International & Regional

The APF plays an active role at the international and regional level in the protection and promotion of human rights.

We work closely with the United Nations, especially the mechanisms of the Human Rights Council. This participation is particularly important given that the Asia Pacific is the only region without a comprehensive inter-governmental human rights system.

Since its establishment in 1996 the APF has contributed to the development and promotion of international human rights law, by participating in international human rights gatherings and through the work of the Advisory Council of Jurists.

The APF collaborates with national human rights institutions outside the Asia Pacific through its engagement with the International Coordinating Committee, as well as regional coordinating committees from Africa, the Americas and Europe.

Within our region, the APF supports the development and strengthening of inter-governmental human rights mechanisms, such as the new ASEAN Intergovernmental Commission on Human Rights. We also work closely with other major regional organisations, including the Pacific Islands Forum.

In undertaking these international and regional activities, we also work closely with our member institutions, the OHCHR, inter-governmental bodies such as the Pacific Islands Forum and other partners.