GENEVA, Switzerland (8 May 2025) – The Asian Forum for Human Rights and Development (FORUM-ASIA) is gravely concerned over the widespread violence and repression committed by the police against peaceful May Day protesters. 

On 1 May 2025, in commemoration of International Workers’ Day, various labor unions, alliances and civil society groups organized peaceful rallies and protests across major cities in Indonesia. 

The groups protested against the rising authoritarianism and poor policies–under the administration of President Prabowo Subianto and Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka–which are detrimental to the welfare and protection of workers’ rights. 

“The violent repression against protestors weakens democratic voices in Indonesia. FORUM-ASIA calls on the Indonesian Government to do a systematic review of the conduct of its police forces and to ensure accountability for the brutality committed against peaceful protestors,” said Mary Aileen Diez-Bacalso, Executive Director of FORUM-ASIA.

The protests demanded a repeal of the problematic Omnibus Law on Job Creation as well as the recently amended National Armed Forces Law which cemented increasing military involvement in civilian affairs. 

The protesters also called for the enactment of the Domestic Workers Protection Bill which would provide protection for informal workers. Likewise, they demanded the ceasure of the strategic national projects that threaten the livelihoods of indigenous communities.

Police brutality

The protests held in front of the Parliamentary complex were met with police brutality. 

The police reportedly arbitrarily arrested 14 protestors–including four paramedics–according to the Advocacy Team for Democracy (TAUD). Thirteen of the arrested were reportedly subjected to beatings and assault resulting in significant injuries. 

To disperse the peaceful protests, the police reportedly blasted water canons and shot tear gas. 

Violence against journalists 

One journalist was reportedly attacked in Jakarta. A group of people in plain clothes–who are suspected to be part of the police–also reportedly threatened and forced the journalist to delete their coverage of the protests. 

In Semarang, plain clothes individuals had also reportedly beaten a journalist from Tempo and student journalists from various student alliances covering the protests. 

The police allegedly prevented the student journalists from taking videos of protestors being beaten after their arrests. 

Call to action

The Indonesian Government should ensure compliance with the concluding observations from the Human Rights Committee following its second periodic review of obligations before the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights,) which states that the government should ensure that law enforcement  receives regular training on the use of force as guided by the Basic Principles on the Use of Force and Firearms by Law Enforcement Officials and the United Nations Human Rights Guidance on Less-Lethal Weapons in Law Enforcement. 

“The Indonesian police force has become an active perpetrator of human rights violations in Indonesia. This should not be the norm. The police should facilitate peaceful protests and never use excessive force against those merely exercising their right to peacefully assemble. This culture of impunity should not be tolerated for it could  ultimately uproot Indonesia’s hard fought democracy,” said Bacalso.  

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BANGKOK, Thailand (5 May 2025) – The Asian Forum for Human Rights and Development (FORUM-ASIA) strongly condemns the violence, intimidation, and arbitrary arrests carried out by the West Sumatra police against peaceful protesters seeking to evaluate the performance of the West Sumatra police chief. 

This arrest undermines the rule of law and sets a dangerous precedent for all human rights defenders across Indonesia.

FORUM-ASIA calls on the Indonesian Government to uphold its constitutional and international human rights obligations. It should uphold people’s freedoms of expression and peaceful assembly. Silencing dissent through violence and detention is an attack against democracy and the rule of law. 

The government must also ensure that human rights defenders–including lawyers and legal aid providers–can safely carry out their invaluable work without fear of reprisals.

“FORUM-ASIA is deeply alarmed by the police’s use of excessive force against protesters who were simply exercising their right to peaceful protest. The police must face sanctions for their repressive actions. Likewise, the arrest of legal aid providers is a grave violation of human rights protections,” said Mary Aileen Diez-Bacalso, Executive Director of FORUM-ASIA.

What happened

The Indonesian Legal Aid Foundation, a FORUM-ASIA member organization, received a report regarding the West Sumatra police’s use of repressive force during a peaceful demonstration organized by the West Sumatra Civil Society Coalition on 21 April 2025. This was the second wave of the protest, following a similar event on 17 April.

The protest was staged in front of the West Sumatra Regional Police Headquarters, coinciding with the West Sumatra police chief’s first 100 days in office. Protesters were requesting a dialogue with the police chief. 

The protest began peacefully until the police issued first and second warnings, followed by the deployment of water cannons. Shortly after, the police started making arrests.

Twelve individuals were arrested, four of whom are legal aid providers from the Padang Legal Aid Foundation. The four were present at the demonstration for the purpose of providing legal assistance to protestors. 

One protester had to be rushed to the hospital due to injuries sustained from alleged police beatings. The police also reportedly attempted to conduct urine testing on the arrested. The reason, however, remains unclear. 

As of 22 April, 11 people have been released, while one individual remains in detention. 

Call to Action

The police’s use of excessive force violates the fundamental freedoms of expression and peaceful assembly as well as the right to fair legal protection as guaranteed by the 1945 Constitution of Indonesia, the Criminal Procedure Code, and international human rights instruments such as the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.

The arrest of legal aid providers violates Indonesia’s law on legal aid, which guarantees that they cannot be criminally charged or sued in civil court for actions taken in the course of their duties. Likewise, they are entitled to legal protection, security, and safety while delivering legal assistance.

This is yet another example of violations of the freedom of peaceful assembly and association. The protesters and legal aid providers should never have been arrested in the first place.

FORUM-ASIA calls for an independent and impartial investigation into the police’s reported use of excessive force against peaceful protesters. All victims must have access to remedy. 

For the PDF version of this statement, click here

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BANGKOK, Thailand (29 April 2025) – The Asian Forum for Human Rights and Development (FORUM-ASIA) and the Asian NGO Network on National Human Rights Institutions (ANNI) welcome the recommendation of the Global Alliance of National Human Rights Institutions (GANHRI)-Sub-Committee on Accreditation (SCA) to downgrade the accreditation of the National Human Rights Commission of India (NHRCI).

On 23 April 2025, the SCA recommended downgrading the NHRCI from “A” to “B” status.

This means that the NHRCI–as a national human rights institution–is currently only partially compliant with the Paris Principles, which set the minimum standards for the independence, effectiveness, and credibility of such institutions. National human rights institutions like the NHRCI are mandated to protect, promote, and monitor human rights at the national level.

The decision came after the SCA’s much-anticipated review of the NHRCI in March 2025, following two consecutive deferrals in 2023 and 2024.

“The SCA’s recommendation to downgrade the NHRCI is pivotal in signalling the effectiveness and independence of GANHRI’s accreditation process. This further encourages civil society to hold public institutions accountable and help ensure that national human rights institutions are effectively doing their duties. We urge the NHRCI to take this as an opportunity to strengthen its operations in line with the SCA’s recommendations,” said Mary Aileen Diez-Bacalso, Executive Director of FORUM-ASIA.

FORUM-ASIA and ANNI acknowledge the complexity and challenges surrounding this decision. In its report, the SCA noted “attempts by the Indian national authorities to engage members of the SCA relative to the accreditation process of the NCHR, including the involvement of various foreign missions.”

