The Working Group statement on the launching of the ASEAN Intergovernmental Commission on Human Rights (AICHR)

MANILA, 23 October 2009 – The Working Group for an ASEAN Human Rights Mechanism welcomes the inauguration of the ASEAN Intergovernmental Commission on Human Rights (AICHR) by the ASEAN leaders during the 15th ASEAN Summit at Cha-am, Thailand.

The AICHR is, indeed, a positive development for the promotion and protection of human rights as it provides opportunities to improve the human rights situation in the region. It will help ASEAN to uphold human rights in accordance with international norms and human rights standards as prescribed by the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) and other international human rights instruments. With the establishment of the AICHR, ASEAN will, hopefully, continue to reflect a more people-oriented and people-friendly organization that is willing to dialogue with concerned stakeholders especially with civil society. The Working Group looks forward to the evolution of the AICHR into an institution that will be truly relevant to the ASEAN peoples.

The Working Group, however, reiterates that although the Terms of Reference for the AICHR provides for a mandatory review only after 5 years, a discretionary review should be undertaken anytime, when necessary. This will enhance the functions of the body especially those concerning the protection of human rights and will, hopefully, involve more participation from the people.

The Working Group awaits with anticipation on the noble work that the AICHR may accomplish and wishes its members the best in advancing the cause of human rights in the region.