ASEAN Must Institutionalize Democracy Promotion in the Region, Southeast Asian MPs Say

JAKARTA, September 15, 2024 – On International Democracy Day, the ASEAN Parliamentarians for Human Rights (APHR) urged ASEAN to integrate the institutionalization of democracy norms and promotion into the drafting of the ASEAN Vision 2045, which is set to be adopted in 2025 as the realisation of the ASEAN Charter’s promises to strengthen democracy in the region (Article 1.7).

After the adoption of the ASEAN Charter in 2007, ASEAN has not shown serious efforts to promote universal values of democracy in its member states such as respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms; holding free and fair elections; a pluralistic system of political parties and organizations; separation of powers; independence of the branches of government; freedom of expression and the press; and constitutional subordination of all state institutions to the legally constituted civilian authority. 

The fight for democracy in Myanmar stands as ASEAN’s gravest crisis, and the region must stop being complacent in the face of such daily abuses. The excessive militarization and the persecution of the Rohingya stand as a reminder of the urgent need for democratic resilience in the ASEAN community. 

“Now more than ever, ASEAN must institutionalize democratic norms aiming at creating an environment that dissuades authoritarian regression,” stated Wong Chen, APHR Board Member and Malaysia member of parliament.

Wong Chen, APHR Board Member, Malaysia member of parliament. ©APHR2024

In recent years, we have witnessed an alarming contraction of civic space in Southeast Asia, marked by the suppression of free speech, assembly, and association. Journalists face threats and violence while attempting to report the truth; human rights defenders are unjustly targeted and silenced for their advocacy; and members of parliament face harassment, intimidation and prosecution for their political beliefs. These terrible conditions not only impair the functioning of these critical democratic actors, but they also threaten the entire foundation of democratic administration.

“Our response to these challenges defines our commitment to democracy,” said Mercy Chriesty Barends, APHR Chairperson and member of Indonesia’s House of Representatives. “Every silenced human rights defender and journalist; every jailed opposition leader; and every parliamentarian forced into exile serves as a reminder that the fight for democracy continues,” added Barends.

Mercy Chriesty Barends, APHR Chairperson, member of Indonesia’s House of Representatives. ©APHR2024

Furthermore, political opposition is being systematically dismantled, and independent institutions are being hollowed out. Elections, once a hallmark of democracy, have been reduced to mere formalities as authoritarian leaders consolidate power through judicial interference and blatant manipulation of democratic processes. 

“Across the world, political prisoners languish in cells for daring to fight for human rights and democracy against oppressive regimes. As democratic leaders, we must be clear about where we stand in this looming confrontation,” said Leila de Lima, APHR member from the Philippines. She further emphasized, “We must stand unwavering in our support for human rights and against authoritarianism.”

Filipino Senator Leila De Lima, APHR Member, gestures during an inquiry at the Philippine Senate in Pasay City, south of Manila, Philippines, 22 September 2016. ©EPA/FRANCIS R. MALASIG

“APHR stands firm alongside fellow democracy and human rights defenders. Together, we can ensure that democracy, human rights and justice endure and flourish across Southeast Asia,” said Charles Santiago, APHR Co-Chairperson and former member of Malaysia parliament.

Charles Santiago, APHR Co-Chairperson and former member of Malaysia parliament. ©APHR2024

As we commemorate International Democracy Day, APHR calls on governments across Southeast Asia to end all forms of repression against those who defend human rights and democracy. We urge leaders to restore the integrity of democratic institutions, protect civic spaces—both online and offline—and ensure that all citizens can participate in political life without fear of persecution.