Wednesday, April 4, 2012

S-E Asia to adopt human rights declaration

Apr 4, 2012

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia (AP) - South-east Asian nations have agreed to adopt this year a human rights declaration to strengthen protection in a region notorious for violations.

Leaders of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations said on Wednesday they intend to adopt the Asean Human Rights Declaration, which is being drafted, when they meet in a summit in Cambodia in November.

Philippine diplomat Rosario Manalo says the declaration will be patterned after the 1948 UN declaration. Although non-binding, the 10-nation Asean's declaration is the latest effort by the bloc to promote human rights in a region with a long history of violations.

Asean includes Myanmar, which has been condemned for its dismal rights record but has embarked on democratic reforms in recent months.

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