The book โWomenโs Voices from the Revolutionโ is a testimony to womenโs resistance against military rule, oppression, and sexual violence in militarized societies. Debbie Stothard, founder of ALTSEAN-Burma, and May Kim, staff of the organization and translator of the book, presented the work at several launch events in Brisbane, Melbourne, and Sydney, Australia on 3, 4 and 7 March.
ALTSEAN Burma’s commitment to womenโs leadership and participation in peacebuilding extends beyond the book launch. In September 2024, the organization co-hosted a series of events during the ASEAN Civil Society Conference/ASEAN Peopleโs Forum in Timor-Leste, addressing issues such as conflict-related sexual violence (CRSV), transnational repression, hate speech, and broader human rights challenges faced by marginalized groups.
Representatives from the Alliance Against CRSV-Myanmar, a group established through previous ALTSEAN-Burma-led activities with partners from Timor-Leste and the Philippines, co-organized the workshop โStrategies to Address CRSV in the Regionโ, which discussed the severity of CRSV cases experienced by women and girls from different ethnic backgrounds and the LGBTQIA community. The sessionโs output document urged ASEAN governments to ensure accountability for CRSV, provide survivor support, and involve women and marginalized groups in decision-making.
Another workshop examined how hate speech, misinformation and disinformation were used to prolong the impact of the Rohingya genocide in 2017, with social media algorithms amplifying hatred and fear. The session warned that hate campaigns across ASEAN countries had aggravated violence and abuse against the Rohingya, leading to severe consequences including rape, denial of basic services, and the indefinite detention of thousands, including children. Participants called for urgent protection for genocide and war refugees and accountability for those responsible, including social media enterprises.
A further session on Transnational Repression included speakers from Malaysia, Thailand, and Timor-Leste, who highlighted cases of disappearance, deportation, and silencing of refugees and human rights defenders. They stressed the urgent need for regional solidarity and legal protection for those facing persecution.
In addition to these workshops, an exhibition and photo booth was organized to raise awareness about CRSV in Myanmar and to gather support for survivors. The side event also showcased informative materials on CRSV and survivor advocacy, alongside an exhibition of Rohingya stories and culture hosted by the Rohingya Maรฌyafuรฌnor Collaborative Network.
The Asia Pacific Working Group counts members from nine countries. Along with other organizations, ALTSEAN-Burma has significantly contributed to a gender-focused atrocity prevention, promoting womenโs active participation in regional dialogues for peace and human rights.
