ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) Charter
Adopted on November 20, 2007. Entered into force on December 15, 2008.
Relevant Provisions of the ASEAN Charter
Article 1: Purposes of the ASEAN
7. To strengthen democracy, enhance good governance and the rule of law, and to promote and protect human rights and fundamental freedoms, with due regard to the rights and fundamental freedoms, with due regard to the rights and responsibilities of the Member States of ASEAN.
11. To enhance the well-being and livelihood of the peoples of ASEAN by providing them with equitable access to opportunities for human development, social welfare and justice.
Article 2: Principles
h) ASEAN States adhere to the rule of law, good governance, the principles of democracy and constitutional government;
i) ASEAN States respect fundamental freedoms, the promotion and protection of human rights, and the promotion of social justice.
j) ASEAN States uphold the United Nations Charter and international law, including international humanitarian law, subscribed to by ASEAN Member States.
Article 14: ASEAN Human Rights Body
1. In conformity with the purposes and principles of the ASEAN Charter relating to the promotion and protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms, ASEAN shall establish an ASEAN human rights body.
2. This ASEAN human rights body shall operate in accordance with the terms of reference to be determined by the ASEAN Foreign Ministers Meeting.
Status of Ratification and Deposit of the Instrument of Ratification of the ASEAN Charter[1]
| Country | Date on Instrument of Ratification | Date of Deposit of Instrument of Ratification |
|---|---|---|
| Brunei Darussalam | 31 January 2008 | 15 February 2008 |
| Kingdom of Cambodia | 02 April 2008 | 18 April 2008 |
| Republic of Indonesia | 11 November 2008 | 13 November 2008 |
| Lao People's Democratic Republic | 14 February 2008 | 20 February 2008 |
| Malaysia | 14 February 2008 | 20 February 2008 |
| Union of Myanmar | 11 July 2008 | 21 July 2008 |
| Republic of the Philippines | 05 May 2008 (by the President) and 07 October 2008 (by the Senate) | 03 November 2008 |
| Republic of Singapore | 18 December 2007 | 07 January 2008 |
| Kingdom of Thailand | 15 November 2008 | 15 November 2008 |
| Socialist Republic of Viet Nam | 14 March 2008 | 19 March 2008 |
