The Government of Singapore has appointed Singapore Management University (SMU) Associate Professor of Law Eugene Tan as Singapore's Representative to the ASEAN Intergovernmental Commission on Human Rights (AICHR) from 2025 to 2027, after previously been Singapore’s alternate representative for two terms from 2019 to 2024. TSMP Law Corporation joint managing partner Stefanie Yuen Thio was appointed alternate representative and will represent Singapore in Associate Professor Tan’s absence.
This prestigious appointment marks another significant achievement in Associate Professor Tan's illustrious career defined by his contributions to legal education, public policy, and human rights advocacy. A faculty member of SMU’s Yong Pung How School of Law, Associate Professor Tan joined the University in 2001, shortly after its establishment in 2000. He served as SMU’s first Nominated Member of Parliament between 2012 and 2014.
In its announcement on 26 February 2025, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said that Singapore is an active member of AICHR, having supported AICHR’s efforts in enhancing cooperation on human rights issues amongst ASEAN Member States as well as with our external partners. It added that the country has worked with AICHR partners on key themes such as women empowerment, corporate social responsibility and environmental protection. Last year, Singapore hosted an AICHR Dialogue on countering disinformation and misinformation that was co-organised with the European Union.
“Our AICHR Representatives convene periodic consultations with local Civil Society Organisations, most recently in November 2024, to better understand their perspectives and reflect them in our engagement within AICHR. We are confident that Associate Professor Tan and Ms Yuen will continue to advance our strong engagement in AICHR.”
On his appointment, Associate Professor Tan said, “It’s a privilege and an honour to be given this opportunity to contribute to the promotion and protection of human rights which is critical for creating a just and thriving society in the region.”
“The appointment recognises the importance and role that academics play in bringing expertise, objectivity, and commitment to key issues of the day in ASEAN and the world,” he added.
The AICHR was inaugurated in 2009 as ASEAN’s overarching institution responsible for the promotion and protection of human rights in ASEAN. As one of Singapore's representatives to AICHR, Associate Professor Tan brings a wealth of experience in constitutional law and human rights law. His expertise in ASEAN’s legal framework, coupled with his extensive background in human rights advocacy, makes him an ideal representative for Singapore on the regional stage. His appointment is a testament to his commitment to upholding human rights principles and contribution in ongoing dialogue not only in Singapore but also across Southeast Asia.
Apart from Singapore, the current ASEAN member states are Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Myanmar, Philippines, Thailand, Vietnam, and 2025 chairman Malaysia, whose AICHR representative will also chair the human rights commission the same year.
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