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Toward Human Rights-Based Universities: AUN-HRE Kicks Off Regional Dialogue
The ASEAN University Network–Human Rights Education (AUN-HRE) convened regional experts, academics, and youth representatives for Day 1 of the Regional Consultation on Human Rights-Based Universities (HRBUs) in ASEAN and Southeast Asia. The consultation aimed to advance a shared framework that integrates human rights and peace principles into university systems, covering policies, governance, curriculum, research, campus life, and community engagement.
Opening remarks from Mahidol University, the National Human Rights Commission of Thailand, and the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (SIDA) underscored the region’s commitment to strengthening universities as catalysts for justice, inclusion, and peace.
The program featured a keynote address by Professor Felisa Tibbitts, who emphasized universities’ dual role as human rights actors and knowledge institutions, highlighting the importance of academic freedom, decolonial approaches, and context-responsive strategies. Participants also shared institutional experiences, student perspectives, and vision boards illustrating inclusive and rights-affirming higher education environments. Discussions surfaced key themes, including disability inclusion, mental health support, cultural and community-rooted education, and the need for participatory, equitable learning environments that foster critical thinking and empower marginalized voices.
Interactive group sessions further examined six essential dimensions of HRBUs—mission and values, governance, curriculum, research, campus life, and community engagement—producing proposed benchmarks and action steps.
Network partners presented ongoing initiatives on gender justice, disability inclusion, health promotion, and academic freedom advocacy, reflecting growing momentum across Southeast Asia. The day concluded with calls for sustained collaboration, strategic resource mobilization, and context-sensitive reforms as AUN-HRE continues to coordinate feedback toward a comprehensive regional framework for Human Rights-Based Universities.
