APF Quarterly Bulletin, April-June 2026
APF Quarterly Bulletin Apr-Jun 2026
Welcome to the APF Bulletin, a round-up of news, events and activities involving National Human Rights Institutions (NHRIs) in the Asia Pacific region.
The second quarter of 2026 brought a diverse range of human rights developments across the Asia Pacific – this Bulletin highlights the work of NHRIs in the region and APF's programme of work in April-June 2026.
The APF represented Asia Pacific NHRIs at the GANHRI Annual Conference in Geneva, held at the Palais des Nations, where delegations from across the global NHRI network examined AI governance, digital rights safeguards, and the expanding role of NHRIs in the digital space.
In partnership with SPC, the APF co-hosted the Pacific NHRI Advancement Workshop in Nadi, supporting nine Pacific countries to develop plans for strengthening or establishing NHRIs.
In partnership with OHCHR, the APF convened a webinar for NHRIs across the region, providing practical guidance on analysing government revenue and expenditure as tools to advance economic, social and cultural rights across the budget cycle.
The APF's 2026 Online NHRI Induction Programme brought together 96 participants from 22 NHRIs in a blended learning programme covering human rights principles, Paris Principles compliance, and the application of a gender lens in institutional practice.
Between February and April 2026, the FHRADC completed a comprehensive gender audit, examining how equality is embedded in its internal systems and culture, with the APF now supporting implementation of the findings.
Around the Region
Following a meeting of its Environment and Climate Core Group, India's NHRC called on governments to strengthen heat action plans, improve heat-related mortality surveillance, and ensure greater protection for outdoor workers and other vulnerable communities.
The Republic of Korea enshrined the right to live in safety as a fundamental constitutional right through the passage of the Framework Act on Life and Safety, institutionalising State responsibility for disaster prevention, response, and recovery.
GANHRI's Sub-Committee on Accreditation reaffirmed SUHAKAM's 'A Status' reaccreditation, recognising its continued compliance with the Paris Principles and providing recommendations to further strengthen its independence, funding, and institutional capacity.
MONGOLIA | National Human Rights Commission of Mongolia launches final report of Human Rights and Digital Technologies Public Inquiry
The NHRCM launched the final report of its Human Rights and Digital Technologies Public Inquiry, presenting findings across 11 sectors and 40 issues including AI policy, data protection, surveillance, and digital gender-based violence.
NEPAL | National Human Rights Commission of Nepal releases investigation report on September 2025 protest-related human rights violations
Nepal's NHRC released its investigation report into human rights violations during the September 2025 Gen Z protests, recommending that the government conduct detailed investigations into 52 individuals, including sitting members of parliament, for their alleged involvement in the reported incidents.
PDHJ and the National Police of Timor-Leste (PNTL) met in Dili to confirm the 2026 human rights training programme for police officers across four municipalities and agreed to renew their Memorandum of Understanding.
Opportunities
The APF seeks a Technical Expert to design and deliver a cohort-based programme on complaints handling and investigations for member NHRIs. Proposals close at 17:00 AEST, 12 July 2026.
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