We join civil society in commending the GANHRI-SCA for its steadfast commitment in ensuring transparency, independence, and impartiality throughout its rigorous accreditation process. These are reflected in the SCA’s objective observations and sound recommendations to the NHRCI.

Reasons behind downgrading

The decision to downgrade the NHRCI was made following concerns over the Commission’s failure to address the previous recommendations issued by the SCA in 2017, 2023, and 2024.

Such recommendations align with longstanding concerns raised by civil society:

1. Allowing the police to interfere in NHRCI investigations.
2. Lack of an open selection and appointment process for its leadership.
3. Lack of pluralism in its leadership and staff composition.
4. Inadequate efforts in addressing issues related to shrinking civic space and violations against human rights defenders.
5. Lack of meaningful cooperation with civil society actors.

“The [NHRCI’s] independence and effectiveness has not been sufficiently maintained in line with the requirements of the Paris Principles,” the SCA stated.

Moving forward with meaningful reforms

“FORUM-ASIA and ANNI urge the NHRCI to seize this opportunity to intensify its advocacy to introduce amendments to the Protection of Human Rights Act of 1993 (PHRA) in order to strengthen its compliance with the Paris Principles,” said Bacalso.

We join the SCA in urging the NHRCI to advocate for amending Section 11 of the PHRA. Doing so would help end government secondment of police officers as investigative staff, eliminate government appointment of a senior civil servant as Secretary General, and empower the NHRCI to independently recruit for the said position.

In addition, we call on the NHRCI to ensure gender balance in its leadership and staff composition. As noted by the SCA, amendments to the PHRA must formalize a transparent, open, and participatory selection and appointment process for its Commissioners.

The NHRCI should strengthen its engagement and cooperation with Indian civil society in fulfilling its investigative, advisory, and protection functions. In particular, we look forward to the Commission’s role in providing stronger protections for human rights defenders as well as the victims and survivors of human rights violations.

While civil society acknowledges the steps the Commission has taken to address some of SCA’s concerns, we hope that under the new leadership of Chairperson Shri Justice V Ramasubramanian, the NHRCI will undertake deeper reform to strengthen  its independence, effectiveness, and compliance with the Paris Principles.

FORUM-ASIA and ANNI remain committed to constructively engaging with the NHRCI, with the shared aim of strengthening national human rights protections in India.

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The Asian Forum for Human Rights and Development (FORUM-ASIA) is a network of 89 member organisations across 23 countries, mainly in Asia. Founded in 1991, FORUM-ASIA works to strengthen movements for human rights and sustainable development through research, advocacy, capacity development and solidarity actions in Asia and beyond. It has consultative status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council, and consultative relationship with the ASEAN Intergovernmental Commission on Human Rights. The FORUM-ASIA Secretariat is based in Bangkok, with offices in Jakarta, Geneva and Kathmandu. www.forum-asia.org

For media inquiries, please contact:

• Communications and Media Programme, FORUM-ASIA, communication@forum-asia.org

For the PDF version of this statement, click here

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BANGKOK, Thailand (22 April 2025)–The Asian Forum for Human Rights and Development (FORUM-ASIA) strongly condemns the politically motivated sentencing of Chinese human rights lawyer Lu Siwei to 11 months in prison and a fine of 10,000 yuan (USD 1,370). 

FORUM-ASIA demands the immediate quashing of Lu Siwei’s conviction. We call for his unconditional release. The judicial persecution of lawyers and human rights defenders (HRDs) in China must end. 

The sentence was handed down by the Chenghua District Court in a closed-door trial held on 18 April 2025. Lu Siwei was accused of “illegally crossing the border” from China to Laos. This charge demonstrates the Chinese Government’s long-standing strategy of criminalizing HRDs through legal prosecution while also denying them access to due process.

The court’s decision to proceed in secrecy and to deny public access to the trial is highly concerning. During the hearing, spectators were not allowed and courtroom passes were not issued. Lu Siwei’s friends and supporters were intimidated through surveillance and police harassment. 

Transnational repression

As a lawyer, Lu Siwei has represented people in politically sensitive cases, including the 12 Hong Kong activists arrested in 2020 and fellow Chinese human rights lawyer Yu Wensheng. 

Since 2021, Lu Siwei has been systematically oppressed for his human rights work. He has been disbarred from legal practice, banned from international travel, put on intrusive surveillance, and repeatedly harassed. 

His disbarment came after allegations that one of his online speeches claimed to “endanger national security.” This move is part of the broader crackdown on independent legal professionals in China. Lu Siwei’s arrest is a part of transnational repression, with grave implications for the safety of exiled HRDs across the region. 

On 23 July 2023, Lu Siwei–who held a US visa and a Chinese passport–was arrested by police in Laos while trying to travel to Thailand. He was planning to fly to the US to safely reunite with his family. 

Despite the international community’s calls to protect Lu Siwei, Laos forcibly repatriated him to China after a month-long detention. This incident paints a troubling pattern wherein some governments in the ASEAN region are evidently helping China target dissidents. Instead of offering HRDs’ protection, these governments remain complicit with China’s efforts to silence and punish dissent. This is effectively turning the region into a hostile space for exiled HRDs and activists.

Call to action

“Lu Siwei’s sentencing is a disturbing pattern of criminalization and intimidation faced by human rights defenders in China and across the region. This  not only violates China’s obligations under international human rights law but also emboldens other authoritarian regimes to follow suit,” said Mary Aileen Diez-Bacalso, Executive Director of FORUM-ASIA.

FORUM-ASIA calls on ASEAN member states to cease all cooperation with transnational repression. ASEAN member states should uphold their international human rights obligations and ensure that their territories do not become extension zones of authoritarian control.

We call on the international community to express solidarity with Lu Siwei and to join our calls for justice and protection of all HRDs.

This post was originally published on FORUM-ASIA.

BANGKOK, Thailand (8 April 2025) – The Asian Forum for Human Rights and Development (FORUM-ASIA) welcomes the decision of the South Korean Constitutional Court to uphold the impeachment of President Yoon Suk Yeol.

“This ruling is a critical step in reaffirming South Korea’s commitment to the rule of law and democracy. It sends a strong message that the illegal declaration of martial law cannot be justified under any circumstances,” said Mary Aileen Diez-Bacalso, Executive Director of FORUM-ASIA.

FORUM-ASIA urges Acting President Han Duck-soo and the incoming government to take decisive action to restore and strengthen democratic institutions. This includes comprehensive legal and institutional reforms that not only amend the martial law provisions, but also ensure the full protection of freedoms of expression and peaceful assembly.

What happened

On 4 April 2025, the Constitutional Court upheld the motion of impeachment against Yoon. 

With Yoon’s removal, a presidential election must be held within 60 days, presumably on 3 June. Han Duck Soo will remain in charge as acting president until the election result is announced. National Assembly Speaker Woo Won-shik also stated intentions to review the Constitution to curb presidential powers.  

