The Asia Pacific Forum of National Human Rights Institutions is pleased to announce the appointment of Thuy Doan-Smith as its new Executive Director, effective January 2026.

Stepping into the role at a time of transition, Thuy brings exceptional continuity and expertise to the role, having served as the APF’s Chief Operating Officer and working alongside National Human Rights Institutions for more than two decades. Her appointment comes at a moment of renewal for the Secretariat and reflects the APF’s ongoing commitment to strong, values-driven leadership as the organisation looks to the next chapter of its work across the region.

Welcoming this new chapter, APF Chairperson, Ms Samar Khaled al Haj Hassan, welcomed the appointment, noting that “Thuy’s appointment ensures strong continuity for the APF Secretariat. Her institutional knowledge, collaborative approach, and deep relationships across the region position the organisation well to continue strengthening sustainable, locally led human rights systems.” She added that Thuy brings a steady, values-driven approach to leadership at a time when the role of NHRIs across the region is more important than ever and as demands on human rights institutions continue to grow.

Reflecting on her appointment, “I am honoured to step into this role,” Thuy said. “It is a privilege to serve a network so deeply committed to our shared mission and values. As we move forward, the Secretariat will remain a trusted partner and advocate, focused on delivering a high standard of support and service.” She noted that this commitment will guide the Secretariat’s work as it moves into 2026.

By way of background, Thuy holds bachelor’s degrees in social sciences and international relations from the University of Technology Sydney. Her personal journey and lived experience, including spending her early childhood as a refugee, has deeply shaped her commitment to equality, fairness, and human dignity and continues to inform how she approaches leadership and service.

This grounding is reflected in her approach, Thuy’s leadership style is grounded in inclusivity, strategic thinking, and practical support. Across her career with the APF, she has consistently championed collaboration and partnerships that strengthen the role and impact of NHRIs across the region and support meaningful, lasting progress.

Looking ahead, the start of 2026 provides an opportunity for reflection, restored focus, and renewed momentum. Under Thuy’s leadership, the Secretariat will prioritise:

• Strengthening support and services to ensure responsiveness, quality, and value
• Building organisational capacity and sustainability to support long-term success
• Enhancing engagement and communication so diverse perspectives are heard and reflected in APF work
• Advancing shared goals through collaboration, innovation, and thoughtful leadership

These priorities will guide the Secretariat’s work as it continues to deliver on its mandate across the region. Delivering them will rely on the collective strength of the Secretariat team.

In parallel, the APF remains committed to delivering regional coordination and technical assistance, maintaining focus on priority areas including gender equality, environment and climate change, and human rights defenders and civic space, and ensuring Asia Pacific perspectives continue to help shape international human rights dialogue and decision-making throughout the year ahead.

With this shared approach in mind, as Thuy begins this new chapter, she reaffirmed her confidence in what can be achieved through collective effort: “By building on shared strengths, I am confident we will continue to achieve meaningful progress and lasting impact.”