The 17th Annual Conference of the Southeast Asia National Human Rights Institutions Forum (SEANF) concluded with a renewed commitment from NHRIs across Southeast Asia to promote human rights, focusing on economic, social, and cultural rights (ESCR), gender equality, and the protection of marginalized communities. Key discussions centered on climate change, environmental justice, and torture prevention, with an emphasis on collaboration with civil society organizations (CSOs).
The conference highlighted the importance of transparency, accountability, and the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 16. Delegates called for greater regional cooperation and the integration of gender-sensitive approaches in all human rights work, with optimism for actionable outcomes at the national level.