On 3 December 2024, President Yoon declared emergency martial law in an unprecedented attempt to suppress the majority-opposition parliament. The decree banned all political activities, silenced dissent, restricted media freedoms, and criminalized public protests and strikes. 

Although voted out by the parliament shortly after the martial law announcement, Yoon’s actions sparked widespread condemnation, raising concerns over South Korea’s deteriorating democratic space. A series of protests happened around the National Assembly. Network outages reportedly happened, affecting social media access, thereby impacting people’s freedom of expression and right to access information. 

Yoon was then suspended through the parliament’s impeachment motion. Prime Minister Han Duck-soo then served as acting president, but was briefly suspended by the parliament and replaced by the Deputy Prime Minister Choi Sang-mok before being reinstated by the Constitutional Court.

Concerns over independence of  National Human Rights Commission of Korea

Civil society expressed concerns over the National Human Rights Commission of Korea’s (NHRCK) continued support for President Yoon Suk Yeol despite his Martial Law declaration. 

On 10 February 2025, NHRCK commissioners passed a controversial resolution advocating for the protection of the president’s right to defense during his impeachment trial.  Civil society argued that the NHRCK’s decision undermined the Commission’s independence and credibility by lending legitimacy to the President’s undemocratic martial declaration. 

The NHRCK leadership also attempted to undermine the Constitutional Court’s authority throughout the impeachment trial. The  Chairperson, for example, criticized the Constitutional Court in his letter to the United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights where he echoed the same arguments put forward by Yoon’s defense attorney. In a Facebook post, Commissioner Kim Yong-won appeared to incite violence against members of the Constitutional Court in the event of an unfavourable ruling. 

Despite protests and attempted resignations, the Commission is yet to issue a formal condemnation or initiate an investigation into the human rights violations committed during the state of emergency. 

Civil society noted how Yoon’s martial law measures severely violated people’s rights, including press freedom as well as freedoms of expression and peaceful assembly. Citizens faced arbitrary arrests, detention, and warrantless searches in direct contravention of international human rights standards and South Korea’s constitutional principles.

Following such concerns, the Sub-Committee on Accreditation of Global Alliance of National Human Rights Institutions (GANHRI-SCA) initiated a special review of the NHRCK’s “A-status” accreditation. 

By upholding Yoon’s impeachment, the Constitutional Court was met with public cheers but also opposition from supporters of the beleaguered leader. 

Nevertheless, this ruling proves that democracy and the  rule of law are very much alive in South Korea, providing inspiration across Asia and beyond. 

Call to action

FORUM-ASIA urges the South Korean Government to establish transparent and independent governance mechanisms to prevent future human rights violations. Likewise, it should ensure accountability for past abuses. 

The government should promote inclusive political participation to prevent any future attempts to undermine the country’s democratic progress.

FORUM-ASIA–alongside the Asian NGO Network of National Human Rights Institutions (ANNI) and Korean civil society–urges the NHRCK to uphold its “A-status” by adhering to the Paris Principles. To do this, the Commission must reaffirm its independence and immediately investigate and publicly oppose all forms of abuses linked to martial law.

South Korea should seize this opportunity to reinforce its democratic foundations and uphold the fundamental rights and freedoms of its people.

This post was originally published on FORUM-ASIA.

BANGKOK, Thailand (26 March 2025) – The Asian Forum for Human Rights and Development (FORUM-ASIA) remains concerned over Hong Kong’s declining civic space and fundamental freedoms one year after the adoption of the Safeguarding National Security Ordinance. 

The ordinance–also known as “Article 23”–expands government powers to combat dissent in the name of national security defense, reinforcing the National Security Law (NSL) that China imposed on Hong Kong in 2020.

FORUM-ASIA is in solidarity with Hong Kong pro-democracy defenders, echoing their calls for the peaceful restoration of fundamental freedoms as well as the repeal of Article 23 and all other repressive laws.

“Five years after the implementation of the National Security Law and a year after Article 23, fundamental freedoms in Hong Kong have significantly declined, ultimately silencing journalists, civil society organizations, and pro-democracy defenders. This has led to the exile or arrests of protesters, activists, and former opposition lawmakers. FORUM-ASIA calls on the government to immediately restore Hong Kong’s once vibrant civil society,” said Mary Aileen Diez-Bacalso, Executive Director of FORUM-ASIA.

Charges and arrests under Article 23

Both Article 23 and the NSL have increased the Chinese Government’s influence over Hong Kong. In fact, both laws continue to undermine the “One Country, Two Systems” framework, under which Hong Kong exercises a high degree of autonomy while preserving its own economic, social systems, and common law system. 

Article 23 raises the maximum prison sentence for sedition from two to seven years, which could further increase to 10 years if the offense involves “collusion with an external force.” As of March 2025, five individuals have been formally charged with sedition under Article 23. Meanwhile, 11 out of the 16 arrested have been released without charges.

The most recent charge was made against a bus technician for “knowingly publishing publications with seditious intent” on social media–between March 2024 and January 2025–with the aim of inciting “hatred, contempt, or disaffection” toward the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, the Hong Kong Police Force, and the judiciary. He was arrested on 21 January 2025.

Among the prominent figures arrested is Chow Hang-tung, a young human rights lawyer who served as a vice-chair for the now-disbanded Hong Kong Alliance in Support of the Patriotic Democratic Movement of China (HKA). 

Already detained under NSL since 2021, she was among the six individuals taken into custody by the national security police in May 2024, marking the first arrests under Article 23. The arrests were linked to a Facebook group that voiced support for Chow.

Chow Hang-tung was sentenced to multiple jail terms. In 2021 she was sentenced to 12 months in prison  under the NSL for “inciting subversion of state power” for her involvement in the 2020 Tiananmen vigil and in 2022 she was jailed for another 15 months for “inciting others to participate in an unauthorized assembly” during the 2021 Tiananmen vigil. Further, she was convicted in 2023 with other 2 pro-democracy activists, under the NSL and sentenced to 4.5 months in prison for “not complying with the requirement to provide information” regarding the HKA, following accusations that the HKA is a “foreign agent.” 

On 6 March 2025, while still in prison  for the conviction with other 2 pro-democracy activists in 2023, the Court of Final Appeal ruled that government prosecutors had redacted key facts in the sentencing of Chow Hang-tung and other two, depriving them of a fair trial and resulting in a miscarriage of justice. The judges also dismissed the prosecution’s claim that it was not required to prove in court that the HKA (disbanded in 2021) was a foreign agent. This ruling marked a rare victory for the pro-democracy movement.

The situation has also been dire for Hong Kong journalists 

In September 2024, Chung Pui-Kuen–former editor of the shuttered independent news organization Stand News–was sentenced to 21 months in prison for sedition. 

Meanwhile, Patrick Lam, the Stand News’ former editor-in-chief–received an 11-month sentence. After his conviction, Lam was later on released on health grounds. This case marked the first trial and national security-related conviction against media workers in Hong Kong.

