News
Browse our latest news, community stories and articles related to our work.
Search for news stories
In this issue, we profile Fijian alumna Florence Swamy, Director of the Pacific Centre on Peacebuilding. We provide information about DTP's programs and upcoming webinars, including a new series on Digital Rights.
DTP Alumni Profile
Florence Swamy is the Executive Director at the Pacific Centre for Peacebuilding (PCP), an NGO based in Suva, Fiji. She is a respected Fijian human rights and social justice advocate with many years of experience in community development, gender equality, conflict resolution.
Florence Swamy is the Executive Director at the Pacific Centre for Peacebuilding (PCP), an NGO based in Suva, Fiji. She is a respected Fijian human rights and social justice advocate with many years of experience in community development, gender equality, conflict resolution.
DTP Alumni Profile
Bulu is a seasoned Indigenous Fijian community development practitioner, community leader, and traditional knowledge advocate. He is an adviser to a local Indigenous womens’ NGO called the Na I Soqosoqo Vakamarama I Taukei Cakaudrove in Cakaudrove Province Province, on Vanua Levu, Fiji. He is also the Local Project Coordinator & Community Liaison Officer for the NaVualiku Project at the Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation.
Bulu is a seasoned Indigenous Fijian community development practitioner, community leader, and traditional knowledge advocate. He is an adviser to a local Indigenous womens’ NGO called the Na I Soqosoqo Vakamarama I Taukei Cakaudrove in Cakaudrove Province Province, on Vanua Levu, Fiji. He is also the Local Project Coordinator & Community Liaison Officer for the NaVualiku Project at the Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation.
DTP Alumni Profile
Thanida Piyachot is currently working as a Human Rights Associate at the Fortify Rights, an international human rights NGO. In this role she systematically investigates human rights violations faced by refugees fleeing Myanmar after the Coup. Thanida is also a Barrister and serves as Secretary of Thailand’s Parliamentary Committee on National Security, Border Affairs, National Strategy, and National Reform in Thailand.
Thanida Piyachot is currently working as a Human Rights Associate at the Fortify Rights, an international human rights NGO. In this role she systematically investigates human rights violations faced by refugees fleeing Myanmar after the Coup. Thanida is also a Barrister and serves as Secretary of Thailand’s Parliamentary Committee on National Security, Border Affairs, National Strategy, and National Reform in Thailand.
Program report from DTP's 2024 Consultation Workshop for Climate Change, Human Rights and
Business, Pacific Program held in Suva, Fiji
DTP Alumni Profile
Kamal Thapa Kshetri is the Under Secretary and Head of the International Relations Division, Migration and Refugees at the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) of Nepal. Before joining the NHRC Kamal practiced law as an advocate, and developed his expertise in constitutional and human rights law. At the NHRC he has focused on the human rights of Nepal’s migrants, and victims of human trafficking.
Kamal Thapa Kshetri is the Under Secretary and Head of the International Relations Division, Migration and Refugees at the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) of Nepal. Before joining the NHRC Kamal practiced law as an advocate, and developed his expertise in constitutional and human rights law. At the NHRC he has focused on the human rights of Nepal’s migrants, and victims of human trafficking.
DTP's 2024 Annual Report showcases its activity throughout the year as we return to face-to-face programs.
DTP Alumni Profile
Bheem Reddy Mandha is a former journalist and life insurance agent who has turned into a dedicated migrant workers’ rights advocate, focusing on migrants to the Persian Gulf. He founded and has been actively involved in the Emigrants Welfare Forum and is a member of DTP partner network, Migrant Forum in Asia (MFA), where he collaborates with regional and international networks to push for policy reforms and greater protections for migrant workers.
Bheem Reddy Mandha is a former journalist and life insurance agent who has turned into a dedicated migrant workers’ rights advocate, focusing on migrants to the Persian Gulf. He founded and has been actively involved in the Emigrants Welfare Forum and is a member of DTP partner network, Migrant Forum in Asia (MFA), where he collaborates with regional and international networks to push for policy reforms and greater protections for migrant workers.
DTP Alumni Profile
Celine is an Indigenous peoples rights and environmental advocate based in Sarawak, Malaysia. She is the Managing Director of SAVE Rivers, a grassroots movement that defends Indigenous peoples’ land rights and environmental sustainability in Malaysia.
