23 organizations call for ASEAN intervention in Burma

Believing it ASEAN’s responsibility as an international organization, and labeling the situation in Burma a threat to regional peace and security, a consortium of 23 organizations and individuals have drafted a letter calling for the immediate intervention of ASEAN onto the Burma scene.

The letter, following the 1st Regional Consultation on ASEAN and Human Rights, was addressed, Tuesday, to all ASEAN Heads of State except Senior General Than Shwe of Burma.

“We believe that the ASEAN is the most relevant body to address this issue,” states the letter.

The signatories state that ASEAN, to be considered a legitimate international organization, must acknowledge its responsibility to be “proactive” and “respond diplomatically” when crises occur such as what is taking place in Burma.

It is stated that the reaction of ASEAN to the unfolding events in Burma is of enhanced significance for ASEAN at this point in time, as it looks to turn a crucial corner in the drafting and adoption of an ASEAN Charter, in which the formation of a regional human rights body has already been agreed.

“Indeed, this should be a seen as a litmus test of ASEAN’s sincerity in pursuing democracy and human rights in the region,” reads the letter.

The meeting, held from August 26th to 28th in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, was organized by the Asian Forum for Human Rights and Development (FORUM-ASIA).