Around this time, many Hong Kong journalists reportedly received defamatory emails and letters at their homes and workplaces, according to the Hong Kong Journalists Association (HKJA). Private Facebook groups circulated hateful content targeting media outlets and journalists, naming at least 36 reporters and sharing their photos. Some posts included death threats, with images of journalists and HKJA members placed alongside knives and shooting targets.

New Cybersecurity Law

On 20 March 2025–coinciding with the first anniversary of the implementation of Article 23–the Hong Kong Legislative Council enacted the Protection of Critical Infrastructures (Computer Systems) Bill.

The new law allows the Hong Kong Government to obtain court warrants to access computer systems and install software on critical infrastructure such as IT, financial services, and telecommunications but excluding government systems. It enables the Security Bureau to establish a Commissioner’s Office which can demand “relevant information” from private companies–even without a warrant–based on suspected offense. 

The new law also allows the government to investigate and impose heavy compliance requirements on internet service providers, media organizations, and financial institutions. 

All these could expand the government’s ability to restrict media freedom and increase surveillance by accessing private company data without limitations.

Call to Action

“There is an urgent need for democracies to take immediate and coordinated action to address the decline of fundamental freedoms in Hong Kong. The international community should pay close attention and continuously monitor Hong Kong’s human rights situation,” said Bacalso. 

FORUM-ASIA calls on the Hong Kong Government to repeal all restrictive laws affecting fundamental freedoms and democracy in the region, including Article 23, the 2020 NSL, National Security Law and Cybersecurity Law. 

Likewise, we urge authorities to end its  crackdown against activists, independent media, and civil society.

The Asian Forum for Human Rights and Development (FORUM-ASIA) is a network of 88 member organisations across 23 countries, mainly in Asia. Founded in 1991, FORUM-ASIA works to strengthen movements for human rights and sustainable development through research, advocacy, capacity development and solidarity actions in Asia and beyond. It has consultative status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council, and consultative relationship with the ASEAN Intergovernmental Commission on Human Rights. The FORUM-ASIA Secretariat is based in Bangkok, with offices in Jakarta, Geneva and Kathmandu. www.forum-asia.org

For media inquiries, please contact:

• Communications and Media Programme, FORUM-ASIA, communication@forum-asia.org

This post was originally published on FORUM-ASIA.

Kathmandu, Nepal (16 October 2024) – The Asian Forum for Human Rights and Development (FORUM-ASIA) expresses deep sorrow over the passing of Professor G.N. Saibaba, a renowned academic and human rights defender, who died on 12 October 2024 due to postoperative complications.

Professor Saibaba, 57, who was wheelchair-bound with a 90 per cent disability due to polio, spent a decade unjustly imprisoned under India’s draconian Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) of 1967. His case exemplifies how, despite his physical vulnerability, he was disproportionately targeted and criminalised for his advocacy, shedding light on the lengths to which the state would go to silence dissent.

“His death must not be dismissed as merely a natural consequence of his illness; it is the result of institutional neglect and systemic injustice, reflecting a state apparatus that criminalises dissent and threatens the lives and dignity of perceived critics of the government,” said Mary Aileen Diez-Bacalso, Executive Director of FORUM-ASIA.

Unjust Prosecution under UAPA

Professor Saibaba’s arrest and subsequent conviction under the UAPA in 2014 exemplify how national security laws in India are routinely used to silence dissent and curtail the legitimate exercise of fundamental freedoms.

The charges against him–alleged links to banned Maoist organisations–were never substantiated by evidence. Yet Saibaba spent nearly a decade behind bars, violating his right to a fair trial and due process as enshrined in the Indian Constitution and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), to which India is a state party.

The vague provisions of the UAPA were used to silence his advocacy for marginalised communities, including Dalits and Adivasis, and his criticism of state abuses. His imprisonment, especially given his severe disability, amounted to arbitrary detention under international human rights standards.

Saibaba remained incarcerated until his acquittal in March 2024, only months before his death. This was his second acquittal; he had previously been acquitted in October 2022, but the Indian Supreme Court extraordinarily stayed his release.

Denial of Medical Care and Torture in Detention

While imprisoned, Professor Saibaba’s health worsened due to the deliberate denial of medical care by prison authorities, violating India’s obligations under international health rights and the Nelson Mandela Rules. Despite his polio condition, he developed serious ailments, including heart disease and pancreatitis, during nearly a decade of incarceration without proper healthcare.

Subjected to conditions amounting to torture, including prolonged solitary confinement in ananda cell, a small, windowless cell, the only person ever held in the prison’s 90-year history. Saibaba was repeatedly denied essential medical care, causing severe and irreversible damage to his health. Saibaba’s accounts of mistreatment include instances of him being dragged by his legs and physically abused. His deteriorating health and eventual death are a direct consequence of the state’s refusal to acknowledge his right to life, dignity, and medical care, all of which are guaranteed under the ICCPR.

A similar pattern of institutional neglect and medical denial led to the death of Father Stan Swamy, an 84-year-old tribal rights defender, in July 2021. Arrested in 2020 as part of the Bhima Koregaon 16 (BK-16)—a group of scholars, activists, and lawyers—on unsubstantiated charges of Maoist links, Father Swamy was subjected to systemic neglect throughout his detention.

“His death, like Saibaba’s, exposes the state’s calculated use of imprisonment as a tool of repression, employing neglect and deprivation to silence dissent by systematically trying to break those who challenge the state’s  authority,” added Bacalso.

Criminalization of Dissent and Shrinking Civic Space

The UAPA, often justified as a  counter-terrorism measure, has become a tool for systematically targeting HRDs, including journalists and academics. The 2019 amendment, which allows for the designation of individuals as terrorists without due process, has further enabled the government to detain HRDs for prolonged periods without trial. The unabated use of this law has created a chilling effect on dissent in India, allowing the state to imprison activists indefinitely without accountability.

“Professor Saibaba’s death serves as a reminder of the human cost of repressive laws and state persecution. We call for the immediate and unconditional release of all individuals who remain unjustly incarcerated under UAPA,” further added Bacalso.

Professor Saibaba’s case is emblematic of the broader criminalisation of dissent in India, where legitimate criticism of the state or its policies is branded as ‘unlawful activity.’ His case is also indicative of the highly restrictive civic space in India, where freedoms of expression, association and peaceful assembly are under sustained attack.

Call to Action

FORUM-ASIA calls on the Government of India to immediately repeal the UAPA, which is incompatible with India’s obligations under international human rights law, and abused by the government to silence its critics.

We are in solidarity with Professor Saibaba’s family, friends, and colleagues and demand a full, independent investigation into the circumstances leading to his death, including the denial of medical care and accountability for the torture and ill-treatment he endured in prison.

India must guarantee the humane treatment of all persons deprived of their liberty, in compliance with its obligations under the ICCPR, and in line with the Convention Against Torture (CAT), the Nelson Mandela Rules, and the Bangkok Rules. These include ensuring access to adequate medical care, providing detention conditions that meet international standards, and ending the use of prolonged solitary confinement.

Professor Saibaba’s death underscores deep institutional failures and a repressive legal framework that fosters a hostile environment for dissenting voices in India. India must prioritise fostering an enabling environment where HRDs can carry out their work without fear of reprisals, including by adopting a comprehensive legal framework for their protection.

