ALTSEAN-Burma
(Alternative ASEAN Network on Burma) is a network of organizations
and individuals based in ASEAN member states working to support
the movement for human rights and democracy in Burma. The
network is comprised of human rights & social justice
NGOs, political parties, think tanks, academics, journalists
and student activists. We were formed
at the conclusion of the Alternative ASEAN Meeting on Burma
held at Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, in October 1996. |
We
are committed to a free and democratic Burma where all the
people enjoy human rights in accordance with the principles
of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. |
We
are dedicated to the creation of a society of empowered individuals
and communities in charge of their own destiny. |
This
can be realized through genuine national reconciliation, regional
cooperation and mutual respect. |
We
are a regional network engaged in advocacy, campaigns and
capacity building to establish a free and democratic Burma. |
We
work with the democracy movement and its supporters to produce
resources and create opportunities for: |
•
Building and strengthening strategic relationships among key
networks and organisations from Burma, ASEAN and the international
community. |
•
Implementing innovative strategies that are responsive to
emerging needs and urgent developments. |
•
Inspiring and building confidence for empowerment among activists,
particularly women, youth and all ethnic groups of Burma. |
Adherence
to the fundamental principles of human rights guides all our
actions. In striving for a free and democratic Burma we are
committed to: |
•
Reform through non-violent means. |
•
Non-discrimination, particularly with regard to gender equality
and ethnic diversity. |
•
Idealism in thought and realism in action. |
We
believe in the importance of education for the purposes of
empowerment, especially for women. |
We
value creativity, innovation and adaptability in achieving
our goals. |
•
Contributing to efforts to achieve democratic
transition in Burma. |
•
Advancing ASEAN reforms that will uphold democracy and human
rights amongst members, particularly Burma. |
•
Contributing to a more effective regional Burma movement. |
•
Supporting meaningful participation of women and youth from
Burma in the movement. |
•
Enhancing capacity-building programs to address the human
resources and strategic needs of Burmese organizations. |
•
Promoting mutually reinforcing advocacy messages and strategies
by the Burma movement. |
•
Consolidating and strengthening the effectiveness of the secretariat. |