Celine is an Indigenous peoples rights and environmental advocate based in Sarawak, Malaysia. She is the Managing Director of SAVE Rivers, a grassroots movement that defends Indigenous peoples’ land rights and environmental sustainability in Malaysia.
Program report from DTP's 2024 Workshop on Establishing DTP Alumni Network in Indonesia held in Bogor, Indonesia
DTP Alumni Profile
Dhananjaya Tilakaratne is a veteran Sri Lankan human rights lawyer and activist with over 32 years of experience in defending human rights and promoting social justice. He currently works as the Legal Consultant and Secretary of the Action Network for Migrant Workers (ACTFORM), a national group advocating for the rights of Sri Lankan migrant workers and their families.
Dhananjaya Tilakaratne is a veteran Sri Lankan human rights lawyer and activist with over 32 years of experience in defending human rights and promoting social justice. He currently works as the Legal Consultant and Secretary of the Action Network for Migrant Workers (ACTFORM), a national group advocating for the rights of Sri Lankan migrant workers and their families.
Program report from DTP's 2024 DTP Alumni Business and Human Rights Network Workshop held in Bangkok, Thailand.
DTP Alumni Profile
Pratistha Koirala was working on children’s rights in her homeland of Nepal when she was selected as a DTP participant. Today, over ten years later, she is based in Canberra, Australia working on human rights and climate change in the Pacific for Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) Australia.
Pratistha Koirala was working on children’s rights in her homeland of Nepal when she was selected as a DTP participant. Today, over ten years later, she is based in Canberra, Australia working on human rights and climate change in the Pacific for Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) Australia.
Program report from DTP's online dialogue series, Australian and ASEAN Civil Society Exchange on Human Trafficking and Forced Labour in the Fishing Industry.
Program report from DTP's 32nd Annual Program held in Dili.
From December 12-14, 2024, 23 DTP alumni from nine countries across Asia met in Bangkok for a three-day alumni workshop on Business and Human Rights (BHR) Network Building, together with advocates on BHR from East Asia.
DTP/MFA alumni and representatives held a half-day workshop in Bangkok focused on business and human rights.
DTP Alumni Profile
Anna Rosario Malindog-Uy is the Vice President and Director at the Asian Century Philippines Strategic Studies Institute. She is also a Ph.D. candidate in Economics at the Institute of South-South Cooperation and Development (ISSCAD) at Peking University, Beijing, China. Anna is an advocate for the right to development of the Global South countries.
Anna Rosario Malindog-Uy is the Vice President and Director at the Asian Century Philippines Strategic Studies Institute. She is also a Ph.D. candidate in Economics at the Institute of South-South Cooperation and Development (ISSCAD) at Peking University, Beijing, China. Anna is an advocate for the right to development of the Global South countries.
DTP Alumni Profile
Gita Chaudhary is a lawyer and Indigenous Peoples’ Rights advocate in Nepal. Belonging to Indigenous Tharu community, Gita has dedicated her life in addressing the challenges faced by Tharu people in Nepal. She is a practicing lawyer focusing on human rights and justice for Indigenous peoples in Nepal.
Gita Chaudhary is a lawyer and Indigenous Peoples’ Rights advocate in Nepal. Belonging to Indigenous Tharu community, Gita has dedicated her life in addressing the challenges faced by Tharu people in Nepal. She is a practicing lawyer focusing on human rights and justice for Indigenous peoples in Nepal.
DTP Alumni Profile
Imam Shofwan is an award winning Indonesian human rights defender, journalist and researcher. He is the Head of Community Network at Jaringan Advokasi Tambang (JATAM), a mining advocacy network comprising Indonesian non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and community groups dedicated to protecting mining workers, the environment, and the land rights of Indigenous peoples.
Imam Shofwan is an award winning Indonesian human rights defender, journalist and researcher. He is the Head of Community Network at Jaringan Advokasi Tambang (JATAM), a mining advocacy network comprising Indonesian non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and community groups dedicated to protecting mining workers, the environment, and the land rights of Indigenous peoples.
DTP Board members, staff and volunteers joined with the Faculty of Law & Justice to host a special session on social justice and human rights with the President.
DTP Alumni Profile
Alzira is a human rights advocate from Timor-Leste with decades of experience in the field of women and child rights. Currently, Alzira is the Country Director of ChildFund Timor-Leste part of ChildFund Australia.
