CSOs JOINT STATEMENT OF ASEAN CIVIL SOCIETIES

Resilient Community in ASEAN, Strengthening the Intersectional Agenda for Women, Peace and Security

We, the representatives of civil societies organizations from ASEAN countries, welcome the presence of the WPS High-Level Meeting that is organized by the government on July 6-7, 2023. This forum aims to lay the foundation for accountability and mechanisms for implementing the Regional Plan of Action on Women, Peace and Security (RPA WPS) by strengthening monitoring and evaluation mechanisms.

Recognizing the significance of the WPS High-Level event, we, as civil society organizations in ASEAN, have organized a Side Event Meeting on July 4-5, 2023, at Grand Ambarukmo, Yogyakarta. The theme of our side event is “Building Resilient Communities: Applying an Intersectional Perspective in the Regional Plan of Action on Women, Peace, and Security.” The objective of this Side Event is to delve into critical non-traditional issues related to women’s security, including climate change, violent extremism, cyber security, migration, and humanitarian crises such as the pandemic and the situation in Myanmar.

We express profound concern regarding the worsening situation of women, peace and security in ASEAN, characterized by the existence of conflicts in the region that have far-reaching effects on various aspects of society, such as death, sexual gender based violence, social and cultural destruction, environmental damage, including migration patterns, human trafficking, the emergence of disabilities, and the overall mental health of individuals impacted by the turmoil . The protracted conflict in Southern Thailand has forced a large number of young people to flee their homes and seek refuge in Malaysia. The crisis in Myanmar has forced nearly half of its population to leave the country in search of safe areas. The displacement, uncertainty, and exposure to violence have left them vulnerable to various psychological challenges, including anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and other related mental health issues.

We are deeply concerned about the rise of conservatism and populism in the region, which is resulting in a shrinking space for civil society, women, youth, and minority groups. Specifically, we are alarmed by the targeting and intimidation of individuals advocating for human rights, including environmental defenders, women defenders, journalists, and others. The usage of restrictive laws to suppress these voices is particularly troubling. Furthermore, the patriarchal notion that technology is primarily a domain for men perpetuates discrimination against women human rights defenders (WHRDs), who face attacks not only based on their opinions but also due to their gender identity. This situation calls for urgent attention and action to safeguard the rights and freedoms of all individuals involved in advocating for human rights.

We have observed that the traditional focus of cybersecurity on securing digital assets is insufficient given the growing complexity of digital threats and the need for proactive incident handling. While digital technology provides opportunities for human rights defenders to promote democracy, equality, and inclusivity, it also exposes them to risks, such as gender disinformation, online violences against women, digital oppression towards women, and the rise of digital authoritarianism. Countries in Southeast Asia, including the Philippines, Indonesia, and Myanmar, have witnessed the serious consequences of disinformation and hateful rhetoric online in public opinion. Additionally, in cases like Cambodia, Laos, Thailand, Vietnam, and Singapore, where freedom of expression is curtailed by existing draconian Internet laws, social media has become a platform for some governments to control over free speech.

We are deeply alarmed by the ongoing human rights violations and crisis in Myanmar, which have had a profound impact on innocent lives, particularly among minority groups like the Rohingya. These events also pose a serious threat to ASEAN’s stability, hindering the progress towards a peaceful and inclusive ASEAN community. The crisis has led to large-scale displacement and a humanitarian emergency, significantly affecting migration patterns. Neighboring countries are grappling with the influx of refugees and internally displaced persons, straining their resources and response capabilities while facing limited protection measures.

We are alert that the climate change intensifies women’s vulnerabilities, burdening them with risks, caregiving responsibilities, limited resources, and threatened livelihoods. Climate change is a catalyst for resource conflicts, intensifying competition over vital natural resources like water and land, leading to heightened tensions, exacerbation of ongoing conflicts, and the potential for new conflicts to arise.