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About FORUM-ASIA:

The Asian Forum for Human Rights and Development (FORUM-ASIA) is a network of 85 member organisations across 23 countries, mainly in Asia. Founded in 1991, FORUM-ASIA works to strengthen movements for human rights and sustainable development through research, advocacy, capacity development and solidarity actions in Asia and beyond. It has consultative status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council, and consultative relationship with the ASEAN Intergovernmental Commission on Human Rights. The FORUM-ASIA Secretariat is based in Bangkok, with offices in Jakarta, Geneva and Kathmandu. www.forum-asia.org

For media inquiries, please contact:

• Communication and Media Programme, FORUM-ASIA, communication@forum-asia.org

This post was originally published on FORUM-ASIA.

 Kathmandu, Nepal (9 October 2024) – The Asian Forum for Human Rights and Development (FORUM-ASIA) condemns the arbitrary detention of climate activist Sonam Wangchuk and 150 climate marchers, by police in Delhi.  Their two-day detention, following their 800-kilometre march from Leh in Ladakh to Delhi, infringes on their fundamental right to peaceful assembly and highlights a disregard for fundamental freedoms and climate justice.

The peaceful “Delhi Chalo Padyatra” organised by the Leh Apex Body and the Kargil Democratic Alliance, advocated for environmental protection, climate justice, and greater autonomy for Ladakh.

Upon arriving in  Delhi on 30 September 2024, Wangchuk and fellow marchers were detained, preventing a demonstration at the Rajghat memorial on the eve of Gandhi Jayanti on 2 October 2024. After five days of arbitrary detention, they were released but faced further arbitrary treatment when their protest at Jantar Mantar in Delhi, was denied. Their detention led to an indefinite hunger strike by Wangchuk. Ladakh also observed a bandh (strike) until Wangchuk’s release.

“The detention of Sonam Wangchuk and other marchers, along with the prevention of their gathering, is a clear violation of fundamental freedoms, including the right to peaceful assembly, as enshrined in the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and the Constitution of India,” said Mary Aileen Diez-Bacalso, Executive Director of FORUM-ASIA.

Demand for Inclusion in the Sixth Schedule

A key demand of the march is the restoration of  local autonomy for Ladakh, 

Following the revocation of Jammu and Kashmir’s special constitutional status in 2019, the erstwhile state was bifurcated into two Union Territories–Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh. Ladakh was placed under direct central governance, stripping its residents of decision-making power and autonomy over their lands and resources.

This decision was not welcomed as it left the people of Ladakh without sufficient decision-making power, fuelling concerns over their lands and resources. Since then, there has been a growing demand for Ladakh’s inclusion under the Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution, which provides for autonomous governance of tribal areas. This framework, currently applied to several northeastern states in India, grants legislative, executive and judicial powers to safeguard the lands, cultures and resources of tribal communities.

With 97 per cent of Ladakh’s population being tribal, the inclusion in the Sixth Schedule is important to protect the region’s fragile ecology and culture, while strengthening local autonomy.

Importance of Sixth Schedule for Ladakh

Ladakh’s unique geography, with its high-altitude terrain and fragile Himalayan ecosystem, places it on the frontlines of India’s climate crisis. Home to thousands of glaciers, glacial lakes, and endangered species such as the snow leopard and wild yak, the region faces mounting environmental challenges.

Ladakh is already experiencing severe consequences of climate change–glacier melting, water scarcity, and frequent flash floods. These issues are worsened by large-scale urbanisation, unregulated tourism, increased militarisation, pollution, and aggressive development projects.

Rising temperatures, pollution, and diminishing rainfall are accelerating glacier melt at an unprecedented rate, causing a major water shortage that impacts drinking water supplies, irrigation and energy generation. Polluted rivers are further degrading the water quality, harming both local livelihoods and aquatic ecosystems. Nomadic herders, especially those raising pashmina or cashmere-producing goats, are losing their pastureland to expanding military infrastructure and development projects.

In 2023, a new industrial policy proposed shifting land transfer powers from democratically elected local hill councils to a Union government-appointed administration, without meaningful environmental safeguards. This policy, which encouraged outside investments in Ladakh’s manufacturing sectors, disregarded the need to protect its ecological balance. Following community backlash, the policy was put on hold.

Inclusion in the Sixth Schedule would empower the people of Ladakh to implement climate-resilient policies and sustainably manage their resources. Autonomous governance would enable local communities to pursue ecologically sensitive development and resist harmful practices, such as unregulated mining or large-scale construction, protecting both Ladakh’s environment and indigenous cultures.

Despite numerous calls for constitutional protection, the Indian government has yet to acknowledge the region’s climate sensitivity or grant it inclusion in the Sixth Schedule. This lack of local autonomy undermines efforts to address the pressing climate challenges in the region effectively.

Climate Injustice and Need for Self-governance in Ladakh

The call for autonomy in Ladakh is inseparable from the broader fight for climate justice, both of which have been undermined in recent years.

One stark example is from the recent decision of the Central government to approve seven hydropower projects on the Indus River and its tributaries in Ladakh. These projects will involve massive pollution and increased black carbon emissions, accelerating glacier melt. Additionally, several mining companies are eyeing the region’s mineral-rich resources for extraction. These rapid, unchecked development projects, implemented without free, prior and informed consent from local communities, pose a grave threat to Ladakh’s fragile ecosystem.

For years, climate activists like Wangchuk have stressed the need for local governance to address Ladakh’s environmental crises. In January 2024, Wangchuk undertook a five-day climate fast, and in March 2024, he took part in an extreme 21-day fast. The march to Delhi is the continuation of this movement, calling for Ladakh’s inclusion in the Sixth Schedule and greater accountability in addressing the climate crisis.

The memorandum presented by Wangchuk and the marchers also demands that the government accelerate efforts toward carbon neutrality by 2070, in line with India’s international commitments under the Paris Agreement and the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change.

Call to action

FORUM-ASIA calls upon the Government of India to cease the pattern of suppressing peaceful dissent and protest through such arbitrary measures.

“The government urgently includes Ladakh under the Sixth Schedule to empower indigenous communities to manage their resources, protect the environment, and preserve the culture. Local communities must be key stakeholders in decisions affecting their lands, lives and livelihoods, upholding both their democratic rights and ecological sustainability,” Bacalso added.

We call on the Government of India to adhere to the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples and recognise, respect, and uphold the fundamental rights and freedoms of the indigenous peoples of Ladakh concerning their territories and resources.

Both global and local action will be essential to respond to the climate crisis. While States strive to meet their international climate commitments, localised governance solutions are needed to empower Indigenous and frontline communities, like those in Ladakh, to protect their environment and livelihoods.

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About FORUM-ASIA:

The Asian Forum for Human Rights and Development (FORUM-ASIA) is a network of 85 member organisations across 23 countries, mainly in Asia. Founded in 1991, FORUM-ASIA works to strengthen movements for human rights and sustainable development through research, advocacy, capacity development and solidarity actions in Asia and beyond. It has consultative status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council, and consultative relationship with the ASEAN Intergovernmental Commission on Human Rights. The FORUM-ASIA Secretariat is based in Bangkok, with offices in Jakarta, Geneva and Kathmandu. www.forum-asia.org

For media inquiries, please contact:

• Communication and Media Programme, FORUM-ASIA, communication@forum-asia.org

This post was originally published on FORUM-ASIA.

BANGKOK, Thailand (3 October 2024) – The Asian Forum for Human Rights and Development (FORUM-ASIA) calls on ASEAN leaders to proactively fulfill its obligations to respect, protect, and promote human rights in Southeast Asia in compliance with international human rights standards.

As the ASEAN Summit is set to take place on 6-11 October 2024, ASEAN leaders must reflect on the region’s alarming record of human rights abuses and commit to addressing these violations.

Democratic backsliding, shrinking civic space

The fundamental freedoms of expression, peaceful assembly, and association continue to shrink alongside the rise of authoritarianism and militarism in Southeast Asia.

Following the February 2021 attempted coup, Myanmar’s civilian population has increasingly endured a long list of atrocities in the hands of the military junta. ASEAN has continuously failed to address this crisis.  In 2024, the military junta ordered forced conscription against its people to exact more control amidst growing resistance. Despite mounting evidence of  political prisoners being killed and subjected to torture, the military junta continues to carry out its crimes with impunity. The junta’s actions not only devastate the Myanmar people’s remaining freedoms but also further exacerbates the country’s dire human rights and humanitarian situation.

Indonesia’s general elections, held in February 2024, was enveloped by abuse of power and nepotism. Following the elections, the parliament fast-tracked discussions to approve problematic bills: the Broadcast Bill which would ban investigative journalism and portrayals of LGBTQIA+ lifestyles; the Police Bill which would expand police authority to control cyberspace; and the Military Bill which would restore the military’s dual function which was abolished after the fall of Soeharto. Parliament also attempted to pass the Regional Election Bill to allow President Joko Widodo’s youngest son to run despite not meeting qualifications. This incident  resulted in nationwide protests which were met with law enforcement’s excessive use of force. Such practices blatantly excluded civil society participation thus undermining Indonesia’s democratic reforms.

In August 2024, Thailand’s Constitutional Court dissolved the Move Forward Party–despite the fact that it won the most seats in the 2023 general elections–for its campaign to amend the lèse-majesté (royal defamation) law. The latter punishes anyone who allegedly “insults” the monarchy. The law has been used to curtail political participation. The Court’s decision is a great setback to Thailand’s pro-democratic movements, raising the alarm for those who are being persecuted for their activism. In 2024, a young activist tragically died while in custody after holding a hunger strike to demand justice system reforms.

Meanwhile in Cambodia, members of the Candlelight Party–the country’s biggest political opposition–are being subjected to judicial harassment. Human rights defenders and organizations–including FORUM-ASIA members ADHOC and LICHADO–are also being persecuted.

Deteriorating environmental rights 

The ASEAN Intergovernmental Commission for Human Rights has led in the development of the ASEAN Environmental Rights Declaration, solidifying ASEAN’s commitment to fulfilling the right to a safe, clean and sustainable environment. However, FORUM-ASIA has monitored the watering down of the Declaration, noting the removal of crucial elements relating to the recognition and protection of civil society participation as well as the rights of indigenous peoples and environmental rights defenders. The process of developing the said document also lacked transparency since inputs from civil society were apparently disregarded.

Human rights defenders–including indigenous peoples’ communities–continue to face criminalization and intimidation for peacefully resisting irresponsible development projects. For example, the Awyu and Moi communities in West Papua are being forcefully evicted from their indigenous lands to pave way for palm oil plantations. Meanwhile, 10 Cambodian environmental activists were convicted for campaigning against the destruction of their country’s natural resources. In August 2024 alone, over 70 activists were arrested ahead of a planned rally against the Cambodia-Laos-Vietnam Development Triangle Areas Agreement.

Alarming trend of transnational repressions

Since last year’s ASEAN summit, 385 activists and human rights defenders have been subjected to intimidation, harassment, arrests, and violence in retaliation for  calling out their respective governments’ human rights violations.

Under the Chairship of Laos, bearing the theme “enhancing connectivity and resilience,” ASEAN member states are increasingly cooperating to prosecute human rights defenders, representing the growing trend of transnational repression.

In February 2024, Cambodian activists Lem Sokha, Phan Phana, and Kung Raiya were arrested ahead of Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet’s official visit to Thailand. The arrests occurred despite their refugee status. At present, Vietnamese indigenous and religious rights defender Y Quynh Bdap–who was also granted refugee status in Thailand–is facing extradition.

Exclusion of minority rights

We commend Thailand’s marriage equality law,  the first of its kind in the entire region.

However, a lot of work is yet to be done. Throughout Southeast Asia, LGBTQIA+ rights remain unrecognized, leaving the community without proper legal protection, resulting in their continued exclusion and harassment.

Furthermore, discussions at the ASEAN-level have continuously excluded the recognition of human rights defenders, environmental rights defenders, and indigenous people.

Call to action 

“FORUM-ASIA calls on ASEAN leaders to formally recognize the urgent need to address the region’s alarming trend of human rights violations,” said Mary Aileen Diez-Bacalso, Executive Director of FORUM-ASIA.

As stated in Article 1.7 of the ASEAN Charter,  ASEAN should“strengthen democracy, enhance good governance, and the rule of law, and to promote and protect human rights and fundamental freedoms, with due regard to the rights and responsibilities of the Member States of ASEAN.” Likewise under Article 1.13, the ASEAN must “promote a people-oriented ASEAN in which all sectors of society are encouraged to participate in and benefit from, the process of ASEAN integration and community building.”

“To fulfill its purpose, ASEAN must foster regional consensus in addressing human rights violations and in strengthening its commitment to preventing future violations,” Bacalso stressed. FORUM-ASIA urges ASEAN to repeal repressive laws, cease the targeting of human rights defenders, and recognize and protect the rights of minorities including indigenous and LGBTQIA+ communities.

As stated in its 2025 Community Vision, ASEAN must realize an “inclusive and responsive community that ensures our peoples enjoy human rights and fundamental freedoms as well as thrive in a just, democratic, harmonious and gender-sensitive environment in accordance with the principles of democracy, good governance and the rule of law.” However, ASEAN and its leaders have evidently failed to achieve this vision. ASEAN must therefore incorporate the highest standard of human rights protection in the development of its 2045 Community Vision.

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About FORUM-ASIA:

The Asian Forum for Human Rights and Development (FORUM-ASIA) is a network of 85 member organisations across 23 countries, mainly in Asia. Founded in 1991, FORUM-ASIA works to strengthen movements for human rights and sustainable development through research, advocacy, capacity development and solidarity actions in Asia and beyond. It has consultative status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council, and consultative relationship with the ASEAN Intergovernmental Commission on Human Rights. The FORUM-ASIA Secretariat is based in Bangkok, with offices in Jakarta, Geneva and Kathmandu. www.forum-asia.org

For media inquiries, please contact:

• Communication and Media Programme, FORUM-ASIA, communication@forum-asia.org

This post was originally published on FORUM-ASIA.