Alzira is a human rights advocate from Timor-Leste with decades of experience in the field of women and child rights. Currently, Alzira is the Country Director of ChildFund Timor-Leste part of ChildFund Australia.
As advocates prepare for the General Assembly and COP29 in Azerbaijan, DTP was joined by trainer Joshua Cooper for a Brown Bag lunch discussion.
DTP Alumni Profile
Htoo Chit is the Executive Director of the Foundation for Education and Development (FED), an NGO he established to support Burmese migrants in Thailand. Originally from Myanmar, Htoo Chit was targeted by the military junta because of his support for democracy and he had to leave Myanmar for Thailand following the 1988 democracy rising.
Htoo Chit is the Executive Director of the Foundation for Education and Development (FED), an NGO he established to support Burmese migrants in Thailand. Originally from Myanmar, Htoo Chit was targeted by the military junta because of his support for democracy and he had to leave Myanmar for Thailand following the 1988 democracy rising.
DTP Alumni Profile
Bertha is an Indonesian Indigenous Tanimbarese woman and Asia-Pacific Coordinator of the International Movement of Catholic Students (IMCS/MIEC) Pax Romana. In this role, Bertha focuses on supporting young people/students by building their capacity through leadership training and human rights advocacy. She is based in Manila, Philippines.
Bertha is an Indonesian Indigenous Tanimbarese woman and Asia-Pacific Coordinator of the International Movement of Catholic Students (IMCS/MIEC) Pax Romana. In this role, Bertha focuses on supporting young people/students by building their capacity through leadership training and human rights advocacy. She is based in Manila, Philippines.
DTP Alumni Profile
Milika worked as a Policy and Research Officer at the Citizens’ Constitutional Forum (CCF) when she participated in DTP’s 31st Annual Program in Timor-Leste. Today she lectures and teaches law at the Fiji National University. In this teaching role Milika uses her legal expertise and passion for human rights to influence the next generation of change makers.
Milika worked as a Policy and Research Officer at the Citizens’ Constitutional Forum (CCF) when she participated in DTP’s 31st Annual Program in Timor-Leste. Today she lectures and teaches law at the Fiji National University. In this teaching role Milika uses her legal expertise and passion for human rights to influence the next generation of change makers.
The 32nd Annual Human Rights and Peoples' Diplomacy Training program opens in Timor-Leste on 12 August at University of Timor-Leste.
DTP's founder, President Jose Ramos-Horta shared with participants of the 32nd Annual Human Rights and Peoples' Diplomacy Training program stories from his time as an advocate on the opening day of the program.
DTP Alumni Profile
Rufus Kamran is the Executive Director at the Society for Peace and Sustainable Development (SPSD), an NGO working in Punjab province in Pakistan. A major focus of SPSD’s work is addressing gender-based violence especially early and forced child marriages, forced religious conversion, minority rights and human trafficking.
Rufus Kamran is the Executive Director at the Society for Peace and Sustainable Development (SPSD), an NGO working in Punjab province in Pakistan. A major focus of SPSD’s work is addressing gender-based violence especially early and forced child marriages, forced religious conversion, minority rights and human trafficking.
Rosslyn Noonan joined DTP to discuss the role and future of NHRIs in Asia and the Pacific.
DTP Alumni Profile
Naweed Harooni is a Pakistani born human rights defender now living in Malaysia, with his Malaysian spouse. After experiencing and witnessing hurdles and discrimination towards foreign spouses, he founded Malaysian Foreign Spouses Network (MFSN) to raise greater awareness of this discrimination and to fight for the rights of foreign spouses in Malaysia.
Naweed Harooni is a Pakistani born human rights defender now living in Malaysia, with his Malaysian spouse. After experiencing and witnessing hurdles and discrimination towards foreign spouses, he founded Malaysian Foreign Spouses Network (MFSN) to raise greater awareness of this discrimination and to fight for the rights of foreign spouses in Malaysia.
17 CSO representatives and experts from the region participated in a consultation workshop in Suva, Fiji on Climate Change, Human Rights and Business in the Pacific, 25-27 June.
DTP Alumni Profile
Dr. Natasha Khan is an academic, change maker and human rights defender in Fiji, and also the current Chair of the Pacific Human Rights Defenders’ Network. Natasha teaches at the University of the South Pacific (USP) in Fiji, and leads their programs on leadership, governance, and human rights.
