Asia-Pacific Human Rights Defender Summit 2023
About Summit
Human rights defenders (HRDs) are under attack. They are being killed, threatened, and silenced by governments, armed groups, and corporations. This is a global problem, but it is particularly acute in Asia.
The UN Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights defenders has documented a sharp increase in attacks against HRDs in recent years. In 2020 alone, 331 individuals engaged in human rights promotion were killed across 32 countries.
There are a number of reasons why HRDs are being targeted. They are often working on sensitive issues, such as land rights, environmental protection, and corruption. They may also be challenging the status quo or holding governments accountable.
The lack of impunity for those who attack HRDs is also a major factor. When perpetrators are not held to account, it sends a message that it is okay to target HRDs.
The Asia Pacific Human Rights Defenders Summit is a platform for HRDs from across the region to come together, share their experiences, and learn from each other. The summit will also facilitate networking and collaboration among HRDs, and raise awareness and visibility of human rights issues in the region.
The summit is an important opportunity to strengthen the protection of HRDs in Asia. By working together, we can create a more just and equitable world for all.
Objectives of Summit
Human rights defenders play a crucial role in enhancing societies, fostering peace, and advancing democratic ideals. They actively advocate for positive transformations and strive to safeguard fundamental rights, serving as essential guardians against violations and actively promoting the principles of universal human rights. It is unquestionable that when human rights defenders are silenced, the voices of those they represent are also muted. The Asia-Pacific region is home to countless stories of oppression, discrimination, and exploitation. These defenders are the beacons of hope in the darkest of times, offering a glimmer of light to those trapped in the shadows of injustice. Owing to the issues faced by HRDs, the summit objectives are as follows:- To foster a conducive environment to overcome constraints and barriers to the safety and security of HRDs
- To build a common understanding of the new dimensions of the HRDs
- To enable and strengthen the role of the HRDs in defending human rights in the region
Theme of Summit
Promotion and protection of HRDs
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Civic Space, Democracy, and Freedom
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Progress and Dignified Life
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Equality and Non-discrimination
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Fair Justice
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Peace and Security
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Event Schedule
Application Tips
Unless excplicitly stated on the application form, most scholarhip applications must be submitted in English. Please bear this in mind when writing your application.
Carefully read through the selection criteria to make sure that you are eligible for the opportunity. It is much better to submit one great application, than waste time applying for 20 that you are not suitable for!
We would like to know what distinguishes you. Don’t only introduce yourself as a highly determined, dedicated leader - explain what makes you those things and give evidence for this. What makes your application different from the rest?
In a rush to fill out a form, you may miss important fields or worse still enter incorrect information e.g your email address. Take your time and read the application questions thoroughly to ensure that your application is complete.
You may lose internet connection while completing your application - it happens to us all. We recommend copying the application on a document beforehand so that if anything happens, you don’t lose all of your hard work!
Please check through your application before you submit it. Is it easy to read? Does it clearly communicate everything that you wanted to tell us? Before you submit your application, consider asking a friend, family member or colleague to check for any mistakes and to give you some feedback.
We love hearing about your goals and plans for the future. Even more important is the impact that you have already made. What is the mission of your business/organisation? How many people have you impacted? Please tell us all about it!
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