We are deeply concerned about the rising involvement of women and children in acts of terrorism. The alarming shift in terrorism, now reaching from backyards to dining rooms, presents distressing opportunities for their inclusion. Additionally, the pervasive influence of social media has facilitated their engagement in clandestine indoctrination spaces, posing grave challenges to security measures.

We acknowledge several commendable initiatives by civil society organizations and faith-based actors in the region. These include regional solidarity efforts to support migrants through the provision of shelters, food, and hospitality, as well as legal assistance in cases such as the successful postponement of the execution of Mary Jane Veloso in 2015 – due to waiting for the Philippines’ court decision on the criminal act of trafficking in persons – MJV as a victim of human trafficking only then could the Indonesian government release her.

Additionally, the exchange of women ulama between Thailand and the Philippines to promote women-friendly interpretations aimed at preventing violent extremism is noteworthy. Furthermore, there are commendable efforts to strengthen systems for preventing and addressing violence against women, along with the promotion of digital rights advocated by CSOs at the ASEAN level.

We applaud that the goal of the ASEAN Regional Plan of Action on Women, Peace and Security should be to mobilise peace and security institutions to prevent sexual violence against women and girls (SGBV). Strategies should include both direct and structural indicators, as well as increased support for local women’s organizations in developing early warning indicators and systems that track attempts to limit or revoke women’s political, social, economic, and legal rights as potential precursors to conflict, atrocity crimes, or extremism.

While the agenda aims to address women’s unique challenges in conflict and post-conflict situations, several challenges hinder its practical implementation in the ASEAN region. We identify some of these challenges include:

First, a limited political will: ASEAN member states’ commitment to prioritizing and allocating sufficient resources for the WPS agenda varies. Some governments may need more political will to fully implement gender-sensitive policies and programs, hindering progress in advancing women’s rights and participation in peace and security processes. Lack of political will may cause difficulty in dealing with coordination among diverse institutions of ASEAN, which  require tailored approaches that account for local contexts and specific needs.

Second, inadequate institutional frameworks: ASEAN member states may need more comprehensive institutional frameworks to implement the WPS agenda effectively. The aspects include lacking dedicated national action plans, coordination mechanisms, and monitoring and evaluation systems to track progress and ensure accountability.

Thirdly, persistent gender stereotypes and discrimination pose significant barriers: Ingrained gender stereotypes and discriminatory cultural norms persistently impede women’s meaningful participation in decision-making processes concerning peace and security. These factors restrict their access to crucial information, resources, education, livelihood opportunities, and opportunities for engagement in conflict prevention, resolution, and peacebuilding initiatives. Moreover, they may face limited access to justice and protection, particularly in conflict-affected regions, leaving survivors of sexual and gender-based violence without adequate legal aid and support services. Instances of such violence during conflicts often remain unaddressed, leaving women without proper protection and avenues for seeking redress.

Fourthly, on limited data and research: Adequate data collection and research on the gender dimensions of peace and security in the ASEAN region are essential for evidence-based policymaking. However, there may be gaps in data availability, hindering the development of targeted policies and interventions.

We strongly recommend that ASEAN undertake necessary measures to address the emerging non-traditional and human security issues at the intersection of security and the Women, Peace, and Security Agenda, including the following

Cyber Security

  1. To encourage more women in ASEAN to study technology and to work in digital technology sector, to break patriarchal notion and a stigma that technology is only the domain of men;
  2. To encourage gender education, digital literacy, digital security, digital rights to broaden and increase public understanding on the needs for creating a safe digital space. This can be done since an early age by including digital literacy, gender education, digital rights in the school curriculum and using language that is easy to understand, considering that even children are already in the digital space and are vulnerable to becoming victims or perpetrators of online harms, Online Gender-Based Violence (OGBV), and future (cyber) crimes;
  3. To ensure the involvement of women in particular and civil society organizations in general, in the formulation of cyber security policies related to a safer digital space, so that they are more digital rights perspective, human-centric approach, and gender sensitive;
  4. To promote a holistic protection mechanism for Women Human Rights Defenders (WHRDs) in the digital space, by proposing the State, Private Companies/Sector, Law Enforcement Officials, Academicians, Technologists, Journalists/Media owners, and CSOs to have series of multi stakeholders fora (MSF) to adopt and develop a Holistic Security approach to build stronger cyber security in ASEAN.