Dr. Natasha Khan is an academic, change maker and human rights defender in Fiji, and also the current Chair of the Pacific Human Rights Defenders’ Network. Natasha teaches at the University of the South Pacific (USP) in Fiji, and leads their programs on leadership, governance, and human rights.
On Saturday 15th June, 20 community leaders, together with 5 members of the Fairfield Multicultural Interagency Community Capacity Building working group gathered in Fairfield for an advocacy training workshop.
DTP partnered with FORUM-ASIA to deliver the 3rd ASEAN Human Rights Advocacy Academy in Jakarta from June 4-6.
DTP Alumni Profile
Norberta Vicente Soares Da Cruz is the Executive Director of Community Based Rehabilitation Network Timor Leste (CBRN-TL), advocating for the empowerment of people with disabilities, particularly women. She joined the advocacy to persuade Timor-Leste to ratify the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, which it did in 2022, and now advocates for its implementation.
Norberta Vicente Soares Da Cruz is the Executive Director of Community Based Rehabilitation Network Timor Leste (CBRN-TL), advocating for the empowerment of people with disabilities, particularly women. She joined the advocacy to persuade Timor-Leste to ratify the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, which it did in 2022, and now advocates for its implementation.
DTP Alumni Profile
Frederic is the Regional Program Officer for the human rights and advocacy program of DTP partner, Asia Indigenous Peoples Pact (AIPP). His advocacy springs from his own experience as a member of the Indigenous Dusun Putih Llivagu people of Sabah, Malaysia. Frederic plays a key role in developing the AIPP/DTP partnership and collaboration on capacity building initiative - with a special focus on business and human rights.
Frederic is the Regional Program Officer for the human rights and advocacy program of DTP partner, Asia Indigenous Peoples Pact (AIPP). His advocacy springs from his own experience as a member of the Indigenous Dusun Putih Llivagu people of Sabah, Malaysia. Frederic plays a key role in developing the AIPP/DTP partnership and collaboration on capacity building initiative - with a special focus on business and human rights.
10 DTP alumni attended the first meeting of DTP's Malaysia alumni. The event brought the alumni together to explore the establishment of a DTP Malaysia alumni network.
Twelve month follow up report from 2023 30th Annual Human Rights and Peoples' Diplomacy Training program, Thailand
Six month follow up report from 2023 31st Annual Human Rights and Peoples' Diplomacy Training program, Timor-Leste
Over 30 refugee and migrant community leaders from 14 countries joined the Human Rights and Advocacy trianing program held in partnership with The NSW Service for the Treatment and Rehabilitation of Torture and Trauma Survivors (STARTTS)
20 participants from Indigenous Peoples organisations in Sabah, Sarawak and Peninsular Malaysia gathered for capacity building program.
DTP Alumni Profile
Emeline Siale Ilolahia is the Executive Director of DTP partner organisation Pacific Islands Association of Non-governmental Organisations (PIANGO). Through PIANGO, Siale brings together diverse stakeholders to address pressing challenges facing the Pacific communities, from climate change, human rights violations, protection of Indigenous lands, gender inequality and food security.
Emeline Siale Ilolahia is the Executive Director of DTP partner organisation Pacific Islands Association of Non-governmental Organisations (PIANGO). Through PIANGO, Siale brings together diverse stakeholders to address pressing challenges facing the Pacific communities, from climate change, human rights violations, protection of Indigenous lands, gender inequality and food security.
DTP Alumni Profile
Yotam Wakum is a volunteer legal expert at the Biak Customary Council (BCC) in West Papua, Indonesia. He provides free legal advice to members of his community and others. He recently visited the DTP offices in Sydney along with DTP alumnus Sabela Gayo.
Yotam Wakum is a volunteer legal expert at the Biak Customary Council (BCC) in West Papua, Indonesia. He provides free legal advice to members of his community and others. He recently visited the DTP offices in Sydney along with DTP alumnus Sabela Gayo.
DTP Alumni Profile
DTP alumna and trainer Sumitha Kishna is the Founding Director of Our Journey, a civil society organisation advocating for an internationally compliant migration system and migrant rights in Malaysia. She is also the Chairperson of Migrant Forum in Asia (MFA).
DTP alumna and trainer Sumitha Kishna is the Founding Director of Our Journey, a civil society organisation advocating for an internationally compliant migration system and migrant rights in Malaysia. She is also the Chairperson of Migrant Forum in Asia (MFA).
