The purpose of the draft declaration of human rights, is to initiate a discussion throughout Asia, regarding some of the most fundamental issues relating to the concept of human rights, as well as problems relating to the enforcement of human rights. On an initial consultation held at the beginning of 1994, the participants from several countries reflected on the basic issues that should be reflected in an Asian charter of human rights. It was felt that the draft need to reflect closely, the aspect of violations of human rights that are taking place in almost all countries of Asia and that it should concentrate on the aspect of the enforcement of human rights. On the basis of recommendations made at this consultations, a questionnaire was drafted and distributed to many Asian NGOs calling for their contributions to be included in the draft declaration. Over 100 NGOs responded to this call and sent in many documents relating to various problems of human rights, that they faced in their countries. After making a summary of the documents sent by the NGOs, the drafting committee consisting of 6 persons met for the purpose of making the first draft. After 3 consultations, the draft was finalized. Initially, it was proposed to include a section as an explanation to the Charter. However, as the draft became self-explanatory the separate explanation was considered unnecessary. However, papers submitted by knowledgeable persons on the basis of the draft declaration will be circulated during the course of the discussion on the draft. This draft will now be submitted to all the Asian human rights NGOs, other community organizations, concerned persons and groups, who are involved in human rights protection and promotion. The draft will also be translated into several Asian languages and with the assistance of local NGOs, will be distributed in local languages to as many groups and persons as practicable.

Three regional consultations were held to discuss the proposed draft. The South Asian Consultation was held in January, 1995, in Colombo, Sri Lanka. South-East Asian Consultation was held in August, 1995, in Hong Kong and East Asian Consultation was held in January, 1996, in Hong Kong. Besides these, country consultations were held with the assistance of the local groups. India Consultation were held in Bangalore from 25-27 March, 1995 and Nepal Consultation were held from 9-10 April, 1995. Finally, a regional meeting will be held in a siginificant Asian city, yet to be decided, to discuss the draft declaration which will then be adopted with suitable amendments.

This declaration will thereafter be used as an educational document. It will also be used as well as a basis to develop solidarity action for the protection and promotion of human rights in Asia. Educational materials will be prepared on the basis of this Charter, for the promotion of the basic concepts of human rights.