Kathmandu, Nepal (13 September 2024) – The Asian Forum for Human Rights and Development (FORUM-ASIA) strongly condemns the imposition of curfews, restrictions on the internet, and disproportionate use of force in Manipur amidst ongoing protests. 

These actions undermine fundamental human rights and exacerbate the already volatile situation.

Ongoing crisis in Manipur

Since May 2023, Manipur–located in northeastern India and governed by the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)–has been engulfed in violent ethnic clashes between the Meitei and Kuki communities. 

The conflict erupted over issues related to the sharing of economic benefits, land rights, and quotas in government jobs and education. At least 225 people have since died and 60,000 displaced, according to government figures. 

After a brief lull, the conflict re-escalated on 1 September 2024, when fighting broke out between the two communities. Some attacks involved the use of drones to drop explosives, claiming at least 11 lives. 

Student-led protests then emerged, demanding the removal of Manipur state’s top police official and security advisor for their alleged failure to control the ongoing conflict. Protestors also expressed their frustration over the authorities’ inability to address the root causes of the said conflict.

The police blocked the student’s march towards the Raj Bhawan (Governor’s Residence). The police reportedly used excessive force against protestors, employing tear gas and stun grenades to disperse the crowd. Around 45 people were injured in the clashes.

The government has further intensified the situation by imposing a 5-day state-wide internet shutdown, suspending mobile data and VPN access under the pretext of preventing “misinformation.” On 12 September 2024, the authorities in Manipur lifted the restrictions on broadband, while other restrictions persist. Pertinently, Manipur has a troubling record of using prolonged internet blackouts to suppress dissent, including the world’s longest in 2023, which lasted over 5,000 hours.

On September 11 and 12, authorities also ordered the closure of public and private colleges in Manipur.

Despite the protracted and violent nature of the conflict, the Indian Government–led by the BJP–has only offered a muted response. Allegations of complicity have also surfaced against the local BJP-led government. This includes a potentially incriminating audio recording submitted to the Commission of Inquiry, which the Ministry of Home Affairs established to investigate the violence in Manipur. The said audio recording allegedly features the voice of a high-ranking politician who supports the use of 51 mm mortar, lethal military-grade bombs during the unrest in parts of Manipur in 2023. 

A Manipuri human rights defender, who wished to be anonymous for fear of reprisals stated: “The Indian government has failed to protect the people of Manipur by allowing the ethnic conflict to simmer. Inquiry commissions must submit their reports, and urgent action is needed before the situation worsens.”

Human rights defenders, including journalists, in Manipur are facing increasing risks. Most recently, on 11 September, unidentified assailants shot at the house of Yambem Laba, a journalist and former acting president of the Manipur Human Rights Commission. Laba, a long-standing critic of Manipur’s Chief Minister, had recently signed a press release by the Good Governance Party accusing him of “abandoning” the Meiteis. 

Previously, other human rights defenders and civil society actors have also faced similar threats and harassment for their criticism of the government and/or radical extremist groups in Manipur. 

Mainstream media has also been accused of perpetuating biased narratives, often framing the Manipur conflict as a religious clash between the predominantly Hindu Meitei and Christian Kuki communities, while overlooking the deeper ethnic, economic, and political complexities. Selective coverage–as influenced by powerful groups, political interests, or fear of reprisal–could further distort the portrayal of the situation.

United Nations experts have also highlighted the “inadequate humanitarian response” in Manipur, calling for timely and robust investigations to ensure accountability. 

Despite this, the international community has made minimal efforts to address the continuing human rights violations. 

Call to action

FORUM-ASIA urges the authorities in Manipur to immediately halt the use of excessive force against peaceful protesters and to lift the arbitrary internet shutdown. 

We remind the government of its duty to protect people’s fundamental rights, including freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, and access to information. We call on the state government to respect and uphold its obligations under international human rights law, particularly the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.

The authorities must also prioritise the safety and security of HRDs and journalists, and ensure they can carry out their work without fear of reprisal.

“Instead of resolving the root causes of the conflict at hand, the Manipur state chose an iron-fisted response. Such actions stifle legitimate dissent and perpetuate a culture of impunity,” said Mary Aileen Diez-Bacalso, Executive Director of FORUM-ASIA.

“FORUM-ASIA is in solidarity with the people of Manipur. We call for an immediate end to the ongoing human rights violations. The Indian Government must engage in meaningful and transparent dialogue, initiate reforms to restore peace, and ensure accountability for perpetrators,” Bacalso added.

This post was originally published on FORUM-ASIA.

KATHMANDU, Nepal (11 September 2024) – The Asian Forum for Human Rights and Development (FORUM-ASIA) strongly condemns the Government of Pakistan’s recent enactment of the Peaceful Assembly and Public Order Act of 2024.

The swiftly passed legislation represents a clear infringement on the right to freedom of peaceful assembly, as enshrined in Article 16 of the 1973 Constitution of Pakistan and Article 21 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), to which Pakistan is a state party.

How the law threatens the right to peaceful protest

On 2 September 2024, the Peaceful Assembly and Public Order Bill was introduced in the Senate and was hurriedly pushed through the legislative process, with the Senate Standing Committee approving it the next day.

Despite objections from the opposition, the bill was passed both by the Senate and National Assembly in a matter of days. By 8 September 2024, presidential assent was obtained in undue haste, raising concerns about procedural fairness and the credibility of the legislative process.

Although the new law applies only to Islamabad, it sets a dangerous precedent for the rest of the country, threatening to normalize the criminalization of peaceful protests.

The timing of the law’s introduction is particularly concerning. It comes just a week before a planned rally by the opposition party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf in Islamabad. The law has been introduced amid a wave of protests not just by the opposition but also by civil society groups, trade unions, religious organizations, and even government employees.

This new law drastically expands the power of authorities to restrict or ban public assemblies–defined as a public or political gathering of more than 15 people–under vague and overly broad criteria, such as the “disruption of daily activities.” Such language grants the state excessive power to limit assemblies on arbitrary grounds.

Under the law, the maximum penalty for participating in “unlawful assemblies” is increased from six months to three years or more, with repeat offenders facing sentences of up to ten years. This poses a severe risk of criminalizing dissent.

Event coordinators are required to submit a written application to the district magistrate at least seven days before the gathering, who must then assess the situation and obtain security clearance before granting permission.

The law also allows for the designation of “red zones” or “high-security zones,” where assemblies are prohibited. Even with permission, the police have the authority to disperse gatherings at any time.

Call to action

FORUM-ASIA calls upon the Government of Pakistan to immediately repeal the Peaceful Assembly and Public Order Act 2024 as it is in direct contravention of the country’s international human rights obligations, particularly those under the ICCPR.