DTP Alumni Profile
Dr Sabela Gayo is a human rights defender and lawyer from the Gayo Indigenous Peoples in Aceh, Indonesia. His focus now is on alternate dispute resolution and mediation, seeking to build peace at the community level. He is the founding President of the Indonesia Dispute Board (IDB).
Dr Sabela Gayo is a human rights defender and lawyer from the Gayo Indigenous Peoples in Aceh, Indonesia. His focus now is on alternate dispute resolution and mediation, seeking to build peace at the community level. He is the founding President of the Indonesia Dispute Board (IDB).
DTP Alumni Profile
Chalida is a prominent Thai human rights defender with over 30 years of experience of working on peace building, human rights, solidarity and democracy in Thailand and across Asia. She currently is the Chairperson of People’s Empowerment Foundation (PEF). In 2019 her solidarity for human rights and self-determination in Timor-Leste was recognised by the Timorese government with the Order of Timor-Leste.
Chalida is a prominent Thai human rights defender with over 30 years of experience of working on peace building, human rights, solidarity and democracy in Thailand and across Asia. She currently is the Chairperson of People’s Empowerment Foundation (PEF). In 2019 her solidarity for human rights and self-determination in Timor-Leste was recognised by the Timorese government with the Order of Timor-Leste.
DTP Alumni Profile
Swandaru is an Indonesian human rights defender now working as a senior researcher at Centra Initiative (CI), an Indonesian human rights organisation. His work involves communicating research findings through media briefings, lobbying, and networking.
Swandaru is an Indonesian human rights defender now working as a senior researcher at Centra Initiative (CI), an Indonesian human rights organisation. His work involves communicating research findings through media briefings, lobbying, and networking.
Report from DTP's Asian Alumni Workshop in Bangkok, Thailand, June 2023.
DTP International Advisory Council member Lopeti Senituli provided insights into the current crisis in Tonga and the regional context for democracy and human rights in the Pacific at roundtable discussion.
DTP Alumni Profile
Laddawan is a DTP alumna and prominent Thai human rights advocate whose leadership on human rights and democracy spans several decades, including distinguished service as a former Secretary General of Thailand’s Law Reform Commission of Thailand, Vice Chairperson of Political Development Council and former Chairperson of Amnesty International in Thailand. She attended one of the first DTP programs and is currently working for democracy in Myanmar and Thailand.
Laddawan is a DTP alumna and prominent Thai human rights advocate whose leadership on human rights and democracy spans several decades, including distinguished service as a former Secretary General of Thailand’s Law Reform Commission of Thailand, Vice Chairperson of Political Development Council and former Chairperson of Amnesty International in Thailand. She attended one of the first DTP programs and is currently working for democracy in Myanmar and Thailand.
DTP's 2023 Annual Report showcases its activity throughout the year as we return to face-to-face programs.
Indonesian alumni Sabela Gayo and Yotam Wakum visited the Diplomacy Training Program sharing about their current work in Indonesia which is focused on alternative dispute resolution
DTP Alumni Profile
Anselmo is one of the Asia’s most prominent and experienced human rights advocates, with decades of experience and contributions to human rights and civil society movements in Asia. He is Regional Coordinator at the Asia Civil Society Partnership for Sustainable Development (APSD), board member at the May 18 Memorial Foundation in Gwangju, Korea, and an adjunct professor at Kyunghee, SungKongHoe and Ajou University teaching about human rights and SDGs, global governance and NGOs.
Anselmo is one of the Asia’s most prominent and experienced human rights advocates, with decades of experience and contributions to human rights and civil society movements in Asia. He is Regional Coordinator at the Asia Civil Society Partnership for Sustainable Development (APSD), board member at the May 18 Memorial Foundation in Gwangju, Korea, and an adjunct professor at Kyunghee, SungKongHoe and Ajou University teaching about human rights and SDGs, global governance and NGOs.
DTP alumna/trainer and former Philippines Human Rights Commissioner Karen Gomez-Dumpit links the global campaign on abolition of the death penalty to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and shares insights into the successful campaign against re-introduction of the Death Penalty in the Philippines as a model for the anti-death penalty work. She highlights the value of research, of understanding public perceptions, and the importance of international collaboration and solidarity – and in this case, support from Australia and Australians.
