Press Release: Unveiling Subversive Power: New Report Sheds Light on Anti-Rights Actors in the Asia-Pacific Region

December 5, 2024 - Justice for Prosperity Foundation (JfP) in collaboration with the International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF), has launched a groundbreaking report titled "Unveiling Subversive Power," highlighting the rising threats to sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR), gender equality, and LGBTIQ+ rights across the Asia-Pacific region.

The report outlines the dangerous tactics employed by authoritarian states and conservative alliances that manipulate cultural narratives to undermine democratic institutions and silence dissent. It provides an in-depth analysis of how anti-rights actors exploit societal divisions and governmental vulnerabilities to reshape norms, gain influence, and push their ideological agendas. In many cases, relationships and activities are intentionally manipulated. Ultra-conservative, traditionalist, religious actors are the ones who mostly drive this manipulation.

Key findings included that extremist movements and foreign state influences strategically undermine the democratic principles and human rights frameworks. The influence of religious institutions, coupled with political conservatism, fosters environments where discriminatory legislation flourishes, including laws that explicitly criminalize SRHR and LGBTIQ+ rights.

Case studies from countries such as Vanuatu, Solomon Islands, Papua New Guinea, Indonesia, the Philippines and Malaysia reveal disturbing patterns of exploitation, disinformation, and systemic oppression against marginalised communities.

"This report highlights the urgent need to confront anti-rights actors strategically exploiting societal divisions to weaken democratic systems and destabilise institutions. These actions pose cross-sectoral threats, demanding broad solidarity among diverse groups—SRHRJ movements, marginalised communities, climate advocates, and health networks. IPPF is committed to fostering collaboration and building comprehensive alliances to ensure a united response that safeguards  justice, democracy, and our shared future," said Tomoko Fukuda, Regional Director, IPPF ESEAOR.

Jelle Postma, from JfP, said “We must deploy early detection of anti-rights networks and activities, foreign influences, and legislative proposals, and have a unified response across international and governmental agencies to counteract the destabilising impact of these actors.”

The anti-rights movement poses a serious threat to regional and national security in the Asia Pacific, with potential to undermine long-standing democratic principles. Justice for Prosperity and IPPF underscore the urgent need for coordinated action among governments, civil society, and international partners to preserve and protect the hard-won rights of individuals across the region.

The full report, "Unveiling Subversive Power: Shedding Light on Anti-Rights Actors in the Asia-Pacific Region," is available for download on the IPPF website or for download on the JfP website. 

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