In Highlight: APF Library

The APF Library stands out as a database specialized for offering access to resources and information from national human rights institutions (NHRIs) within the Asia Pacific region. Although some of these publications are already available elsewhere online, this tool gathers them all in one space for audiences specifically interested in finding the work of NHRIs. An example of this is the ‘UN submissions’ collection, which features parallel reports submitted to the UN by Asia Pacific NHRIs.

Another key feature is its user interface, which is accessible in multiple languages—Arabic, English, and Russian—allowing a broader audience to engage with the platform. The library also hosts publications in over 17 languages, which further enhances its accessibility and inclusivity. Additionally, the sophisticated metadata categorization enables users to explore the thematic priorities of NHRIs in the region through their publicly available work.

The APF Library’s technical foundation, built on the Uwazi platform from HURIDOCS, offers flexibility for continuous updates and improvements. This structure ensures the library can grow, incorporating new collections and adapting to the evolving needs of its users.

Currently, there are no formal API connections between the APF Library and other tools or databases. However, we are interested in exploring potential integrations in the future. This could include establishing connectivity with other platforms to allow publications from various online sources to be uploaded directly into the APF Library, enhancing its scope and usefulness.

The APF Library is quite useful for monitoring the national implementation of international human rights obligations, since it presents it through the lens of NHRIs in the Asia Pacific region and their work. By offering a collection of thematic publications from these NHRIs, organized by specific human rights topics, the library provides a comprehensive dataset that highlights the key priorities and focus areas of these institutions.

A concrete example of its use is the collection of UN submissions made by NHRIs, which gives insights into how individual countries are fulfilling their international human rights commitments. These submissions offer an on-the-ground perspective, detailing the progress and challenges countries face in implementing their obligations, making the APF Library an important resource for both monitoring and assessing compliance with international human rights standards.

The APF Library is designed to serve a diverse range of users. Its primary audience includes staff NHRIs who are looking to learn from the experiences of other NHRIs in order to inform their own domestic work. Additionally, UN agencies, civil society organizations (CSOs), and government bodies are relevant users of the tool, particularly those interested in the work and impact of NHRIs.

Government representatives considering the establishment of a new NHRI also use the library to gather information on the legal mandates and the work in practice of existing NHRIs. Moreover, independent consultants and researchers who are studying NHRIs, especially those focusing on comparative experiences across the Asia Pacific region, are another important user group, as the library provides them with valuable insights and data.

The current version of the APF Library is its initial release, having been published just this past September. The database population will grow, with a significant number of additional publications expected to be uploaded over the next 12 months. We are also conducting a user survey involving NHRIs and external stakeholders to gather feedback and improve the platform.

There are plans to potentially expand the library by adding new collections, depending on the feedback we receive from our member NHRIs and other users. We encourage users to reach out directly with any feedback or questions. (Contact details: Phillip Wardle, Legal and Policy Manager: phillipwardle@asiapacificforum.net)