DTP Alumni Profile
Renuga is a young Australian human rights defender and 3rd year law student who is passionate about Tamil refugee rights and the rights of culturally and linguistically diverse community members in Australia. Renuga is also a spokesperson for the Australian Tamil Refugee Council and volunteers for DTP.
Renuga is a young Australian human rights defender and 3rd year law student who is passionate about Tamil refugee rights and the rights of culturally and linguistically diverse community members in Australia. Renuga is also a spokesperson for the Australian Tamil Refugee Council and volunteers for DTP.
The hybrid program, held on 16th November, brought together staff from Jubilee Australia and DTP staff and volunteers for a three-hour session that looked at climate activism, human rights and accountability in the Pacific.
In this essay DTP Advisory Board member Justice The Hon. Michael Kirby AC CMG remembers his own tiny connections with the three personalities that were so important in the preparation of this most important universal declaration - The UDHR.
DTP Alumni Profile
Anelyn attended the first DTP program in Sydney in 1990. She has over 30 years of experience defending and promoting human rights in Asia, with her current advocacy focus the rights of children. She also helped establish Alternative ASEAN Network on Burma (Myanmar).
Anelyn attended the first DTP program in Sydney in 1990. She has over 30 years of experience defending and promoting human rights in Asia, with her current advocacy focus the rights of children. She also helped establish Alternative ASEAN Network on Burma (Myanmar).
Report from DTP's Pacific Alumni Workshop in Nadi, Fiji, June 2023.
DTP Alumni Profile
Ravi is the International President of the International Movement of Catholic Students (IMCS/MIEC) Pax Romana. In this role, he supports and nurtures young people to be involved in making change, and offering solidarity.
Ravi is the International President of the International Movement of Catholic Students (IMCS/MIEC) Pax Romana. In this role, he supports and nurtures young people to be involved in making change, and offering solidarity.
DTP Alumni Profile
Jonathan is a leading environmental and human rights defender in Papua New Guinea (PNG). Founder and Director of the West Coast Development Foundation (WCDF) and a leader of the Alliance of the Solwara Warriors, his award-winning NGO has been leading the campaign against Deep Sea Mining (DSM) which threatens the fragile ecosystems and sustenance of Pacific island communities.
Jonathan is a leading environmental and human rights defender in Papua New Guinea (PNG). Founder and Director of the West Coast Development Foundation (WCDF) and a leader of the Alliance of the Solwara Warriors, his award-winning NGO has been leading the campaign against Deep Sea Mining (DSM) which threatens the fragile ecosystems and sustenance of Pacific island communities.
Report of DTP's survey of alumni seeking information and views on DTP alumni networking, August 2023
DTP Alumni Profile
Mary was recently appointed as the Executive Director of Project Sepik, an NGO in Papua New Guinea (PNG). She is an experienced advocate and human rights defender. Apart from her role in Project Sepik, Mary’s commitment to the sustainable management of PNG’s natural resources is evident in her participation in technical working groups focused on issues like environmental law, timber legality standards, and forest stewardship.
Mary was recently appointed as the Executive Director of Project Sepik, an NGO in Papua New Guinea (PNG). She is an experienced advocate and human rights defender. Apart from her role in Project Sepik, Mary’s commitment to the sustainable management of PNG’s natural resources is evident in her participation in technical working groups focused on issues like environmental law, timber legality standards, and forest stewardship.
The second in a new webinar series for Vanuatu civil society to prepare for the upcoming Universal Periodic Review in 2024. The first two sessions will focus on written submissions from CSO for the report on Vanuatu's human rights record.
DTP Alumni Profile
Bete is a Timorese human rights defender who is passionate about women and child rights. Bete works as a facilitator and coordinator of Pre-School education at Ba Futuru ONG, a leading not-for-profit organisation that works across Timor-Leste to protect children, reduce violence, empower women and inspire young people. Bete reconnected with DTP during its 31st Annual Regional Human Rights and Diplomacy Training Program in August 2023.
Bete is a Timorese human rights defender who is passionate about women and child rights. Bete works as a facilitator and coordinator of Pre-School education at Ba Futuru ONG, a leading not-for-profit organisation that works across Timor-Leste to protect children, reduce violence, empower women and inspire young people. Bete reconnected with DTP during its 31st Annual Regional Human Rights and Diplomacy Training Program in August 2023.
48 participants from nine countries gathered in Nepal from 3rd to 7th September 2023 for Asia Indigenous Peoples Pact’s Regional Indigenous Peoples Human Rights Defender Exchange Program.