 

Freedom of Religion

  1. To promote a shift in mindset by fostering widespread recognition of diversity as a valuable asset through dialogues, actions, public campaign, and shared learning, with the support of the State.
  2. To enhance the effectiveness of policies, it is crucial to embrace pluralistic perspectives and prioritize the protection, involvement, and empowerment of women. This can be achieved through the promotion and facilitation of interfaith encounters, dialogues, and collaborations. Additionally, it is essential to conduct thorough reviews of existing policies that may lack a comprehensive perspective. Furthermore, in order to ensure a just and safe society, particular attention should be given to addressing the needs and concerns of vulnerable and minority groups.
  3. To promote the creation and protection of spaces and rights for women and youth, enabling them to cultivate healthy interfaith relationships, acquire knowledge, empower themselves, freely express their ideas and thoughts, actively contribute to peacebuilding efforts, and play a significant role in shaping a truly inclusive society.
  4. To emphasize the importance of providing assistance, protection, and the fulfillment of rights for minority religious groups experiencing persecution due to their religious identity and belief.

 

Myanmar Crisis

  1. In regard to the Five-Point Consensus: a) ASEAN must acknowledge the junta’s flagrant violation of the 5PC and ensure any future agreements incorporate time-bound and measurable commitments to release arbitrarily detained women and hold perpetrators accountable. ASEAN Leaders’ Review and Decision on the implementation of the Five-Point Consensus as agreed during the 40th and 41st ASEAN Summits, it is important to expedite the development of a time-bound achievable implementation plan to operationalize the 5 Point Consensus. b) ASEAN must remove junta representation from all ASEAN entities.
  2. Enhanced effort to lobby the Indonesian government and ASEAN member states to pursue a UN Security Council resolution to refer the situation in Myanmar to the International Criminal Court (ICC). ASEAN member States, as part of the United Nations should use the Security Council’s Chapter VII authority to address systematic gross human rights violations – amounting to war crimes and gender-based crimes against humanity, and calls on the obligations of member states regarding sexual violence in armed conflict, all which amount to violation of the international law and the regime is threatening the international peace and security
  3. Addressing the needs of refugees, establishing refugee protection and referral mechanisms such as legal aid, medical care, and psychosocial support, supporting survivor-centered rehabilitation, reparations, and transitional justice, including accountability of security forces, state officials, and the judiciary. This includes to urge AHA to collaborate with Myanmar humanitarian network and local groups, as well Ethnic Health organization, and ethnic resistance Organizations on the ground, for the delivery of humanitarian aid. This to balance SAC abuse and bias, using aid as a weapon to oppress communities.

Preventing Violent Extremism

  1. Enhancing the PCVE System by establishing gender-sensitive PCVE systems in all ASEAN member countries, encompassing comprehensive measures ranging from prevention of radicalization and recruitment to law enforcement, repatriation of foreign terrorist fighters, rehabilitation, social reintegration, victim rights and reparations, and community resilience programs.
  2. Driving the NAP on PCVE by forming a CSO consortium, such as the Working Group on Women and PCVE, led by women, to expedite the adoption of National Action Plans on PCVE in each ASEAN member country, employing a whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach;
  3. Establishing Victim Support Institutions by strengthening the institutions like Indonesia Witness and Victim Protection Agency (LPSK) to safeguard the rights of terrorism and violent extremism victims, alongside enacting regulations to guarantee the fulfillment of these rights.
  4. Promote inclusive Approach to Women Terrorist Prisoners: Ensuring gender perspectives in policies pertaining to female terrorist prisoners, providing female personnel throughout the law enforcement and judicial processes, and integrating deradicalization programs.
  5. Regulating Resources for Effective Implementation: Enacting regulations that allocate resources enabling governments and civil society to effectively implement the NAP on PCVE.
  6. Facilitating Regional Knowledge Exchange: Organizing regular regional forums on PCVE to facilitate knowledge sharing among government bodies and CSOs across ASEAN member countries.

