2016 Asia-Pacific Workshops

This workshop will explore the new challenges faced by the Dalits, tribals and similarly marginalized groups and the human rights defenders in the wake of right-wing religious resurgence in Southern Asia. These range from denial of basic rights and needs to a seemingly concerted effort to further impoverish, dis-empower and violate these communities for the prosperity of a few. This workshop, through the stories of the Dalits, religious and ethnic minorities and the displaced communities will attempt to engage with some moral challenges that faith communities alone can and must address. Organized by the ecumenical Asia-Pacific Forum.

Speakers:

This workshop focuses on the escalation of politically motivated repression in the Philippines and its links to U.S. foreign policy in the region, with a particular focus on the violence and displacement of Lumad people in Mindanao, especially children, youth, and women. Co-organized by the International Coalition for Human Rights in the Philippines-US (ICHRP-US) Network and the United Methodist Women, this delegation is participating in a national tour to raise awareness about the situation of the Lumad and other indigenous communities in the Philippines.

Speakers: