1. Overview
The Asia Centre Summit 2027 examines the intersection of peace and democracy in Asia at a time when both are under increasing strain. While many of the region’s challenges are not new and are widely recognised, the central task lies in identifying democratic pathways to foster dialogue, strengthen cooperation and rebuild trust across divided societies. Building peace in Asia requires a firm commitment to democratic principles to ensure lasting and effective outcomes. Several examples from across Asia illustrate how these principles have already translated into more inclusive and constructive approaches to addressing division. Civil society organisations, women groups, youth movements, journalists associations, faith-based organisations and local communities continue to develop innovative approaches to dialogue, conflict prevention and democratic participation.
2. Conference Themes
The conference will examine the following themes:
- Democratic Resilience Amidst Conflict
- Democratic Approaches to Peace-Building
- Self-Determination, Autonomy and Peace
- Rise of Nationalism and Identity Politics
- Women, Gender and Inclusive Peace Processes
- Youth Participation, Peace Activism and Civic Space
- Religious Freedom, Minority Rights, and Social Cohesion
- Hate Speech and Social Polarisation
- Peace Journalism, Media Ethics and Information Integrity
- Transnational Repression and the Safety of Dissidents
- Digital Democracy and Surveillance
- Technology, AI and Peace-Building
Note: The above sub-themes are a preliminary guide. Flexibility is encouraged, and partners may propose additional topics aligned with their expertise under the overarching theme of Peace and Democracy in Asia to ensure contextual relevance and innovation..
3. Objectives
The Conference aims to achieve the following objectives:
- Identify the key drivers of ongoing conflicts, social fragmentation and emerging flashpoints across the Asian region.
- Highlight current peacebuilding initiatives, including their strengths, limitations and potential pathways for strengthening trust and cooperation in divided societies.
- Discuss how inclusive, participatory and accountable democratic frameworks can support sustained dialogue, conflict management and the long-term maintenance of peace and social cohesion.
4. Conference Structure
The Asia Centre Summit 2027 features opening remarks, keynote speeches, plenary discussions, and thematic breakout sessions, and other formats bringing together diverse perspectives from across the globe to exchange ideas, address regional challenges, and explore practical solutions for peace and democracy in Asia.
5. Conference Participants
Open to participants from civil society groups, international NGOs, faith-based organisations, media outlets, journalists’ associations, private sector companies, political parties, parliaments, technology firms, intergovernmental organisations, academic institutions, and individuals promoting peace and democracy.
6. Programme Outline
Day 1, Thursday 19 August 2027
9:00 – 17:00 Morning & Afternoon Panels
Day 2, Friday 20 August 2027
9:00 – 17:00 Morning & Afternoon Panels
17:00 – 20:00 Networking Session
9:00 – 17:00 Morning & Afternoon Panels
17:00 – 20:00 Networking Hour
7. Inquiries
Please contact us at conference@asiacentre.org
For the full concept note please click here.