The fifth public hearing of the Commission of Truth and Friendship (CTF) in Dili from 24 to 27 September is predicted to be another watered-down ‘truth’ with farcical agenda of friendship. FORUM-ASIA and civil society organizations in Indonesia reiterate their demand to the Commission not to vouch amnesty for the perpetrators of gross human rights [ Read more ]

Contrary to their high hopes for a better future, most North Korean defectors in South Korea face discrimination and hardship due to the lack of effective governmental assistance mechanisms and the ignorance of fellow Koreans. The plight of the many North Koreans who risk their lives to escape to China, Thailand and other neighboring countries [ Read more ]

One year ago today, a coup de etat was staged in Thailand, which ousted Prime Minister Thaksin and installed an interim military government. The government immediately imposed restrictions on freedom of expression, association and assembly – undermining the progress of the country for greater democracy. (Bangkok) The Campaign for Popular Media Reform (CPMR) and the [ Read more ]

Last week saw the opening of the sixth session of the UN Human Rights Council. Much of the week was taken up by informal discussions on institution building. The Council also heard the annual report of the High Commissioner for Human Rights and began to carry out the review of mandates of special procedures. Last [ Read more ]

In a two-part series the United Nations Durban Conference and the General Assembly’s subsequent plans for a Durban Review Conference in 2009 will be explored. Racial discrimination:  “Any distinction, exclusion, restriction or preference based on race, colour, descent, or national or ethnic origin which has the purpose or effect of nullifying or impairing the recognition, [ Read more ]

Demonstrations continue to escalate in Burma as the current regime’s 19th anniversary passes. FORUM-ASIA and others have sought to shine the spotlight on China’s role. Recent weeks have seen continued demonstrations in Burma and what many political observers consider could be new waves of a pro-democracy movement in the country. One rally was described as [ Read more ]

It is time for celebration and reflection as after twenty five years of discussion and debate, the United Nations has adopted the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. This marks a major milestone in achieving human rights for all.  (Bangkok) FORUM-ASIA celebrates with Indigenous Peoples from around the world on the adoption of the [ Read more ]

Lao-Hmong individuals of concern have been held for over nine months at Nong Khai Immigration and Detention Centre in inhumane living conditions. In an open letter to the Prime Minister of Thailand, FORUM-ASIA expresses concern for the health and safety of the detainees. Prime Minister General Surayud Chulanont Office of the Prime Minister Government House, [ Read more ]

A joint statement was delivered on behalf of FORUM-ASIA and a number of other NGOs last week in the Human Rights Council, dealing with attacks on religious leaders and places of worship in Sri Lanka. FORUM-ASIA was also involved in convening a parallel event at the Council the same day, focusing on such attacks in [ Read more ]

Labeled as one of the worlds least developed nations, residents of Laos struggle with access to basic rights. With foreign investment entering the country, how will this affect the lives of minorities? The situation of ethnic minorities in Laos is unique to Southeast Asia and in fact most of the world. By most studies, minorities [ Read more ]