It is Time for the Establishment of a South Asian Human Rights Mechanism

“Given the lack of accountability and commitment to human rights by the governments in the region, we the participants at the national consultation have resolved to establish a people’s mechanism in the interim and strongly advocate for the States to set up a regional mechanism for South Asia with strong enforcement powers.” said Ms. Teesta Stealvad, prominent activist and advocate for accountability in a press  conference held last evening. The participants had drafted and adopted a Delhi Declaration expressing their resolution to work towards such a mechanism. A working group comprising of twelve persons was also formed to ensure implementation of the declaration.
With preparations for the SAARC summit in Kathmandu in progress, the participants emphasised the need for proper implementation of human rights instruments adopted by SAARC and its member States. “Regional cooperation is incomplete and meaningless without committing to protection of human rights at the regional level. SAARC will continue to be a muted organisation unless it takes a proactive role in the promotion and protection of human rights in the region.” insisted Gayatri Khandhadai, South Asia Programme Officer, FORUM-ASIA.

“From Sri Lanka to Afghanistan people suffer while perpetrators enjoy impunity. The people and governments of South Asia must come together immediately to prevent any further violations. This is the only way in which we can ensure peace and stability in the region.” explained Mr. Henri Tiphagne, Convenor, WGHR.

While Europe, Americas, Africa, Southeast Asia and Arab States have been successful in evolving regional mechanisms, South Asia lags behind with no serious dialogue on regional human rights issues. “The regional mechanisms in other parts of the world have made considerable contributions to promoting and protecting human rights and democracy. SAARC, which is best poised to host such a mechanism in South Asia must also follow the good practices in other regions. SAARC member States must thus formally engage in discussions for the establishment of a South Asian human rights mechanism at the upcoming SAARC summit.” urged Mr. Miloon Kothari, Convenor, Task Force – Regional Initiative for a South Asian Human Rights Mechanism.

On completion of the national consultation on 26-27 August 2014, a delegation of persons from Afghanistan, India and Nepal met with the National Human Rights Commission of India, National Commission for Protection of Child Rights, Parliamentarians and some Ambassadors of South Asian States in the Capital advocating for the establishment of a South Asian Human Rights Mechanism and greater cooperation in the protection and promotion of human rights.  The delegation was thoroughly encouraged by the support and response of the civil society and officials.