Reference group on complaints handling and investigations resource

The APF is calling for experienced NHRI staff from APF members to join a reference group to oversee the development of a new resource to assist national human rights institutions (NHRIs) conduct effective complaints handling and investigation processes.

The resource will be part of a broader capacity development programme which aims to strengthen NHRIs complaints handling and investigation functions and will be designed to capture the various mandates, powers and approaches in the region.

The programme will also feature both facilitated and self-facilitated online learning courses in the APF's newly developed learning and collaboration space, the APF Community.

It is anticipated that the reference group will provide feedback on drafts of the capacity development programme and learning content. This will include assessing the relevance, accessibility and language of the resource. Reference group members will also be expected to provide case studies from their own NHRIs and will participate in group and individual interviews with the APF and key consultants as required.

The reference group will include at least eight members with representation from all sub-regions in the Asia Pacific to capture the diverse experiences in the region.

"Having the expertise of experienced complaints handling and investigations practitioners from across the region will ensure our resources are practical and relevant for the needs of NHRI staff," Ms Turner Mann, Manager of Capacity Development said.

The Complaints Handling and Investigation resource and accompanying capacity development programme will be based on the APF Manual on Undertaking Effective Investigations and Fact Sheet series. The facilitated course, open to all APF members will take place by the end of the year.

The working language of the reference group will be English though case studies in other languages are highly encouraged.

Expressions of interest to join the reference group should be directed to Ms Faso Aishath (fasohaaishath@asiapacificforum.net) by 24 May 2021.

Date: 29 April 2021