Strong leadership is essential for National Human Rights Institutions (NHRIs) to maintain independence, accountability, and operational excellence. To support this, the APF provides tailored online leadership services that equip NHRI leaders with the guidance and tools they need to uphold these standards and address critical human rights issues effectively.

Our leadership support provide flexible access to advice and support, enabling NHRI leaders to engage with the APF as a ‘sounding board’ for their strategic needs. This support helps NHRI leaders navigate complex challenges while strengthening their institutions' impact and integrity.

Introduction to APF Sessions

This introductory programme is designed for NHRIs looking to join the APF, as well as for new members of existing NHRIs who need a quick refresher on the APF’s role and services. Delivered online, the session involves an exchange of information between the NHRI and the APF, covering topics such as the APF’s role, capacity and advisory support and services.

Chairperson Leadership Outreach

The Chairperson Leadership Outreach programme is a rapid response service for NHRI leaders seeking strategic advice on domestic or international human rights issues. This service provides support for NHRI Chairpersons and has resulted in NHRIs accessing other APF services. The programme, conducted online, fosters ongoing institutional and personal relationships and is highly valued by NHRI leaders for its flexibility and impact.

High-Level Dialogues

Our High-Level Dialogue programme offers newly appointed NHRI leaders the opportunity to engage in in-depth, confidential discussions with NHRI experts and peers over several days. These dialogues cover a wide range of topics, including strategic and operational challenges, thematic issues, and governance responsibilities. Each dialogue is tailored to meet the needs of the NHRI leader, providing them with the insights and knowledge they need to lead effectively. For more information, watch our video on High-Level Dialogues here.

APF Virtual Dialogue Series

The APF Virtual Dialogue Series brings together NHRIs from across the region to share their experiences in promoting and protecting human rights. Each 90-minute online event is co-hosted by the APF and an NHRI, with the discussion focused on a topic chosen by the co-hosting institution.

Past dialogues have covered issues such as monitoring detention centres during the pandemic, advancing the rights of vulnerable groups, the rights of people with disabilities, employment discrimination and pay equity, and the role of NHRIs in relation to climate change, human rights and technology. Most recently, an APF Virtual Dialogue was held on the Optional Protocol to the Convention Against Torture (OPCAT).

Our leadership services demonstrate our commitment to supporting NHRI leaders with the knowledge, tools, and support they need to fulfil their mandates. Through these programmes, we aim to strengthen the capacity of NHRIs to promote and protect human rights across the Asia Pacific region.

Further information is available here.

Our APF Leadership Guide for NHRIs is available here. 

For more information on how to participate in these programmes, please contact:

Pip Dargan, Principal Adviser, APF Leadership Services

pipdargan@asiapacificforum.net