<p>(26 November 2009, Bangkok) The Asian Forum for Human Rights and Development (FORUM-ASIA), a regional human rights organisation with 46 members across Asia, strongly condemns the recent massacre of civilians and journalists in Maguindanao, southern Philippines. We call on the government of the Philippines to conduct an independent investigation into this crime and hold its perpetrators accountable.</p>

<p>(23 September 2009, Geneva/Bangkok) The United Nations Human Rights Council (Council) concluded its general debate yesterday, under &ldquo;agenda item 4: human rights situations that require the Council&rsquo;s attention&rdquo;. This crucial agenda item is to provide the Council with the opportunity to bring to attention country-specific human rights situations. Regrettably, however, this was not the case at the 12th regular session of the Council with only 14 member and observer States addressing the Council on Burma.</p>