In recent alumni survey, there was strong support for more networking and for DTP to be more engaged in facilitating and supporting networking among DTP alumni.
The first in a new webinar series for Vanuatu civil society to prepare for the upcoming Universal Periodic Review in 2024. The first two sessions will focus on written submissions from CSO for the report on Vanuatu's human rights record.
DTP Alumni Profile
Sushil Pyakurel is one Asia’s most recognised and awarded human rights and democracy defenders. He was closely involved in Nepal’s transformation from an absolute monarchy in the 1980s to democracy.
Sushil Pyakurel is one Asia’s most recognised and awarded human rights and democracy defenders. He was closely involved in Nepal’s transformation from an absolute monarchy in the 1980s to democracy.
Statement from DTP's Executive Director on the upcoming referendum to recognise Indigenous peoples in the Australian Constitution and to establish a constitutionally protected “First Nations Voice” (The Voice) to advise the Australian Parliament and government on matters affecting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders.
HE Aung Myo Min, Human Rights Minister of the National Unity Government of Myanmar opens DTP’s 31st Annual Human Rights and Peoples’ Diplomacy training program in Timor-Leste.
DTP Alumni Profile
When Fayez did the DTP annual program in Nepal in 2014, he was working for an NGO focused on human rights education and advocacy in Bangladesh. The program proved to be a turning point for Fayez, as it provided him with a broader perspective on human rights mechanisms and advocacy strategies. While his professional career has taken him away from human rights advocacy, his commitment to work on issues of poverty and discrimination has continued. He is now studying for an MBA at Johns Hopkins Carey Business School in the US.
When Fayez did the DTP annual program in Nepal in 2014, he was working for an NGO focused on human rights education and advocacy in Bangladesh. The program proved to be a turning point for Fayez, as it provided him with a broader perspective on human rights mechanisms and advocacy strategies. While his professional career has taken him away from human rights advocacy, his commitment to work on issues of poverty and discrimination has continued. He is now studying for an MBA at Johns Hopkins Carey Business School in the US.
DTP Alumni Profile
When Stanley did the DTP annual program in Nepal in 2014, his focus was on migrant and refugee rights. Today he is a prominent figure in the fight against corruption and for human rights and good governance in Malaysia. He currently serves as the Deputy CEO at the Centre to Combat Corruption and Cronyism (C4 Center). His dedication to fighting corruption, and advocating for institutional reform has made him a prominent voice in Malaysia’s anti-corruption movement.
When Stanley did the DTP annual program in Nepal in 2014, his focus was on migrant and refugee rights. Today he is a prominent figure in the fight against corruption and for human rights and good governance in Malaysia. He currently serves as the Deputy CEO at the Centre to Combat Corruption and Cronyism (C4 Center). His dedication to fighting corruption, and advocating for institutional reform has made him a prominent voice in Malaysia’s anti-corruption movement.
Human rights advocates from across Asia gathered in Bangkok on 28-30 June to mark the 30th anniversary of the Bangkok NGO Declaration and the subsequent World Conference on Human Rights in Vienna.
DTP’s first workshop with DTP alumni in Asia took place in Bangkok from 26-27 June, with 28 alumni from 10 countries joined by DTP trainers and partners.
DTP Alumni Profile
Elizabeth works as a researcher at the Peace Research Institute in Tokyo and serves as Board of Director for the Global Peacebuilding Association of Japan (GPAJ). A Fulbright Scholar, Rotary Peace Fellow, and a two-time TEDx speaker, she is preparing for the Y20 Summit in Varanasi, India as a U.S delegate in the peacebuilding track.
Elizabeth works as a researcher at the Peace Research Institute in Tokyo and serves as Board of Director for the Global Peacebuilding Association of Japan (GPAJ). A Fulbright Scholar, Rotary Peace Fellow, and a two-time TEDx speaker, she is preparing for the Y20 Summit in Varanasi, India as a U.S delegate in the peacebuilding track.
DTP alumnus Dickson Ntwiga visited the Diplomacy Training Program updating the team on his work helping women migrant workers, breaking the cycle of violence against women and improving gender equality both at home in Kenya and abroad.
