This Manual is intended to be used by individuals and organizations interested in learning more about the ASEAN human rights system and how to:
1. Use this system to support their local-level advocacy 

2. Contribute to the strengthening of this system 


The Southeast Asia region faces numerous human rights challenges, including but not limited to; summary executions, migration, enforced disappearance, forced eviction, repression of freedoms of expression, association and assembly, and discrimination based on religion, race, ethnicity, and sexual orientation.

In advocating for their legal and human rights, victims and their lawyers have utilized judicial and other national-level dispute resolution mechanisms. However, access to justice can be impeded by the absence of impartial and efficient legal mechanisms.