Representatives from National Human Rights Institutions (NHRIs) across the Asia Pacific took part in the APF Gender Equality Programme to strengthen their understanding of gender concepts and gain practical skills for mainstreaming gender into their work.

The programme, held online from 4-28 November 2024, consisted of three key modules that built from foundational concepts to practical applications:

• Module 1 - introduced the core concepts of gender equality, exploring the essential elements of gender mainstreaming and specialisation and why these approaches are vital for NHRIs.
• Module 2 - guided participants in applying a gender lens to their institution’s internal and external operations, including planning and implementing a gender strategy.
• Module 3 - examined gender equality’s role in climate justice and the protection of human rights defenders (HRDs) encouraging participants to consider these intersecting issues within the mandate of their institution.

The programme combined self-paced learning with interactive weekly live sessions and collaborative activities in the APF Community. Live Zoom sessions provided an opportunity for discussion, fostering peer learning and knowledge-sharing. Participants gained the skills to analyse NHRI operations from a gender perspective and to ensure gender is considered across all work areas.

The course was facilitated by Dr Jill Chrisp, APF Expert Gender Consultant and Aishath Fasoha, APF Gender Focal Point. The course is designed for those leading or managing gender equality programs, offering resources, networking, and guidance to implement gender-inclusive policies effectively.

The APF has developed a range of resources to support NHRIs in promoting gender equality, including Facilitating a NHRI Gender Audit: Toolkit for National Human Rights Institutions in the Asia Pacific and NHRI Guidelines for Mainstreaming the Human Rights of Women and Girls into Our Everyday Work.