Human Rights Defenders (HRDs) play a vital role in highlighting and addressing human rights violations across the Asia Pacific. Yet, they often face serious threats – from harassment and detention to violence and restrictive laws.

Two new APF toolkits offer practical steps National Human Rights Institutions (NHRIs) can take to enhance the safety and protection of HRDs in the region.

Engaging with Regional and International Actors

The Engaging with Regional and International Actors Toolkit supports NHRIs in strengthening partnerships with regional civil society organisations (CSOs), regional human rights mechanisms and international actors, and is aligned with Regional Action 2 of the APF Regional Action Plan on HRDs, which focuses on collaboration to protect HRDs.

Key topics covered in the toolkit include:

• Understanding HRDs and the role of NHRIs in safeguarding their rights.
• How NHRIs can partner with regional CSOs to preserve and expand civic space.
• NHRI engagement with regional human rights systems and inter-governmental bodies in the Asia Pacific.
• Collaborating with international actors to advance HRD rights.

Relocation and Respite for HRDs

Designed to assist NHRIs in supporting HRDs facing imminent threats, the Relocation and Respite Toolkit aligns with Regional Action 4 of the APF Regional Action Plan. It provides good practice examples for facilitating relocation and respite initiatives to ensure the safety and wellbeing of at-risk HRDs.

The toolkit provides guidance on:

• Assessing risks and the broader role of NHRIs in protecting HRDs facing reprisals.
• Supporting HRDs through relocation and respite programmes.
• Tailoring wellbeing plans to ensure a supportive environment for relocated HRDs.

Both toolkits offer links to additional resources and tools, equipping NHRIs with actionable strategies to safeguard HRDs.

Funded by the European Union, these toolkits reflect the APF’s commitment to protecting HRDs and fostering collaboration to uphold human rights across the region.