Asia Justice and Rights - AJAR

09/07/2026

BUKAE: Sobrevivente La'o ba Justisa (Survivors Walking Towards Justice) tells the story of some of Timor-Leste's forgotten survivors of sexual violence during and after the Indonesian occupation. Although Timor-Leste gained its independence in 1999, many survivors still await meaningful recognition and redress from the state. The effects of this violence have proven enduring and intergenerational, and it now shapes the lives of children and families who continue to face prejudice, exclusion, and ongoing trauma.

Innitially released earlier this year by AJAR Timor-Leste, the documentary is being relaunched to mark the International Day in Support of Victims of Torture and to honour the lives of those who have been marginalised and overlooked.

Swipe to see a glimpse of the documentary and watch the full film on AJAR's YouTube channel! Click the link https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-sFLCEsF5vg or scan the QR code on the last picture. We implore you to stand with these survivors in their continuing pursuit of recognition and justice!

30/06/2026

Resilience in Action: Sustaining Justice Through Solidarity

In 2025, AJAR’s work was shaped by a simple but enduring lesson: resilience grows through solidarity. Across Asia and the Pacific, survivors, human rights defenders, young people, and communities continued to advance justice and accountability despite shrinking civic space, humanitarian crises, and growing uncertainty.

This Annual Report highlights AJAR’s efforts to strengthen survivor-led initiatives, support human rights defenders, preserve historical memory, and respond to emerging challenges while remaining grounded in community leadership. The stories and experiences shared throughout this report demonstrate that meaningful change is sustained both through advocacy and policy reform, as well as through trust, collective care, and enduring partnerships.

We invite you to explore the journeys, achievements, and lessons that shaped AJAR’s work in 2025, and the communities whose resilience continues to inspire hope and action. Head to our website to read our annual report!

27/06/2026

Torture does not end when the violence stops.

On 26 June, the International Day in Support of Victims of Torture, we stand in solidarity with victims and survivors of torture and ill-treatment around the world.

Drawing on experiences from Indonesia, Myanmar, and Timor-Leste, AJAR and our partners' regional study highlights the enduring legacy of torture and the challenges survivors continue to face in accessing justice, healing, and recognition. 

Today, we honour the courage and resilience of all victims and survivors. Their voices remind us that building a future free from torture begins with acknowledging the past and committing to justice for all.

Swipe through to learn more about the findings and recommendations from our regional study.

26/06/2026

09/06/2026

05/06/2026

International human rights standards, transitional justice principles, and Indonesia's own civilian judiciary point in the same direction: civilian accountability, not military self-adjudication.

The Andrie Yunus case is a test of Indonesia's commitment to accountability, democratic reform, and the protection of human rights defenders. We call for a full, impartial investigation and a fair civilian trial to ensure justice for all those responsible for the attack.

20/05/2026

We are deeply honoured to share that our Director, Galuh Wandita, and President, Patrick Burgess, have received the Medal of the Order of Timor-Leste — one of the nation’s highest honours — in recognition of their long-standing contributions to the people of Timor-Leste.

For nearly three decades, Galuh and Patrick have worked alongside survivors, communities, and human rights defenders through conflict, truth-seeking, justice, and rebuilding. Together with Jose Luis de Oliveira, they also established AJAR Timor-Leste, strengthening community-based work for peace, justice, intergenerational learning, and survivor-centred healing.

Reflecting on the award, Galuh shared:

“This recognition belongs first and foremost to the survivors and people of Timor-Leste. Over many years, they trusted us with their stories, their grief, their courage, and their hopes for justice. We have learned from their resilience, humour, and extraordinary humanity.”

Patrick added:

“Timor gives us hope, a clear example that entrenched conflict can be overcome and a democracy based on truth, justice and human rights is possible.”

This honour also belongs to the many survivors, activists, colleagues, and partners who have worked together across generations and borders in pursuit of truth, justice, and peace.

Our deepest gratitude to the President and people of Timor-Leste for this profound recognition and friendship over the past 30 years. 🇹🇱

30/04/2026

Last Tuesday, April 21, the Asia HRD Learning Hub hosted a critical discussion on the situation of Human Rights Defenders (HRDs) in the post-election landscapes of Myanmar, Thailand, and Bangladesh.

From sham elections in Myanmar to suspicious reporting in Thailand and the arrest of activists in Bangladesh, the path to democracy in Asia faces a steep climb.

Swipe through the graphics below to see a visual summary of the Talk Series!

27/04/2026

On 21 April 2026, the Jakarta Administrative Court rejected the lawsuit against Indonesia’s Minister of Culture for denying the May 1998 mass rapes despite extensive evidence. For Survivor, this desicion is another painful reminder that their experiences are still questioned.

Despite many CSOs, including AJAR, sending Amicus Curiae, the court's decision to reject the lawsuit shows how a culture of denial and impunity has hindered efforts to pursue justice, accountability, and guarantees of non-recurrence. Shame!🔔

17/04/2026

Asia HRD Learning Hub Talk Series: Post Election Situation for HRD in Myanamr, Thailand, and Bangladesh

Human rights defenders (HRDs) play a crucial role in promoting democracy, protecting freedoms, and ensuring accountability, especially during elections. However, in the post-election period, they often face increased risks amid political tensions and restricted civic space. What challenges do HRDs encounter after elections, and how can we strengthen protection and solidarity?

Find the answer in our Talk Series on Tuesday, 21 April 2026 at 14.00 GMT+7. Register Now: https://tinyurl.com/HRDPostElectionRSVP

See you on Tuesday!