The Making of the ASEAN Intergovernmental Commission on Human Rights (AICHR): A Case Study in the Diffusion of Human Rights Norm

This thesis examines the diffusion of human rights norm in ASEAN and specifically analyzes why ASEAN member countries decided to create the AICHR. While ASEAN is known to be reluctant in discussing the human rights issue owing to its adherence of the "ASEAN Way," throughout decades it has been shifting its human rights policy. The thesis explores the elements of internal and external pressures that acted as catalysts of the changing nature of ASEAN in viewing human rights issue. It argues that external or Western pressure was only one, however not always the main factor behind the move towards an ASEAN human rights mechanism. The study claims that the evolution of ASEAN human rights policy and the decision of establishing the AICHR are mostly influenced by internal pressures, with national and regional actors, both state and non-state as the main agents in the process. While many shows disappointment on the AICHR's commitments and efficacies in promoting and protecting human rights, this thesis believes that the transformation is on-going and a comprehensive human rights system is feasible in the foreseeable future. Obviously, the AICHR will not cure all human rights ills overnight. Therefore, it is important to always focus on finding the best approach for AICHR to improve its task and be bold in carrying its mandates.