Vientiane, Lao PDR, 21 October 2024 – The 45th General Assembly of the ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly (AIPA) has adopted several resolutions to address pressing social issues, including drug trafficking, plastic pollution, digital healthcare, and the rights of older persons, highlighting the region's commitment to sustainable development and public welfare.

One major resolution focuses on Strengthening Parliaments’ Role in Addressing Drug Matters, aiming to achieve a Drug-Free ASEAN. It calls for enhanced regional cooperation to combat synthetic drug production and trafficking, including harmonized legislation and community-based interventions to address poverty and prevent drug abuse. The resolution also promotes the use of technology to combat drug-related cybercrimes and encourages international partnerships, including collaboration with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, to strengthen ASEAN's capacity to tackle drug issues.

On environmental protection, the Resolution on Integrated ASEAN Action Towards the Global Plastics Treaty reaffirms the region's commitment to reducing plastic pollution. AIPA Member Parliaments are urged to collaborate with ASEAN states, policymakers, and industry stakeholders to promote sustainable plastic management practices and support the transition to a circular economy. The resolution highlights ASEAN’s engagement in the development of a legally binding Global Plastics Treaty, focusing on marine plastic pollution and urging public-private sector engagement in sustainable practices.

The assembly also adopted a Resolution on Promoting Digital Healthcare Innovation, stressing the need for accessible and affordable healthcare services, particularly in disadvantaged and rural areas. AIPA Member Parliaments are encouraged to support the development of digital healthcare systems that ensure data privacy and ethical use of technology. The resolution calls for public-private partnerships and cooperation at national and international levels to advance Universal Health Coverage (UHC) and establish interoperable digital healthcare systems across ASEAN.

Addressing the region's ageing population, the Resolution on Promoting the Rights and Employment Opportunities for Older Persons urges ASEAN Member States to develop policies that promote active ageing and ensure the inclusion of older persons in society. The resolution advocates for investment in infrastructure and services to improve their quality of life, along with sustainable employment strategies, such as vocational training and age-friendly workplaces. It calls for increased collaboration among ASEAN nations to implement comprehensive, age-friendly policies that promote the rights and welfare of older persons.

The Resolution on Strengthening Tobacco and Nicotine Control highlights the health risks posed by tobacco use, particularly with the rise of new products like e-cigarettes and heated tobacco products. AIPA Member Parliaments are urged to enforce stricter regulations or bans on these products, facilitate research and data collection, and raise public awareness about the health and social harms of tobacco and nicotine. The resolution calls for stronger regional collaboration and information-sharing to advance comprehensive tobacco control across ASEAN.

These resolutions reflect AIPA's proactive approach to addressing complex social and environmental challenges, promoting regional cooperation and sustainable development across ASEAN.