The Asia Pacific Forum (APF) successfully delivered its 2026 Online NHRI Induction Programme, bringing together 96 participants from 22 National Human Rights Institutions across the region. The programme combined self-paced online learning with interactive live sessions to build foundational knowledge of human rights, NHRI mandates, and the application of a gender lens in practice.

During the first four weeks, participants completed online courses on human rights, the Paris Principles, and gender equality, before joining a series of weekly live sessions focused on applying these concepts through discussion, case scenarios, and peer learning. Guest speakers from NHRIs across the region shared practical insights and experiences, which participants highlighted as a key strength of the programme.

By the end of the programme, 43 participants completed all three online courses, with others completing at least one or two modules. Participants consistently reported that the programme was highly relevant to their work and improved their ability to apply human rights principles and integrate gender considerations across NHRI functions.

Many participants identified practical next steps, including sharing knowledge within their institutions, integrating a gender lens into programmes and reporting, and contributing to gender strategies and institutional processes. As one participant noted, the programme “will support both my professional development and institutional work.”

The programme highlights the value of flexible, blended learning approaches and reinforces the importance of practical, experience-based learning to support NHRIs in translating knowledge into action.