DTP Alumni Profile
Bashar is a Sydney-based Arts and community cultural development specialist who works closely with culturally and linguistically diverse Middle Eastern communities in the western suburbs of Sydney. After escaping the wars and discrimination in Iraq, Bashar utilises the transformative power of music, theatre, storytelling, poetry, and visual arts to create a positive social change.
Bashar is a Sydney-based Arts and community cultural development specialist who works closely with culturally and linguistically diverse Middle Eastern communities in the western suburbs of Sydney. After escaping the wars and discrimination in Iraq, Bashar utilises the transformative power of music, theatre, storytelling, poetry, and visual arts to create a positive social change.
DTP alumni from Fiji, Papua New Guinea/Bougainville, Solomon Islands and Tonga gathered in Nadi, Fiji to reflect on the value of DTP’s contribution to their work for human rights, discussed the current context and priority needs for human rights advocacy training, and building DTP’s alumni networks
DTP Alumni Profile
Originally from Cebu, southern Philippines, Aileen is the new Executive Director of DTP partner FORUM-ASIA. Aileen has been a leader of human rights advocacy in Asia for many years, with a focus on enforced “disappearances”. Aileen’s very personal experience of human rights violations in the Philippines deepened her determination to end human rights violations – and to defend those defending rights. Her participation in a DTP course in the 1990s helped her at an important time.
Originally from Cebu, southern Philippines, Aileen is the new Executive Director of DTP partner FORUM-ASIA. Aileen has been a leader of human rights advocacy in Asia for many years, with a focus on enforced “disappearances”. Aileen’s very personal experience of human rights violations in the Philippines deepened her determination to end human rights violations – and to defend those defending rights. Her participation in a DTP course in the 1990s helped her at an important time.
DTP Trainer Profile
Usa is the Executive Director of the Association for the Promotion of the Status of Women (APSW) in Bangkok, Thailand. She has been a women’s rights activist for over 30 years. Usa campaigns and advocates to address systematic discrimination against women in Thailand, and provides trainings to women’s leaders and leaders of various sectors.
Usa is the Executive Director of the Association for the Promotion of the Status of Women (APSW) in Bangkok, Thailand. She has been a women’s rights activist for over 30 years. Usa campaigns and advocates to address systematic discrimination against women in Thailand, and provides trainings to women’s leaders and leaders of various sectors.
DTP Trainer Profile
Henry Zwartz is an award-winning journalist who recently trained in a special DTP human rights and advocacy program for migrant and refugee community leaders in Australia. Interested in the intersection between law and media, and their use as a force for good, Henry currently works for a politics and foreign policy think tank and as a freelance journalist with Australian TV Network, SBS.
Henry Zwartz is an award-winning journalist who recently trained in a special DTP human rights and advocacy program for migrant and refugee community leaders in Australia. Interested in the intersection between law and media, and their use as a force for good, Henry currently works for a politics and foreign policy think tank and as a freelance journalist with Australian TV Network, SBS.
DTP Alumni Profile
Pervez is the founder and executive director of Bangladesh’s Films 4 Peace (F4P) Foundation, a leading national peacebuilding organisation based in Bangladesh, committed to fostering a peaceful society through innovative and artistic activism, strategic communications, and research.
Pervez is the founder and executive director of Bangladesh’s Films 4 Peace (F4P) Foundation, a leading national peacebuilding organisation based in Bangladesh, committed to fostering a peaceful society through innovative and artistic activism, strategic communications, and research.
DTP alumnus Aslam Abd Jalil visited the Diplomacy Training Program sharing his progress in completing his PhD studies and advocating for refugee and migrant worker rights in Malaysia.
6 participants came together from NSW and ACT for an intensive training program on the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC) in Sydney.
After being delayed by COVID, 29 human rights advocates from the region participated in the 30th Annual Program in Bangkok, 23 January - 3rd February.
27 refugee and migrant community leaders participated in a two-day human rights training workshop facilitated by DTP and STARTTS.
DTP's Mubashar Hasan participated in Metro Assist and Addison Road Community Organisation's International Human Rights Day celebrations in Sydney
15 participants came together from across Australia for an intensive training program on the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC) in Melbourne.
DTP brought together participants to facilitate the exchange of views among Asian CSOs and human rights advocates on how best to use capacity building & training to support and build human rights and democracy movements in the region.
DTP's Mubashar Hasan writes in The Interpreter the impact of DTP's work in the region and that Australia should see that training rights advocates across
the region can be an effective means to bolster democracy.
