Salaya, Thailand – November 20, 2024: Mahidol University, in collaboration with the ASEAN University Network on Human Rights Education (AUN-HRE) and with support from the Norwegian Centre for Human Rights, University of Oslo, hosted the 8th Regional Network Meeting on Human Rights Education. Held at the Prince Mahidol Conference Room, the event focused on the theme of “Business and Human Rights,” drawing experts, academics, students, and policymakers from across ASEAN and beyond.
The conference addressed critical issues at the intersection of business practices and human rights, showcasing regional initiatives, global best practices, and youth advocacy.
A Platform for Regional Collaboration
The event opened with remarks from Prof. Piyamitr Sritara, MD, FRCP, President of Mahidol University, who stressed the importance of cross-border collaboration in advancing human rights education. He emphasized Mahidol University’s role in bridging gaps within ASEAN and fostering sustainable development through academic partnerships.
Dr. Vachararutai Boontinand, Convener of AUN-HRE, highlighted the event’s objectives to strengthen teaching and learning in business and human rights, aligning regional practices with international frameworks.
Keynote Speeches Highlight Challenges and Solutions
The conference featured a series of compelling keynote addresses from prominent figures in the human rights field:
- H.E. Prof. Amara Pongsapich, Thailand’s representative to the ASEAN Intergovernmental Commission on Human Rights (AICHR), provided an overview of ASEAN’s progress in promoting responsible business conduct. She called for stronger enforceable frameworks to ensure accountability, noting, “Linking business, human rights, and the environment is essential to addressing current challenges.”
- H.E. Yuyun Wahyuningrum, Indonesia’s AICHR representative, presented “The Remedy Blueprint,” a roadmap to bridge gaps in access to justice for victims of human rights abuses. “We must ensure that victims are supported by systems that prioritize justice over profit,” she remarked.
- Dr. Seree Nonthasut, a member of the United Nations Committee on Economic, Social, and Cultural Rights, emphasized the importance of sustainable and inclusive business practices. He urged businesses to adopt human rights due diligence, saying, “ESG [Environmental, Social, and Governance] principles are an opportunity to integrate human rights into global business practices.”
Youth Advocacy Takes Center Stage
The Business and Human Rights Short Video Contest was a standout feature of the event, showcasing innovative storytelling by young advocates. Four winning videos were screened, highlighting human rights challenges through creative lenses:
- First Prize: Prince Loyd Cabalida Besorio (Philippines)
- Second Prize: Adthie Chard A/L Boon (Malaysia)
- Third Prize: Patchariya Mosikarat (Thailand)
- Popular Vote Award: Mark Louise Nofiez Borja and Rhea Balaysoche
The award ceremony celebrated the creativity and passion of ASEAN’s youth, reinforcing the role of academic institutions as platforms for advocacy and change.
Path Forward for Business and Human Rights
The conference underscored the need for stronger frameworks and collaborations to promote human rights in business practices. Recommendations included:
- Strengthening National Action Plans (NAPs) to address labor, environmental, and vulnerable group issues.
- Enhancing corporate accountability through mandatory human rights due diligence.
- Empowering civil society through regional legal aid networks and protection for human rights defenders.
In her closing remarks, Dr. Vachararutai Boontinand expressed optimism: “The insights shared today will contribute to transformative change in teaching, learning, and advocacy across ASEAN.”
Looking Ahead
As ASEAN nations face increasing scrutiny on human rights in business practices, the 8th Regional Network Meeting highlighted the importance of education, collaboration, and youth engagement. The event served as a call to action for businesses, governments, and civil society to work together toward a future where economic growth aligns with universal human rights principles.
