Canada and the ASEAN Intergovernmental Commission on Human Rights: A Chance to Re-Engage

Abstract

The nascent ASEAN Intergovernmental Commission on Human Rights (AICHR), the first regional intergovernmental human rights body in Asia, holds the promise of institutionalizing internationally accepted human rights norms in a region in which several governments have disturbing human rights records. Despite its potential, the Commission has been dogged by concerns that it is a toothless tiger.  The Commission will require international support if it is to evolve into a body to both protect and promote human rights in Southeast Asia. Canada has a long history of human rights engagement in the region, but the once strong Canada-ASEAN relationship has lagged.  Ottawa’s recent accession to ASEAN’s Treaty of Amity and Cooperation may mark a turning point and the creation of the AICHR provides Ottawa with a unique opportunity to revitalize its relationship with Southeast Asia. By providing assistance to the Commission in areas such as capacity building and guidelines to implement recommendations, Canada could both aid in the development of this critical addition to the human rights regime, as well as realize real strategic advantages.