Lim, Delphia --- "Investments and human rights in Asia" [2018] ELECD 1223; in Radi, Yannick (ed), "Research Handbook on Human Rights and Investment" (Edward Elgar Publishing, 2018) 499

Book Title: Research Handbook on Human Rights and Investment

Editor(s): Radi, Yannick

Publisher: Edward Elgar Publishing

ISBN: 9781782549116

Section: Chapter 15

Section Title: Investments and human rights in Asia

Author(s): Lim, Delphia

Number of pages: 36

Abstract/Description:

This chapter seeks to provide a window onto the ground realities surrounding the impact of investment-related decisions. It delves into three case studies from the South and Southeast Asian region where tensions between human rights and investments ran high. Each case demonstrates why, despite the complexity and resources needed, it is always imperative that decision-makers adequately understand and take into account the context of the society impacted by their decisions. That even well-intentioned and well-equipped decision-makers do not do so offers a strong caution against the complacency that continues to be prevalent. This chapter’s call to pay heed to context is not intended to argue against efforts to harmonise international standards and best practices. Instead, this chapter seeks to make the case for listening directly to those affected, and cultivating local community and civil society organisations to bridge the distance between decision-makers and those impacted by their decisions.