<p>Following the demands from the ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Myanmar Caucus on humanitarian aid for new refugees who arrived in Tha Song Yang district of Tak Province since early June, and the expression of concerns from the network of Thai non-governmental organizations regarding the increase in forced repatriation, restriction of humanitarian aid, access to education, and the lack of a clear, proper and up-to-date refugee management measures,</p>

<p>The ASEAN charter was adopted at the 14th ASEAN Summit in November 2007 and eventually came into force in December 2008.</p> <div /> line-height:15.0pt;"&gt;<span>One of ASEAN&rsquo;s crucial visions is creating a single free trade area by 2015, but there are doubts that it will be implemented or achieved. </span></div>

<p>As the target date for launching the ASEAN human rights body (AHRB)<br /> nears, civil society groups have warned depriving it of watchdog<br /> powers would erode the credibility of the regional organization.</p>