Representatives from five National Human Rights Institutions (NHRIs) in the Asia Pacific have taken part in a comprehensive three-day workshop in Manila, Philippines, aimed at strengthening their understanding and knowledge of the international accreditation process. 

APF members, along with NHRIs from other regions of the world, participate in a regular peer-review process coordinated by the Global Alliance of National Human Rights Institutions (GANHRI) through its Sub-Committee on Accreditation (SCA). The GANHRI accreditation process evaluates compliance with the Paris Principles, the international standards for NHRIs to maintain independence, credibility, and effectiveness.

Held from 27-29 February in partnership with the Commission on Human Rights of the Philippines (CHR), the workshop was designed to increase participants' confidence in accreditation, improve outcomes for existing and prospective APF members, and facilitate knowledge exchange between NHRIs.

Interactive panel discussions were a key feature of the workshop, with panellists drawn from APF member institutions that had recently completed accreditation reviews with GANHRI. The NHRIs of Nepal and the Philippines shared valuable insights from their recent experience being reaccredited as A-status institutions. Additionally, practical exercises were conducted to simulate real-life accreditation scenarios.

The workshop was part of the APF Annual Program on Accreditation, which includes a two-week online learning program delivered in the APF Community prior to the in-person sessions. This comprehensive approach aims to equip participants with the necessary tools and knowledge to navigate the accreditation process effectively.

Representatives from the NHRIs of India, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and the United Arab Emirates took part in the 2024 program, which was facilitated by APF Legal and Policy Manager, Phillip Wardle, and APF Human Rights Defenders Project Officer, Fia Hamid-Walker.

“Accreditation enhances the effectiveness, credibility, and impact of NHRIs, ultimately contributing to the promotion and protection of human rights at the national, regional, and international levels,” said Mr Wardle.

The APF is grateful for the generous assistance of the CHR Philippines for co-hosting the workshop, and the support of the European Union through the NHRI.EU Phase 3 Project.

We also acknowledge the assistance of our members and international partners, including the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights and the Global Alliance of National Human Rights Institutions, for contributing their time and expertise to the workshop.

Date: 25 March 2024