The Asia Pacific Forum of National Human Rights Institutions (APF) has taken a significant step in supporting human rights defenders across West Asia by making one of its key policy resources available in Both English and Arabic .<\/p>\n
The policy paper, “National Action on International Issues: The Roles of NHRIs in Relation to Extra-Territorial Human Rights Cases and Situations”<\/em>, provides timely guidance on how National Human Rights Institutions (NHRIs) can respond to human rights violations that occur beyond their national borders\u2014an issue of growing relevance in an increasingly interconnected world.<\/p>\n Originally written in English by renowned human rights expert Professor Chris Sidoti, with contributions from NHRIs across the Asia Pacific region, the publication explores how these institutions can leverage their existing legal mandates to address human rights abuses happening outside their territories. With the release of the Arabic translation, this vital knowledge is now accessible to NHRIs and human rights advocates throughout West Asia.<\/p>\n How can a national institution address human rights violations in another country? This is the central question the paper tackles, offering both conceptual clarity and practical examples. The document highlights that many NHRIs, operating strictly within their national legal frameworks, have already taken bold action on international issues\u2014from denouncing the Israeli occupation of Palestine to investigating the impact of the military dictatorship in Myanmar, and addressing the consequences of climate change, exploitative mining operations, and the treatment of migrant workers abroad.<\/p>\n These examples, far from being theoretical exercises, demonstrate that NHRIs possess real potential to influence human rights outcomes beyond their borders.<\/p>\n The paper identifies five core functions through which NHRIs can engage with extra-territorial human rights issues:<\/p>\nBreaking the Myth: NHRIs Are Not Confined by Borders<\/h3>\n
Five Pathways to International Engagement<\/h3>\n