During a afternoon session at Forum Asias headquarter in Bangkok, we all got some very interesting and new insight into the objectives of the organization, and the extensive problem they are up against. The basic aim of the organization is to promote and protect all human rights all over Asia. A task which is not simple, and requires brave, ambitiouse and engaged members to operate their way through the different and often critical political fields of Asia.
And since Forum Asia covers not only one country, but a entire continent they need to work together and cooperate with other Human Right organizations and defenders all over Asia. Only by a collective voice Forum Asia is able to strengthen the promotion and protection of human rights and democracy in Asia and beyond. They are stronger together and through that combined power they reach and engage with states and other stakeholders at national, regional and international levels.
And as we spoke with the organization that afternoon, we realized how important this work is, in order for Asia to move towards better circumstances and prospects, where especially the freedom of expression and the freedom of gathering can create the foundation of a unrestricted and fair continent.
... But how do you do that?
Small steps and small successes. You need to keep that in mind, when dealing with such a big issue. But what Forum Asia does is for example to focus on different programs. At our visit we were told about The Human Right Defenders (HRD) programme, which aims to equippe HRD with leadership skills and strengthen their advocacy actions in a harsh enviroment, that is marked by threats and intimidation.
Admirable people. Both the ones at the offices and those acting all over Asia. I believe that we all left the headquarter with that in mind. And a desire to not only use, but also appreciate our Human Rights. Freedoms everyone should be in possessions of.
//Freia Bille
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