Southeast Asian activists challenge ASEAN’s declaration as inadequate, urge people-centered climate leadership

Southeast Asian Activists Challenge ASEAN's Declaration

Environmental and human rights groups have expressed disappointment with the ASEAN Declaration on the Right to a Safe, Clean, Healthy, and Sustainable Environment.

This declaration was adopted during the 47th ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur on October 27–28 and is seen as a milestone, but it falls short of meaningful commitments to protect defenders, Indigenous peoples, and vulnerable communities.

"This is not the inclusive and rights-based declaration that the public and civil society have called for. It also overlooks environmental defenders who stand at the frontlines of protecting our planet,"

said Rocky Guzman, deputy director of the Asian Research Institute for Environmental Law.

Activists urge for people-centered climate leadership to address the shortcomings of the declaration.

Author's summary: ASEAN's declaration is deemed inadequate by activists.

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Herald Malaysia Herald Malaysia — 2025-10-30

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