Publication

In late 2009, ASEAN created the Intergovernmental Commission on Human Rights (AICHR). Many NGOs and experts have expressed skepticism about the likely effectiveness of the AICHR given the mixed human rights records of ASEAN member states. There is no doubt that sober and realistic assessments are justified. For example, AICHR is composed of commissioners who are appointed by and answer to their respective governments. From a broader perspective, one can also argue that the present juncture presents important opportunities for genuine, if gradual, progress on human rights in ASEAN.