspective.

The conference also showcased two key papers developed by the APF: Gender Equality and the Paris Principles and Gender Baseline Assessment of Asia Pacific NHRIs. These papers are designed to help APF members plan gender equality strategies and activities, while establishing benchmarks for future monitoring, evaluation, accountability, and learning.

Conference outcomes and the Kathmandu Declaration

Key outcomes of the event included a renewed commitment by NHRIs to advance gender equality within their organisations and strengthen regional cooperation on gender mainstreaming.

A major highlight was the development of the Kathmandu Declaration, a strategic roadmap for NHRIs to enhance gender mainstreaming efforts. While it gained broad support, the draft will be circulated for further input before its formal adoption.

Participants emphasised the need to address internal challenges, such as gender imbalances in leadership, and to step up advocacy for women’s rights at national and international levels.

This conference is part of a wider effort by APF members to ensure that NHRIs fulfil their mandate in promoting gender equality and safeguarding the rights of women and girls throughout the Asia Pacific region.