In celebration of the 76th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) on December 10, 2024, the Institute of Human Rights and Peace Studies at Mahidol University, in collaboration with the Strengthening Human Rights and Peace Research & Education in ASEAN/Southeast Programme (SHAPE-SEA) sponsored by the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (Sida) and the Southeast Asian Coalition for Academic Freedom (SEA-CAF) supported by Scholar at Risk, held an academic conference titled ” An IHRP Showcase: Southeast Asia’s Outlook on Academic Freedom & Human Rights” The event set to take place on December 11, 2024, at the Grand Ballroom of Prince Mahidol Hall and Parking, Mahidol University
The conference commenced with an opening speech by Professor Piyamitr Sritara, MD, FRCP, FACP, President of Mahidol University, followed by a welcome address from Dr. Vachararutai Boontinand, Chair of SHAPE-SEA and faculty member of the Institute of Human Rights and Peace Studies. The event aims to promote dialogue on academic freedom and human rights in the Southeast Asian context, featuring diverse activities and discussions with prominent speakers and experts.
Highlights of the conference included a public discussion titled “UDHR and Southeast Asia: Milestone, Setbacks and Ways Ahead” and the launch of the Human Rights Outlook in Southeast Asia 2023 by SHAPE-SEA. The program also featured artistic exhibitions, musical performances, photography, and poetry centered on human rights and peace. Collaborative activities with Amnesty International Thailand further engaged participants.
The conference featured a keynote speech on “Advancing Human Rights in Thai Society: Opportunities and Challenges” by MP Chonthicha Jangrew, a member of the House of Representatives’ Committee on Legal Affairs, Justice, and Human Rights of House of Representatives. Additionally, a discussion on “Higher Education and Academic Freedom in Southeast Asia” marked the launch of the Southeast Asian Coalition for Academic Freedom (SEA-CAF). Another key session explored “Human Rights, Health, Peace, and Justice: Opportunities and Challenges for Universities”
This event underscored the institute’s commitment to advancing human rights and peace studies through education, research, and advocacy. It also seeked to foster collaboration among regional networks and raise public awareness about the importance of human rights and academic freedom. Students, faculty, and members of the public were invited to participate in this significant academic gathering.
