The APF, in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), facilitated a Capacity Assessment (CA) of the Ombudsman of the Kyrgyz Republic from 8–21 June 2025.

The Capacity Assessment was part of the CA Project, a joint initiative of the APF, UNDP, and OHCHR that supports National Human Rights Institutions (NHRIs) across the Asia Pacific region to strengthen their ability to protect and promote human rights.

The two-week program took place at the Ombudsman’s head office in Bishkek, with additional visits to regional offices in Osh and Naryn. The process engaged Ombudswoman Ms Dzhamilia Dzhamanbaeva, her deputies, staff, and a wide range of stakeholders, including representatives from government and civil society.

Through a series of structured consultations, the CA explored internal operations, leadership structures, and staff capacity to identify institutional strengths and areas for development.

“Capacity Assessments are a vital tool for NHRIs to reflect on their strengths, identify areas for development, and plan strategically for the future. The collaborative process supports institutions to enhance their effectiveness and capacity,” said Pip Dargan, Principal Adviser, APF Leadership Services.

CAs are a flagship service offered to APF members and prospective members. They help improve internal systems, guide professional development, and foster stakeholder confidence - often leading to increased recognition and resourcing from both governments and donors.

This was the fourth Capacity Assessment delivered by the APF in the past four years, following similar engagements with the NHRIs of Turkmenistan (2022), Kazakhstan (2023), and Nepal (2024). In addition, a Capacity Assessment Review (CAR) was conducted with Fiji’s NHRI in 2024, and a virtual CAR was carried out with Bahrain’s NHRI in 2021.

Feedback from these processes has consistently shown measurable improvements in institutional performance, as well as enhanced visibility and support from national and international partners. Capacity Assessments are highly valued by our members.

For more information on how the APF’s Capacity Assessment program is helping NHRIs strengthen their impact, please contact Pip Dargan, Principal Adviser, APF Leadership Services at pipdargan@asiapacificforum.net