THREAD

Today, I am very proud of the report launched by @ASEANMP on #Rakhine State and #ASEAN.

I really think it can become a useful advocacy tool for those working for the restoration of the #Rohingya rights and peace in #Rakhine

As an advocate I find it difficult to engage #ASEAN on the issue because of their lack of outreach & transparency but also because of a lack of knowledge of the institution on my side & the difficulty in identifying recommendations that it could realistically engage with

This is when this report comes handy

It examined the bloc’s response to the crisis. Not surprisingly, it found that while ASEAN’s actions have marked a significant departure from the bloc’s usual non-interference, they have mostly been ineffective, if not deeply problematic

The reasons for it include a chronic lack of leadership, at the Secretariat level as well as among Member States, which has prevented #ASEAN from articulating a clear vision and strategy that would effectively help end the cycle of violence and displacement in #Rakhine.

ASEAN’s reluctance to acknowledge the underlying human rights aspects of the crisis, resulting in it focussing on issues regarded as “less controversial”, have entirely compromised the effectiveness of its actions.

The bloc’s lack of transparency, reluctance to engage with actors other than the #Myanmar government, and the weaknesses inherent in its own institutions have further undermined its response.

Thanks to this analysis work we were able to identify achievable and concrete steps that #ASEAN could take to play a more positive role and effectively promote durable solutions for all those living in #Rakhine (yes, it could be possible!)

It starts with adopting a holistic strategy guided by the principles of “do no harm” and non-discrimination; ensuring meaningful consultation and participation of the Rohingya & encouraging #Myanmar to fully implement the Annan's recommendations.

The report identifies many more
The whole assessment and our list of recommendations are available here:
http://aseanmp.org/publications-2/ 

And also in Rohingya language audio, Thai, Vietnamese, and Bahasa Indonesia.

Thanks for making it to the end :-)