By 
Elena Márquez
By Jorono via Pixabay
Fiji demonstrated its commitment to human rights in the 2025 Capacity Assessment Review, enhancing its focus on human rights protection to align with international standards.
The Asia Pacific Forum (APF) continues to reinforce its commitment to the Fiji Human Rights and Anti-Discrimination Commission (FHRADC), supporting its mission to function as an independent and effective National Human Rights Institution (NHRI). In collaboration with the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the APF has facilitated key initiatives to enhance the commission’s capacity and alignment with international standards.
Enhancing Institutional Capacity
As part of these efforts, the FHRADC recently conducted a Capacity Assessment Review and a mid-term review of its Strategic Plan. These evaluations serve as vital tools in assessing institutional strengths, identifying areas for improvement, and ensuring adherence to the Paris Principles—an internationally recognised benchmark for NHRI credibility and effectiveness.
The Capacity Assessment Review workshop, launched on March 4th, 2025, in Suva, Fiji, brought together key stakeholders to analyse findings and strategies for a more impactful approach to human rights advocacy. Led by NHRI Consultant Rosslyn Noonan and Asia Pacific Forum Principal Adviser Pip Dargan, the review provided crucial insights into the Commission’s operational strengths and areas requiring reinforcement. Additionally, Faso Aishath, Asia Pacific Forum Manager of Capacity Development, facilitated the Strategic Plan review, helping to refine FHRADC’s priorities for the coming years.
Stakeholder Engagement and Future Priorities
A central theme of the discussions was the need for continued collaboration and resource optimisation. FHRADC Director Loukinikini Vili underscored the importance of leveraging available capacities to achieve strategic objectives. Participants engaged in focused discussions on key human rights challenges in Fiji, with insights from FHRADC Chairperson Pravesh Sharma and Commissioner Chantelle Khan shedding light on pressing national concerns.
Furthermore, Commissioner Alefina Vuki provided an update on FHRADC’s pursuit of A-status accreditation with the Global Alliance of National Human Rights Institutions (GANHRI) and preparations for hosting the Asia Pacific Forum Annual General Meeting and Conference in November 2025—a significant event that will bring together NHRI representatives and regional stakeholders.
Sustaining Commitment to Human Rights Protection
The review sessions concluded with a reaffirmed commitment from the Asia Pacific Forum, OHCHR, and UNDP to support FHRADC’s mission. By fostering a resilient and responsive NHRI, these efforts aim to bolster human rights protection in Fiji and set a precedent for institutional strengthening across the region. As the commission moves forward, ongoing collaboration and strategic planning will be instrumental in ensuring its continued success in promoting and safeguarding human rights.
Sources and Further Readings:
Asia Pacific Forum. (2025, March 28). Strengthening human rights in Fiji: APF supports FHRADC. Asia Pacific Forum. https://www.asiapacificforum.net/news/strengthening-human-rights-in-fiji-apf-supports-fhradc.
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