Migration

  1. The crisis in Myanmar has triggered a massive displacement of people, including women and girls, who were forced to flee their homes. Many have sought refuge in ASEAN countries such as Thailand, Malaysia and Indonesia. The influx of refugees and internally displaced persons (IDPs) presents challenges regarding protection, humanitarian assistance, and social integration for these vulnerable populations;
  2. The factors of marginalization and injustice, as well as several vulnerabilities of women migrant workers such as unequal conditions, limited access and justice, specifically for migrants with disabilities resulting from migration. Those discriminative situations and violence, including loneliness, insecurity, encouraging the search for spirituality, are exploited by extremist groups that offer paradise solutions.
  3. Recommend shifting the security paradigm towards a human security approach to enhance the intersectionality framework in addressing the challenges faced by women, children, and persons with disabilities (PWD), promoting inclusive policies and programs that encompass their socio-economic, political, and environmental well-being.
  4. Build alignment of the Regional Plan of Action on Women, Peace, and Security (RPA WPS) and the National Action Plan with the three declarations related with migration and human trafficking issues adopted by the ASEAN Summit in Labuan Bajo in May 2023 to ensure coherence and effectiveness in advancing women’s empowerment, gender equality, and peacebuilding in the ASEAN region.

 

Climate Crisis

  1. Prioritize the law enforcement, establish a clear and firm moratorium on forest processing, and regulate businesses involved in natural resources extraction, palm oil plantations, and sand mining along Indonesian waters
  2. Cease military involvement in schemes and sectors, leverage local wisdom and a holistic security approach, moving beyond conventional hard security measures, to address environmental preservation through religious perspectives. For instance, prioritize interfaith dialogues on the climate crisis to foster shared solutions.
  3. Conduct a comprehensive mapping of CSO roles to identify and highlight successful practices, with a particular focus on women’s movements. i.e : Kendeng (cement), Save Aru (Ecoteology), Save Sangihe Islands, Aleta Baun fight againstMarmer industry (weaving), Sihaporas indigenous women (Toba Pulp Lestari Case) etc. Specifically, prioritize exploring the transformative potential of eco-theology initiatives driven by religious institutions.
  4. Improving the recognition of intersectionality and promoting inclusion in women’s experiences of climate crisis is crucial, as vulnerability is shaped by interconnected factors like race, ethnicity, class, and age. To address this, it is essential to involve women in policy formulation, tackle gender disparities in accessing climate crisis resources and benefits, and prioritize gender-responsive solutions in climate crisis adaptation efforts.
  5. Fostering a more inclusive and effective response to the climate crisis, it is crucial to prioritize women’s active participation in policy formulation, address gender inequalities in resource access and benefits, and promote gender-responsive solutions for climate adaptation.

We highlight the points of concern above, which, based on voices, best practices, and contributions from CSOs involved in the side event, and previous political dialogue with ASEAN member states, can be accommodated to improve the implementation of the RPA on WPS. We hope ASEAN recognizes the principle of inclusion, equality, and non discrimination, the implementation of these measures will need to be tailored to the unique contexts and legal frameworks of individual countries.

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List of organization attended CSO Side Event on WPS High Level

  1. The Asian Muslim Action Network (AMAN) Indonesia
  2. Migrant Care
  3. Working Group on Women and CVE (WGWC)
  4. Asia Democracy Network (AND)
  5. Southeast Asia Network of Freedom Expression (SAFENet)

 

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