FORUM-ASIA is a membership-based regional network of human rights organisations in Asia. Our collective strength draws from our extensive network of 85 member organisations across 23 countries, mainly in Asia.
We promote and protect human rights, civic space, and democracy in the region. We do this by empowering civil society and marginalised communities. FORUM-ASIA holds a consultative status with the UN Economic and Social Council as well as a consultative relationship with the ASEAN Intergovernmental Commission on Human Rights.
To help build democratic, just, equitable, and sustainable societies in Asia—where human rights of all individuals, groups, and peoples are fully realised in accordance with international human rights standards and norms.
To strengthen movements for human rights and sustainable development in Asia through research, advocacy, capacity-building, and solidarity actions with human rights defenders and civil society organisations.
In 1991, FORUM-ASIA was founded in Manila. Its founding members—19 organisations from nine countries—wanted to amplify the Asian voice in the global human rights landscape.
FORUM-ASIA recognised the need to enable and encourage human rights defenders to tell their own stories as they fight injustice and inequality in Asia. Through the collaborative efforts facilitated by FORUM-ASIA, civil society organisations found a common space to unite and collaborate in unveiling and addressing the various challenges that impede democracy and sustainable development across the region.
In 1992, we established our Regional Secretariat in Bangkok, serving as a central hub for our operations. We have also set up offices in Geneva, Jakarta, and Kathmandu. While our physical presence is anchored in these locations, our work spans across Asia, reaching communities far and wide.