It's "human-centered approach" against terrorism - AIPO

The ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Organization's committee on political affairs has approved a resolution urging ASEAN member countries to take a "human-centered approach" to counter terrorism.

The "human-centered approach" calls for the promotion of inter-faith dialogues and multi-cultural understanding and tolerance to reduce political and religious tensions that engulfed Middle East countries and ethnic groups in other Asian states.

"With the continuous conflicts (among) nations because of intolerance, hatred and extremism...we call on leaders of the ASEAN to promote inter-faith dialogs...to increase multicultural understanding among the followers of different religions," the resolution reads.

This envisioned solution involves the promotion of human security aside from the traditional security of the state, said ASEAN legislators and officials gathered at the Marco Polo Plaza Hotel where the ongoing 27th AIPO assembly is held.

Foreign Affairs Secretary Alberto Romulo, as chairman of the ASEAN standing committee from July 2006 to July 2007, earlier said the Philippines would push for the strengthening of regional security through the adoption of the Convention and Declaration on Counter-Terrorism.

Romulo further called on the protection of basic rights particularly those of migrant workers through a declaration on the rights and protection of migrant workers, among others.

Senate President Manuel Villar, for his part, said terrorism has now evolved into transnational and transregional case, which impels ASEAN member countries to solve the problem together.

"While security measures are of immediate importance, a long-term approach is equally relevant.... seek the removal of the seeds of suspicion, mistrust and hate that are transformed into acts of terror. We can achieve this goal by promoting continuous dialogues and building of consensus in the peaceful resolution of conflicts," Villar said.

The AIPO committee further said it is imperative for ASEAN, and a responsibility of AIPO member countries "to contribute to the promotion of a culture of peace and a total rejection of using violence in the name of political, economic and religious advantages."

The panel also approved two more resolutions: one calling for cooperation in fighting cyber-terrorism and, a second one, for regional maritime security and anti-piracy cooperation.

During the assembly, participants also approved a resolution on cooperation in fighting cyber-terrorism, and a resolution on regional maritime security and anti-piracy cooperation.

These three resolutions will be submitted today to the AIPO plenary session for approval. - Wenna A. Berondo/RAE