“Through vague language and the pretext of public order, this new law could further erode civic freedoms and silence dissent. In recent years, FORUM-ASIA has documented a systematic dismantling of civic space in Pakistan, with targeted attacks on the fundamental freedoms of expression and peaceful assembly. This legislation deepens the risk of entrenching repression and the weaponization of laws to silence dissenting voices,” said Mary Aileen, Executive Director, FORUM-ASIA.

“FORUM-ASIA urges Pakistan to respect and uphold people’s fundamental freedoms of peaceful assembly, association, and expression. Rather than resorting to repressive legal measures that further shrink civic space, the government must work towards creating a conducive environment that allows for legitimate political dissent,” Bacalso stressed.

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About FORUM-ASIA:

The Asian Forum for Human Rights and Development (FORUM-ASIA) is a network of 85 member organisations across 23 countries, mainly in Asia. Founded in 1991, FORUM-ASIA works to strengthen movements for human rights and sustainable development through research, advocacy, capacity development and solidarity actions in Asia and beyond. It has consultative status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council, and consultative relationship with the ASEAN Intergovernmental Commission on Human Rights. The FORUM-ASIA Secretariat is based in Bangkok, with offices in Jakarta, Geneva and Kathmandu. www.forum-asia.org

For media inquiries, please contact:

• Communication and Media Programme, FORUM-ASIA, communication@forum-asia.org

This post was originally published on FORUM-ASIA.

 BANGKOK, Thailand (9 September 2024) – The Asian Forum for Human Rights and Development (FORUM-ASIA) is deeply concerned over the escalating number of enforced disappearance, abduction, and arbitrary arrests of human rights defenders in the Philippines.

“FORUM-ASIA is alarmed over the rapidly growing cases of enforced disappearances under the presidency of Ferdinand Marcos Jr. Tactics of repression and intimidation are increasingly being used against human rights defenders and dissenting voices,” said Mary Aileen Diez-Bacalso, Executive Director of FORUM-ASIA.

Alarming patterns of arrests and abductions

On 29 August 2024, peasant rights advocate and former political prisoner Cirila Estrada and her companion Victor Pelayo were reported missing in Capiz Province. Two days later, they were reportedly arrested by the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Philippine National Police-Criminal Investigation and Detection Group. In 2010, Estrada was imprisoned for trumped-up charges of illegal possession of firearms and explosives. In 2012, her case was dismissed.

On 28 August 2024, environmental rights and indigenous rights advocate Felix Salaveria Jr. –was reportedly abducted. Salaveria is a founding member of civil society organisations advocating for indigenous peoples, Tabak (Tunay na Alyansa ng Bayan Alay sa mga Katutubo) and Katribu (Kabataan para sa Tribung Pilipino).

On 23 August 2024, James Jazmines–the brother of Alan Jazmines, a consultant for the National Democratic Front of the Philippines, which is a coalition of national democratic revolutionary justice groups, trade unions, indigenous rights groups, and leftist parties in the Philippines–was reported missing in Tabaco City, Albay Province. James previously served as the information officer of independent labour centre Kilusang Mayo Uno.

Filipino human rights group KARAPATAN, a FORUM-ASIA member organisation, has provided evidence suggesting that state security forces were involved in these abductions. Witnesses also recounted how a group of uniformed policemen entered Salaveria’s home and confiscated his personal belongings.

Alleged involvement of security forces 

Since Marcos Jr. assumed office in 2022, at least 14 individuals have gone missing after reportedly being abducted by armed men. Such abductions have long been used to instil fear and to silence critics, especially among environmental human rights defenders and labour rights defenders.

In July 2023, environment and youth activist Rowena Dasig was arrested by the 85th Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army while conducting a study on the negative impacts of the Atimonan One Energy Project on both communities and the environment. On 22 August 2024, Dasig was acquitted of trumped-up charges of illegal possession of firearms and explosives. On the same day, she was scheduled for release from the Lucena City District Jail. However, Dasig has been missing since her release. Dasig’s lawyers and paralegals are concerned over the possibility that Dasig may have been abducted by the military allegedly due to their frustration over the acquittal of such fabricated charges.

Meanwhile, labour rights defender William Lariosa has been missing since 10 April 2024. Lariosa was allegedly taken by the 48th Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army. Before his disappearance, Lariosa and his family have reportedly received threats and harassment from state forces.

On 2 September 2023, community volunteers and environmental rights defenders Jonila Castro and Jhed Tamano were allegedly abducted by armed men in Orion, Bataan Province. Similar to other activists, Castro and Tamano had reportedly faced intimidation and harassment prior to their disappearance. Two weeks later, on 19 September, Castro and Tamano were freed. They confirmed they had been abducted by the military and threatened during their arrest.

In August 2024, the Philippine Movie and Television Review and Classification Board attempted to ban a documentary–centering on the enforced disappearance of activist Jonas Burgos alongside other cases of abducted human rights defenders–from public viewing. Due to pressure from civil society, the authorities later lifted the ban and classified the movie as suitable for viewers aged 16 and above.

Call to action

FORUM-ASIA calls for the immediate and safe return of all Filipino human rights defenders who have gone missing.

While the Philippines outlawed enforced disappearances with the passage of the 2012 Anti-Enforced or Involuntary Disappearance Act, the law has failed to effectively prevent disappearances and hold perpetrators accountable.

“The Involuntary Disappearance Act stipulates that those responsible for enforced disappearances can face life imprisonment. Section 8 of the said Act requires government security agencies to issue certifications regarding the whereabouts or absence of a missing person. However, the law has miserably failed to prevent disappearances and to ensure the resurfacing of the victims. This exacerbates the Philippines’ culture of impunity and injustice, where human rights violators are essentially shielded from scrutiny and accountability,” Bacalso explained.

“The Philippine Government must take decisive actions to enforce the 2012 Involuntary Disappearance Act by investigating, prosecuting, and punishing perpetrators of enforced disappearances to the full extent of the law,.” Bacalso continued.

As mandated by law, all security agencies are required to provide information on the whereabouts of missing individuals. There should be independent investigations into the alleged involvement of state security forces in the abduction of activists. Likewise, the government must take prompt actions to end enforced disappearances; to seek truth and justice; to hold perpetrators accountable; to provide reparations for victims, survivors, and their families; and to guarantee non-repetition.

The Philippine Government must implement stronger measures to support and protect human rights defenders, making sure that they are able to carry out their invaluable work without fear of reprisals.

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About FORUM-ASIA:

The Asian Forum for Human Rights and Development (FORUM-ASIA) is a network of 85 member organisations across 23 countries, mainly in Asia. Founded in 1991, FORUM-ASIA works to strengthen movements for human rights and sustainable development through research, advocacy, capacity development and solidarity actions in Asia and beyond. It has consultative status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council, and consultative relationship with the ASEAN Intergovernmental Commission on Human Rights. The FORUM-ASIA Secretariat is based in Bangkok, with offices in Jakarta, Geneva and Kathmandu. www.forum-asia.org

For media inquiries, please contact:

• Communication and Media Programme, FORUM-ASIA, communication@forum-asia.org

This post was originally published on FORUM-ASIA.