SIEM REAP, 01 December 2022 – ASEAN celebrated the 10th Anniversary of the ASEAN Human Rights Declaration (AHRD) and the Phnom Penh Statement on the Adoption of the AHRD on 18 November 2022 in Siem Reap, Cambodia.
Adopted in 2012, the AHRD reaffirms ASEAN’s purpose and principle with respect to the promotion and protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms, as well as the principles of democracy, rule of law, and good governance. It provides guidance on upholding the rights of ASEAN peoples, particularly their civil and political rights; economic, social, and cultural rights; right to development; and right to peace.
Speakers and participants during the event exchanged best practices to strengthen regional cooperation and good practices on the promotion of human rights in ASEAN in accordance with the AHRD.
During the milestone celebration, Philippine Representative to the ASEAN Intergovernmental Commission on Human Rights Aileen S. Mendiola-Rau discussed children’s rights in ASEAN and how AICHR can move forward on the promotion and protection of their rights.
Stressing the need to employ a more encompassing lens in addressing challenges faced by children, Ms. Mendiola-Rau pushed forward sound recommendations to empower relevant bodies and organizations in achieving and attaining children’s rights.
“We need to concentrate on the prevention of the violation of human rights. We need to look into how children can claim their rights even before the rights are violated. Empowerment is essential,” she emphasized.
Ms. Mendiola-Rau also stressed that ASEAN needs to provide inclusive and equitable access to justice and effective remedies. This can be achieved by developing age-appropriate, disability-inclusive, gender-responsive, and needs- and rights-based justice procedures and facilities for all children.
The celebration was attended by various ASEAN Sectoral Bodies and Entities, UN agencies and line ministries, and other relevant stakeholders.
Source: Republic of Philippines Department Of Foreign Affairs