Special Meeting 02/2019 of the AICHR
The ASEAN Intergovernmental Commission on Human Rights (AICHR) convened its Special Meeting 02/2019 from 19 to 21 November 2019 in Bangkok, Thailand. The Meeting was chaired by H.E. Prof. Amara Pongsapich, Representative of Thailand to the AICHR and attended by Representatives/ Alternate Representatives of the AICHR.
The Meeting discussed progress on the implementation of the AICHR Priority Programmes and Activities. In 2019, AICHR has implemented activities in the areas of business and human rights, environmental rights, right to education, human rights and sustainable development, rights of children, women and persons with disabilities, freedom of expression, and freedom of religion and beliefs.
Institutional matters were deliberated, and actions to enhance AICHR’s visibility and outreach were agreed. Looking forward, the AICHR also discussed a strategic planning process for the development of AICHR’s Five-Year Work Plan 2021-2025.
The AICHR, among others, also discussed engagement with ASEAN stakeholders and cooperation and coordination with other ASEAN Bodies, and finalized the agenda for the 3rd ASEAN-EU Policy Dialogue on Human Rights. On 19 November 2019, the AICHR held its second meeting with the United Nations to discuss progress and further cooperation on issues of common interest.
The Meeting concluded with a handover ceremony of the AICHR chairmanship from AICHR Thailand to AICHR Viet Nam. The Meeting expressed its appreciation to H.E. Prof. Amara Pongsapich and the Secretariat for Thailand’s chairmanship, and welcomed Viet Nam’s chairmanship in 2020.