One of the great strengths of the APF is the solidarity that exists between our members. Despite the diverse social, cultural and political environments in which they work, our members are committed to sharing experiences, exchanging information and working collaboratively to address common human rights challenges.

Annual Meeting and Biennial Conference

The APF annual meeting is our major decision-making forum and a catalyst for developing new programs and common policy positions.

It also provides an important opportunity for APF members to discuss the work and direction of the organisation, to share experiences and to build co-operative relationships.

The annual meetings have a track record in developing practical approaches to address shared human rights concerns, both at a regional level and on a country-to-country basis.

Every second year, the APF hosts a major conference in conjunction with the annual meeting. Bringing together representatives from NHRIs, governments, civil society and international organisations, it is the largest regular human rights event in the Asia Pacific.

Professional networks and best practices

We also convene professional networks that enable Commissioners and staff to share information, develop cooperative partnerships, and establish "best practice" standards. These networks ensure that our members have the resources and support they need to address human rights issues effectively.

APF Virtual Dialogue Series

In collaboration with our members, we regularly facilitate online dialogues on a range of human rights topics through the APF Virtual Dialogue Series. These dialogues provide a regional platform for NHRIs to exchange information, share best practices, and discuss opportunities for collaboration.

Previous dialogues include:

• Monitoring of Detention Centres during COVID-19: Co-hosted with the Human Rights Commission of Malaysia, this dialogue focused on the challenges and strategies for monitoring detention centres during the pandemic.
• Advancing the Rights of Vulnerable Communities during COVID-19: Co-hosted with the National Human Rights Commission of Korea, this dialogue explored how NHRIs can protect and promote the rights of vulnerable groups during the pandemic.
• Rights of People with Disabilities: In partnership with the National Human Rights Commission of India, this session highlighted the role of NHRIs in protecting and promoting the rights of people with disabilities.
• Discrimination in Employment and Pay Equity: Held in collaboration with the New Zealand Human Rights Commission, this dialogue focused on the right to employment with a focus on pay equity.

These dialogues are an integral part of our ongoing efforts to foster collaboration and knowledge-sharing among NHRIs, ensuring that they are well-equipped to promote and protect human rights across the Asia Pacific region.