Chartering ASEAN Human Rights

Human rights issues within the Association of Southeast Asian Nations pose a significant challenge as it seeks to remain relevant in an increasingly interconnected global system. On 20 July 2009, ASEAN members finally agreed to the Terms of Reference for the ASEAN Intergovernmental Commission on Human Rights. This marks a significant step forward for ASEAN but the ASEAN Intergovernmental Commission on Human Rights’ functions and mandate also illustrate its equally significant limitations. This alert tracks the negotiations, evaluates the major stakeholders, explains its functions and mandate, and provides an analysis of the prospects and challenges the ASEAN Intergovernmental Commission on Human Rights faces.